Joyce and I don’t normally hunt for trophy deer; we’re happy with a nice buck or a plump doe that puts good meat in the freezer. Last year we each shot deer and still have plenty of meat in our freezer, so this year I decided to wait for a big buck. The first morning of rifle season, I watched a bruiser buck walk past our blind in the early morning shadows before legal shooting time. Then another big buck came along with a group of does and fawns and was so entertaining I decided to let him go too, thinking “Certainly I’ll see them both again before season is done. I never saw either of them again; … that’s what I get for thinkin’!&nbsp;

The last Saturday morning of deer rifle season, I watched the usual group of does begin their trek toward our blind, followed by a dandy buck. “He’ll certainly follow his harem,” I surmised. He disappeared like a ghost never to be seen again; … that’s what I get for thinkin’.

I should have known better. It seems my record for being correct on important decisions is subpar lately; it all seems to have begun with my choices to win the TV show “The Voice.” We followed The Voice off-and-on this season, then tuned-in to see who won. Five contestants were in the finale; I chose the three I knew absolutely, unequivocally, would rank first, second and third. My choices ranked third, fourth and dead last...that’s what I get for thinkin’.

When I’m setting coyote traps, I watch the weather very closely for precipitation. Rain is bad because it makes a muddy mess of things, rendering the traps which are covered with a half inch or so of dirt, ineffective. Then if it freezes after the rain, the dirt over the traps becomes a frozen muddy mess, making the traps completely inoperable. On top of it all, it becomes impossible to drive over crop fields to get to the traps. Snow on the other hand is OK in small amounts as long as the weather stays cold enough so as not to melt the snow, which again would make for a muddy mess. When I set traps last week, the weather prediction was for a small amount of snow 2 days later, about a 60% chance. Now, all summer long, a 60% chance of precipitation had usually gotten us no precipitation at all, so “I’m good-to-go,” I thought. We got about an inch of snow, which promptly melted the next day, freezing all the traps in place and causing me a boat-load of extra work… that’s what I get for thinkin.’&nbsp;

I have a love-hate relationship with the local squirrels; they’re fun to watch as they chase each other around-and-around the two oak trees in our front lawn, but when they riddle my lawn with holes, dug to bury their “prizes,” I take it personally. This fall, I built one of those squirrel feeders that employs a one-gallon glass jar to hold the corn, peanuts etc. “This will be fun to watch the little beggars crawl around and sit in the jar like in all the pictures,” I thought. Our squirrels lean in about half-way, pull entire ears of corn out of the jar, and about anything else they can do to keep from crawling into the jar like “in all the pictures” …once again, that’s what I get for thinkin.’&nbsp;

It seems the phrase “that’s what I get for thinkin’” completely sums up the year 2020. I don’t think I could have done much personally to make 2020 any better, and I’m not sure what I can do to make 2021 any better either, but I just know I’m not gonna’ stop thinkin’.” Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve&nbsp;Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve&nbsp;Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Joyce and I don’t normally hunt for trophy deer; we’re happy with a nice buck or a plump doe that puts good meat in the freezer. Last year we each shot deer and still have plenty of meat in our freezer, so this year I decided to wait for a big buck. The first morning of rifle season, I watched a bruiser buck walk past our blind in the early morning shadows before legal shooting time. Then another big buck came along with a group of does and fawns and was so entertaining I decided to let him go too, thinking “Certainly I’ll see them both again before season is done. I never saw either of them again; … that’s what I get for thinkin’!&nbsp;The last Saturday morning of deer rifle season, I watched the usual group of does begin their trek toward our blind, followed by a dandy buck. “He’ll certainly follow his harem,” I surmised. He disappeared like a ghost never to be seen again; … that’s what I get for thinkin’.I should have known better. It seems my record for being correct on important decisions is subpar lately; it all seems to have begun with my choices to win the TV show “The Voice.” We followed The Voice off-and-on this season, then tuned-in to see who won. Five contestants were in the finale; I chose the three I knew absolutely, unequivocally, would rank first, second and third. My choices ranked third, fourth and dead last...that’s what I get for thinkin’.When I’m setting coyote traps, I watch the weather very closely for precipitation. Rain is bad because it makes a muddy mess of things, rendering the traps which are covered with a half inch or so of dirt, ineffective. Then if it freezes after the rain, the dirt over the traps becomes a frozen muddy mess, making the traps completely inoperable. On top of it all, it becomes impossible to drive over crop fields to get to the traps. Snow on the other hand is OK in small amounts as long as the weather stays cold enough so as not to melt the snow, which again would make for a muddy mess. When I set traps last week, the weather prediction was for a small amount of snow 2 days later, about a 60% chance. Now, all summer long, a 60% chance of precipitation had usually gotten us no precipitation at all, so “I’m good-to-go,” I thought. We got about an inch of snow, which promptly melted the next day, freezing all the traps in place and causing me a boat-load of extra work… that’s what I get for thinkin.’&nbsp;I have a love-hate relationship with the local squirrels; they’re fun to watch as they chase each other around-and-around the two oak trees in our front lawn, but when they riddle my lawn with holes, dug to bury their “prizes,” I take it personally. This fall, I built one of those squirrel feeders that employs a one-gallon glass jar to hold the corn, peanuts etc. “This will be fun to watch the little beggars crawl around and sit in the jar like in all the pictures,” I thought. Our squirrels lean in about half-way, pull entire ears of corn out of the jar, and about anything else they can do to keep from crawling into the jar like “in all the pictures” …once again, that’s what I get for thinkin.’&nbsp;It seems the phrase “that’s what I get for thinkin’” completely sums up the year 2020. I don’t think I could have done much personally to make 2020 any better, and I’m not sure what I can do to make 2021 any better either, but I just know I’m not gonna’ stop thinkin’.” Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors!Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Well, that’s what I get for thinkin’

Despite being native to the Great Plains, eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) escapes from shelterbelt and ornamental plantings have resulted in widespread infestation of range and pasture that often require management. It is thought that the tree was originally confined to ridges and bluffs, but is now found in diverse sites, ranging from rocky uplands to swampy bottomlands. Eastern redcedars do provide food and shelter for many wild animals, but consuming leaves may be harmful to pregnant cows.&nbsp;

Eastern redcedar can be recognized by its opposite, evergreen leaves. Each leaf is actually a small (0.05-inch-long) triangle that pressed tightly over the margins of neighboring leaves. Younger leaves are not pressed together and are actually longer than more mature leaves. The canopy is pyramid-shaped, comprised of slender gray branches. It is a relatively slow-growing species with mature trees reaching heights of up to 65 feet. Bark is reddish brown and shreds into long, narrow strips.&nbsp;

Eastern redcedar is a dioecious species, meaning some plants only produce male reproductive structures while others only female structures. Eastern redcedar ‘berries’ are actually female cones. Cones are small (1/10 to 1/3-inch diameter), blue to purple colored spheres covered with a white wax. Each cone contains one to three small, egg-shaped seeds. Pollen cones are found at the end of branches.&nbsp;

Eastern redcedar can be managed with prescribed fire, especially trees that are less than 3 feet tall. For larger trees, cutting below the lowest branches is effective because eastern redcedar does not resprout. Grazon P+D, Surmount, and Tordon 22K are among the more effective herbicides; however, control by broadcast applications decreases rapidly as trees height increases. Soil-applied herbicides that can control eastern redcedar include Velpar L and Prononone Power Pellets.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition, grazing management that promotes a health grass sward is important to preventing the spread of eastern redcedar.&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>Despite being native to the Great Plains, eastern redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) escapes from shelterbelt and ornamental plantings have resulted in widespread infestation of range and pasture that often require management. It is thought that the tree was originally confined to ridges and bluffs, but is now found in diverse sites, ranging from rocky uplands to swampy bottomlands. Eastern redcedars do provide food and shelter for many wild animals, but consuming leaves may be harmful to pregnant cows.&nbsp;Identification&nbsp;Eastern redcedar can be recognized by its opposite, evergreen leaves. Each leaf is actually a small (0.05-inch-long) triangle that pressed tightly over the margins of neighboring leaves. Younger leaves are not pressed together and are actually longer than more mature leaves. The canopy is pyramid-shaped, comprised of slender gray branches. It is a relatively slow-growing species with mature trees reaching heights of up to 65 feet. Bark is reddish brown and shreds into long, narrow strips.&nbsp;Eastern redcedar is a dioecious species, meaning some plants only produce male reproductive structures while others only female structures. Eastern redcedar ‘berries’ are actually female cones. Cones are small (1/10 to 1/3-inch diameter), blue to purple colored spheres covered with a white wax. Each cone contains one to three small, egg-shaped seeds. Pollen cones are found at the end of branches.&nbsp;Management&nbsp;Eastern redcedar can be managed with prescribed fire, especially trees that are less than 3 feet tall. For larger trees, cutting below the lowest branches is effective because eastern redcedar does not resprout. Grazon P+D, Surmount, and Tordon 22K are among the more effective herbicides; however, control by broadcast applications decreases rapidly as trees height increases. Soil-applied herbicides that can control eastern redcedar include Velpar L and Prononone Power Pellets.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition, grazing management that promotes a health grass sward is important to preventing the spread of eastern redcedar.&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: Ecology of eastern redcedar 

Bear with me readers as I make my case that we are not the "United States of America," but the "divided states" of America."&nbsp; We are a divided country in many ways, but there's an issue within this division that is very troublesome to me and has been for some time.&nbsp;&nbsp; In the past month or so, I have written that we have become a lawless third world country.&nbsp; In a second letter to the editor, I make the point we have a political party that is allowed to do most anything without accountability.&nbsp; &nbsp;In this letter to the editor, I claim we have basically become a country of "unequal justice."&nbsp;&nbsp; There appears to be one set of rules for Democrats and a different set for Republicans.&nbsp; I'm referring to our laws especially, but not exclusively.&nbsp; Call it "inequality of justice" that appears completely out of whack as if we have two different Americas. Since when does one political party have the right to be lawless while the other party is required to hold the line?&nbsp; The word that comes to mind is "hypocrisy."&nbsp; Are we headed for a socialistic one party rule of this country?&nbsp; Unless something dramatic happens between now and January 20 that could happen as I see it.&nbsp; Socialist government is one party rule no different than in Russia or China. Democrat Hillary broke some twelve laws with her email server when Secretary of State.&nbsp; Her emails were scattered all over the world endangering our national security.&nbsp; So what?&nbsp; Did she pay a price?&nbsp; Nope!&nbsp; No accountability whatsoever.&nbsp; The Clinton Foundation, raking in millions upon millions from foreign adversaries for charitable purposes, was a farce.&nbsp; Pay to play by Hillary was the name of the game as was the case with Joe Biden when he was Vice President.&nbsp; The Biden family, including Joe, were getting millions from Russia and China. How can an American official, without breaking the law, say to a foreign country, if you fill my pockets I will return the favor with taxpayer monies?&nbsp; &nbsp; Even Trump's Attorney General Barr wouldn't touch the Biden scandal and ran for the hills as he sheepishly resigned.&nbsp; The humongous scandal could have made a difference in the election, but the "deep state" of Democrat forces intervened as usual.&nbsp; Barr couldn't take the heat and it appears our Supreme Court is being cowardly as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;God help us if they are!&nbsp; The most telling issue that we are a third world country, where people can do anything, and not worry about justice is the coup to destroy a Trump presidency by former president Obama and former Secretary of State Hillary, which I mention in all of my writings.&nbsp; Why wouldn't I when it is one of the worst possible scandals in all of American history.&nbsp; To date nobody is held accountable and, of course, that's why Trump must be destroyed.&nbsp; Reverse these scenarios with Republicans involved in such corruption and you can bet the farm all hell would break loose.&nbsp; Many ending up in orange jump suits.&nbsp; During the infamous Mueller investigation and coup to destroy Trump the FBI in bed with Dems engaged in the worst prosecutorial misconduct in recent American history.&nbsp; When they couldn't get Trump associates Michael Flynn, George Papadopolous, Roger Stone and many others to nail Trump on Russia collusion they prosecuted everybody on superfluous stuff and threw the book at them anyway ruining their lives in the process.&nbsp;&nbsp; On a different note, not in our wildest dreams, looking at more inequality,&nbsp; could conservative Republicans get away with supporting groups that engage in violent protests, maiming police, burning buildings after stealing TV sets, etc.&nbsp; The Democrat controlled states and cities look the other way and threaten law enforcement if they don't stand down.&nbsp; Defund the police is obvious lawlessness and insanity, and will only get worse.&nbsp; Democrat governors and mayors in states and cities are trampling the constitutional rights (right and left) of its people and business owners with lockdowns.&nbsp; So what? Interesting!&nbsp; Voter fraud by Republicans is unheard of, but off the charts by Democrats.&nbsp; Hundreds, maybe thousands, of Biden voters committed voter fraud which is a felony.&nbsp; I haven't seen one case of anybody getting prosecuted so what's to prevent the same countless irregularities the next time?&nbsp; At this rate, there will never be another Republican occupying the White House. America's media took sides with one political party.&nbsp; Media protected a terribly poor candidate to be president who hung out in his basement and didn't even campaign for the job.&nbsp; If Joe Biden is inaugurated January 20 he owes it all to media which no longer reports news instead perpetuates Democrat's ideology, even censoring reports they don't like.&nbsp; That's no different than the media in socialist countries like Russia and China.&nbsp;&nbsp; If Democrats have already put in place no rules for themselves, but only for Republicans, one can only imagine what's to come should there be a Biden presidency.&nbsp; Let's hope there's a miracle on its way.&nbsp;&nbsp; If Democrats pretty much have their own way now without control of our Senate, what makes one think that Democrats won't be able to do just about anything anyway even if Republicans retain control of the Senate following the Georgia runoff?&nbsp; In as much as we do not have equality of justice, Dems will continue to operate under the radar of any kind of meaningful justice.&nbsp; We conservatives better be prepared to fight (figuratively speaking) by speaking out this is not the kind of America we want.&nbsp; I for one will never accept that the election wasn't stolen, nor give up hope that God fearing conservative Americans can still make a difference by supporting a man called Donald J. Trump whether president or not.&nbsp;

Les Knoll lives in Victoria and Gilbert, Ariz.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575913663048.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By LES KNOLLBear with me readers as I make my case that we are not the "United States of America," but the "divided states" of America."&nbsp; We are a divided country in many ways, but there's an issue within this division that is very troublesome to me and has been for some time.&nbsp;&nbsp; In the past month or so, I have written that we have become a lawless third world country.&nbsp; In a second letter to the editor, I make the point we have a political party that is allowed to do most anything without accountability.&nbsp; &nbsp;In this letter to the editor, I claim we have basically become a country of "unequal justice."&nbsp;&nbsp; There appears to be one set of rules for Democrats and a different set for Republicans.&nbsp; I'm referring to our laws especially, but not exclusively.&nbsp; Call it "inequality of justice" that appears completely out of whack as if we have two different Americas. Since when does one political party have the right to be lawless while the other party is required to hold the line?&nbsp; The word that comes to mind is "hypocrisy."&nbsp; Are we headed for a socialistic one party rule of this country?&nbsp; Unless something dramatic happens between now and January 20 that could happen as I see it.&nbsp; Socialist government is one party rule no different than in Russia or China. Democrat Hillary broke some twelve laws with her email server when Secretary of State.&nbsp; Her emails were scattered all over the world endangering our national security.&nbsp; So what?&nbsp; Did she pay a price?&nbsp; Nope!&nbsp; No accountability whatsoever.&nbsp; The Clinton Foundation, raking in millions upon millions from foreign adversaries for charitable purposes, was a farce.&nbsp; Pay to play by Hillary was the name of the game as was the case with Joe Biden when he was Vice President.&nbsp; The Biden family, including Joe, were getting millions from Russia and China. How can an American official, without breaking the law, say to a foreign country, if you fill my pockets I will return the favor with taxpayer monies?&nbsp; &nbsp; Even Trump's Attorney General Barr wouldn't touch the Biden scandal and ran for the hills as he sheepishly resigned.&nbsp; The humongous scandal could have made a difference in the election, but the "deep state" of Democrat forces intervened as usual.&nbsp; Barr couldn't take the heat and it appears our Supreme Court is being cowardly as well.&nbsp; &nbsp;God help us if they are!&nbsp; The most telling issue that we are a third world country, where people can do anything, and not worry about justice is the coup to destroy a Trump presidency by former president Obama and former Secretary of State Hillary, which I mention in all of my writings.&nbsp; Why wouldn't I when it is one of the worst possible scandals in all of American history.&nbsp; To date nobody is held accountable and, of course, that's why Trump must be destroyed.&nbsp; Reverse these scenarios with Republicans involved in such corruption and you can bet the farm all hell would break loose.&nbsp; Many ending up in orange jump suits.&nbsp; During the infamous Mueller investigation and coup to destroy Trump the FBI in bed with Dems engaged in the worst prosecutorial misconduct in recent American history.&nbsp; When they couldn't get Trump associates Michael Flynn, George Papadopolous, Roger Stone and many others to nail Trump on Russia collusion they prosecuted everybody on superfluous stuff and threw the book at them anyway ruining their lives in the process.&nbsp;&nbsp; On a different note, not in our wildest dreams, looking at more inequality,&nbsp; could conservative Republicans get away with supporting groups that engage in violent protests, maiming police, burning buildings after stealing TV sets, etc.&nbsp; The Democrat controlled states and cities look the other way and threaten law enforcement if they don't stand down.&nbsp; Defund the police is obvious lawlessness and insanity, and will only get worse.&nbsp; Democrat governors and mayors in states and cities are trampling the constitutional rights (right and left) of its people and business owners with lockdowns.&nbsp; So what? Interesting!&nbsp; Voter fraud by Republicans is unheard of, but off the charts by Democrats.&nbsp; Hundreds, maybe thousands, of Biden voters committed voter fraud which is a felony.&nbsp; I haven't seen one case of anybody getting prosecuted so what's to prevent the same countless irregularities the next time?&nbsp; At this rate, there will never be another Republican occupying the White House. America's media took sides with one political party.&nbsp; Media protected a terribly poor candidate to be president who hung out in his basement and didn't even campaign for the job.&nbsp; If Joe Biden is inaugurated January 20 he owes it all to media which no longer reports news instead perpetuates Democrat's ideology, even censoring reports they don't like.&nbsp; That's no different than the media in socialist countries like Russia and China.&nbsp;&nbsp; If Democrats have already put in place no rules for themselves, but only for Republicans, one can only imagine what's to come should there be a Biden presidency.&nbsp; Let's hope there's a miracle on its way.&nbsp;&nbsp; If Democrats pretty much have their own way now without control of our Senate, what makes one think that Democrats won't be able to do just about anything anyway even if Republicans retain control of the Senate following the Georgia runoff?&nbsp; In as much as we do not have equality of justice, Dems will continue to operate under the radar of any kind of meaningful justice.&nbsp; We conservatives better be prepared to fight (figuratively speaking) by speaking out this is not the kind of America we want.&nbsp; I for one will never accept that the election wasn't stolen, nor give up hope that God fearing conservative Americans can still make a difference by supporting a man called Donald J. Trump whether president or not.&nbsp;Les Knoll lives in Victoria and Gilbert, Ariz.

LETTER: America's justice or injustice?

To avoid energy costs, some homeowners are turning to wood for heat. &nbsp;Plant species is an important consideration as not all trees have the same density and therefore, heat value. The greater the dry weight, the better. The highest value for trees commonly found in Kansas is Osage orange (hedgeball tree) at 4,800 pounds per cord. Osage orange has a gnarly growth habit and a nasty set of thorns. This species also sparks which isn’t a problem in a wood-fired boiler but certainly would be in an open fireplace.Black locust is next with 4,200 pounds per cord. Black locust is a fast grower and has excellent burning qualities and makes a nice bed of coals. However, it is hard to split, suckers, and has some small thorns, especially on young trees. Bur oak and red oak come in at 3,800 and 3,500 pounds per cord respectively but are not fast growers. Mulberry, however, has the same weight as red oak but grows more quickly. Silver maple has less heat value (3,000 pounds per cord) but is a very fast-growing tree. Black locust is a tempting choice for this purpose due to its heat value and fast growth. &nbsp; However, black locust suckers and is invasive and can spread to areas you don’t want and so be careful if you choose this species. &nbsp;Another species, such as mulberry may work better for you. Or consider planting several different species in rows. So, how do you set out your plantation? Dr. Wayne Geyer, our late forestry professor, did many woody biomass studies over a period of 35 years. Following are some recommendations that have come out of his studies.&nbsp; &nbsp; - Plant on a close spacing, 4 to 6 feet apart. This maximizes yield and reduces side branching.&nbsp; &nbsp; - Control weeds for the first two years.&nbsp; &nbsp; - Harvest every 5 years though slower growing trees will take longer. &nbsp;Most trees will resprout and can be re-harvested.&nbsp; &nbsp; - Plant about 1 acre per year for 5 years if you wish to supply most of the firewood needed to heat your home.​

The trees mentioned above and available from the Kansas Forest Service include mulberry, Osage orange, bur oak, red oak, and silver maple. 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="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>To avoid energy costs, some homeowners are turning to wood for heat. &nbsp;Plant species is an important consideration as not all trees have the same density and therefore, heat value. The greater the dry weight, the better. The highest value for trees commonly found in Kansas is Osage orange (hedgeball tree) at 4,800 pounds per cord. Osage orange has a gnarly growth habit and a nasty set of thorns. This species also sparks which isn’t a problem in a wood-fired boiler but certainly would be in an open fireplace.Black locust is next with 4,200 pounds per cord. Black locust is a fast grower and has excellent burning qualities and makes a nice bed of coals. However, it is hard to split, suckers, and has some small thorns, especially on young trees. Bur oak and red oak come in at 3,800 and 3,500 pounds per cord respectively but are not fast growers. Mulberry, however, has the same weight as red oak but grows more quickly. Silver maple has less heat value (3,000 pounds per cord) but is a very fast-growing tree. Black locust is a tempting choice for this purpose due to its heat value and fast growth. &nbsp; However, black locust suckers and is invasive and can spread to areas you don’t want and so be careful if you choose this species. &nbsp;Another species, such as mulberry may work better for you. Or consider planting several different species in rows. So, how do you set out your plantation? Dr. Wayne Geyer, our late forestry professor, did many woody biomass studies over a period of 35 years. Following are some recommendations that have come out of his studies.&nbsp; &nbsp; - Plant on a close spacing, 4 to 6 feet apart. This maximizes yield and reduces side branching.&nbsp; &nbsp; - Control weeds for the first two years.&nbsp; &nbsp; - Harvest every 5 years though slower growing trees will take longer. &nbsp;Most trees will resprout and can be re-harvested.&nbsp; &nbsp; - Plant about 1 acre per year for 5 years if you wish to supply most of the firewood needed to heat your home.​The trees mentioned above and available from the Kansas Forest Service include mulberry, Osage orange, bur oak, red oak, and silver maple. 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: Growing your own firewood 

By MAX MCCOY <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/27/this-story-of-a-famous-photograph-taken-at-the-end-of-a-horrific-year-starts-and-ends-in-kansas/">For the Kansas Reflector</a>

Fifty-two years ago today, Apollo 8 splashed down in the Pacific after taking humanity’s first swing around the moon.

The mission was a triumph 
of science, discovery and American determination. But in an undeveloped 
roll of film in the capsule was an image that might be the mission’s 
most lasting achievement, a self-portrait that continues to inspire hope
 that we just might transcend our worst impulses as a species.

As a kid I would sprawl in
 the grass in the big yard beside my parents’ house in Baxter Springs 
and stare into the night sky. I remember the hazy summer nights, the 
sharp glitter of the stars in winter, and the whine of trucks on nearby 
Highway 66. And I remember during the long months of 1968 being 
frightened, because my parents were frightened.

Then, like now, we were nearing the end of what had been a horrific year.

It had started with the 
bloody Tet Offensive, which rocked the American military back on its 
heels in Vietnam. At home, there were assassinations — King in April, 
Kennedy (Bobby) in June. The chaos surrounding the Democratic National 
Convention in August was a violent burlesque that shook the very core of
 American democracy. Outrage piled upon outrage, leaving average folks 
staring slack-jawed in horror and disbelief at the flickering nightmare 
thrown into their living rooms from the only screen in the house — a 
television.

The Cold War was 
accelerating, and the American and Soviet space programs were 
neck-and-neck for the shining prize that floated in the night sky: the 
moon. Despite consumer kitsch like Tang in kitchen cabinets and 
antigravity space pens that wrote upside down, the colorful trappings of
 a civilian agency called NASA and the dreams of millions of science 
fiction fans, the primary aim of the American space program was 
political. The goal was not just to reach the moon before the end of the
 decade, as John F. Kennedy had promised in 1962, but to beat the 
Russians there. And the project built to get us there was named Apollo, 
after the Greek god of the sun.

But in 1968, the goal seemed as distant as the inconstant moon.

The year before, a flash 
fire had swept through the Apollo 1 command module while it sat on the 
launch pad during a test, killing its three astronauts. It was a tragedy
 that seemed to presage the dark days to come. The moon was a quarter of
 a million miles away, but the farthest Americans had ventured beyond 
the Earth was less than a thousand nautical miles, during the Gemini 
project. The 363-foot Saturn V rocket, the biggest and most powerful 
ever made, had yet to be used in a manned flight. The lunar module, the 
spider-like spacecraft designed to actually touch down on the moon, was 
far behind schedule, plagued with technical and production problems.

But in spite of all this, 
NASA made the decision to launch three men into space, sending them 
farther and faster than human beings had ever gone, put them into lunar 
orbit for Christmas, and bring them back before the New Year.

I remember watching 
television coverage of the space program obsessively, following every 
detail as Walter Cronkite would patiently explain, sometimes with models
 of the spacecraft, each phase of the flights. My space mania had taken 
hold earlier in the year, when my parents had taken me to see Stanley 
Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” at the drive-in. This was on the 
advice of my brother, who was an <a href="https://armyhistory.org/army-reserve-officers-training-corps-hundred-years-old-still-going-strong/">ROTC</a> cadet at the state college in a nearby county.

I did not know then, of 
course, that the American space program was largely built on technology 
developed by the Nazis. At the end of World War II, in a secret 
operation called <a href="https://www.archives.gov/atlanta/exhibits/item452-exh.html">Paperclip</a>, the U.S. government had seized truckloads of V2 rocket technology and the teams of scientists and engineers behind it. <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/centers/marshall/history/vonbraun/bio.html">Wernher von Braun</a>,
 the architect of the Saturn V, had also been the chief rocket scientist
 for the Nazis, and his contributions — including gyroscopes for 
guidance and engines that used liquid fuel — would be the foundation for
 the U.S. space program. But what most Americans did not know at the 
time of the Apollo program was that under von Braun’s direction, the 
German V2s that were hurtled at London and other cities had been 
assembled <a href="https://airandspace.si.edu/stories/editorial/wonder-weapons-and-slave-labor">with slave labor</a> from concentration camps.

It’s unlikely that any of 
this was even known to the crew of Apollo 8, which blasted off on Dec. 
21, 1968. In the command module were Frank Borman, James Lovell and Bill
 Anders. Their primary mission was a there-and-back proof of concept, to
 do a photo reconnaissance of the lunar surface and to scout likely 
locations for a landing. The risks were considerable, including the 
chance of being stuck in lunar orbit for the rest of their short lives 
should the engine of their service module fail to fire.

It took nearly three days 
to reach the moon, and when they entered lunar orbit they were the first
 human beings to see its far side, which always faces away from Earth. 
Traveling at 5,000 mph, 60 miles above the lunar surface, their 
attention was first drawn to the dawning sunlight illuminating the 
ancient craters below them. But then, as the angles changed as they 
whipped around the moon, they saw the Earth hanging in space beyond the 
lunar horizon.

The moment was recalled in September 2018 by Lovell, the command module pilot, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCvW0kS3zdc&amp;t=23s">at a special event</a> for the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8 at the <a href="https://cosmo.org/">Cosmosphere</a> in Hutchinson.

Surrounded by a couple of dozen fellow Apollo-era astronauts and Mission Control crew members, and gently questioned by <a href="https://www.robertkurson.com/about">Robert Kurson</a>,
 author of “Rocket Men,” the 90-year-old Lovell recalled with impressive
 clarity the moment leading up to the taking of what may be the most 
iconic photo in human history.

“Then suddenly I looked up
 and I saw the Earth come up,” Lovell said. “And I realized what I was 
looking at was something that was 240,000 miles away. … I put my thumb 
up to the window and (discovered) I could hide the Earth behind my 
thumb. Which meant that over five billion people and everything I ever 
knew was behind my thumb. And it sort of gave me a different feeling of 
where we are, how we existed.”

“I looked down at the 
Earth,” he said, “and it was only one of nine planets in our solar 
system, it was a mere speck in our galaxy, and of course it was lost to 
oblivion in the universe. So it got you to start thinking.”

The crew realized it would make a good photograph, even though they joked it wasn’t on the event schedule.

Anders grabbed a 
Hasselblad camera and quickly loaded a magazine of Kodak Ektachrome 
slide film. He took a few photos of the view from the cabin window. Even
 though television coverage was beaming live from the spacecraft — 
including the famous <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToHhQUhdyBY">Christmas Eve reading from Genesis</a>
 — it was fuzzy. There was no way to know the power of the image Anders 
had captured on the Hasselblad. It would be days after splashdown before
 the film could be processed. The image that would eventually go up in 
millions of dorm rooms and inspire generations of environmentalists was 
not released to the world until it ran in “Life” magazine, which had an 
exclusive contract with NASA for first use of its moonshot images.

The original “Earthrise” 
was square, but the version most of us are familiar with has been 
cropped and rotated, giving it a familiar horizon. It is a beautiful 
photograph, with our living planet of swirling blue-and-white poised 
above the barren moonscape. It was the first time human beings had 
voyaged to another celestial body and looked back at home, a fragile 
speck in the oblivion of space.

All human beings who had 
ever lived, except for three, had spent their entire lives down there on
 that tiny blue planet. We are all essentially in a lifeboat floating on
 a starry sea. National boundaries appeared as they were in the cosmic 
scheme of things — meaningless.

Apollo 8 returned to Earth
 as planned on Dec. 27. Borman, the mission commander, had spent most of
 the early flight sick. Lovell would return to the moon in 1970 as 
commander of Apollo 13, but would not get a chance to walk on its 
surface because of an explosion that damaged the service module and 
aborted the mission. The crew was forced to use the lunar module as an 
actual lifeboat to return to Earth.

The Cosmosphere has the <a href="https://cosmo.org/exhibitions/hall-of-space">Apollo 13 capsule</a> on display. It also has several Apollo 8 artifacts, including the camera Anders used for “Earthrise.”

All three Apollo 8 astronauts are still living, men in their late 80s or early 90s.

For Anders, Apollo 8 was 
his first and only spaceflight. He continued to work for NASA, but his 
lasting contribution to the space program — and to photography, popular 
culture, the environmental movement and world peace — continues to be 
“Earthrise.”

I have often stared at the
 photograph and thought about Christmas 1968, and the months that 
followed. In July 1969 Apollo 11 landed on the moon, and Neil Armstrong 
was the first person to walk on the lunar surface. I was again in the 
yard beside my house in Baxter Springs, at my brother’s side, staring up
 at the full moon floating against the night sky. The world still seemed
 a dangerous place. My brother was bound for Vietnam, as an Army 
lieutenant, in just a couple of years.

A decade and a half later,
 I was an applicant for the journalist-in-space project, and I remember 
returning to the newsroom at the Pittsburg Morning Sun one day in 
January and finding the staff clustered around a small television. The 
space shuttle Challenger had exploded, killing all seven crew members, 
including teacher-in-space Christa McAuliffe. Spaceflight, which 
Americans had become bored with, was still risky. The journalist program
 was soon canceled.

Now, at the end of this 
year of unexpected risk and challenge, let us trust in science to bring 
us safely home to normal. This generation’s moonshot are the vaccines 
that have now properly been distributed to many frontline workers and 
may reach the rest of us before too many weeks or months. Let us reflect
 on how technology, whether it is a rocket or a social media platform, 
are merely tools that can be used to build or destroy.

And let us take advantage 
of those unexpected moments which present themselves to capture a moment
 of beauty and wonder, moments which might transcend our limited event 
schedules and serve to inspire and give hope to generations yet unborn.

Max McCoy is an award-winning author and journalist. A native Kansan, he started his career at the Pittsburg Morning Sun and was soon writing for national magazines. His investigative stories on unsolved murders, serial killers and hate groups earned him first-place awards from the Associated Press Managing Editors and other organizations. McCoy has also written more than twenty books, the most recent of which is "Elevations: A Personal Exploration of the Arkansas River," named a Kansas Notable Book by the state library. "Elevations" also won the National Outdoor Book Award, in the history/biography category. Max teaches journalism at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609168874436.png" alt="On Dec. 24, 1968, astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and William Anders held a live broadcast from lunar orbit in which they showed pictures of the Earth and moon as seen from their spacecraft. (NASA)" />
 <figcaption>On Dec. 24, 1968, astronauts Frank Borman, Jim Lovell and William Anders held a live broadcast from lunar orbit in which they showed pictures of the Earth and moon as seen from their spacecraft. (NASA)</figcaption>
 </figure>By MAX MCCOY <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/27/this-story-of-a-famous-photograph-taken-at-the-end-of-a-horrific-year-starts-and-ends-in-kansas/">For the Kansas Reflector</a>Fifty-two years ago today, Apollo 8 splashed down in the Pacific after taking humanity’s first swing around the moon.The mission was a triumph 
of science, discovery and American determination. But in an undeveloped 
roll of film in the capsule was an image that might be the mission’s 
most lasting achievement, a self-portrait that continues to inspire hope
 that we just might transcend our worst impulses as a species.That image is “Earthrise.”As a kid I would sprawl in
 the grass in the big yard beside my parents’ house in Baxter Springs 
and stare into the night sky. I remember the hazy summer nights, the 
sharp glitter of the stars in winter, and the whine of trucks on nearby 
Highway 66. And I remember during the long months of 1968 being 
frightened, because my parents were frightened.Then, like now, we were nearing the end of what had been a horrific year.It had started with the 
bloody Tet Offensive, which rocked the American military back on its 
heels in Vietnam. At home, there were assassinations — King in April, 
Kennedy (Bobby) in June. The chaos surrounding the Democratic National 
Convention in August was a violent burlesque that shook the very core of
 American democracy. Outrage piled upon outrage, leaving average folks 
staring slack-jawed in horror and disbelief at the flickering nightmare 
thrown into their living rooms from the only screen in the house — a 
television.The Cold War was 
accelerating, and the American and Soviet space programs were 
neck-and-neck for the shining prize that floated in the night sky: the 
moon. Despite consumer kitsch like Tang in kitchen cabinets and 
antigravity space pens that wrote upside down, the colorful trappings of
 a civilian agency called NASA and the dreams of millions of science 
fiction fans, the primary aim of the American space program was 
political. The goal was not just to reach the moon before the end of the
 decade, as John F. Kennedy had promised in 1962, but to beat the 
Russians there. And the project built to get us there was named Apollo, 
after the Greek god of the sun.But in 1968, the goal seemed as distant as the inconstant moon.The year before, a flash 
fire had swept through the Apollo 1 command module while it sat on the 
launch pad during a test, killing its three astronauts. It was a tragedy
 that seemed to presage the dark days to come. The moon was a quarter of
 a million miles away, but the farthest Americans had ventured beyond 
the Earth was less than a thousand nautical miles, during the Gemini 
project. The 363-foot Saturn V rocket, the biggest and most powerful 
ever made, had yet to be used in a manned flight. The lunar module, the 
spider-like spacecraft designed to actually touch down on the moon, was 
far behind schedule, plagued with technical and production problems.But in spite of all this, 
NASA made the decision to launch three men into space, sending them 
farther and faster than human beings had ever gone, put them into lunar 
orbit for Christmas, and bring them back before the New Year.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609168951803.png" alt="The Apollo 8 survival kit was a rucksack that contained two radio battery packs, one knife and water containers. Each Apollo spacecraft was equipped with two survival rucksacks. The contents were to be used in the event of an emergency landing in remote areas of the world. (Cosmosphere, Hutchinson, Kansas, cosmo.org)" />
 <figcaption>The Apollo 8 survival kit was a rucksack that contained two radio battery packs, one knife and water containers. Each Apollo spacecraft was equipped with two survival rucksacks. The contents were to be used in the event of an emergency landing in remote areas of the world. (Cosmosphere, Hutchinson, Kansas, cosmo.org)</figcaption>
 </figure>I remember watching 
television coverage of the space program obsessively, following every 
detail as Walter Cronkite would patiently explain, sometimes with models
 of the spacecraft, each phase of the flights. My space mania had taken 
hold earlier in the year, when my parents had taken me to see Stanley 
Kubrick’s “2001: A Space Odyssey” at the drive-in. This was on the 
advice of my brother, who was an <a href="https://armyhistory.org/army-reserve-officers-training-corps-hundred-years-old-still-going-strong/">ROTC</a> cadet at the state college in a nearby county.I did not know then, of 
course, that the American space program was largely built on technology 
developed by the Nazis. At the end of World War II, in a secret 
operation called <a href="https://www.archives.gov/atlanta/exhibits/item452-exh.html">Paperclip</a>, the U.S. government had seized truckloads of V2 rocket technology and the teams of scientists and engineers behind it. <a href="https://www.nasa.gov/centers/marshall/history/vonbraun/bio.html">Wernher von Braun</a>,
 the architect of the Saturn V, had also been the chief rocket scientist
 for the Nazis, and his contributions — including gyroscopes for 
guidance and engines that used liquid fuel — would be the foundation for
 the U.S. space program. But what most Americans did not know at the 
time of the Apollo program was that under von Braun’s direction, the 
German V2s that were hurtled at London and other cities had been 
assembled <a href="https://airandspace.si.edu/stories/editorial/wonder-weapons-and-slave-labor">with slave labor</a> from concentration camps.It’s unlikely that any of 
this was even known to the crew of Apollo 8, which blasted off on Dec. 
21, 1968. In the command module were Frank Borman, James Lovell and Bill
 Anders. Their primary mission was a there-and-back proof of concept, to
 do a photo reconnaissance of the lunar surface and to scout likely 
locations for a landing. The risks were considerable, including the 
chance of being stuck in lunar orbit for the rest of their short lives 
should the engine of their service module fail to fire.It took nearly three days 
to reach the moon, and when they entered lunar orbit they were the first
 human beings to see its far side, which always faces away from Earth. 
Traveling at 5,000 mph, 60 miles above the lunar surface, their 
attention was first drawn to the dawning sunlight illuminating the 
ancient craters below them. But then, as the angles changed as they 
whipped around the moon, they saw the Earth hanging in space beyond the 
lunar horizon.The moment was recalled in September 2018 by Lovell, the command module pilot, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HCvW0kS3zdc&amp;t=23s">at a special event</a> for the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8 at the <a href="https://cosmo.org/">Cosmosphere</a> in Hutchinson.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609168984362.png" alt="Apollo 8 command module pilot Jim Lovell at a special event for the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8 at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. (Cosmosphere, Hutchinson, Kansas, cosmo.org)" />
 <figcaption>Apollo 8 command module pilot Jim Lovell at a special event for the 50th anniversary of Apollo 8 at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. (Cosmosphere, Hutchinson, Kansas, cosmo.org)</figcaption>
 </figure>Surrounded by a couple of dozen fellow Apollo-era astronauts and Mission Control crew members, and gently questioned by <a href="https://www.robertkurson.com/about">Robert Kurson</a>,
 author of “Rocket Men,” the 90-year-old Lovell recalled with impressive
 clarity the moment leading up to the taking of what may be the most 
iconic photo in human history.“Then suddenly I looked up
 and I saw the Earth come up,” Lovell said. “And I realized what I was 
looking at was something that was 240,000 miles away. … I put my thumb 
up to the window and (discovered) I could hide the Earth behind my 
thumb. Which meant that over five billion people and everything I ever 
knew was behind my thumb. And it sort of gave me a different feeling of 
where we are, how we existed.”Then Lovell grew even more philosophic.“I looked down at the 
Earth,” he said, “and it was only one of nine planets in our solar 
system, it was a mere speck in our galaxy, and of course it was lost to 
oblivion in the universe. So it got you to start thinking.”The crew realized it would make a good photograph, even though they joked it wasn’t on the event schedule.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609169022510.png" alt="Astronaut Bill Anders, Apollo 8 lunar module pilot, used this camera to take the famous Earthrise photograph on December 24, 1968. (Cosmosphere, Hutchinson, Kansas, cosmo.org)" />
 <figcaption>Astronaut Bill Anders, Apollo 8 lunar module pilot, used this camera to take the famous Earthrise photograph on December 24, 1968. (Cosmosphere, Hutchinson, Kansas, cosmo.org)</figcaption>
 </figure>Anders grabbed a 
Hasselblad camera and quickly loaded a magazine of Kodak Ektachrome 
slide film. He took a few photos of the view from the cabin window. Even
 though television coverage was beaming live from the spacecraft — 
including the famous <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToHhQUhdyBY">Christmas Eve reading from Genesis</a>
 — it was fuzzy. There was no way to know the power of the image Anders 
had captured on the Hasselblad. It would be days after splashdown before
 the film could be processed. The image that would eventually go up in 
millions of dorm rooms and inspire generations of environmentalists was 
not released to the world until it ran in “Life” magazine, which had an 
exclusive contract with NASA for first use of its moonshot images.The original “Earthrise” 
was square, but the version most of us are familiar with has been 
cropped and rotated, giving it a familiar horizon. It is a beautiful 
photograph, with our living planet of swirling blue-and-white poised 
above the barren moonscape. It was the first time human beings had 
voyaged to another celestial body and looked back at home, a fragile 
speck in the oblivion of space.All human beings who had 
ever lived, except for three, had spent their entire lives down there on
 that tiny blue planet. We are all essentially in a lifeboat floating on
 a starry sea. National boundaries appeared as they were in the cosmic 
scheme of things — meaningless.Apollo 8 returned to Earth
 as planned on Dec. 27. Borman, the mission commander, had spent most of
 the early flight sick. Lovell would return to the moon in 1970 as 
commander of Apollo 13, but would not get a chance to walk on its 
surface because of an explosion that damaged the service module and 
aborted the mission. The crew was forced to use the lunar module as an 
actual lifeboat to return to Earth.The Cosmosphere has the <a href="https://cosmo.org/exhibitions/hall-of-space">Apollo 13 capsule</a> on display. It also has several Apollo 8 artifacts, including the camera Anders used for “Earthrise.”All three Apollo 8 astronauts are still living, men in their late 80s or early 90s.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1609169055056.png" alt="In this official NASA portrait, William Anders poses with a Gemini, rather than an Apollo, spacecraft. (NASA)" />
 <figcaption>In this official NASA portrait, William Anders poses with a Gemini, rather than an Apollo, spacecraft. (NASA)</figcaption>
 </figure>For Anders, Apollo 8 was 
his first and only spaceflight. He continued to work for NASA, but his 
lasting contribution to the space program — and to photography, popular 
culture, the environmental movement and world peace — continues to be 
“Earthrise.”I have often stared at the
 photograph and thought about Christmas 1968, and the months that 
followed. In July 1969 Apollo 11 landed on the moon, and Neil Armstrong 
was the first person to walk on the lunar surface. I was again in the 
yard beside my house in Baxter Springs, at my brother’s side, staring up
 at the full moon floating against the night sky. The world still seemed
 a dangerous place. My brother was bound for Vietnam, as an Army 
lieutenant, in just a couple of years.A decade and a half later,
 I was an applicant for the journalist-in-space project, and I remember 
returning to the newsroom at the Pittsburg Morning Sun one day in 
January and finding the staff clustered around a small television. The 
space shuttle Challenger had exploded, killing all seven crew members, 
including teacher-in-space Christa McAuliffe. Spaceflight, which 
Americans had become bored with, was still risky. The journalist program
 was soon canceled.Now, at the end of this 
year of unexpected risk and challenge, let us trust in science to bring 
us safely home to normal. This generation’s moonshot are the vaccines 
that have now properly been distributed to many frontline workers and 
may reach the rest of us before too many weeks or months. Let us reflect
 on how technology, whether it is a rocket or a social media platform, 
are merely tools that can be used to build or destroy.And let us take advantage 
of those unexpected moments which present themselves to capture a moment
 of beauty and wonder, moments which might transcend our limited event 
schedules and serve to inspire and give hope to generations yet unborn.Max McCoy is an award-winning author and journalist. A native Kansan, he started his career at the Pittsburg Morning Sun and was soon writing for national magazines. His investigative stories on unsolved murders, serial killers and hate groups earned him first-place awards from the Associated Press Managing Editors and other organizations. McCoy has also written more than twenty books, the most recent of which is "Elevations: A Personal Exploration of the Arkansas River," named a Kansas Notable Book by the state library. "Elevations" also won the National Outdoor Book Award, in the history/biography category. Max teaches journalism at Emporia State University.

OPINION: This story of a famous photograph starts and ends in Kansas

Fidelity Charitable describes a philanthropist as a person who gives time, money, experience, skills or talent to help create a better world. I find it so interesting how that definition intersects with the primary focus of our mission at Fort Hays State University, which is to develop engaged global citizen-leaders. FHSU provides affordable access to those who seek a top-notch higher education experience. Our caring and compassionate community helps students discover their true gifts. And our students go on to graduate and apply those gifts to create a better world.

Perhaps this all sounds a little hard to believe – but so did the idea of a small teacher’s college in western Kansas becoming one of the most affordable public universities in the United States – a university that this fall graduated students from all 50 states and 20 countries. Or how about the success of the Journey Campaign and its audacious goal to raise a hundred million dollars. By the way, we are currently on track to surpass our goal by Homecoming 2021!

Fort Hays State would not be what it is today without big goals and the compassionate philanthropists who fuel those goals. We have amazing alumni and friends who constantly ask, “How can I help?” Their help comes in many forms: the gift of time through service on boards, the gift of money through scholarships, the gift of experience through mentoring, the gift of donated labor and tradesmanship through projects such as the Downtown Pavilion and the gift of talent such as sharing beautiful music.&nbsp;

Without question, our philanthropists keep our university strong. They change lives. They make dreams come true. Their impact is real – I see it every day.&nbsp;

For instance, John Francis, Emeritus Trustee, called the FHSU Foundation when the pandemic began last March to ask what area of FHSU needed his financial support the most. He and his wife, Nancy, proudly gave to the President’s Strategic Initiatives Fund. He also wrote a letter to all of his fellow Foundation Trustees, current and emeritus, encouraging them to give to either the President’s Strategic Initiatives Fund and/or the Student Emergency Assistance Fund as a vote of confidence in FHSU and our students. His heartfelt letter garnered multiple gifts to both funds at a time when good news was hard to come by.

What about Bill Confer, father of Cindy Coldiron and David Confer, who was an ardent advocate of higher education? After graduating from Fort Hays State in 1955, he became a high school science teacher and encouraged all of his students to continue their education. He was always grateful for the education he received at FHSU. His children have carried on his legacy by establishing a scholarship in his honor.&nbsp;

Look no further than the centerpiece of campus life, the university quad, to see the physical impact of philanthropy at work. The Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design was made possible by many generous donors. “The Schmidt Foundation was excited to be a part of such a beautiful project,” said Gary Shorman, president of the Schmidt Foundation. “Bob and Pat Schmidt were not only avid supporters of Fort Hays State University, but they also loved art and those who create it. We believe FHSU’s Center for Art and Design was the perfect place to invest and to build a wonderful future for students who choose to enhance our lives with art.”

The Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success is another remarkable addition to our campus. Our students – current and future –will forever be changed by this cutting-edge student success and engagement facility. The building is named in honor of Richard Fischli and Dolores Wills-Fischli, whose journey with Fort Hays State began with two rural Kansas kids pursuing a college education. Richard and Dolores both earned bachelor's and master's degrees from FHSU in the 1950s. As lifelong K-12 educators, Richard and Dolores made an impact on thousands of students throughout their careers. Beyond the classroom, the Fischlis were known for giving what they could and truly understood the impact every dollar had on student success.&nbsp;

Dr. Dennis King started working at FHSU back in 1996 – the same year he made his first gift to FHSU. Over the last 20-plus years, he has worked across campus in multiple departments and has continued to give back along the way. When asked why he chooses to give back to Fort Hays State, even while he already gives so much of himself to his job each day, he said this: “If I can give a little bit and help individuals have the same success as I’ve had and have the same happiness that I’ve had, that’s what I want to do.”&nbsp;

Dr. Grady Dixon, dean of FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, personally knows the impact of donors and scholarships. “My wife, Melissa, and I give back to FHSU for several reasons. We both benefited from donor-funded scholarships when we were students. I know the flexibility that donor gifts provide to faculty who work to enhance student experiences. As an administrator, I understand that many donors are more eager to give when they know that university employees are invested in the same cause. We strongly believe in the societal value of FHSU and higher education, in general.”

All of these people embrace the spirit of giving. When they got to where they were going, they did not forget to look around – and help others in need.&nbsp;

As 2020 draws to a close, I want to thank all of our alumni and friends for the impact they have had in their communities and especially our philanthropists, who continue to pay it forward to FHSU. I have been moved by your generosity.&nbsp;

If you are interested in fueling the success of FHSU this holiday season, please consider visiting <a href="https://foundation.fhsu.edu/donate">https://foundation.fhsu.edu/donate</a> or contacting the FHSU Foundation at 785.628.5620, <a href="http://foundation.fhsu.edu/">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>, or P.O. Box 1060, Hays, KS 67601. Thank you!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575301942236.jpeg" alt="Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Tisa Mason, FHSU president</figcaption>
 </figure>Fidelity Charitable describes a philanthropist as a person who gives time, money, experience, skills or talent to help create a better world. I find it so interesting how that definition intersects with the primary focus of our mission at Fort Hays State University, which is to develop engaged global citizen-leaders. FHSU provides affordable access to those who seek a top-notch higher education experience. Our caring and compassionate community helps students discover their true gifts. And our students go on to graduate and apply those gifts to create a better world.Perhaps this all sounds a little hard to believe – but so did the idea of a small teacher’s college in western Kansas becoming one of the most affordable public universities in the United States – a university that this fall graduated students from all 50 states and 20 countries. Or how about the success of the Journey Campaign and its audacious goal to raise a hundred million dollars. By the way, we are currently on track to surpass our goal by Homecoming 2021!Fort Hays State would not be what it is today without big goals and the compassionate philanthropists who fuel those goals. We have amazing alumni and friends who constantly ask, “How can I help?” Their help comes in many forms: the gift of time through service on boards, the gift of money through scholarships, the gift of experience through mentoring, the gift of donated labor and tradesmanship through projects such as the Downtown Pavilion and the gift of talent such as sharing beautiful music.&nbsp;Without question, our philanthropists keep our university strong. They change lives. They make dreams come true. Their impact is real – I see it every day.&nbsp;For instance, John Francis, Emeritus Trustee, called the FHSU Foundation when the pandemic began last March to ask what area of FHSU needed his financial support the most. He and his wife, Nancy, proudly gave to the President’s Strategic Initiatives Fund. He also wrote a letter to all of his fellow Foundation Trustees, current and emeritus, encouraging them to give to either the President’s Strategic Initiatives Fund and/or the Student Emergency Assistance Fund as a vote of confidence in FHSU and our students. His heartfelt letter garnered multiple gifts to both funds at a time when good news was hard to come by.What about Bill Confer, father of Cindy Coldiron and David Confer, who was an ardent advocate of higher education? After graduating from Fort Hays State in 1955, he became a high school science teacher and encouraged all of his students to continue their education. He was always grateful for the education he received at FHSU. His children have carried on his legacy by establishing a scholarship in his honor.&nbsp;Look no further than the centerpiece of campus life, the university quad, to see the physical impact of philanthropy at work. The Schmidt Foundation Center for Art and Design was made possible by many generous donors. “The Schmidt Foundation was excited to be a part of such a beautiful project,” said Gary Shorman, president of the Schmidt Foundation. “Bob and Pat Schmidt were not only avid supporters of Fort Hays State University, but they also loved art and those who create it. We believe FHSU’s Center for Art and Design was the perfect place to invest and to build a wonderful future for students who choose to enhance our lives with art.”The Fischli-Wills Center for Student Success is another remarkable addition to our campus. Our students – current and future –will forever be changed by this cutting-edge student success and engagement facility. The building is named in honor of Richard Fischli and Dolores Wills-Fischli, whose journey with Fort Hays State began with two rural Kansas kids pursuing a college education. Richard and Dolores both earned bachelor's and master's degrees from FHSU in the 1950s. As lifelong K-12 educators, Richard and Dolores made an impact on thousands of students throughout their careers. Beyond the classroom, the Fischlis were known for giving what they could and truly understood the impact every dollar had on student success.&nbsp;Dr. Dennis King started working at FHSU back in 1996 – the same year he made his first gift to FHSU. Over the last 20-plus years, he has worked across campus in multiple departments and has continued to give back along the way. When asked why he chooses to give back to Fort Hays State, even while he already gives so much of himself to his job each day, he said this: “If I can give a little bit and help individuals have the same success as I’ve had and have the same happiness that I’ve had, that’s what I want to do.”&nbsp;Dr. Grady Dixon, dean of FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology and Mathematics, personally knows the impact of donors and scholarships. “My wife, Melissa, and I give back to FHSU for several reasons. We both benefited from donor-funded scholarships when we were students. I know the flexibility that donor gifts provide to faculty who work to enhance student experiences. As an administrator, I understand that many donors are more eager to give when they know that university employees are invested in the same cause. We strongly believe in the societal value of FHSU and higher education, in general.”All of these people embrace the spirit of giving. When they got to where they were going, they did not forget to look around – and help others in need.&nbsp;As 2020 draws to a close, I want to thank all of our alumni and friends for the impact they have had in their communities and especially our philanthropists, who continue to pay it forward to FHSU. I have been moved by your generosity.&nbsp;If you are interested in fueling the success of FHSU this holiday season, please consider visiting <a href="https://foundation.fhsu.edu/donate">https://foundation.fhsu.edu/donate</a> or contacting the FHSU Foundation at 785.628.5620, <a href="http://foundation.fhsu.edu/">foundation.fhsu.edu</a>, or P.O. Box 1060, Hays, KS 67601. Thank you!

MASON: Making dreams come true at FHSU

Kansas Common crude began the last week of the year at $38.50 per barrel at CHS in McPherson. That's down 75 cents from a week ago, but up nearly four dollars over prices at the beginning of the month. A year ago, Kansas prices were over fifty dollars per barrel.

The Kansas Corporation Commission says a recent string of earthquakes in Wichita is not tied to any oil and gas activity in the area. In a news release, Director Ryan Hoffman of the Conservation Division says they found no new drilling activity, and no permit violations at existing wells within a three-mile radius of the quakes. They reached farther out for disposal wells, but found no volume increases at the five disposal wells within six miles of the epicenter.&nbsp; The Kansas Geological Survey reported a slight decline in new crude-production totals through August, offering the latest county numbers available. Barton County pumped more than 924,000 barrels of crude through August. That's more than 3,700 barrels per day. The Ellis County's total through August was 1.45 million barrels, or just short of 6,000 barrels per day. Russell County year-to-date output through August reached 3,520 barrels per day, while Stafford County notched more than 2,500 barrels per day.&nbsp; Statewide, total August crude-oil production was lower than the month before but higher than reported earlier by the feds. KGS says the Kansas total was 2.56 million barrels in August, or nearly 83,000 barrels per day. That's down a thousand barrels per day from the month before. The year-to-date average statewide was nearly 77,000 barrels per day. Baker Hughes reported 348 active rigs across the U.S. The count in Oklahoma was up two, Texas was up one, New Mexico was down one, and Louisiana was up three rigs over the week before. The Rig Count in Kansas was down slightly. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports nine active rigs in eastern Kansas, down two, and eight west of Wichita, which is unchanged. Drillers reached total depth on a new well last week in Ellis County. Out of nine newly-completed wells reported across Kansas last week, there was one in Russell County among six West of Wichita. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports the year-to-date total is 785 new completions. Eight new drilling permits made the list last week. That's 476 so far this year. There were eight new permits in Western Kansas, including one each in Barton and Stafford counties. The Energy Information Administration reports inventories dropped last week by 600,000 barrels. EIA says U.S. stockpiles are about 11% above the five-year seasonal average. The government says imports increased last week by 140,000 barrels per day to 5.6 million barrels per day. The four-week average is down nearly 13% from the same four weeks a year ago. U.S. crude-oil production topped eleven million barrels per day for the fourth straight week. That's the first time that's happened since August. EIA reports domestic output was up 13,000 barrels per day from a week earlier, but lagged more than 1.7 million barrels per day behind the same week last year. New oil-and-gas drilling rules in Colorado go into effect next month. But there are roughly 5,000 pending drilling permits awaiting action in the meantime, and state officials have to decide which will be approved, which will be rejected and which will have to be redone under the new rules. The Denver Post reports more than 200 people called into a Zoom meeting last week to get a first look at new drilling applications, and to assess the cumulative impacts of the new rules. Colorado officials have agreed to enact more stringent regulations on ozone emissions from oil and gas, and other industries, at the instruction of Governor Jared Polis. The state is hoping to avoid a dramatic downgrade under the federal Clean Air Act, which could require reformulated gasoline blends in some areas. "A pretty terrible year for the industry." That's the description of NorthDakota’s top oil regulator. Mineral Resources Director Lynn Helms told the Bismarck Tribune 2020 will be known for the rapid collapse of crude prices, dismantled drilling rigs and idled wells. Helms says next year does not look very promising in terms of growth. He says we will need a year or more before oil and gas prices prompt sustained growth in North Dakota. State regulators say total crude oil and condensate production in the top U.S. producing state declined for the third straight month, reaching its lowest total since May. The Railroad Commission of Texas reports monthly output of 128 million barrels, or 4.1 million barrels per day. That's down from over five million barrels per day before the pandemic. A yearly survey of more than 160 energy professionals in Texas shows they are concerned about federal overreach, but are generally positive about the future of the industry. The top three issues noted by the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers survey were, in order, the price of oil, demand for oil and gas, and federal over-regulation. Respondents noted the need for increased public education, PR and marketing to address all three concerns. Pipeline construction and some deregulation have spawned some optimism the Canadian oil patch hasn't seen in a while. After six years of delays, work has begin on the replacement of an Enbridge pipeline to Minnesota, and construction is advancing on expansion of the TransMountain Pipeline to the Pacific coast. One is expected to open next year and the other by the end of 2022. Canada's Global News agency reports the Alberta government ended its oil production curtailment program. At least one producer is optimistic, as Canadian NaturalResources said it would boost production by five percent next year. Oil and gas development pumped $2.8 billion into the treasury in New Mexico this year, according to a study commissioned by the New Mexico Oil and GasAssociation. That's the second-highest total revenue they've ever reported, despite a global price war and plummeting demand amid the coronavirus pandemic Work resumed off the coast of Germany on a Russian natural-gas pipeline, despite the recent acceleration of U.S. sanctions. Any individual or company helping the pipeline in any way has been targeted, in what the Russian Press Secretary last week called a kind of "hybrid warfare." Earlier this month the pipe-laying vessel Fortuna began laying a 1.5 mile section of the pipe.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARKansas Common crude began the last week of the year at $38.50 per barrel at CHS in McPherson. That's down 75 cents from a week ago, but up nearly four dollars over prices at the beginning of the month. A year ago, Kansas prices were over fifty dollars per barrel.The Kansas Corporation Commission says a recent string of earthquakes in Wichita is not tied to any oil and gas activity in the area. In a news release, Director Ryan Hoffman of the Conservation Division says they found no new drilling activity, and no permit violations at existing wells within a three-mile radius of the quakes. They reached farther out for disposal wells, but found no volume increases at the five disposal wells within six miles of the epicenter.&nbsp; The Kansas Geological Survey reported a slight decline in new crude-production totals through August, offering the latest county numbers available. Barton County pumped more than 924,000 barrels of crude through August. That's more than 3,700 barrels per day. The Ellis County's total through August was 1.45 million barrels, or just short of 6,000 barrels per day. Russell County year-to-date output through August reached 3,520 barrels per day, while Stafford County notched more than 2,500 barrels per day.&nbsp; Statewide, total August crude-oil production was lower than the month before but higher than reported earlier by the feds. KGS says the Kansas total was 2.56 million barrels in August, or nearly 83,000 barrels per day. That's down a thousand barrels per day from the month before. The year-to-date average statewide was nearly 77,000 barrels per day. Baker Hughes reported 348 active rigs across the U.S. The count in Oklahoma was up two, Texas was up one, New Mexico was down one, and Louisiana was up three rigs over the week before. The Rig Count in Kansas was down slightly. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports nine active rigs in eastern Kansas, down two, and eight west of Wichita, which is unchanged. Drillers reached total depth on a new well last week in Ellis County. Out of nine newly-completed wells reported across Kansas last week, there was one in Russell County among six West of Wichita. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports the year-to-date total is 785 new completions. Eight new drilling permits made the list last week. That's 476 so far this year. There were eight new permits in Western Kansas, including one each in Barton and Stafford counties. The Energy Information Administration reports inventories dropped last week by 600,000 barrels. EIA says U.S. stockpiles are about 11% above the five-year seasonal average. The government says imports increased last week by 140,000 barrels per day to 5.6 million barrels per day. The four-week average is down nearly 13% from the same four weeks a year ago. U.S. crude-oil production topped eleven million barrels per day for the fourth straight week. That's the first time that's happened since August. EIA reports domestic output was up 13,000 barrels per day from a week earlier, but lagged more than 1.7 million barrels per day behind the same week last year. New oil-and-gas drilling rules in Colorado go into effect next month. But there are roughly 5,000 pending drilling permits awaiting action in the meantime, and state officials have to decide which will be approved, which will be rejected and which will have to be redone under the new rules. The Denver Post reports more than 200 people called into a Zoom meeting last week to get a first look at new drilling applications, and to assess the cumulative impacts of the new rules. Colorado officials have agreed to enact more stringent regulations on ozone emissions from oil and gas, and other industries, at the instruction of Governor Jared Polis. The state is hoping to avoid a dramatic downgrade under the federal Clean Air Act, which could require reformulated gasoline blends in some areas. "A pretty terrible year for the industry." That's the description of NorthDakota’s top oil regulator. Mineral Resources Director Lynn Helms told the Bismarck Tribune 2020 will be known for the rapid collapse of crude prices, dismantled drilling rigs and idled wells. Helms says next year does not look very promising in terms of growth. He says we will need a year or more before oil and gas prices prompt sustained growth in North Dakota. State regulators say total crude oil and condensate production in the top U.S. producing state declined for the third straight month, reaching its lowest total since May. The Railroad Commission of Texas reports monthly output of 128 million barrels, or 4.1 million barrels per day. That's down from over five million barrels per day before the pandemic. A yearly survey of more than 160 energy professionals in Texas shows they are concerned about federal overreach, but are generally positive about the future of the industry. The top three issues noted by the Texas Alliance of Energy Producers survey were, in order, the price of oil, demand for oil and gas, and federal over-regulation. Respondents noted the need for increased public education, PR and marketing to address all three concerns. Pipeline construction and some deregulation have spawned some optimism the Canadian oil patch hasn't seen in a while. After six years of delays, work has begin on the replacement of an Enbridge pipeline to Minnesota, and construction is advancing on expansion of the TransMountain Pipeline to the Pacific coast. One is expected to open next year and the other by the end of 2022. Canada's Global News agency reports the Alberta government ended its oil production curtailment program. At least one producer is optimistic, as Canadian NaturalResources said it would boost production by five percent next year. Oil and gas development pumped $2.8 billion into the treasury in New Mexico this year, according to a study commissioned by the New Mexico Oil and GasAssociation. That's the second-highest total revenue they've ever reported, despite a global price war and plummeting demand amid the coronavirus pandemic Work resumed off the coast of Germany on a Russian natural-gas pipeline, despite the recent acceleration of U.S. sanctions. Any individual or company helping the pipeline in any way has been targeted, in what the Russian Press Secretary last week called a kind of "hybrid warfare." Earlier this month the pipe-laying vessel Fortuna began laying a 1.5 mile section of the pipe.

News From the Oil Patch: Wichita quakes not caused by O&G

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

Farm dogs hold a special place in the day-to-day operations of many family farms and ranches. For my family, our dog serves many important roles. Very quickly after our dog Rosie Bo was brought home to the farm as a tiny puppy, she assumed the role of head of farm security. Over the last few years, she has worked hard to ensure opossums avoid our porches, deer stay out of our yard, birds are made aware of a strict no fly zone near her human’s house, and all shadows of the night get a good barking. 

Although she has a huge, warm doghouse and a big barn full of hay, she has claimed a wicker chair on my front porch as her official post, which clearly allows her to remain on high patrol as she deems fit. I think she likes the spot because she not only can look over her territory, but she can also sit up and look into our living room to keep track of her humans.

Our girl Rosie Bo is fierce yet also the most loving and loyal pup you will ever find. She’ll try to destroy any wild animal that enters her domain, yet she tolerates her humans like only a saint would. Many days while my kids have been home during remote learning, I will look out my kitchen window during a recess break only to see Rosie Bo donning a few yards of fancy pink ruffles around her neck while running around the yard with the kids. It’s a style like that from the Elizabethan era and it is quite becoming of Her Majesty. Rosie Bo’s fashion is usually always styled by a 5-year-old little girl who loves digging through my fabric box and clearly has graduated from dressing her baby dolls to now accessorizing the farm dog.

More often than not this year, Rosie Bo has been allowed into the house to relax on the floor for a bit — usually in the absolute middle of any pathway traversed by her humans. I often wonder if she strategically places herself in these high-traffic areas in an attempt to trip her humans in the hopes they are carrying delicious morsels of food like Goldfish, string cheese or peanut butter sandwiches that she could help clean up.

While her taste in human food is quite sophisticated, Rosie Bo also fancies treasures she can enjoy after finding them while on patrol throughout the farm. She’s very proficient in searching our pastures and recovering deer bones that she then brings to my yard and gnaws on while lying in the sun. She’s also impressively good at sniffing out mummified pests like squirrels, raccoons and opossums and bringing them back to her wicker porch perch for safe keeping. I often wonder what runs through the mind of the UPS delivery guy when he makes deliveries to my house — never quite knowing what he’ll find when leaving a package by our door.

While our two kids have been home for remote school, Rosie Bo has become the third student in our learning environment. In the mornings, after she is allowed into the house, she’ll generally make a round through the kitchen to make sure there’s no cleanup work needed before she walks into one of the kids’ rooms to join a classroom Zoom meeting, listening to recitations of the alphabet by my daughter, and laying on the floor near my son as he works through his phonics lessons. Instead of gold stars, Rosie Bo generally knows she’s been a good pupil when she receives a special scratch behind her ear or on her belly and is told she’s a good dog.

As the final days of 2020 wrap up and a new year is ushered in, my guess is that Rosie Bo will continue with her essential responsibilities on the farm with little hesitation. After all, it’ll just be another day for our farm dog doing what she does so well.

"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/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin</figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher Farm dogs hold a special place in the day-to-day operations of many family farms and ranches. For my family, our dog serves many important roles. Very quickly after our dog Rosie Bo was brought home to the farm as a tiny puppy, she assumed the role of head of farm security. Over the last few years, she has worked hard to ensure opossums avoid our porches, deer stay out of our yard, birds are made aware of a strict no fly zone near her human’s house, and all shadows of the night get a good barking. Although she has a huge, warm doghouse and a big barn full of hay, she has claimed a wicker chair on my front porch as her official post, which clearly allows her to remain on high patrol as she deems fit. I think she likes the spot because she not only can look over her territory, but she can also sit up and look into our living room to keep track of her humans.Our girl Rosie Bo is fierce yet also the most loving and loyal pup you will ever find. She’ll try to destroy any wild animal that enters her domain, yet she tolerates her humans like only a saint would. Many days while my kids have been home during remote learning, I will look out my kitchen window during a recess break only to see Rosie Bo donning a few yards of fancy pink ruffles around her neck while running around the yard with the kids. It’s a style like that from the Elizabethan era and it is quite becoming of Her Majesty. Rosie Bo’s fashion is usually always styled by a 5-year-old little girl who loves digging through my fabric box and clearly has graduated from dressing her baby dolls to now accessorizing the farm dog.More often than not this year, Rosie Bo has been allowed into the house to relax on the floor for a bit — usually in the absolute middle of any pathway traversed by her humans. I often wonder if she strategically places herself in these high-traffic areas in an attempt to trip her humans in the hopes they are carrying delicious morsels of food like Goldfish, string cheese or peanut butter sandwiches that she could help clean up.While her taste in human food is quite sophisticated, Rosie Bo also fancies treasures she can enjoy after finding them while on patrol throughout the farm. She’s very proficient in searching our pastures and recovering deer bones that she then brings to my yard and gnaws on while lying in the sun. She’s also impressively good at sniffing out mummified pests like squirrels, raccoons and opossums and bringing them back to her wicker porch perch for safe keeping. I often wonder what runs through the mind of the UPS delivery guy when he makes deliveries to my house — never quite knowing what he’ll find when leaving a package by our door.While our two kids have been home for remote school, Rosie Bo has become the third student in our learning environment. In the mornings, after she is allowed into the house, she’ll generally make a round through the kitchen to make sure there’s no cleanup work needed before she walks into one of the kids’ rooms to join a classroom Zoom meeting, listening to recitations of the alphabet by my daughter, and laying on the floor near my son as he works through his phonics lessons. Instead of gold stars, Rosie Bo generally knows she’s been a good pupil when she receives a special scratch behind her ear or on her belly and is told she’s a good dog.As the final days of 2020 wrap up and a new year is ushered in, my guess is that Rosie Bo will continue with her essential responsibilities on the farm with little hesitation. After all, it’ll just be another day for our farm dog doing what she does so well."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: The role of a farm dog

As a weary world struggles to celebrate this holiday season the challenges for Kansas schools and the families they serve are monumental.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fortunately, two key COVID-related events bring hope—the promise of new vaccines to protect us from the virus and a stimulus package to ease the nation’s economic and social adversity.&nbsp;

We’ll learn more about vaccine distribution to educators and school workers in coming weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s also too early to know Kansas’ share of education funds in the stimulus bill sent to President Trump this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;At this writing, the President is requesting more funding be added before he signs the bill into law.&nbsp;&nbsp;

However, a look at what’s expected for K-12 education at the national level has been published by Future-Ed, a Georgetown University think-tank and the National Association of Elementary School Principals.&nbsp;&nbsp;The review summarizes the 5,593 page package and earmarked funds remaining from the first stimulus (March CARES Act).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

While this may seem like a lot of taxpayer money, COVID-19 has devastated traditional schooling in Kansas; moreover, the stimulus is meant for pandemic control and disaster recovery.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s not meant to replace state funding for education that covers school operational expenses and teacher salaries.&nbsp;

To illustrate how additional funding can fill gaps that state funding cannot address, let’s compare what the stimulus package offers with what Kansans have voiced online and what news media have reported as the greatest public education needs.

For example, early this year as more children were homebound, public recognition grew for the importance of full-time schools in learning and nurturing the social/emotional development of children that was coupled with an overall commitment to the importance of safety. There also was a strong public reaction to limiting school sports because it was obvious to many that sports, also music and the arts, help keep students focused on their schooling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Perhaps what most surprised us was realizing that the Kansas economy is driven in large part by the function of our schools to care for children while their parents work.&nbsp;&nbsp;Families lose income, trade and industry suffer and state tax revenue declines when schools shut down.&nbsp;

The proposed stimulus will bring $54.3 billion for K-12 schools nationally, about four times what schools received in March through the CARES Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new bill also includes $4 billion for governors to spend at their discretion.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Within the overall amount is $82 billion for colleges and schools for HVAC repair and replacement and other safety measures, along with funds for student support in high-need schools and more nutritional services.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is $7 billion to expand broadband access coupled with a separate item for building school technological capacity.&nbsp;&nbsp;The extant CARES act offers funding for teachers to integrate remote and classroom teaching.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Hardships can bring greater understanding.&nbsp;&nbsp;The changes needed in our schools to help control the pandemic are also essential to recover from it and enable students to regain learning losses incurred during the pandemic.&nbsp;

The pandemic that continues to disrupt K-12 schools in every corner of our state will impact us for months, even years.&nbsp;&nbsp;As difficult as it is to accept, there’s no returning to school as it was in the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;By definition, stimulus infers incentive, a jump-start.&nbsp;&nbsp;It will take full, comprehensive state funding plus a strong stimulus package to give Kansas students the high-quality education they deserve.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/7/1593719779701.jpeg" alt="Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education." />
 <figcaption>Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.</figcaption>
 </figure>As a weary world struggles to celebrate this holiday season the challenges for Kansas schools and the families they serve are monumental.&nbsp;&nbsp;Fortunately, two key COVID-related events bring hope—the promise of new vaccines to protect us from the virus and a stimulus package to ease the nation’s economic and social adversity.&nbsp;We’ll learn more about vaccine distribution to educators and school workers in coming weeks.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s also too early to know Kansas’ share of education funds in the stimulus bill sent to President Trump this week.&nbsp;&nbsp;At this writing, the President is requesting more funding be added before he signs the bill into law.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, a look at what’s expected for K-12 education at the national level has been published by Future-Ed, a Georgetown University think-tank and the National Association of Elementary School Principals.&nbsp;&nbsp;The review summarizes the 5,593 page package and earmarked funds remaining from the first stimulus (March CARES Act).&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;While this may seem like a lot of taxpayer money, COVID-19 has devastated traditional schooling in Kansas; moreover, the stimulus is meant for pandemic control and disaster recovery.&nbsp;&nbsp;It’s not meant to replace state funding for education that covers school operational expenses and teacher salaries.&nbsp;To illustrate how additional funding can fill gaps that state funding cannot address, let’s compare what the stimulus package offers with what Kansans have voiced online and what news media have reported as the greatest public education needs.For example, early this year as more children were homebound, public recognition grew for the importance of full-time schools in learning and nurturing the social/emotional development of children that was coupled with an overall commitment to the importance of safety. There also was a strong public reaction to limiting school sports because it was obvious to many that sports, also music and the arts, help keep students focused on their schooling.&nbsp;&nbsp;Perhaps what most surprised us was realizing that the Kansas economy is driven in large part by the function of our schools to care for children while their parents work.&nbsp;&nbsp;Families lose income, trade and industry suffer and state tax revenue declines when schools shut down.&nbsp;The proposed stimulus will bring $54.3 billion for K-12 schools nationally, about four times what schools received in March through the CARES Act.&nbsp;&nbsp;The new bill also includes $4 billion for governors to spend at their discretion.&nbsp;&nbsp;Within the overall amount is $82 billion for colleges and schools for HVAC repair and replacement and other safety measures, along with funds for student support in high-need schools and more nutritional services.&nbsp;&nbsp;There is $7 billion to expand broadband access coupled with a separate item for building school technological capacity.&nbsp;&nbsp;The extant CARES act offers funding for teachers to integrate remote and classroom teaching.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hardships can bring greater understanding.&nbsp;&nbsp;The changes needed in our schools to help control the pandemic are also essential to recover from it and enable students to regain learning losses incurred during the pandemic.&nbsp;The pandemic that continues to disrupt K-12 schools in every corner of our state will impact us for months, even years.&nbsp;&nbsp;As difficult as it is to accept, there’s no returning to school as it was in the past.&nbsp;&nbsp;By definition, stimulus infers incentive, a jump-start.&nbsp;&nbsp;It will take full, comprehensive state funding plus a strong stimulus package to give Kansas students the high-quality education they deserve.&nbsp;&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Stimulus funding will help not replace state funding for schools

By JEFF BRULL HaysMed Foundation executive director

I’m beginning this installment of “The View From Here” with the 
understatement of the century: This year has certainly been challenging.
 We’ve all learned so much, not only about COVID, but about technology, 
adaptability, resilience, gratitude, and most importantly, kindness. 
Each day brings new challenges, but above all it presents us the 
opportunity to grow in compassion and kindness.

Reaction to the pandemic among the people with whom I interact is 
certainly varied, but in the end it all comes down to the kind of people
 we’ve always been. Western Kansans are uniquely independent, but we’ve 
always taken care of each other. Although there is much uncertainty, we 
do know that we will continue working to care for one another.

The HaysMed Foundation is one vehicle by which you can choose to do 
just that. You may want to ensure you, your family, and your neighbors 
are inoculated against the seasonal flu. You may want to ensure our 
front-line healthcare workers feel support and appreciation from their 
community. You may want to provide scholarship opportunities to an 
outstanding nurse who took care of you, your child, your spouse, or a 
parent. You may want to ensure that visitors to HaysMed can charge a 
cell phone, enjoy a reflective moment in the chapel, or receive 
comforting care and education to return to their homes the best way they
 are able.

All of these things and a hundred more are what we’ve been doing at 
the HaysMed Foundation for 25 years. To those who have helped, I offer 
my humble thanks. To those who haven’t quite gotten around to it yet, 
we’re ready to help you find the projects, programs, or people about 
which you feel most passionate. We wish each of you a joyous, loving, 
and above all, a healthy new year.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608755301101.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JEFF BRULL HaysMed Foundation executive directorI’m beginning this installment of “The View From Here” with the 
understatement of the century: This year has certainly been challenging.
 We’ve all learned so much, not only about COVID, but about technology, 
adaptability, resilience, gratitude, and most importantly, kindness. 
Each day brings new challenges, but above all it presents us the 
opportunity to grow in compassion and kindness.Reaction to the pandemic among the people with whom I interact is 
certainly varied, but in the end it all comes down to the kind of people
 we’ve always been. Western Kansans are uniquely independent, but we’ve 
always taken care of each other. Although there is much uncertainty, we 
do know that we will continue working to care for one another.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608755342277.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The HaysMed Foundation is one vehicle by which you can choose to do 
just that. You may want to ensure you, your family, and your neighbors 
are inoculated against the seasonal flu. You may want to ensure our 
front-line healthcare workers feel support and appreciation from their 
community. You may want to provide scholarship opportunities to an 
outstanding nurse who took care of you, your child, your spouse, or a 
parent. You may want to ensure that visitors to HaysMed can charge a 
cell phone, enjoy a reflective moment in the chapel, or receive 
comforting care and education to return to their homes the best way they
 are able.All of these things and a hundred more are what we’ve been doing at 
the HaysMed Foundation for 25 years. To those who have helped, I offer 
my humble thanks. To those who haven’t quite gotten around to it yet, 
we’re ready to help you find the projects, programs, or people about 
which you feel most passionate. We wish each of you a joyous, loving, 
and above all, a healthy new year.

The View From Here from HaysMed Foundation's Jeff Brull

After the holidays, many municipalities allow old Christmas trees to be placed curbside. Trees are then collected and ground up for mulch or burned. If you miss the designated date, or your trash collector doesn't accept trees, there are several options to prolong the useful life of the tree.&nbsp;

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dfeb94c5-a09d-4da7-b37f-d757e2685593">RELATED: Free Christmas tree disposal site open</a>

An old Christmas tree can be used to benefit birds, fish, and the landscape by placing it in a corner of your deck, and spreading some birdseed nearby, or tying it to a deciduous tree or post near a bird feeder. The birds benefit from having escape cover nearby when hawks or cats threaten, and the dense boughs reduce the wind chill on a cold night.&nbsp;

Sinking your Christmas tree in a pond is an easy way to improve fish habitat and fishing. The tree serves as little coral reef, in that the branches provide substrate for water plants to grow, and cover for minnows and other forms of small aquatic life. Larger fish are drawn by the shade and the presence of prey.&nbsp;

How do you sink a tree? Tie the base to a cinder block with a short, stout rope, and toss it in. Just be sure to get permission from the pond owner first! Using the little tree around the landscape requires clipping off all of the branches. Use the boughs to add extra insulation around semi-hardy perennials or to trees and shrubs that were recently planted. The leftover trunk may be used as a garden stake next spring.&nbsp;

&nbsp; Or cut and let it dry for a few weeks, and you will have some easy lighting firewood. Just beware that most conifer species tend to spark and pop more than hardwoods, as resin pockets in the wood make tiny explosions. This can delight the youngsters, but for safety's sake, keep an eye on the fire when burning Christmas tree logs!&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>After the holidays, many municipalities allow old Christmas trees to be placed curbside. Trees are then collected and ground up for mulch or burned. If you miss the designated date, or your trash collector doesn't accept trees, there are several options to prolong the useful life of the tree.&nbsp;<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/dfeb94c5-a09d-4da7-b37f-d757e2685593">RELATED: Free Christmas tree disposal site open</a>An old Christmas tree can be used to benefit birds, fish, and the landscape by placing it in a corner of your deck, and spreading some birdseed nearby, or tying it to a deciduous tree or post near a bird feeder. The birds benefit from having escape cover nearby when hawks or cats threaten, and the dense boughs reduce the wind chill on a cold night.&nbsp;Sinking your Christmas tree in a pond is an easy way to improve fish habitat and fishing. The tree serves as little coral reef, in that the branches provide substrate for water plants to grow, and cover for minnows and other forms of small aquatic life. Larger fish are drawn by the shade and the presence of prey.&nbsp;How do you sink a tree? Tie the base to a cinder block with a short, stout rope, and toss it in. Just be sure to get permission from the pond owner first! Using the little tree around the landscape requires clipping off all of the branches. Use the boughs to add extra insulation around semi-hardy perennials or to trees and shrubs that were recently planted. The leftover trunk may be used as a garden stake next spring.&nbsp;&nbsp; Or cut and let it dry for a few weeks, and you will have some easy lighting firewood. Just beware that most conifer species tend to spark and pop more than hardwoods, as resin pockets in the wood make tiny explosions. This can delight the youngsters, but for safety's sake, keep an eye on the fire when burning Christmas tree logs!&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: What to do with the Christmas tree after Christmas     

By JAY PLANK <a href="http://www.riverwalkchurchofchrist.org/">RiverWalk Church of Christ</a>

A recent Kansas Reflector article, “ '<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/10/is-cruelty-just-the-point-coalition-demands-end-to-utility-shutoffs/">Is cruelty just the point?’: Coalition demands end to utility shutoffs</a>,”
 consisted mostly of quotes and anecdotal stories by customers of 
utility companies or speakers in a conference call hosted by Build Power
 MoKan, a self-described “energy justice coalition.” The thrust of the 
article was to call the utilities to task for shutting off services for 
nonpayment.

While I commend the 
Reflector for the article, there are two sides to the story. I work for 
an independent, small, autonomous downtown church in Wichita. We can set
 our own parameters for any benevolent help we may provide and can 
sometimes help clients with utility bills. I am the one clients see when
 they need help, mostly with electric bills.

Lack of communication, in 
my view, is a big driver in the disconnection of utility services. When 
someone asks for help, I call the utility and, after receiving 
permission from the client for me to discuss their bill with the 
utility, I ask about past payments, usage, prior customer contact, 
available options, etc. I often find that the customer has not reached 
out to the company and that had they done so, they would have had 
options for maintaining service that are now no longer available.

Utilities will usually try to find a way to help customers if
 the customer will communicate with them as soon as possible. Depending 
on the situation, they may give extra time, accept partial payment or 
offer another option. The important point is that the customer 
communicates regarding any payment difficulties.

It is not unusual for 
usage to be very high for the size of the place where the client lives. 
Sometimes the reason for that is a genuine lack of understanding that 
the cost of the utility increases substantially if the customer insists 
on a wintertime indoor temperature of 78 degrees when 68 degrees could 
be comfortable with another clothing layer.

I’ve also found that some 
of our clients had landlords who would not make repairs to the property,
 resulting in broken windows, non-closing doors, leaky plumbing, holes 
in the walls, ceiling, etc. I have sent out volunteers from our 
congregation to make repairs more than once.

And not a few clients have
 told me that they had allowed a neighbor to run an extension cord to 
their home next door in order to have some kind of power available after
 their neighbor’s electricity was disconnected.

Make no mistake. There is 
substantial and genuine need. People are hurting. Contrary to popular 
opinion, most families do the best they can to make ends meet.&nbsp; But 
often they’ve had a medical setback, job loss, or some other 
unforeseeable event that has put them in a financial pit.

But simply turning the 
power, gas or water back on and allowing the bills to skyrocket to the 
point that they will never be paid is not the answer. That only deepens 
the financial pit that these families are already in, because those 
bills will follow them forever in the computer systems of the utilities.

This issue needs to be 
confronted on multiple fronts. While not an expert, I have experience 
working with clients in need. Can the state’s <a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule">cold weather rule</a>
 be modified to help clients who find themselves in a bad position? That
 may provide some immediate help. Additionally, clients need to be 
educated on judicious use of utilities in a way they not only 
understand, but put into practice. Landlords should be held accountable 
for renting substantially unlivable properties. And clients need to 
communicate with the utility at the first sign of not being able to pay.

As for running the 
extension cord to the neighbor’s house, that is, although probably not 
legal, a practice of good will inherent in the hearts of many who 
themselves are in need.

We as a church do what we 
can, as do most non-governmental organizations that work with societal 
need. There is no quick, easy fix for this. The problem does not lie 
solely with the utilities, the customer or the government. No one entity
 is the boogeyman.

It will take a coming 
together of all parties, listening, learning different perspectives, 
desiring to effect real change. It will be a slow, deliberate and costly
 process. But we can do this.

Jay Plank is the administrative minister and an elder with the RiverWalk Church of Christ in Wichita. A Kansas native, he has had a wide variety of career experience, including commercial broadcasting, health care and the ministry. He is a former city councilperson for Harper, Kansas, a volunteer EMT, and has served on various community boards and committees. He currently serves on the Sedgwick County Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board. His wife, a longtime RN, currently is the associate dean of nursing at WSU Tech.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608570166095.png" alt="At the RiverWalk Church of Christ in Wichita, Jay Plank works with clients who need help, mostly with electric bills. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>At the RiverWalk Church of Christ in Wichita, Jay Plank works with clients who need help, mostly with electric bills. (Submitted to Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAY PLANK <a href="http://www.riverwalkchurchofchrist.org/">RiverWalk Church of Christ</a> A recent Kansas Reflector article, “ '<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/12/10/is-cruelty-just-the-point-coalition-demands-end-to-utility-shutoffs/">Is cruelty just the point?’: Coalition demands end to utility shutoffs</a>,”
 consisted mostly of quotes and anecdotal stories by customers of 
utility companies or speakers in a conference call hosted by Build Power
 MoKan, a self-described “energy justice coalition.” The thrust of the 
article was to call the utilities to task for shutting off services for 
nonpayment.While I commend the 
Reflector for the article, there are two sides to the story. I work for 
an independent, small, autonomous downtown church in Wichita. We can set
 our own parameters for any benevolent help we may provide and can 
sometimes help clients with utility bills. I am the one clients see when
 they need help, mostly with electric bills.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608570304423.png" alt="Jay Plank" />
 <figcaption>Jay Plank</figcaption>
 </figure>Lack of communication, in 
my view, is a big driver in the disconnection of utility services. When 
someone asks for help, I call the utility and, after receiving 
permission from the client for me to discuss their bill with the 
utility, I ask about past payments, usage, prior customer contact, 
available options, etc. I often find that the customer has not reached 
out to the company and that had they done so, they would have had 
options for maintaining service that are now no longer available.Utilities will usually try to find a way to help customers if
 the customer will communicate with them as soon as possible. Depending 
on the situation, they may give extra time, accept partial payment or 
offer another option. The important point is that the customer 
communicates regarding any payment difficulties.It is not unusual for 
usage to be very high for the size of the place where the client lives. 
Sometimes the reason for that is a genuine lack of understanding that 
the cost of the utility increases substantially if the customer insists 
on a wintertime indoor temperature of 78 degrees when 68 degrees could 
be comfortable with another clothing layer.I’ve also found that some 
of our clients had landlords who would not make repairs to the property,
 resulting in broken windows, non-closing doors, leaky plumbing, holes 
in the walls, ceiling, etc. I have sent out volunteers from our 
congregation to make repairs more than once.And not a few clients have
 told me that they had allowed a neighbor to run an extension cord to 
their home next door in order to have some kind of power available after
 their neighbor’s electricity was disconnected.Make no mistake. There is 
substantial and genuine need. People are hurting. Contrary to popular 
opinion, most families do the best they can to make ends meet.&nbsp; But 
often they’ve had a medical setback, job loss, or some other 
unforeseeable event that has put them in a financial pit.But simply turning the 
power, gas or water back on and allowing the bills to skyrocket to the 
point that they will never be paid is not the answer. That only deepens 
the financial pit that these families are already in, because those 
bills will follow them forever in the computer systems of the utilities.This issue needs to be 
confronted on multiple fronts. While not an expert, I have experience 
working with clients in need. Can the state’s <a href="https://kcc.ks.gov/consumer-information/cold-weather-rule">cold weather rule</a>
 be modified to help clients who find themselves in a bad position? That
 may provide some immediate help. Additionally, clients need to be 
educated on judicious use of utilities in a way they not only 
understand, but put into practice. Landlords should be held accountable 
for renting substantially unlivable properties. And clients need to 
communicate with the utility at the first sign of not being able to pay.As for running the 
extension cord to the neighbor’s house, that is, although probably not 
legal, a practice of good will inherent in the hearts of many who 
themselves are in need.We as a church do what we 
can, as do most non-governmental organizations that work with societal 
need. There is no quick, easy fix for this. The problem does not lie 
solely with the utilities, the customer or the government. No one entity
 is the boogeyman.It will take a coming 
together of all parties, listening, learning different perspectives, 
desiring to effect real change. It will be a slow, deliberate and costly
 process. But we can do this.Jay Plank is the administrative minister and an elder with the RiverWalk Church of Christ in Wichita. A Kansas native, he has had a wide variety of career experience, including commercial broadcasting, health care and the ministry. He is a former city councilperson for Harper, Kansas, a volunteer EMT, and has served on various community boards and committees. He currently serves on the Sedgwick County Area Agency on Aging Advisory Board. His wife, a longtime RN, currently is the associate dean of nursing at WSU Tech.

OPINION: What one minister learned by helping Kansans avoid utility shutoffs

In “The Caregiver Helpbook”, the author shares these flight attendant’s instructions, “If the oxygen masks drop down, put on your oxygen mask first before helping others”. If you don’t help yourself first, you may not be able to help others. This scenario is also true with caregiving.&nbsp;

Did you know that during this last year, caregivers provided about 18.4 billion hours of unpaid care to someone they love? Roughly 80% of the care that is provided at home is delivered by family members. A big concern is that often the caregivers forget to take care of themselves.&nbsp;

Last month, I was able to attend a virtual class offered by Extension agents from the Southwest area. The Powerful Tools for Caregivers class is designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend. The class included information on helping to reduce stress and learn to relax, communicating effectively, helping make tough decisions, and learning to set goals and problem solve.&nbsp;

If you are a caregiver, consider joining an upcoming class to be offered for six consecutive Thursdays, Jan. 14, through Feb. 18, from 1:30 to 3 pm. The class will cost $5 and includes a Caregiver Helpbook that is covered by grant funds. Class size is limited, so don’t delay signing up. The link to register for the class is: <a href="https://bit.ly/tools4care">https://bit.ly/tools4care</a> If you know a caregiver who could benefit from this class, please share the information with them.&nbsp;

Are there other things that we can do to support caregivers? There certainly are:&nbsp;

Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

<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>In “The Caregiver Helpbook”, the author shares these flight attendant’s instructions, “If the oxygen masks drop down, put on your oxygen mask first before helping others”. If you don’t help yourself first, you may not be able to help others. This scenario is also true with caregiving.&nbsp;Did you know that during this last year, caregivers provided about 18.4 billion hours of unpaid care to someone they love? Roughly 80% of the care that is provided at home is delivered by family members. A big concern is that often the caregivers forget to take care of themselves.&nbsp;Last month, I was able to attend a virtual class offered by Extension agents from the Southwest area. The Powerful Tools for Caregivers class is designed to help family caregivers take care of themselves while caring for a relative or friend. The class included information on helping to reduce stress and learn to relax, communicating effectively, helping make tough decisions, and learning to set goals and problem solve.&nbsp;If you are a caregiver, consider joining an upcoming class to be offered for six consecutive Thursdays, Jan. 14, through Feb. 18, from 1:30 to 3 pm. The class will cost $5 and includes a Caregiver Helpbook that is covered by grant funds. Class size is limited, so don’t delay signing up. The link to register for the class is: <a href="https://bit.ly/tools4care">https://bit.ly/tools4care</a> If you know a caregiver who could benefit from this class, please share the information with them.&nbsp;Are there other things that we can do to support caregivers? There certainly are:&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Offer to help them with daily tasks. Running an errand or picking up a few groceries can be a big relief to the caregiver.&nbsp;</li><li>Give them a break. Stay with the care receiver while the care giver goes to the doctor for a routine checkup.</li><li>Bring a simple meal for them. The simpler and easier it is to re-heat or eat the better.</li><li>Send a card of encouragement to the caregiver and offer some positive words of encouragement to them.&nbsp;</li><li>Help them find local resources for support with their situation.</li><li>Call them on the phone frequently.</li><li>Encourage them to take time for themselves. Thinking of their own health is not selfish. Taking care of themselves benefits everyone.</li>
 </ul>	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Taking care of caregivers

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

High school football is a family affair in rural Kansas. On Friday nights, moms and dads, grandparents, brothers and sisters, friends, neighbors and community members gather at the high school stadium for the weekly football game. It becomes a unifying community event. Today we’ll learn more about a Kansas family with a remarkable, multi-generational record of success in high school football.&nbsp;

Last week we learned about Roger Barta, the legendary high school football coach who led the Smith Center Redmen to the nation’s longest high school winning streak. Not only did Roger have a great career, he also coached his son Brooks, who was a tough player and an outstanding athlete at Smith Center, a rural community of 1,665 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;

Brooks went on to play college ball at K-State. These were the bad old days of K-State football, when the team was mired in a 27-game winless streak that would lead to the team being identified by Sports Illustrated as Futility U. But shortly after Brooks Barta arrived on campus, so did another gentleman by the name of Bill Snyder. Things began to change.&nbsp;

“The time and effort (that was required) probably doubled under coach Snyder,” Brooks said. Barta met the challenge of this demanding new work ethic and he saw the results.&nbsp;

Brooks was a four-year starter and a three-time co-captain under coach Snyder. He received First Team All-Big 8 honors and helped the Wildcats to a 7-4 record in 1991, their winningest season since 1954. He was the team leader in tackles all four years.&nbsp;

Brooks’ hometown, Smith Center, is in northern Kansas just about 15 miles south of the Nebraska line. Growing up that close to Nebraska, Brooks was well aware that Nebraska had long been the dominant football program. When NU played in Manhattan, the stadium would be more red than purple as Nebraska fans made the trip to watch another win over K-State.&nbsp;

But under coach Snyder, the balance of power began to shift. “In one game, we were ahead of Nebraska by a couple of touchdowns in the fourth quarter, and we were earning respect,” Brooks said. He and his teammates laid the foundation of what has been called “the greatest turnaround in college football history” – and it’s not one to be taken lightly.&nbsp;

Brooks Barta finished his career ranking second in school history in career tackles (436) and career assisted tackles (281). He was also an achiever in the classroom. An Academic All-American and four-time First Team All-Big 8 selection, he compiled a 3.25 GPA in math education and twice received the K-State Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Award.&nbsp;

Brooks taught and coached at Abilene for three years and earned a National Football Foundation scholarship for getting his master’s degree in administration. In 1996, he accepted the head coaching position at Holton High School.&nbsp;

At Holton, he has achieved a remarkable level of success. His teams have won three state championships and made it to the state championship game seven times. What have been the keys to his success?&nbsp;

“I played for great coaches who had a great relationship with their players,” Brooks said. “Toughness, intelligence and team: Those are the three foundations we use,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s a team game. We ask a lot of our kids and we want them to have a good experience. We make all our kids feel valued. It’s important for the parents to see their little boys grow into young men.&nbsp;

“Holton is a great place to raise our family,” Brooks said. His wife Tonya is president of Farmers State Bank in Holton. They have a son Mason and a daughter Tabor who are both students at K-State.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

High school football is a family affair, with family and community members coming together to support the team. We commend Roger and Brooks Barta and their families for making a difference with excellence in coaching, and in teaching young men the lessons of life.&nbsp;

And there’s more. The Bartas have another generation of football success within their family. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1608734773017.png" alt="Brooks Barta" />
 <figcaption>Brooks Barta</figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentHigh school football is a family affair in rural Kansas. On Friday nights, moms and dads, grandparents, brothers and sisters, friends, neighbors and community members gather at the high school stadium for the weekly football game. It becomes a unifying community event. Today we’ll learn more about a Kansas family with a remarkable, multi-generational record of success in high school football.&nbsp;Last week we learned about Roger Barta, the legendary high school football coach who led the Smith Center Redmen to the nation’s longest high school winning streak. Not only did Roger have a great career, he also coached his son Brooks, who was a tough player and an outstanding athlete at Smith Center, a rural community of 1,665 people. Now, that’s rural.&nbsp;Brooks went on to play college ball at K-State. These were the bad old days of K-State football, when the team was mired in a 27-game winless streak that would lead to the team being identified by Sports Illustrated as Futility U. But shortly after Brooks Barta arrived on campus, so did another gentleman by the name of Bill Snyder. Things began to change.&nbsp;“The time and effort (that was required) probably doubled under coach Snyder,” Brooks said. Barta met the challenge of this demanding new work ethic and he saw the results.&nbsp;Brooks was a four-year starter and a three-time co-captain under coach Snyder. He received First Team All-Big 8 honors and helped the Wildcats to a 7-4 record in 1991, their winningest season since 1954. He was the team leader in tackles all four years.&nbsp;Brooks’ hometown, Smith Center, is in northern Kansas just about 15 miles south of the Nebraska line. Growing up that close to Nebraska, Brooks was well aware that Nebraska had long been the dominant football program. When NU played in Manhattan, the stadium would be more red than purple as Nebraska fans made the trip to watch another win over K-State.&nbsp;But under coach Snyder, the balance of power began to shift. “In one game, we were ahead of Nebraska by a couple of touchdowns in the fourth quarter, and we were earning respect,” Brooks said. He and his teammates laid the foundation of what has been called “the greatest turnaround in college football history” – and it’s not one to be taken lightly.&nbsp;Brooks Barta finished his career ranking second in school history in career tackles (436) and career assisted tackles (281). He was also an achiever in the classroom. An Academic All-American and four-time First Team All-Big 8 selection, he compiled a 3.25 GPA in math education and twice received the K-State Outstanding Scholar-Athlete Award.&nbsp;Brooks taught and coached at Abilene for three years and earned a National Football Foundation scholarship for getting his master’s degree in administration. In 1996, he accepted the head coaching position at Holton High School.&nbsp;At Holton, he has achieved a remarkable level of success. His teams have won three state championships and made it to the state championship game seven times. What have been the keys to his success?&nbsp;“I played for great coaches who had a great relationship with their players,” Brooks said. “Toughness, intelligence and team: Those are the three foundations we use,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“It’s a team game. We ask a lot of our kids and we want them to have a good experience. We make all our kids feel valued. It’s important for the parents to see their little boys grow into young men.&nbsp;“Holton is a great place to raise our family,” Brooks said. His wife Tonya is president of Farmers State Bank in Holton. They have a son Mason and a daughter Tabor who are both students at K-State.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;High school football is a family affair, with family and community members coming together to support the team. We commend Roger and Brooks Barta and their families for making a difference with excellence in coaching, and in teaching young men the lessons of life.&nbsp;And there’s more. The Bartas have another generation of football success within their family. We’ll learn about that next week.&nbsp;

Now That’s Rural: Brooks Barta, football family, part 2 

With in-person interactions across the state severely limited due to the continuing pandemic, staying connected can be quite challenging. The Cottonwood Extension District in Barton and Ellis County has several social media accounts and other digital resources available, including a quarterly newsletter. Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube, in addition to our website, <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

The Cottonwood Extension District is part of the land-grant university—Cooperative Extension System, better known as K-State Research &amp; Extension. We are part of Kansas State University the College of Agriculture and the College of Health and Human Sciences. Our goal is to bring the university to the people, through unbiased research-based information and education. Primarily in the core areas of Family, Consumer Sciences and Wellness, 4-H Youth Development, Community Development, Horticulture, Agriculture and Natural Resources.&nbsp;

Cottonwood District has an active Facebook page providing current updates, videos, events and activities hosted by us <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood/">https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood/</a>&nbsp; This year during both the Barton and Ellis County Fairs the style revues and junior livestock shows were posted on Facebook Live. &nbsp;

Cottonwood District has become active on Twitter posting current news and updates mainly in agriculture and horticulture--videos, events, activities and upcoming programs. You can follow the Cottonwood Extension District on Twitter at @CottonwoodExt. Also the two agriculture agents in the district have Twitter accounts. Alicia Boor’s Twitter account focuses primarily on livestock and forage production at @lishboor and Stacy Campbell’s Twitter account focuses primarily on crop production at @scampbel_stacy.

Within the last year the Cottonwood District has started a YouTube channel in an effort to try and reach more folks with our research based information and education. A few short and informative videos are posted as well as some in depth programs and presentations on specific topics. Stay tuned to this channel <a href="https://bit.ly/3nlUOG2">https://bit.ly/3nlUOG2</a> we will continue to add more content.&nbsp;

Last but not least, Cottonwood Extension District puts out a digital quarterly newsletter. We send out an email notification to those that have subscribed to our newsletter when it is available. If you would like to subscribe to the quarterly newsletter let our Hays Office Professional, Theresa Meis know, she can be contacted at <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a>. You can also access the newsletter on our web site at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;

Be sure to check out these social media and digital resources and get them book marked or subscribe to these free resources!&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, if after hours please leave a voice-mail for a return call.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574181994278.png" alt="Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District." />
 <figcaption>Stacy Campbell is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District.</figcaption>
 </figure>With in-person interactions across the state severely limited due to the continuing pandemic, staying connected can be quite challenging. The Cottonwood Extension District in Barton and Ellis County has several social media accounts and other digital resources available, including a quarterly newsletter. Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube, in addition to our website, <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;The Cottonwood Extension District is part of the land-grant university—Cooperative Extension System, better known as K-State Research &amp; Extension. We are part of Kansas State University the College of Agriculture and the College of Health and Human Sciences. Our goal is to bring the university to the people, through unbiased research-based information and education. Primarily in the core areas of Family, Consumer Sciences and Wellness, 4-H Youth Development, Community Development, Horticulture, Agriculture and Natural Resources.&nbsp;Cottonwood District has an active Facebook page providing current updates, videos, events and activities hosted by us <a href="https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood/">https://www.facebook.com/ksrecottonwood/</a>&nbsp; This year during both the Barton and Ellis County Fairs the style revues and junior livestock shows were posted on Facebook Live. &nbsp;Cottonwood District has become active on Twitter posting current news and updates mainly in agriculture and horticulture--videos, events, activities and upcoming programs. You can follow the Cottonwood Extension District on Twitter at @CottonwoodExt. Also the two agriculture agents in the district have Twitter accounts. Alicia Boor’s Twitter account focuses primarily on livestock and forage production at @lishboor and Stacy Campbell’s Twitter account focuses primarily on crop production at @scampbel_stacy.Within the last year the Cottonwood District has started a YouTube channel in an effort to try and reach more folks with our research based information and education. A few short and informative videos are posted as well as some in depth programs and presentations on specific topics. Stay tuned to this channel <a href="https://bit.ly/3nlUOG2">https://bit.ly/3nlUOG2</a> we will continue to add more content.&nbsp;Last but not least, Cottonwood Extension District puts out a digital quarterly newsletter. We send out an email notification to those that have subscribed to our newsletter when it is available. If you would like to subscribe to the quarterly newsletter let our Hays Office Professional, Theresa Meis know, she can be contacted at <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a>. You can also access the newsletter on our web site at <a href="http://www.cottonwood.ksu.edu">www.cottonwood.ksu.edu</a>&nbsp;Be sure to check out these social media and digital resources and get them book marked or subscribe to these free resources!&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, if after hours please leave a voice-mail for a return call.&nbsp;

CAMPBELL: Stay connected to Extension with social media, digital resources

Does your family have a tradition that has continued for many, many years?

As a child I knew that Christmas Eve was spent at the Rasmussen’s for a Swedish supper, Christmas morning was at our own house and later on Christmas Day we were at Grandma Pachta’s house for roast duck and dumplings. Many of our family members lived within 15 miles of each other so it all worked. Eventually the traditions had to change. However, there is still someone who brings Lutfisk to the family Christmas gathering!&nbsp;

Traditions often give us a feeling that even though some things have changed, there are still things that we know will always be the same. Traditions can give us that sense of security that everything is going to be alright.&nbsp;

In a Utah State University Extension publication, “Strengthening Family Ties - A Workbook of Activities Designed to Strengthen Family Relationships”, there are activities related to five areas of family functioning including: Building Trust, Family Support, Kindness, Communication, and Working Together. &nbsp;

One activity is to identify what family traditions exist and decide what new ones might be started to ensure family stability.&nbsp;

1. Give everyone in your family a piece of paper and ask them to list the traditions in your family. These can include some things done every day and others done only once a year.&nbsp;

2. Then compare lists. It might be surprising to hear what traditions others think are important.&nbsp;

3. Evaluate. Are there some everyone would like to do more? Are there some that are no longer enjoyable.

4. Add to the list. Is there something you would like to become a new tradition? Is there anything you would like your family to be known for? Starting new traditions can be especially important when the family situation has changed - such as when a new step-family has been formed.

Continue to re-evaluate. Over the years there may be changes that need to be made. Make sure that your family does not outgrow the tradition. Research is clear that children who feel securely attached and have strong family relationships have healthier relationships and better mental health later in life.&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>	Does your family have a tradition that has continued for many, many years? As a child I knew that Christmas Eve was spent at the Rasmussen’s for a Swedish supper, Christmas morning was at our own house and later on Christmas Day we were at Grandma Pachta’s house for roast duck and dumplings. Many of our family members lived within 15 miles of each other so it all worked. Eventually the traditions had to change. However, there is still someone who brings Lutfisk to the family Christmas gathering!&nbsp;Traditions often give us a feeling that even though some things have changed, there are still things that we know will always be the same. Traditions can give us that sense of security that everything is going to be alright.&nbsp;In a Utah State University Extension publication, “Strengthening Family Ties - A Workbook of Activities Designed to Strengthen Family Relationships”, there are activities related to five areas of family functioning including: Building Trust, Family Support, Kindness, Communication, and Working Together. &nbsp;One activity is to identify what family traditions exist and decide what new ones might be started to ensure family stability.&nbsp;1. Give everyone in your family a piece of paper and ask them to list the traditions in your family. These can include some things done every day and others done only once a year.&nbsp;2. Then compare lists. It might be surprising to hear what traditions others think are important.&nbsp;3. Evaluate. Are there some everyone would like to do more? Are there some that are no longer enjoyable.4. Add to the list. Is there something you would like to become a new tradition? Is there anything you would like your family to be known for? Starting new traditions can be especially important when the family situation has changed - such as when a new step-family has been formed.Continue to re-evaluate. Over the years there may be changes that need to be made. Make sure that your family does not outgrow the tradition. Research is clear that children who feel securely attached and have strong family relationships have healthier relationships and better mental health later in life.&nbsp;	Berny Unruh is the Family and Community Wellness Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.&nbsp; She can be reached at 785-628-9430 or at <a href="mailto:bunruh@ksu.edu">bunruh@ksu.edu</a>

UNRUH: Family traditions

By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher

This past year has been a hard one. Though we are close to the renewed hopes of a new year, we still face what could be the hardest days of 2020 for some.

No matter what you are celebrating this season — Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanza, Festivus – most plans have likely been altered. Some people have been lucky to experience only minor inconveniences or shifts, while others are facing a total breakdown of holiday celebrations and family traditions.

My heart goes out to people who are struggling with this change. I was once just like you.

When I was 12 years old, my oldest brother enlisted in the Navy and left for basic training near Chicago just before Thanksgiving. Since the base was only a five-hour drive from home, our family was able to participate in a Christmas Adopt-a-Sailor program to spend the day with him.  

Looking back, I had a lot of pre-teen anxiety about the effects this had on our holiday celebration and family traditions. It was the first time we ever changed our family routine, and I was convinced the changes were going to ruin Christmas. We had to shorten our visits with extended family on Christmas Eve so we could get a few hours of sleep before our 3 a.m. departure. We would not be opening presents around the tree on Christmas morning. It all just felt wrong.

Our Christmas in downtown Chicago ended up being a great adventure. The city was like a ghost town. The only restaurant open was a two-story McDonald’s, and my siblings and I were so proud to rack up a $30 total, which makes me laugh now as it would be a bargain for a family of six today. We visited an equally deserted Navy Pier where our entertainment became exploring a water gunboat and chatting with the on-duty firefighters staffing it. We ended the day watching the latest James Bond movie at the theater since it was the only thing we could find open.  

This odd and presumably ruined holiday ended up being one of our most memorable Christmases. The highlights of the day were not presents, which I cannot even remember if we exchanged, or cool experiences. The greatness of the day came from the spoiled plans, laughter and shared experience of making memories together.

We didn’t know it at the time, but this was the last Christmas we spent together as a family. Ten months later, my middle bother died in a car accident; my oldest brother was away from home for six years in the Navy; and my sister and I became adults with our own careers and families to work around for the holidays.

I will not pretend that my family’s Chicago Christmas was magical, tradition worthy or even worth repeating. However, I am grateful for the time it gave us together and the way it mentally prepared me for the hard lesson of life’s changes.

If you are anxious about how the holidays will turn out for your family and friends, I can share from experience that a break from tradition isn’t the worst thing that can happen. Even if you are sad, mad or disappointed about the circumstances, you can still make memories and celebrate with loved ones. It will give you something to talk about in future years when you are enjoying your holiday celebrations and family traditions.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592834709793.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By JACKIE MUNDT Pratt County farmer and rancher This past year has been a hard one. Though we are close to the renewed hopes of a new year, we still face what could be the hardest days of 2020 for some.No matter what you are celebrating this season — Christmas, Hanukah, Kwanza, Festivus – most plans have likely been altered. Some people have been lucky to experience only minor inconveniences or shifts, while others are facing a total breakdown of holiday celebrations and family traditions.My heart goes out to people who are struggling with this change. I was once just like you.When I was 12 years old, my oldest brother enlisted in the Navy and left for basic training near Chicago just before Thanksgiving. Since the base was only a five-hour drive from home, our family was able to participate in a Christmas Adopt-a-Sailor program to spend the day with him. Looking back, I had a lot of pre-teen anxiety about the effects this had on our holiday celebration and family traditions. It was the first time we ever changed our family routine, and I was convinced the changes were going to ruin Christmas. We had to shorten our visits with extended family on Christmas Eve so we could get a few hours of sleep before our 3 a.m. departure. We would not be opening presents around the tree on Christmas morning. It all just felt wrong.Our Christmas in downtown Chicago ended up being a great adventure. The city was like a ghost town. The only restaurant open was a two-story McDonald’s, and my siblings and I were so proud to rack up a $30 total, which makes me laugh now as it would be a bargain for a family of six today. We visited an equally deserted Navy Pier where our entertainment became exploring a water gunboat and chatting with the on-duty firefighters staffing it. We ended the day watching the latest James Bond movie at the theater since it was the only thing we could find open. This odd and presumably ruined holiday ended up being one of our most memorable Christmases. The highlights of the day were not presents, which I cannot even remember if we exchanged, or cool experiences. The greatness of the day came from the spoiled plans, laughter and shared experience of making memories together.We didn’t know it at the time, but this was the last Christmas we spent together as a family. Ten months later, my middle bother died in a car accident; my oldest brother was away from home for six years in the Navy; and my sister and I became adults with our own careers and families to work around for the holidays.I will not pretend that my family’s Chicago Christmas was magical, tradition worthy or even worth repeating. However, I am grateful for the time it gave us together and the way it mentally prepared me for the hard lesson of life’s changes.If you are anxious about how the holidays will turn out for your family and friends, I can share from experience that a break from tradition isn’t the worst thing that can happen. Even if you are sad, mad or disappointed about the circumstances, you can still make memories and celebrate with loved ones. It will give you something to talk about in future years when you are enjoying your holiday celebrations and family traditions."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: Breaking tradition

Crude oil prices settled above $49 on Friday, but reversed course on Monday on news that a new strain of the coronavirus could once again stop a lot of international travel. In late morning trading Monday, the benchmark Nymex contract was down nearly four percent to $47.31 per barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson was fetching $39.25 per barrel. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports the rig count is up slightly in eastern Kansas, where there were eleven active rigs, and down slightly in Western Kansas, where there were eight rigs on the active list. Baker Hughes reported 346 active drilling rigs across the U.S. last week. The count in New Mexico was up six rigs, while Texas was up three. Regulators in Kansas approved 20 new drilling permits in Kansas last week. Eighteen of them were in eastern Kansas. There have been 468 new permits filed so far this year. Operators completed eleven wells in Kansas last week including two in Barton County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says the total so far this year is 776 completed wells. Contrary inventory reports highlighted an unusual week in the oil patch. The Energy Information Administration reported a drawdown in U.S. crude inventories, even as the American Petroleum Institute reported increasing stockpiles. API on Tuesday reported an increase in U.S. crude-oil inventories of nearly two million barrels. Analysts had expected a drawdown of nearly two million barrels. But EIA on Wednesday said U.S. stockpiles dropped by more than three million barrels to just over five hundred million. EIA says inventories are about ten percent above the five year average for this time of year. U.S. crude production is slowing down, but remained above 11 million barrels per day for a third straight week. For the week ending December 11, output was down more than 100,000 barrels from the week before at 11.1 million barrels per day. The government reported U.S. crude imports of 5.4 million barrels per day, down more than a million barrels from the week before. Average imports for the last four weeks were 12 percent lower than the same four weeks last year. Tribal leaders in Oklahoma are sending out a slew of new tax bills to oil-and-gas operators in the state, and the Attorney General is not happy about it. Members of the so-called "Five Tribes" are asserting civil jurisdiction in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling which held that the Creek Reservation was never disestablished. The territory in dispute covers about one third of Oklahoma. One local lawmaker says the tribes are asking for what amounts to another eight percent gross production tax. AG Mike Hunter says the tribes have no jurisdiction to levy taxes and fees, and is urging tribal leaders to stop. A state judge in Texas says the state's oil regulator cannot waive environmental rules and fees. In a rare rebuke, the Railroad Commission of Texas was barred from enforcing a series of emergency rule-waivers announced in May to help Texas drillers cope with low prices. A District Court Judge faulted the agency for failing to give adequate public notice.&nbsp; A sporting-goods company is taking heat in the Lone Star State for refusing to produce jackets for an oil-and-gas company. Innovex Downhole Solutions says it was recently denied an order of jackets by The North Face because they are in the oil and gas business, even though they've done business in the past. The story is escalating statewide on the air and online. Some are comparing the state's largest industry to porn or tobacco. Others are pointing out the irony of a recreation company badmouthing the industry that creates and delivers their products. Production in America's number-two crude-producing state has declined slightly. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports output of over 1.2 million barrels per day in October, the latest numbers available. The tally is down 236 barrels per day from the September total. The state continues to exceed its gas-capture goals, topping 93% for the second month in a row. That means operators are burning or venting only seven percent of the natural gas produced at oil wells. The government says total fuel consumption for the week of Thanksgiving was down 11 percent from the holiday period a year earlier. Jet fuel use was down by about half. The Energy Information Administration says we used two million barrels per day of jet fuel for the holiday week in 2019, but that dropped by more than 900,000 barrels per day this year. Analysts say the number of flights departing U.S. airports dropped 37% compared to Thanksgiving week 2019. Weekly oil-by-rail shipments are down. The Association of American Railroads reports 11,485 tanker cars hauling petroleum and petroleum products during the week that ended December 12th. That's down 225 cars from a week earlier, and a decline of more than 16 percent year-over-year. Year-to-date totals indicate a decline of about 14% in total U.S. oil-by-rail shipments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude oil prices settled above $49 on Friday, but reversed course on Monday on news that a new strain of the coronavirus could once again stop a lot of international travel. In late morning trading Monday, the benchmark Nymex contract was down nearly four percent to $47.31 per barrel. Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson was fetching $39.25 per barrel. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports the rig count is up slightly in eastern Kansas, where there were eleven active rigs, and down slightly in Western Kansas, where there were eight rigs on the active list. Baker Hughes reported 346 active drilling rigs across the U.S. last week. The count in New Mexico was up six rigs, while Texas was up three. Regulators in Kansas approved 20 new drilling permits in Kansas last week. Eighteen of them were in eastern Kansas. There have been 468 new permits filed so far this year. Operators completed eleven wells in Kansas last week including two in Barton County. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service says the total so far this year is 776 completed wells. Contrary inventory reports highlighted an unusual week in the oil patch. The Energy Information Administration reported a drawdown in U.S. crude inventories, even as the American Petroleum Institute reported increasing stockpiles. API on Tuesday reported an increase in U.S. crude-oil inventories of nearly two million barrels. Analysts had expected a drawdown of nearly two million barrels. But EIA on Wednesday said U.S. stockpiles dropped by more than three million barrels to just over five hundred million. EIA says inventories are about ten percent above the five year average for this time of year. U.S. crude production is slowing down, but remained above 11 million barrels per day for a third straight week. For the week ending December 11, output was down more than 100,000 barrels from the week before at 11.1 million barrels per day. The government reported U.S. crude imports of 5.4 million barrels per day, down more than a million barrels from the week before. Average imports for the last four weeks were 12 percent lower than the same four weeks last year. Tribal leaders in Oklahoma are sending out a slew of new tax bills to oil-and-gas operators in the state, and the Attorney General is not happy about it. Members of the so-called "Five Tribes" are asserting civil jurisdiction in the wake of the Supreme Court ruling which held that the Creek Reservation was never disestablished. The territory in dispute covers about one third of Oklahoma. One local lawmaker says the tribes are asking for what amounts to another eight percent gross production tax. AG Mike Hunter says the tribes have no jurisdiction to levy taxes and fees, and is urging tribal leaders to stop. A state judge in Texas says the state's oil regulator cannot waive environmental rules and fees. In a rare rebuke, the Railroad Commission of Texas was barred from enforcing a series of emergency rule-waivers announced in May to help Texas drillers cope with low prices. A District Court Judge faulted the agency for failing to give adequate public notice.&nbsp; A sporting-goods company is taking heat in the Lone Star State for refusing to produce jackets for an oil-and-gas company. Innovex Downhole Solutions says it was recently denied an order of jackets by The North Face because they are in the oil and gas business, even though they've done business in the past. The story is escalating statewide on the air and online. Some are comparing the state's largest industry to porn or tobacco. Others are pointing out the irony of a recreation company badmouthing the industry that creates and delivers their products. Production in America's number-two crude-producing state has declined slightly. The North Dakota Department of Mineral Resources reports output of over 1.2 million barrels per day in October, the latest numbers available. The tally is down 236 barrels per day from the September total. The state continues to exceed its gas-capture goals, topping 93% for the second month in a row. That means operators are burning or venting only seven percent of the natural gas produced at oil wells. The government says total fuel consumption for the week of Thanksgiving was down 11 percent from the holiday period a year earlier. Jet fuel use was down by about half. The Energy Information Administration says we used two million barrels per day of jet fuel for the holiday week in 2019, but that dropped by more than 900,000 barrels per day this year. Analysts say the number of flights departing U.S. airports dropped 37% compared to Thanksgiving week 2019. Weekly oil-by-rail shipments are down. The Association of American Railroads reports 11,485 tanker cars hauling petroleum and petroleum products during the week that ended December 12th. That's down 225 cars from a week earlier, and a decline of more than 16 percent year-over-year. Year-to-date totals indicate a decline of about 14% in total U.S. oil-by-rail shipments.

News From the Oil Patch: New virus strain halts oil price rally

In the midst of the holiday season and the increased access to sweets, many people may be observing a less than ideal change in their personal body conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

While people may strive for a skinnier physique, holding a thin body condition over the winter may create deficits for&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;heading into calving season.&nbsp;

“Thin cows have a higher maintenance requirement in the winter than cows in adequate condition because they have to work harder to stay warm,”&nbsp;

To assess the herd, veterinarian Bob Larson suggests ranchers periodically check them and even take pictures of the herd to help monitor changes over time.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“In any group, I expect some variation in the condition, but ideally I want almost all the cows to be in a moderate body condition,” Larson said. “And if they are, then I know that I am managing the group pretty well.”&nbsp;&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>In the midst of the holiday season and the increased access to sweets, many people may be observing a less than ideal change in their personal body conditions.&nbsp;&nbsp;While people may strive for a skinnier physique, holding a thin body condition over the winter may create deficits for&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;heading into calving season.&nbsp;“Thin cows have a higher maintenance requirement in the winter than cows in adequate condition because they have to work harder to stay warm,”&nbsp;To assess the herd, veterinarian Bob Larson suggests ranchers periodically check them and even take pictures of the herd to help monitor changes over time.&nbsp;&nbsp;“In any group, I expect some variation in the condition, but ideally I want almost all the cows to be in a moderate body condition,” Larson said. “And if they are, then I know that I am managing the group pretty well.”&nbsp;&nbsp;If&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;ranchers notice that there are thin cows in the herd, they may need to evaluate the situation further to see if there is a pattern tied to their age or access to feed.&nbsp;&nbsp;“The number of cows in the herd will creep up if, for example, they are getting pushed out of the feed bunk and not getting the protein supplementation they need,”. &nbsp;&nbsp;Experts agree that two feet of bunk space per head is a minimum amount of space needed. &nbsp;&nbsp;“If you only allocate a foot and a half on a single-sided feed bunk, the big cows will push out the thinner, smaller cows that really need the feed,” Weaber said. He prefers to place the feed bunk in the middle of the pasture so&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;can access the feed from both sides. &nbsp;&nbsp;“Big cubes fed on the ground will allow the&nbsp;cattle&nbsp;to have easy access because you can spread it out, but there is more feed waste and sanitation issues that come with that strategy,” veterinarian Brad White said. &nbsp;&nbsp;White suggested producers look at ways to segregate the thin cows.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Grouping the thin cows together can be a powerful tool in giving them the extra feed they need ahead of calving season,”. The challenge, he added, may lie in where they are located and the ease of separating them for feeding. &nbsp;&nbsp;He added: “The cow’s maintenance cost is the lowest it is going to be right now and that makes it a good time to put some weight on her rather than waiting to do it later.”&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;White gave an example: “If I have 100 days, I could target the cows to gain two pounds per day. That will give them about 200 pounds of gain.” &nbsp;&nbsp;The bottom line, White said, is to “do the math for your herd and then figure out if it is just a couple individuals that need to gain weight or the entire group, because that answer will drastically change the decision you make and what options are available.”&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;

Opinion