Those of you that know us at all are aware that Joyce and I absolutely hate the heat of summer. My dad was just the opposite; in weather like we’ve had the last week, he would have had windows open and MAYBE the ceiling fan going, but certainly not the AC. I keep thinking that as I get older, I’ll get more of his love for the heat. But nope, the older I get, the worse I hate it. I feel tired and drug-out by mid-morning, have absolutely zero energy and the only joy I get from days like this is the fact that my tomatoes are lovin’ it! The Kansas summer heat is the main reason we no longer have a boat. Once it got hot, the boat sat in the shed. We’d manage a couple fishing trips in the spring, from then on it merely took-up space. We’ve all heard the usual one-liners about how hot it is, but here are a few new ones I’ve come up with.

It’s so hot that I bought a cup of coffee at McDonalds and poured it over my lap to cool off.

It’s so hot that beer guts and big butts no longer keep people from wearing shorts.

It’s so hot that CRP now stands for Crispy Rotational Pasture.

&nbsp;it’s so hot that congress actually have to take their hands out of OUR pockets to fan themselves.

It’s so hot that cattlemen have learned that a seatbelt buckle makes a pretty good branding iron.

I bought a dozen eggs at the store yesterday, and it was so hot that when I got home, I had a dozen chicks in the carton. &nbsp;

Its so hot that cows are giving evaporated milk.

There was a knock at the door the other day, and when I opened it there stood someone I’ve never met before asking if they could stick their head in our freezer for a couple minutes.

It’s so hot that the camels at the Sedgwick Co. Zoo want transferred to the Sahara Desert where it’s cooler.

It’s so hot that my niece’s pigs are complaining about sweating like fat humans.

I’m going to ask that the next time someone plans a pandemic, they wait till summer so I couldn’t care less about leavin’ the house anyway.

It’s so hot that the geese in the local park pond are now either “original recipe” or “extra crispy.”

And my personal favorite; It’s so hot that the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will be offering a new big game hunting license this year; it will be good for 1 camel, either sex! 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>Those of you that know us at all are aware that Joyce and I absolutely hate the heat of summer. My dad was just the opposite; in weather like we’ve had the last week, he would have had windows open and MAYBE the ceiling fan going, but certainly not the AC. I keep thinking that as I get older, I’ll get more of his love for the heat. But nope, the older I get, the worse I hate it. I feel tired and drug-out by mid-morning, have absolutely zero energy and the only joy I get from days like this is the fact that my tomatoes are lovin’ it! The Kansas summer heat is the main reason we no longer have a boat. Once it got hot, the boat sat in the shed. We’d manage a couple fishing trips in the spring, from then on it merely took-up space. We’ve all heard the usual one-liners about how hot it is, but here are a few new ones I’ve come up with.It’s so hot that I bought a cup of coffee at McDonalds and poured it over my lap to cool off.It’s so hot that beer guts and big butts no longer keep people from wearing shorts.It’s so hot that CRP now stands for Crispy Rotational Pasture.&nbsp;it’s so hot that congress actually have to take their hands out of OUR pockets to fan themselves.It’s so hot that cattlemen have learned that a seatbelt buckle makes a pretty good branding iron.I bought a dozen eggs at the store yesterday, and it was so hot that when I got home, I had a dozen chicks in the carton. &nbsp;Its so hot that cows are giving evaporated milk.There was a knock at the door the other day, and when I opened it there stood someone I’ve never met before asking if they could stick their head in our freezer for a couple minutes.It’s so hot that the camels at the Sedgwick Co. Zoo want transferred to the Sahara Desert where it’s cooler.It’s so hot that my niece’s pigs are complaining about sweating like fat humans.I’m going to ask that the next time someone plans a pandemic, they wait till summer so I couldn’t care less about leavin’ the house anyway.It’s so hot that the geese in the local park pond are now either “original recipe” or “extra crispy.”And my personal favorite; It’s so hot that the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism will be offering a new big game hunting license this year; it will be good for 1 camel, either sex! Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: It’s so hot and dry that ….

Dear FHSU students, staff and faculty: The past 100 days have brought to light the current climate based on systematic and institutional discrimination. The hate, dissension, and violence experienced by Blacks/African Americans leaves people wondering when will the change shift to antiracist views and practices. Being able to reimagine a world where racism is no longer a concern, is a dream many have.&nbsp; People of color have been reimagining their lives, too. Reimagining an America without institutionalized racism has been the condition for Blacks/African Americans for hundreds of years. The recent death of Mr. George Floyd reminds the marginalized students, faculty, and staff of our community that the fundamental injustice of institutionalized racism has not changed.&nbsp; Change. Change is necessary to breakdown the injustices of the American Dream. For many, that dream has been destroyed by the senseless murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. &nbsp;By the harassment of Travis Miller while working as a delivery driver. And by the shameful confrontation experienced by Christian Cooper, while bird watching in New York City’s Central Park.&nbsp; So, what are&nbsp;you&nbsp;doing to confront institutional racism and rebuild a system that is anti-racist? What you are doing to make a difference?&nbsp; You are not expected to make a difference alone. Our university’s leadership acknowledges that “we can’t single-handedly fix all that is wrong” necessitates that we dedicate ourselves to do the work that prompts the change. Those with the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion in their titles&nbsp;must&nbsp;have your help to breakdown institutional racism.&nbsp; Become an accomplice for change. &nbsp;An accomplice takes action against injustices. Acknowledge and embrace that change must take place and then ask&nbsp;how you can help.We can start right here on our campus. You can start in the community where you live and help your neighbors navigate these troubling times. Reach out. Talk to others. Be kind. For those of you who are feeling overwhelmed and need support, talk with a trusted colleague, faculty/staff, friend, or family member. &nbsp;And know I am here for you, too, as are the professional counselors at the Kelly Center.&nbsp; This call for change is not an indictment of law enforcement. We recognize there are racist views in all professions, that is the very definition of institutionalized racism. &nbsp;We are grateful to those who protect and serve our communities. And for those who are advocates, allies, and accomplices for anti-racism, thank you, too.&nbsp; What now? Acknowledge the need to address institutional racism. Engage in meaningful conversations with others about discrimination. Get involved with diversity and equity programs and commit to continued education. Bring microaggression training to your classroom. Have staff participate in Safe Zone training. Attend the Tunnel of Oppression. Join in Novels for Hope. To move forward and create change, we must work in concert so the thread of diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into the fabric of the university by everyone who teaches, leads, advises, encourages, and interacts with every student, alum, faculty, and staff.&nbsp; Sincerely,&nbsp; Dr. Teresa L. Clounch&nbsp; Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs | Senior Diversity Officer | Title IX Coordinator | NASPA IV-West Regional Director (2020-2022)&nbsp; Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591558659046.jpeg" alt="Teresa Clounch" />
 <figcaption>Teresa Clounch</figcaption>
 </figure>Dear FHSU students, staff and faculty: The past 100 days have brought to light the current climate based on systematic and institutional discrimination. The hate, dissension, and violence experienced by Blacks/African Americans leaves people wondering when will the change shift to antiracist views and practices. Being able to reimagine a world where racism is no longer a concern, is a dream many have.&nbsp; People of color have been reimagining their lives, too. Reimagining an America without institutionalized racism has been the condition for Blacks/African Americans for hundreds of years. The recent death of Mr. George Floyd reminds the marginalized students, faculty, and staff of our community that the fundamental injustice of institutionalized racism has not changed.&nbsp; Change. Change is necessary to breakdown the injustices of the American Dream. For many, that dream has been destroyed by the senseless murders of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd. &nbsp;By the harassment of Travis Miller while working as a delivery driver. And by the shameful confrontation experienced by Christian Cooper, while bird watching in New York City’s Central Park.&nbsp; So, what are&nbsp;you&nbsp;doing to confront institutional racism and rebuild a system that is anti-racist? What you are doing to make a difference?&nbsp; You are not expected to make a difference alone. Our university’s leadership acknowledges that “we can’t single-handedly fix all that is wrong” necessitates that we dedicate ourselves to do the work that prompts the change. Those with the terms diversity, equity, and inclusion in their titles&nbsp;must&nbsp;have your help to breakdown institutional racism.&nbsp; Become an accomplice for change. &nbsp;An accomplice takes action against injustices. Acknowledge and embrace that change must take place and then ask&nbsp;how you can help.We can start right here on our campus. You can start in the community where you live and help your neighbors navigate these troubling times. Reach out. Talk to others. Be kind. For those of you who are feeling overwhelmed and need support, talk with a trusted colleague, faculty/staff, friend, or family member. &nbsp;And know I am here for you, too, as are the professional counselors at the Kelly Center.&nbsp; This call for change is not an indictment of law enforcement. We recognize there are racist views in all professions, that is the very definition of institutionalized racism. &nbsp;We are grateful to those who protect and serve our communities. And for those who are advocates, allies, and accomplices for anti-racism, thank you, too.&nbsp; What now? Acknowledge the need to address institutional racism. Engage in meaningful conversations with others about discrimination. Get involved with diversity and equity programs and commit to continued education. Bring microaggression training to your classroom. Have staff participate in Safe Zone training. Attend the Tunnel of Oppression. Join in Novels for Hope. To move forward and create change, we must work in concert so the thread of diversity, equity, and inclusion is woven into the fabric of the university by everyone who teaches, leads, advises, encourages, and interacts with every student, alum, faculty, and staff.&nbsp; Sincerely,&nbsp; Dr. Teresa L. Clounch&nbsp; Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs | Senior Diversity Officer | Title IX Coordinator | NASPA IV-West Regional Director (2020-2022)&nbsp; Fort Hays State University&nbsp;

FHSU diversity officer: Our role in the world moving forward

By ALICIA BOOR K-State Research &amp; Extension

Some exciting news was announced to K-State Research and Extension last week! K-State Athletics will host our first “Celebrate Agriculture Day” with K-State Football this fall. While we have always known how important farming and agriculture are to everyone, the past couple of months have highlighted this to the world. Our history as Kansas State Agriculture College is something we recognize and celebrate. 
 
Our designated “Celebrate Agriculture” game is November 7 against Texas Tech, and we are excited to&nbsp;honor one Willie’s Farm Family from each county!

To help us at Extension decide who we will send from our counties, we need your help! We are asking for nominations of a family who farms that you feel deserves to be highlighted on November 7th. To enter a deserving family’s name, submit a short summary of 350 words or less on why you feel that they should win. Nominations are due to our offices by June 23rd with the announcement of the winners on June 30th. For a Barton County nomination, either send your submission in by mail to 1800 12th street in Great Bend or email Brenda at <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> For an Ellis County nomination, mail it to 601 Main Street in Hays or email to Theresa a <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;

The selected farm family from each county will receive two complimentary tickets to the game with the opportunity to purchase additional discounted tickets and be recognized with all county representatives during the game. The nominated family will receive more information on this program in a follow-up email in July.

Farming and the families that support agriculture are integral to everyone’s life. Please help us at KSRE and KSU honor a family from our community and show football fans why farmers are the best!

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591218629362.jpeg" alt="Courtesy&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy&nbsp;K-State Research &amp; Extension</figcaption>
 </figure>By ALICIA BOOR K-State Research &amp; ExtensionSome exciting news was announced to K-State Research and Extension last week! K-State Athletics will host our first “Celebrate Agriculture Day” with K-State Football this fall. While we have always known how important farming and agriculture are to everyone, the past couple of months have highlighted this to the world. Our history as Kansas State Agriculture College is something we recognize and celebrate. 
 
Our designated “Celebrate Agriculture” game is November 7 against Texas Tech, and we are excited to&nbsp;honor one Willie’s Farm Family from each county!To help us at Extension decide who we will send from our counties, we need your help! We are asking for nominations of a family who farms that you feel deserves to be highlighted on November 7th. To enter a deserving family’s name, submit a short summary of 350 words or less on why you feel that they should win. Nominations are due to our offices by June 23rd with the announcement of the winners on June 30th. For a Barton County nomination, either send your submission in by mail to 1800 12th street in Great Bend or email Brenda at <a href="mailto:bwalton@ksu.edu">bwalton@ksu.edu</a> For an Ellis County nomination, mail it to 601 Main Street in Hays or email to Theresa a <a href="mailto:tam3@ksu.edu">tam3@ksu.edu</a>.&nbsp;The selected farm family from each county will receive two complimentary tickets to the game with the opportunity to purchase additional discounted tickets and be recognized with all county representatives during the game. The nominated family will receive more information on this program in a follow-up email in July.Farming and the families that support agriculture are integral to everyone’s life. Please help us at KSRE and KSU honor a family from our community and show football fans why farmers are the best!Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Celebrate agriculture with K-State football

For those of you that have been waiting patiently by reading another book or counting your stockpile of toilet paper, or for some…impatiently; it is time to look for bagworms. Although the cool weather we have experienced this spring will slow development, and consequently larvae hatching from eggs, bagworm caterpillars will eventually be present throughout Kansas feeding on broadleaf and evergreen trees and shrubs. 

Therefore, be prepared to act against bagworms once they are observed on plants. Bagworms are primarily a pest of conifers; however, they feed on a wide-range of host plants including a number of broadleaf plants, such as; rose, honey locust, hackberry, and flowering plum. It is important to apply insecticides when bagworms are less than 1/4 inch long to maximize effectiveness of insecticide applications and subsequently reduce plant damage.

Several insecticides are labeled for use against bagworms including those with the following active ingredients: acephate, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, cyfluthrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, trichlorfon, indoxacarb, chlorantraniliprole, and spinosad. Most of these active ingredients are commercially available and sold under various trade names or as generic products. However, several insecticides may not be directly available to homeowners.

The key to managing bagworms with insecticides at this time of year is to apply insecticides early and frequently enough to kill the highly susceptible young caterpillars feeding on plant foliage.

Applying insecticides weekly for four to five weeks when bagworms are first noticed will reduce problems with bagworms later in the year. The bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, which is sold under various trade names, is only active on young caterpillars and must be consumed or ingested to be effective. Therefore, thorough coverage of all plant parts and frequent applications are required. The insecticide is sensitive to ultra-violet light degradation and rainfall, which can reduce residual activity (persistence). Spinosad is the active ingredient in several homeowner products, including: Natural Guard Spinosad; Captain Jack’s DeadBug Brew; and Monterey Garden Insect Spray. The insecticide works by contact and ingestion; however, activity is greatest when ingested by bagworms.

Cyfluthrin (BioAdvanced Vegetable &amp; Garden Insect Spray, lambda-cyhalothrin&nbsp; (Spectracide Triazicide, Bonide Caterpillar Killer, trichlorfon, chlorantraniliprole, and indoxacarb can also be used against young caterpillars. Again, thorough coverage of all plant parts, especially the tops of trees and shrubs, where bagworms commonly start feeding, and frequent applications are essential in achieving sufficient suppression of bagworm populations. 

The reason multiple applications are needed is that bagworm larvae do not hatch from eggs simultaneously, but hatch over time depending on temperature. In addition, young bagworms can ‘blow in’ (called ‘ballooning’) from neighboring plants on silken threads. If left unchecked, bagworms can cause significant damage and ruin the aesthetic quality of plants. In addition, bagworms may kill plants, especially newly transplanted small evergreens, since evergreens do not usually produce another flush of growth after being fed upon or defoliated by bagworms.

Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580750915301.jpeg" alt="Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>For those of you that have been waiting patiently by reading another book or counting your stockpile of toilet paper, or for some…impatiently; it is time to look for bagworms. Although the cool weather we have experienced this spring will slow development, and consequently larvae hatching from eggs, bagworm caterpillars will eventually be present throughout Kansas feeding on broadleaf and evergreen trees and shrubs. Therefore, be prepared to act against bagworms once they are observed on plants. Bagworms are primarily a pest of conifers; however, they feed on a wide-range of host plants including a number of broadleaf plants, such as; rose, honey locust, hackberry, and flowering plum. It is important to apply insecticides when bagworms are less than 1/4 inch long to maximize effectiveness of insecticide applications and subsequently reduce plant damage.Several insecticides are labeled for use against bagworms including those with the following active ingredients: acephate, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, cyfluthrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, trichlorfon, indoxacarb, chlorantraniliprole, and spinosad. Most of these active ingredients are commercially available and sold under various trade names or as generic products. However, several insecticides may not be directly available to homeowners.The key to managing bagworms with insecticides at this time of year is to apply insecticides early and frequently enough to kill the highly susceptible young caterpillars feeding on plant foliage.Applying insecticides weekly for four to five weeks when bagworms are first noticed will reduce problems with bagworms later in the year. The bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki, which is sold under various trade names, is only active on young caterpillars and must be consumed or ingested to be effective. Therefore, thorough coverage of all plant parts and frequent applications are required. The insecticide is sensitive to ultra-violet light degradation and rainfall, which can reduce residual activity (persistence). Spinosad is the active ingredient in several homeowner products, including: Natural Guard Spinosad; Captain Jack’s DeadBug Brew; and Monterey Garden Insect Spray. The insecticide works by contact and ingestion; however, activity is greatest when ingested by bagworms.Cyfluthrin (BioAdvanced Vegetable &amp; Garden Insect Spray, lambda-cyhalothrin&nbsp; (Spectracide Triazicide, Bonide Caterpillar Killer, trichlorfon, chlorantraniliprole, and indoxacarb can also be used against young caterpillars. Again, thorough coverage of all plant parts, especially the tops of trees and shrubs, where bagworms commonly start feeding, and frequent applications are essential in achieving sufficient suppression of bagworm populations. The reason multiple applications are needed is that bagworm larvae do not hatch from eggs simultaneously, but hatch over time depending on temperature. In addition, young bagworms can ‘blow in’ (called ‘ballooning’) from neighboring plants on silken threads. If left unchecked, bagworms can cause significant damage and ruin the aesthetic quality of plants. In addition, bagworms may kill plants, especially newly transplanted small evergreens, since evergreens do not usually produce another flush of growth after being fed upon or defoliated by bagworms.Lauren Fick is the Horticulture Extension Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. If you have questions she can be contacted by e-mail at lfick@k-state.edu or by phone at 785-628-9430 or 620-793-1910.&nbsp;

FICK: Controlling bagworms 

Grandpa always said some of the best fishing can be when its raining. Its sometimes tough to test that theory here in Kansas because if seems that more often than not, our rain comes with abundant thunder-and-lightning, or it comes as literal downpours, neither conducive to fishing. We just spent two days fishing Waconda Lake (aka Glen Elder Lake) with Leon Sievert, co-owner of Solomon Valley Outfitters, much of the time in the rain, and had an absolute blast, plus brought home many meals of fish for the freezer.

Like most lakes in Kansas, Waconda Lake and the surrounding area are rich with history. The north fork and the south fork of the Solomon River converge in Waconda Lake, situated in the northwest corner of Mitchell County, to create a reservoir of more than 12, 500 acres of water. The name “Wakonda” spelled with a “K” was a word used by the Kanza Indians to mean “Great Spirit.” Later as white men settled the area, the standard spelling became “Waconda” with a “C.” In the 1800’s, well before the lake was formed, a natural mineral spring existed there which became a gathering spot for all the different plains Indians who believed the water possessed healing powers, which in fact was partially true, as water from the spring won a medal at the 1904 World’s Fair in the category “mineral waters of superior medicinal qualities.” A sanitarium was later built near the spring, and water from the spring was piped into the bathtubs of all 60 rooms and used in a program of internal and external healing. The dam to form Waconda lake was completed in 1968, and the sanitarium was demolished and piled in the spring as the lake began to fill.

We met Leon at his pontoon boat the first evening, and after catching only one keeper walleye of over 18 inches at one of his favorite walleye haunts, we settled over a brush pile of discarded Christmas trees Leon described as being “At least the size of a house,” and rigged our rods to fish for crappies. A bright colored jig-head tipped with a minnow was the ticket, and we fished it lowered over the brush pile at a specific height to avoid getting hung-up in the brush. Crappie had to be ten inches to keep, and we soon began putting “keepers” in the cooler. When we quit for the evening, Leon told us we’d probably need raingear for the next morning as rain and storms appeared to be on the menu for the next couple days. Sure enough, we awoke Friday morning to a steady drizzle. Rain stung our face as we headed out of the marina and toward the dam to again attempt to put a few walleyes in the cooler. After little luck there, we headed across the lake toward another favorite walleye spot. The rain was still a slow off-and-on drizzle, but the nearer we got to our destination, the harder it rained until we rode in a steady, soaking rain. We turned back but the rain chased us across the lake, threatening the morning’s outing. We voted to stop over the brush pile again for a short while, and as lines were dropped, all three of us had big, slab crappie hooked almost instantly. We sat there in a cold, drenching rain and caught big crappie, one-after-another for over an hour before finally crying “uncle” and giving-in to the rain’s perseverance.

Back at our room, warm, dry clothes felt good, but what a great morning of fishing, even in the rain. After experiencing how dry Kansas summers can be, I’ve learned not to complain much about the rain, and I think grandpa was right that some of the best fishing can be when its raining. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574696211722.png" alt="Steve Gilliland" />
 <figcaption>Steve Gilliland</figcaption>
 </figure>Grandpa always said some of the best fishing can be when its raining. Its sometimes tough to test that theory here in Kansas because if seems that more often than not, our rain comes with abundant thunder-and-lightning, or it comes as literal downpours, neither conducive to fishing. We just spent two days fishing Waconda Lake (aka Glen Elder Lake) with Leon Sievert, co-owner of Solomon Valley Outfitters, much of the time in the rain, and had an absolute blast, plus brought home many meals of fish for the freezer.Like most lakes in Kansas, Waconda Lake and the surrounding area are rich with history. The north fork and the south fork of the Solomon River converge in Waconda Lake, situated in the northwest corner of Mitchell County, to create a reservoir of more than 12, 500 acres of water. The name “Wakonda” spelled with a “K” was a word used by the Kanza Indians to mean “Great Spirit.” Later as white men settled the area, the standard spelling became “Waconda” with a “C.” In the 1800’s, well before the lake was formed, a natural mineral spring existed there which became a gathering spot for all the different plains Indians who believed the water possessed healing powers, which in fact was partially true, as water from the spring won a medal at the 1904 World’s Fair in the category “mineral waters of superior medicinal qualities.” A sanitarium was later built near the spring, and water from the spring was piped into the bathtubs of all 60 rooms and used in a program of internal and external healing. The dam to form Waconda lake was completed in 1968, and the sanitarium was demolished and piled in the spring as the lake began to fill.We met Leon at his pontoon boat the first evening, and after catching only one keeper walleye of over 18 inches at one of his favorite walleye haunts, we settled over a brush pile of discarded Christmas trees Leon described as being “At least the size of a house,” and rigged our rods to fish for crappies. A bright colored jig-head tipped with a minnow was the ticket, and we fished it lowered over the brush pile at a specific height to avoid getting hung-up in the brush. Crappie had to be ten inches to keep, and we soon began putting “keepers” in the cooler. When we quit for the evening, Leon told us we’d probably need raingear for the next morning as rain and storms appeared to be on the menu for the next couple days. Sure enough, we awoke Friday morning to a steady drizzle. Rain stung our face as we headed out of the marina and toward the dam to again attempt to put a few walleyes in the cooler. After little luck there, we headed across the lake toward another favorite walleye spot. The rain was still a slow off-and-on drizzle, but the nearer we got to our destination, the harder it rained until we rode in a steady, soaking rain. We turned back but the rain chased us across the lake, threatening the morning’s outing. We voted to stop over the brush pile again for a short while, and as lines were dropped, all three of us had big, slab crappie hooked almost instantly. We sat there in a cold, drenching rain and caught big crappie, one-after-another for over an hour before finally crying “uncle” and giving-in to the rain’s perseverance.Back at our room, warm, dry clothes felt good, but what a great morning of fishing, even in the rain. After experiencing how dry Kansas summers can be, I’ve learned not to complain much about the rain, and I think grandpa was right that some of the best fishing can be when its raining. Continue to Explore Kansas Outdoors.Steve Gilliland, Inman, can be contacted by email at stevenrgilliland@gmail.com.

Exploring Outdoors Kansas: Crappies in the rain

Just as an athlete can experience an injury in competition, so too can a bull when he is turned out in a breeding pasture where his athleticism is going to be tested.

“Bulls will be the busiest in the first month of the breeding season when there are a lot of females coming into heat (estrus,” said Kansas State University veterinarian Bob Larson&nbsp;

“At the beginning of the breeding season, about 5% of the cows that aren’t pregnant will be in heat daily,” Larson said, citing an example of a 1:30 bull to female ratio in which, on average, two cows can be expected to be showing signs of estrus each day.

Because of that, Larson said even if the bulls have passed a breeding soundness exam prior to turnout, producers still need to watch them closely once they are in the pastures with the cows.

Common injuries include lameness due to feet and leg issues as well as a broken penis, which can happen when he is mounting a female and another bull shows aggression towards him. Later in the summer when the flies are more active, pinkeye can be a concern.

“A good time to check the bulls is when you are checking on the salt and mineral in the pastures in the early morning or at dusk,” said Bob Weaber, beef cattle specialist with K-State Research and Extension. “If the bull isn’t with the cows but is off in another part of the pasture laying down that is a concern.”&nbsp;

Weaber added it is important to maintain personal safety when working around bulls.

“Mature bulls can be difficult so it is best to observe them from your ATV, pickup truck or on the back of a horse,” Weaber said.

Lameness is easy to notice when the bull first gets up and begins moving around, Weaber said, while Larson added that a bull with a broken penis will show swelling on his underline right in front of the scrotum.

As the breeding season goes on, the physical demands on the bull should lessen.

“After the first 21 days of the season, producers should expect at least half of the cows to be pregnant,” Larson said. “If it’s a month into the breeding season and you see a lot of cows riding each other, that would be the time to have the veterinarian check on him.”

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/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>Just as an athlete can experience an injury in competition, so too can a bull when he is turned out in a breeding pasture where his athleticism is going to be tested.“Bulls will be the busiest in the first month of the breeding season when there are a lot of females coming into heat (estrus,” said Kansas State University veterinarian Bob Larson&nbsp;“At the beginning of the breeding season, about 5% of the cows that aren’t pregnant will be in heat daily,” Larson said, citing an example of a 1:30 bull to female ratio in which, on average, two cows can be expected to be showing signs of estrus each day.Because of that, Larson said even if the bulls have passed a breeding soundness exam prior to turnout, producers still need to watch them closely once they are in the pastures with the cows.Common injuries include lameness due to feet and leg issues as well as a broken penis, which can happen when he is mounting a female and another bull shows aggression towards him. Later in the summer when the flies are more active, pinkeye can be a concern.“A good time to check the bulls is when you are checking on the salt and mineral in the pastures in the early morning or at dusk,” said Bob Weaber, beef cattle specialist with K-State Research and Extension. “If the bull isn’t with the cows but is off in another part of the pasture laying down that is a concern.”&nbsp;Weaber added it is important to maintain personal safety when working around bulls.“Mature bulls can be difficult so it is best to observe them from your ATV, pickup truck or on the back of a horse,” Weaber said.Lameness is easy to notice when the bull first gets up and begins moving around, Weaber said, while Larson added that a bull with a broken penis will show swelling on his underline right in front of the scrotum.As the breeding season goes on, the physical demands on the bull should lessen.“After the first 21 days of the season, producers should expect at least half of the cows to be pregnant,” Larson said. “If it’s a month into the breeding season and you see a lot of cows riding each other, that would be the time to have the veterinarian check on him.”Alicia Boor is an Agriculture and Natural Resources agent in the Cottonwood District (which includes Barton and Ellis counties) for K-State Research and Extension. You can contact her by e-mail at aboor@ksu.edu or calling 620-793-1910.

BOOR: Bull soundness

By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development

A Kansas man was almost overwhelmed by a flood. But it wasn’t a flood of water, it was a flood of interest – specifically, an interest in finding local foods. Now that interest is helping build connections that are benefitting farmers and consumers across the state.

Rick McNary is a writer, photographer, global hunger expert and founder of a remarkable new Facebook group known as Shop Kansas Farms. For 20 years, he served as a pastor of a church in Potwin, Kansas. After going on a mission trip and interacting with starving people in Nicaragua, he organized a humanitarian food relief organization.&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, he is still involved in such efforts through&nbsp;<a href="https://outreachprogram.org/">The Outreach Program</a>, a non-profit that organizes food packaging events across the country.

Rick has published three books.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many of his articles have been published in Kansas Farm Bureau’s&nbsp;Kansas Living&nbsp;magazine.

Then the coronavirus hit. “One night I was sitting in my recliner, talking to my wife Christine,” Rick said. “We had just had a delicious supper of beef which we had gotten from our friends Kregg and Katie Carothers in Harper County, but Christine told me that she had been to the store and the meat counter was empty.”

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ed17777ebfb13423b267c73">RELATED:&nbsp;Pandemic shows weakness in meat supply chain; ranchers go direct to consumers</a>

That meant there was a disconnect between the people raising beef and the consumers who were looking for it in the store. Rick wondered if social media might provide a way to connect local producers and consumers.

“I didn’t know much about Facebook groups but I thought I would give it a try,” Rick said.&nbsp;&nbsp;He created a group called Shop Kansas Farms on Facebook. That night he checked on the group and was startled to see how many people had already joined.

“Oh my,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Then I checked the next morning, and it was, `Holy cow!’”&nbsp;&nbsp;The interest in the group took off.

“I felt like a little kid who was walking along a dam and saw a strange object, which happened to be a plug, and pulled on it, unleashing a pent-up flood of water behind it,” Rick wrote. In four weeks, the Shop Kansas Farms Facebook group went from zero to more than 130,000 members.

Many producers were posting about their products, and many consumers were asking about them. Products included vegetables, beef, pork, cheese, honey, lavender and more.

“I’m so thankful that some friends stepped in as administrators and moderators to help manage the group,” Rick said. These included social media expert Olivia Fletcher, Meagan Cramer of Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Department of Agriculture staff and others.

“It’s a crazy idea that has taken off,” Rick said. Interest is so great that a Shop Kansas Farms website is being created so that people can search specifically for producers in their region.

“We want to help farmers prosper,” Rick said. “When a farmer tells me that he thought they were going to have to fold, and now they’re making money, that’s meaningful. This is creating new opportunities and people are becoming friends of farmers again.”

The project is making a difference. It’s quite an accomplishment for someone from the rural community of Potwin, population 449 people. Now, that’s rural.

After the first three weeks, Rick posted his thoughts about this phenomenon, including the following observations:

“A local and regional community is being built around agriculture. Consumers are learning real-time about how agriculture works…Rural revitalization is taking place. People want to buy local. In the previous food chain, the average calorie traveled 1,500 miles to reach our plates. Now, people are purchasing food from as close as their next-door neighbor. This is a movement. Already, these types of “Shop Our State Farms” are springing up around America as people follow this model. I believe this movement will continue long after the COVID-19 crisis.”

It was a flood – a flood of interest in local foods. Rick McNary is now gratified by the results. He wrote about those who have helped with the Facebook group: “They have channeled the tumultuous waters into a life-giving river that is providing education, connection, commerce, behavior standards, new friendships, and most of all, hope.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591192592888.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural DevelopmentA Kansas man was almost overwhelmed by a flood. But it wasn’t a flood of water, it was a flood of interest – specifically, an interest in finding local foods. Now that interest is helping build connections that are benefitting farmers and consumers across the state.Rick McNary is a writer, photographer, global hunger expert and founder of a remarkable new Facebook group known as Shop Kansas Farms. For 20 years, he served as a pastor of a church in Potwin, Kansas. After going on a mission trip and interacting with starving people in Nicaragua, he organized a humanitarian food relief organization.&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, he is still involved in such efforts through&nbsp;<a href="https://outreachprogram.org/">The Outreach Program</a>, a non-profit that organizes food packaging events across the country.Rick has published three books.&nbsp;&nbsp;Many of his articles have been published in Kansas Farm Bureau’s&nbsp;Kansas Living&nbsp;magazine.Then the coronavirus hit. “One night I was sitting in my recliner, talking to my wife Christine,” Rick said. “We had just had a delicious supper of beef which we had gotten from our friends Kregg and Katie Carothers in Harper County, but Christine told me that she had been to the store and the meat counter was empty.”<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5ed17777ebfb13423b267c73">RELATED:&nbsp;Pandemic shows weakness in meat supply chain; ranchers go direct to consumers</a>That meant there was a disconnect between the people raising beef and the consumers who were looking for it in the store. Rick wondered if social media might provide a way to connect local producers and consumers.“I didn’t know much about Facebook groups but I thought I would give it a try,” Rick said.&nbsp;&nbsp;He created a group called Shop Kansas Farms on Facebook. That night he checked on the group and was startled to see how many people had already joined.“Oh my,” he said.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Then I checked the next morning, and it was, `Holy cow!’”&nbsp;&nbsp;The interest in the group took off.“I felt like a little kid who was walking along a dam and saw a strange object, which happened to be a plug, and pulled on it, unleashing a pent-up flood of water behind it,” Rick wrote. In four weeks, the Shop Kansas Farms Facebook group went from zero to more than 130,000 members.Many producers were posting about their products, and many consumers were asking about them. Products included vegetables, beef, pork, cheese, honey, lavender and more.“I’m so thankful that some friends stepped in as administrators and moderators to help manage the group,” Rick said. These included social media expert Olivia Fletcher, Meagan Cramer of Kansas Farm Bureau, Kansas Department of Agriculture staff and others.“It’s a crazy idea that has taken off,” Rick said. Interest is so great that a Shop Kansas Farms website is being created so that people can search specifically for producers in their region.“We want to help farmers prosper,” Rick said. “When a farmer tells me that he thought they were going to have to fold, and now they’re making money, that’s meaningful. This is creating new opportunities and people are becoming friends of farmers again.”The project is making a difference. It’s quite an accomplishment for someone from the rural community of Potwin, population 449 people. Now, that’s rural.After the first three weeks, Rick posted his thoughts about this phenomenon, including the following observations:“A local and regional community is being built around agriculture. Consumers are learning real-time about how agriculture works…Rural revitalization is taking place. People want to buy local. In the previous food chain, the average calorie traveled 1,500 miles to reach our plates. Now, people are purchasing food from as close as their next-door neighbor. This is a movement. Already, these types of “Shop Our State Farms” are springing up around America as people follow this model. I believe this movement will continue long after the COVID-19 crisis.”It was a flood – a flood of interest in local foods. Rick McNary is now gratified by the results. He wrote about those who have helped with the Facebook group: “They have channeled the tumultuous waters into a life-giving river that is providing education, connection, commerce, behavior standards, new friendships, and most of all, hope.”

Now That’s Rural: Rick McNary, Shop Kansas Farms

What do COVID deniers and protesters of police brutality have in common?

The first group tends to be older, whiter, and more conservative. The more militant ones confront those wearing masks in public, but most simply choose not to wear masks themselves, despite the clear evidence that these slow the pandemic’s growth. They also crowd together in public spaces—in some cases a deliberate snub to public-health authorities. What preventative steps they do take appear completely ineffective,&nbsp;like&nbsp;stocking up on guns and ammunition.

The second group has also been crowding together in public spaces lately, though many wear masks. Memorials honoring police brutality victim George Floyd have turned into raucous, nationwide protests that sometimes spill over into rioting. These have raged for days in Kansas City. Smaller actions are occurring in other area communities, including Lawrence and Topeka. President Trump and others respond with a call for “law and order,” inviting comparisons to President Nixon’s election in 1968.

Beneath their hatred for one another, these two groups share something. Both gave up on traditional, political actions like voting, town hall meetings, and volunteering. The see a government that often&nbsp;runs&nbsp;on autopilot, with little regard for voters or elected officials. Twentieth-century political philosophers called this “The Administrative State”--a government where professional administrators just&nbsp;go&nbsp;on doing what they do, regardless of who votes, how they vote, or who holds office. There is no oversight or accountability. Philosopher Hannah Arendt called this “government by nobody.”&nbsp;

Consider&nbsp;the shutdowns of schools, many workplaces, and public spaces in response to COVID-19. It occurred quickly, with little public input. Epidemiologists and other public health officials advised Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and others to quarantine, and it&nbsp;happened. This was probably necessary, given the incredible speed with which the Novel Coronavirus spread. However, it also left many citizens feeling that nothing they did really mattered—government was going to do what government does, regardless. Former President Obama once said that working-class whites “cling to their guns and religion” when they feel threatened. Obama faced strong blowback for this, but&nbsp;it&nbsp;is exactly what happened. Faced with government administrators who ignored them, this population not only stocked up on firearms, they also made the reopening of churches a centerpiece of their demands.

Next come the protesters outraged by Floyd’s death and other police brutalities. They think the Administrative State is ignoring them. They are right. Floyd’s murder occurred in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The mayor of Minneapolis, that district’s U.S. Representative, and the governor of Minnesota are all strong progressives who support policing reforms. What difference did this make for Floyd? None. As in other cities, the police behave as “street level bureaucrats” with little regard for oversight by elected officials. In Minneapolis, a history of racial segregation and strong police unions reinforce these tendencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;Activists have faced similar frustrations in their recent efforts to reform policing here, in Kansas City, Kansas. Like other bureaucrats, police simply wait out their supposed supervisors in the mayor’s office, city council, and other elected bodies. Politicians come and go, but the police are still here, doing what they do. Critics are left feeling impotent and outraged. They turn to protesting and even rioting instead of voting. Been there, done that, nothing changed.&nbsp;

Ultimately, in order for us to restore a functioning government, Government by Nobody has got to go. It will be messy, but the sooner we get started, the better.

Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579108824567.jpeg" alt="Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University." />
 <figcaption>Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>What do COVID deniers and protesters of police brutality have in common?The first group tends to be older, whiter, and more conservative. The more militant ones confront those wearing masks in public, but most simply choose not to wear masks themselves, despite the clear evidence that these slow the pandemic’s growth. They also crowd together in public spaces—in some cases a deliberate snub to public-health authorities. What preventative steps they do take appear completely ineffective,&nbsp;like&nbsp;stocking up on guns and ammunition.The second group has also been crowding together in public spaces lately, though many wear masks. Memorials honoring police brutality victim George Floyd have turned into raucous, nationwide protests that sometimes spill over into rioting. These have raged for days in Kansas City. Smaller actions are occurring in other area communities, including Lawrence and Topeka. President Trump and others respond with a call for “law and order,” inviting comparisons to President Nixon’s election in 1968.Beneath their hatred for one another, these two groups share something. Both gave up on traditional, political actions like voting, town hall meetings, and volunteering. The see a government that often&nbsp;runs&nbsp;on autopilot, with little regard for voters or elected officials. Twentieth-century political philosophers called this “The Administrative State”--a government where professional administrators just&nbsp;go&nbsp;on doing what they do, regardless of who votes, how they vote, or who holds office. There is no oversight or accountability. Philosopher Hannah Arendt called this “government by nobody.”&nbsp;Consider&nbsp;the shutdowns of schools, many workplaces, and public spaces in response to COVID-19. It occurred quickly, with little public input. Epidemiologists and other public health officials advised Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and others to quarantine, and it&nbsp;happened. This was probably necessary, given the incredible speed with which the Novel Coronavirus spread. However, it also left many citizens feeling that nothing they did really mattered—government was going to do what government does, regardless. Former President Obama once said that working-class whites “cling to their guns and religion” when they feel threatened. Obama faced strong blowback for this, but&nbsp;it&nbsp;is exactly what happened. Faced with government administrators who ignored them, this population not only stocked up on firearms, they also made the reopening of churches a centerpiece of their demands.Next come the protesters outraged by Floyd’s death and other police brutalities. They think the Administrative State is ignoring them. They are right. Floyd’s murder occurred in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The mayor of Minneapolis, that district’s U.S. Representative, and the governor of Minnesota are all strong progressives who support policing reforms. What difference did this make for Floyd? None. As in other cities, the police behave as “street level bureaucrats” with little regard for oversight by elected officials. In Minneapolis, a history of racial segregation and strong police unions reinforce these tendencies.&nbsp;&nbsp;Activists have faced similar frustrations in their recent efforts to reform policing here, in Kansas City, Kansas. Like other bureaucrats, police simply wait out their supposed supervisors in the mayor’s office, city council, and other elected bodies. Politicians come and go, but the police are still here, doing what they do. Critics are left feeling impotent and outraged. They turn to protesting and even rioting instead of voting. Been there, done that, nothing changed.&nbsp;Ultimately, in order for us to restore a functioning government, Government by Nobody has got to go. It will be messy, but the sooner we get started, the better.Michael Smith is a professor at Emporia State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: What COVID deniers, Floyd protesters have in common

Two of our least-known freedoms, petition and assembly, are at the heart of our nation’s most profound changes.

Today, those two freedoms are powering a deep national conversation 
both in person and online involving millions of us about how we should 
deal with racism, bigotry and criminal justice in the wake of George Floyd’s death while in police custody in Minneapolis.

Some of those conversations have been marred by the violence 
inflicted by a relative few. As the final words of the First Amendment’s
 45 words provide, we have the constitutional right “peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”

Stores have been looted and buildings set afire. Journalists have 
been attacked, injured and arrested in multiple cities while reporting 
on the protests. And at last count, well over 1,000 demonstrators have 
been arrested and many more thousands have been teargassed, hit with 
pepper balls, beaten or taken into custody in police sweeps.

Serious situations, to be sure. But we would be wrong to permit those
 very visible and tragic moments to distract us from, first, grieving 
with Floyd’s family, and second, keeping sight of the larger point that,
 from police procedures and racial profiling to economic inequality and 
its impact across society, we have national problems to solve.

Nothing in those 45 words instructs how assembly and petition are 
supposed to work. But we’ve often taken to the streets when facing our 
nation’s most profound times to let our voices be heard. And #walkwithus
 shows signs of being a long-running rallying point, much like 
#blacklivesmatter and #metoo

Protest has served as both a release and a megaphone for views that 
range from “Occupy Wall Street” to the Tea Party movement to those 
protesting COVID-19 stay-at-home orders.

The 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom has a place in 
history firmly rooted as the setting for one of the nation’s most 
galvanizing public speeches: The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a Dream” speech.

Assembly has been the tool of choice for those supporting “March for 
Our Lives” in the wake of the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman 
Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., and for the annual anti-abortion 
marches across America.

From women marching in the 19th and early 20th 
centuries to demand the right to vote, to the modern civil rights 
movement’s demand in the 1950s and ’60s for an end to legalized racial 
discrimination, formal policy and laws have come about because people of
 like minds gathered and petitioned government for change – and in the 
process, touched the minds and conscience of the nation.

The nation’s newest tools for conversation, declaration and self-examination are flooded with each as a result of Floyd’s death.

Even police in multiple cities have – at times to the surprise of 
demonstrators – joined protesters in visible ways to make a larger 
statement than their role might suggest:

Protest’s long history in America extends, as most school children 
learn, to before the nation was founded in the Boston Tea Party to the 
Liberty Tree movement in which colonists gathered around a tree to decry
 – and sometimes hang British administrators in effigy.

Such protests and assemblies have also provided searing images – 
intended or not – of moments when the nation’s views were shifting on a 
particular issue. An iconic photo of peaceful crowds along the 
Reflecting Pool on the National Mall during King’s “Dream” speech 
remains an indelible image of the hundreds of thousands who gathered 
that day. And the searing pain shown by 14-year-old Mary Ann Vecchio, kneeling over the body of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_Miller_(shooting_victim)" target="_blank">Jeffrey Miller</a>, who was fatally shot by the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_National_Guard" target="_blank">Ohio National Guard</a> moments earlier, freezes in time the impact – and risks taken – by student-led protests against the Vietnam War.

The nation’s founders didn’t give a timetable for change as a result 
of peaceful assembly and petition for change. Rather, they had a belief 
in future generations – that discussion and debate, even if rough and 
tumble, without government interference would lead to decisions 
benefiting the greatest number of us.

Slowly and at times imperfectly, our public self-review process of 
assembly and petition generally has propelled us to toward the best 
solution for all.

We’re a better society for the open and sharp turmoil over issues 
concerning minority, LGBTQ and women’s rights, and the extent to which 
personal religious liberty can be guaranteed along with safeguards from 
discrimination and bias.

The meaning and impact of protests by many over George Floyd’s death 
at least seems likely to outlast the damage done by a few. The nation’s 
founders enacted protections for our core freedoms so that we could 
adapt, reform and improve – but it’s up to us to use those freedoms.

Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the
 Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom
 Forum Institute. He can be reached at <a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573872297806.png" alt="Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute. " />
 <figcaption>Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom Forum Institute. </figcaption>
 </figure>Two of our least-known freedoms, petition and assembly, are at the heart of our nation’s most profound changes.Today, those two freedoms are powering a deep national conversation 
both in person and online involving millions of us about how we should 
deal with racism, bigotry and criminal justice in the wake of George Floyd’s death while in police custody in Minneapolis.Some of those conversations have been marred by the violence 
inflicted by a relative few. As the final words of the First Amendment’s
 45 words provide, we have the constitutional right “peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.”Stores have been looted and buildings set afire. Journalists have 
been attacked, injured and arrested in multiple cities while reporting 
on the protests. And at last count, well over 1,000 demonstrators have 
been arrested and many more thousands have been teargassed, hit with 
pepper balls, beaten or taken into custody in police sweeps.Serious situations, to be sure. But we would be wrong to permit those
 very visible and tragic moments to distract us from, first, grieving 
with Floyd’s family, and second, keeping sight of the larger point that,
 from police procedures and racial profiling to economic inequality and 
its impact across society, we have national problems to solve.Nothing in those 45 words instructs how assembly and petition are 
supposed to work. But we’ve often taken to the streets when facing our 
nation’s most profound times to let our voices be heard. And #walkwithus
 shows signs of being a long-running rallying point, much like 
#blacklivesmatter and #metooProtest has served as both a release and a megaphone for views that 
range from “Occupy Wall Street” to the Tea Party movement to those 
protesting COVID-19 stay-at-home orders.The 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom has a place in 
history firmly rooted as the setting for one of the nation’s most 
galvanizing public speeches: The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a Dream” speech.Assembly has been the tool of choice for those supporting “March for 
Our Lives” in the wake of the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman 
Douglas High School in Parkland, Fla., and for the annual anti-abortion 
marches across America.From women marching in the 19th and early 20th 
centuries to demand the right to vote, to the modern civil rights 
movement’s demand in the 1950s and ’60s for an end to legalized racial 
discrimination, formal policy and laws have come about because people of
 like minds gathered and petitioned government for change – and in the 
process, touched the minds and conscience of the nation.The nation’s newest tools for conversation, declaration and self-examination are flooded with each as a result of Floyd’s death.<ol>
 <li>The Facebook and Instagram accounts of many celebrities, magazines, 
even restaurant sites have turned from the usual plot discussions and 
topics to calls for solutions to racial discrimination, and prosecution 
of the police officers who were involved in Floyd’s death.</li><li>In Nashville, award-winning investigative journalist Phil Williams
 posted old photos and newspaper headlines from that city’s history of 
protests, as different as black men and women fighting racial 
discrimination during the civil rights era are to largely white 
conservatives angered decades ago by a proposed state income tax (and 
reported to have thrown rocks through Statehouse windows).</li><li>At #walkwithus, comments ranged widely – from one woman referring to
 some police action against protesters saying “Wow. White folks getting a
 small taste of what it’s like to be us” to “I feel your pain to the 
core of my being” to “the power of our ‘millennial’ generation is the 
ability to leverage our power of being instant authorities on the 
indelible ink of the Internet … the challenge now is to keep doing it 
with integrity.”</li><li>Facebook staff – in a rare public rebuke of the social media giant, 
staged a virtual walkout Monday in protest of the site’s continued 
posting of what the employee group called “inaction on inflammatory 
posts” around the Floyd protests by President Donald J. Trump.</li>
 </ol>Even police in multiple cities have – at times to the surprise of 
demonstrators – joined protesters in visible ways to make a larger 
statement than their role might suggest:<ol>
 <li>In Flint, Mich., Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson spoke and then marched with demonstrators who were met by police officers in riot gear, local affiliate <a href="https://nbc25news.com/news/local/justice-for-george-floyd-protest-in-flint-twp" target="_blank">WEYI</a></li><li>In Portland, Ore., New York City, Coral Gables, Fla., Washington, 
D.C., and Des Moines, police officers knelt in solidarity with 
protesters.</li>
 </ol>Protest’s long history in America extends, as most school children 
learn, to before the nation was founded in the Boston Tea Party to the 
Liberty Tree movement in which colonists gathered around a tree to decry
 – and sometimes hang British administrators in effigy.Such protests and assemblies have also provided searing images – 
intended or not – of moments when the nation’s views were shifting on a 
particular issue. An iconic photo of peaceful crowds along the 
Reflecting Pool on the National Mall during King’s “Dream” speech 
remains an indelible image of the hundreds of thousands who gathered 
that day. And the searing pain shown by 14-year-old Mary Ann Vecchio, kneeling over the body of <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_Miller_(shooting_victim)" target="_blank">Jeffrey Miller</a>, who was fatally shot by the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States_National_Guard" target="_blank">Ohio National Guard</a> moments earlier, freezes in time the impact – and risks taken – by student-led protests against the Vietnam War.The nation’s founders didn’t give a timetable for change as a result 
of peaceful assembly and petition for change. Rather, they had a belief 
in future generations – that discussion and debate, even if rough and 
tumble, without government interference would lead to decisions 
benefiting the greatest number of us.Slowly and at times imperfectly, our public self-review process of 
assembly and petition generally has propelled us to toward the best 
solution for all.We’re a better society for the open and sharp turmoil over issues 
concerning minority, LGBTQ and women’s rights, and the extent to which 
personal religious liberty can be guaranteed along with safeguards from 
discrimination and bias.The meaning and impact of protests by many over George Floyd’s death 
at least seems likely to outlast the damage done by a few. The nation’s 
founders enacted protections for our core freedoms so that we could 
adapt, reform and improve – but it’s up to us to use those freedoms.Gene Policinski is a senior fellow for the First Amendment at the
 Freedom Forum, and president and chief operating officer of the Freedom
 Forum Institute. He can be reached at <a href="mailto:gpolicinski@freedomforum.org" target="_blank">gpolicinski@freedomforum.org</a>, or follow him on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/@genefac" target="_blank">@genefac</a>.

FIRST FIVE: Floyd protests powered by freedoms of assembly, petition

I recently had an opportunity to talk with some of our graduating seniors to learn more about their experiences and reflections as they complete their education. No surprise, their stories were inspiring, fun, and authentic. It is my distinct pleasure to introduce you to some of our amazing students and share a small part of their journey.

Evelyn Irigoyen-Aguirre, Garden City, is an organizational leadership major, currently employed through the Student Engagement Office as a transition specialist working on FHSU’s Care Team, Diversity Events, and the Hispanic College Institute’s amazing Tiger Team. Evelyn is planning to attend graduate school at FHSU to begin her career in student affairs – and that makes me very happy!

According to Evelyn, the transition to remote learning has inspired a different perspective on the importance of offering different ways to learn. “I admire and respect those who enjoy online learning. I am thankful FHSU has been able to provide the best support and resources with the help of the Kelly Center.” She continues, “There have been numerous professors who have cared about me as a person. Everyone at FHSU is very caring and helpful. I have had the opportunity to work with professors in teacher ed, geosciences, HESA and especially the Leadership Department. Whether I was working with them, traveling in study abroad, taking their courses or working in community events, they are all able to value who I am and teach me to become a better leader.”

Kaytee Wisley, Wichita, is a political science major heading this fall to the University of Virginia for a master’s degree in public policy. Kaytee has been very involved in student life, including serving as the legislative affairs director for the Student Government Association and the Honors College. She is really thankful to be able to participate in both organizations virtually when classes transitioned to remote teaching and learning. I am excited for Kaytee’s journey into public service. I know she will put her talents, heart, and knowledge into making our world better.&nbsp;

Kaytee described her transition to remote learning this way: “I am currently in my political science capstone course and bioethics, and both have made the switch very well! I think the courses are a bit different because we do have Zoom discussions, which isn’t something I’ve had in my past online courses. We still meet during the regular class time, which has helped me maintain a regular schedule! I think the transition is allowing us to be more innovative, especially student organizations.”&nbsp;

Kaytee also talked about the FSHU community: “I’ve been really shocked at how well the community of Fort Hays is still coming together while we aren’t able to physically come together. I still feel connected to campus and connected to my peers even though I am not seeing them in person. It has been really beneficial to know that the support systems we had before are still there, just in a slightly different form.”

Holly Dethlefs, Ravenna, Neb., is currently student teaching and has accepted a position for the 2020-2021 school year teaching sixth grade in Nebraska. She and her fiancé, who are getting married in October, have been together for more than six years and have four “fur babies” along with their livestock. Holly is very excited and optimistic about her fall.

Her transition to remote learning was a bit different since she was in the middle of her student teaching. According to Holly, “Until March, I was in the fourth-grade classroom learning from two great mentor teachers. I miss my students so much. The COVID-19 crisis required us to transition to instruction through packets and through online learning on their iPads. I have taken online classes before, but it was definitely different for fourth-graders to try to continue education online. While my student teaching experience is not turning out how I expected, this experience has definitely taught me how to be flexible, adapt, and to continue to keep my students’ education as the top priority.”

Kate Westerhaus, Junction City, is majoring in biology and secondary education. She is currently completing her “incredible student teaching experience” at Hays High School and is excited to begin her first year of teaching at Hays Middle School. It is always extra special when our alumni make a home in Ellis County!

Through taking online classes, Kate said, she has observed multiple ways of setting up online classes and found the methods most effective for delivering content online. Her technology classes at Fort Hays, specifically Instructional Technology with Dr. Rigler, have introduced her to a wide array of learning platforms that she can utilize in her classroom.&nbsp;

Kate says, “These experiences at Fort Hays have tremendously helped me in my remote student teaching. I miss seeing all of my students in person every day, but I am so thankful that we have so many ways to communicate digitally. This transition to remote learning has stimulated my creativity and made me realize all of the things we commonly take for granted. I think that in challenging times like these, we must remain positive and find the good in each day.”

Well said, Kate. Indeed, we must all remain positive and find the good in each day. I am so pleased that our students, through the support of caring faculty, have learned lessons of resilience and how to thrive in the midst of challenges. Those talents will indeed make our world a better place.

<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>I recently had an opportunity to talk with some of our graduating seniors to learn more about their experiences and reflections as they complete their education. No surprise, their stories were inspiring, fun, and authentic. It is my distinct pleasure to introduce you to some of our amazing students and share a small part of their journey.Evelyn Irigoyen-Aguirre, Garden City, is an organizational leadership major, currently employed through the Student Engagement Office as a transition specialist working on FHSU’s Care Team, Diversity Events, and the Hispanic College Institute’s amazing Tiger Team. Evelyn is planning to attend graduate school at FHSU to begin her career in student affairs – and that makes me very happy!According to Evelyn, the transition to remote learning has inspired a different perspective on the importance of offering different ways to learn. “I admire and respect those who enjoy online learning. I am thankful FHSU has been able to provide the best support and resources with the help of the Kelly Center.” She continues, “There have been numerous professors who have cared about me as a person. Everyone at FHSU is very caring and helpful. I have had the opportunity to work with professors in teacher ed, geosciences, HESA and especially the Leadership Department. Whether I was working with them, traveling in study abroad, taking their courses or working in community events, they are all able to value who I am and teach me to become a better leader.”Kaytee Wisley, Wichita, is a political science major heading this fall to the University of Virginia for a master’s degree in public policy. Kaytee has been very involved in student life, including serving as the legislative affairs director for the Student Government Association and the Honors College. She is really thankful to be able to participate in both organizations virtually when classes transitioned to remote teaching and learning. I am excited for Kaytee’s journey into public service. I know she will put her talents, heart, and knowledge into making our world better.&nbsp;Kaytee described her transition to remote learning this way: “I am currently in my political science capstone course and bioethics, and both have made the switch very well! I think the courses are a bit different because we do have Zoom discussions, which isn’t something I’ve had in my past online courses. We still meet during the regular class time, which has helped me maintain a regular schedule! I think the transition is allowing us to be more innovative, especially student organizations.”&nbsp;Kaytee also talked about the FSHU community: “I’ve been really shocked at how well the community of Fort Hays is still coming together while we aren’t able to physically come together. I still feel connected to campus and connected to my peers even though I am not seeing them in person. It has been really beneficial to know that the support systems we had before are still there, just in a slightly different form.”Holly Dethlefs, Ravenna, Neb., is currently student teaching and has accepted a position for the 2020-2021 school year teaching sixth grade in Nebraska. She and her fiancé, who are getting married in October, have been together for more than six years and have four “fur babies” along with their livestock. Holly is very excited and optimistic about her fall.Her transition to remote learning was a bit different since she was in the middle of her student teaching. According to Holly, “Until March, I was in the fourth-grade classroom learning from two great mentor teachers. I miss my students so much. The COVID-19 crisis required us to transition to instruction through packets and through online learning on their iPads. I have taken online classes before, but it was definitely different for fourth-graders to try to continue education online. While my student teaching experience is not turning out how I expected, this experience has definitely taught me how to be flexible, adapt, and to continue to keep my students’ education as the top priority.”Kate Westerhaus, Junction City, is majoring in biology and secondary education. She is currently completing her “incredible student teaching experience” at Hays High School and is excited to begin her first year of teaching at Hays Middle School. It is always extra special when our alumni make a home in Ellis County!Through taking online classes, Kate said, she has observed multiple ways of setting up online classes and found the methods most effective for delivering content online. Her technology classes at Fort Hays, specifically Instructional Technology with Dr. Rigler, have introduced her to a wide array of learning platforms that she can utilize in her classroom.&nbsp;Kate says, “These experiences at Fort Hays have tremendously helped me in my remote student teaching. I miss seeing all of my students in person every day, but I am so thankful that we have so many ways to communicate digitally. This transition to remote learning has stimulated my creativity and made me realize all of the things we commonly take for granted. I think that in challenging times like these, we must remain positive and find the good in each day.”Well said, Kate. Indeed, we must all remain positive and find the good in each day. I am so pleased that our students, through the support of caring faculty, have learned lessons of resilience and how to thrive in the midst of challenges. Those talents will indeed make our world a better place.

MASON: Grads embrace the opportunity in meeting unexpected challenges

By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher

June 2020. How in the world did we get to June? I’ve had many instances lately that made me reflect on the past few months after realizing it’s now June. I have caught myself on more than one occasion asking myself, “Did I really complete that project only a few weeks ago?” or “Did that Zoom meeting really only happen last month?” It all seems like a lifetime ago. 

Since mid-March, I’ve been working remotely, the kids have been schooling virtually and my family has practiced social distancing to the best of our abilities. Our daily behaviors and weekly routines have radically changed. Yet, at the same time we have also stayed on schedule with farming.

While jobs that I completed from home in mid-March, April and even May seem like a lifetime ago, the growth on the farm indicates life is still happening in real-time.

The bees are buzzing and making collections from blooms that have appeared on time just like previous years. Corn planted in April has transformed from seeds below ground into healthy plants gaining height above ground at the same pace as previous years. The wheat is on schedule as it continues to turn from its vivid green into a golden yellow. 

The progress indicates the wheat will be ripe for harvest within the month — an event that happens around the same time every year. The continued growth evidenced on the farm maintains its place in time and space as in years before.

These visual reminders show life continues in real-time as opposed to my perceived warp-speed. 

The field of wheat I ride past on my evening bike rides serve as an anchor which grounds me and helps me recognize that while it may truly seem like a lifetime ago, the world continues to spin at the exact same rate it always has.

While the dizzying time spent in the farm office tackling school and work tasks in March, April and May seem like a blur now, the growth of the corn that my husband planted during that same time period serve as daily reminders we are, in fact, still living and operating in “normal” time. 

I’ve always appreciated June, and I think this year will be no different. The month has always served as a gateway allowing me to recognize, experience and appreciate time. Time where I can catch my breath and enjoy more moments with my kids who are now “home” for the summer. Time where the sunlight is available to enjoy for an extended period, and where I can walk through a field of growing corn and feel the wind while hearing a train whistle in the distance. Time where we can stop, sit and enjoy a meal in the field together as a family during wheat harvest. 

While the world around us may seem to be moving incredibly fast, there are constant reminders time has not changed. Seek out those reminders. Find those things that provide evidence that life continues at a “normal” pace and breathe them in. For me, those reminders are always present on the farm — especially in June.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575904358712.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By KIM BALDWIN McPherson County farmer and rancher June 2020. How in the world did we get to June? I’ve had many instances lately that made me reflect on the past few months after realizing it’s now June. I have caught myself on more than one occasion asking myself, “Did I really complete that project only a few weeks ago?” or “Did that Zoom meeting really only happen last month?” It all seems like a lifetime ago. Since mid-March, I’ve been working remotely, the kids have been schooling virtually and my family has practiced social distancing to the best of our abilities. Our daily behaviors and weekly routines have radically changed. Yet, at the same time we have also stayed on schedule with farming.While jobs that I completed from home in mid-March, April and even May seem like a lifetime ago, the growth on the farm indicates life is still happening in real-time.The bees are buzzing and making collections from blooms that have appeared on time just like previous years. Corn planted in April has transformed from seeds below ground into healthy plants gaining height above ground at the same pace as previous years. The wheat is on schedule as it continues to turn from its vivid green into a golden yellow. The progress indicates the wheat will be ripe for harvest within the month — an event that happens around the same time every year. The continued growth evidenced on the farm maintains its place in time and space as in years before.These visual reminders show life continues in real-time as opposed to my perceived warp-speed. The field of wheat I ride past on my evening bike rides serve as an anchor which grounds me and helps me recognize that while it may truly seem like a lifetime ago, the world continues to spin at the exact same rate it always has.While the dizzying time spent in the farm office tackling school and work tasks in March, April and May seem like a blur now, the growth of the corn that my husband planted during that same time period serve as daily reminders we are, in fact, still living and operating in “normal” time. I’ve always appreciated June, and I think this year will be no different. The month has always served as a gateway allowing me to recognize, experience and appreciate time. Time where I can catch my breath and enjoy more moments with my kids who are now “home” for the summer. Time where the sunlight is available to enjoy for an extended period, and where I can walk through a field of growing corn and feel the wind while hearing a train whistle in the distance. Time where we can stop, sit and enjoy a meal in the field together as a family during wheat harvest. While the world around us may seem to be moving incredibly fast, there are constant reminders time has not changed. Seek out those reminders. Find those things that provide evidence that life continues at a “normal” pace and breathe them in. For me, those reminders are always present on the farm — especially in June."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: Time in June

Fort Hays State University President, Dr. Tisa Mason and the Executive Leadership Team released the following message to students, faculty and staff Monday:

Dear FHSU students and colleagues, Our nation has once again been torn apart by the tragic death of Mr. George Floyd, an African American citizen in Minneapolis, Minnesota.&nbsp; We all find ourselves at a loss to comprehend it all. Institutionalized racism is simply the greatest blight on the history of this great country. It hasn’t gone away, and it continues to rob our fellow Americans of hope and fuels despair, resentment, and profound anger.&nbsp; Why do we keep reliving incidents of racism, brutality, cruelty, violence, and massive destruction in a nation that has always had the values and resources to put a stop to it? In a country already struggling to deal with a pandemic that has killed more than 100,000 of our fellow citizens, a disproportionate number of whom were people of color, this latest example of how deeply-rooted injustice is in our nation makes it reasonable to question whether the idea of “equal justice under the law” will ever truly include all of us.&nbsp; As a university community, we can’t single-handedly fix all that is wrong in this country. We can’t repair all the damage done and lives ruined by centuries of racism.&nbsp;We can&nbsp;dedicate ourselves to changing every part of the world we reach.&nbsp; Through our work as students and teachers, advisors and coaches, and counselors and support staff, we can create a safer, more equal, and more caring tomorrow. We believe we can do this because we are blessed to have dedicated, compassionate, and caring people serving at FHSU who are deeply committed to this noble work.&nbsp; If you need someone to speak with as you work to navigate these troubling times, please reach out to the staff at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/kellycenter/Contact-Us/index" target="_blank">Kelly Center</a>.&nbsp; A personal message from Dr. Teresa Clounch, our Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer, will follow this message in the coming days.&nbsp; This university serves a global student population. Each of us has an opportunity to be a force for good and we should never discount the role we play in creating hope and opportunity in every state of this nation, and in countries all over the world. In closing, each of us on the Executive Leadership Team ask that you keep those impacted by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers.&nbsp; Sincerely,&nbsp; Tisa Mason, President&nbsp; Jill Arensdorf, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs&nbsp; Joseph Linn, Vice President for Student Affairs&nbsp; Michael Barnett, Vice President for Administration and Finance&nbsp; Jason Williby, President/CEO of the Fort Hays State University Foundation&nbsp; Joseph Bain, General Counsel&nbsp; Scott Cason, Chief Communications Officer&nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578077978142.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Fort Hays State University President, Dr. Tisa Mason and the Executive Leadership Team released the following message to students, faculty and staff Monday:Dear FHSU students and colleagues, Our nation has once again been torn apart by the tragic death of Mr. George Floyd, an African American citizen in Minneapolis, Minnesota.&nbsp; We all find ourselves at a loss to comprehend it all. Institutionalized racism is simply the greatest blight on the history of this great country. It hasn’t gone away, and it continues to rob our fellow Americans of hope and fuels despair, resentment, and profound anger.&nbsp; Why do we keep reliving incidents of racism, brutality, cruelty, violence, and massive destruction in a nation that has always had the values and resources to put a stop to it? In a country already struggling to deal with a pandemic that has killed more than 100,000 of our fellow citizens, a disproportionate number of whom were people of color, this latest example of how deeply-rooted injustice is in our nation makes it reasonable to question whether the idea of “equal justice under the law” will ever truly include all of us.&nbsp; As a university community, we can’t single-handedly fix all that is wrong in this country. We can’t repair all the damage done and lives ruined by centuries of racism.&nbsp;We can&nbsp;dedicate ourselves to changing every part of the world we reach.&nbsp; Through our work as students and teachers, advisors and coaches, and counselors and support staff, we can create a safer, more equal, and more caring tomorrow. We believe we can do this because we are blessed to have dedicated, compassionate, and caring people serving at FHSU who are deeply committed to this noble work.&nbsp; If you need someone to speak with as you work to navigate these troubling times, please reach out to the staff at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fhsu.edu/kellycenter/Contact-Us/index" target="_blank">Kelly Center</a>.&nbsp; A personal message from Dr. Teresa Clounch, our Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Chief Diversity Officer, will follow this message in the coming days.&nbsp; This university serves a global student population. Each of us has an opportunity to be a force for good and we should never discount the role we play in creating hope and opportunity in every state of this nation, and in countries all over the world. In closing, each of us on the Executive Leadership Team ask that you keep those impacted by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers.&nbsp; Sincerely,&nbsp; Tisa Mason, President&nbsp; Jill Arensdorf, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs&nbsp; Joseph Linn, Vice President for Student Affairs&nbsp; Michael Barnett, Vice President for Administration and Finance&nbsp; Jason Williby, President/CEO of the Fort Hays State University Foundation&nbsp; Joseph Bain, General Counsel&nbsp; Scott Cason, Chief Communications Officer&nbsp; &nbsp;

LETTER: FHSU leadership addresses racism, injustice, role in the world

I am announcing today that I will not be seeking re-election to the Kansas House of Representatives in 2020.&nbsp; After twelve years as a state representative, preceded by two decades in local public service, it is time to bow out and enjoy life.

It has truly been an honor to have the faith and support of the good people of the 118th&nbsp;District throughout my tenure.&nbsp; I look back on those years with pride and satisfaction for all the good we were able to accomplish, but with deep regret for the worthwhile initiatives that have not yet become reality.

One of the greatest benefits of public service is the many friends one accumulates, including constituents, colleagues, legislative staff, and even lobbyists.&nbsp; These bonds of friendship will remain even as we depart.&nbsp; They have enriched my life, and I count myself greatly blessed by them.&nbsp;

Serving in the Kansas House of Representatives is a unique experience, and I will leave office next January with a deep respect for the institution and all who serve within its walls.&nbsp; Though our politics and strategies may not always align, I am convinced that all who serve do so with a genuine desire to make the great state of Kansas better.

Leaving office is made easier by knowing that the person who will succeed me in office is someone who will represent the 118th&nbsp;District with distinction.&nbsp; Jim Minnix of Scott City is the only one who filed for the position, so is virtually assured of election in November.&nbsp; Jim is a farmer-rancher and a 25-year member of the Scott County Commission.&nbsp; I am honored to turn over the reins to Jim.

Though the date of retirement is set, I am still your representative until January.&nbsp; Please let me know of your issues and concerns throughout the rest of 2020.

Don Hineman, 118th&nbsp;District Kansas State Representative

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578581434585.png" alt="Don Hineman, 118th&nbsp;District Kansas State Representative" />
 <figcaption>Don Hineman, 118th&nbsp;District Kansas State Representative</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedI am announcing today that I will not be seeking re-election to the Kansas House of Representatives in 2020.&nbsp; After twelve years as a state representative, preceded by two decades in local public service, it is time to bow out and enjoy life.It has truly been an honor to have the faith and support of the good people of the 118th&nbsp;District throughout my tenure.&nbsp; I look back on those years with pride and satisfaction for all the good we were able to accomplish, but with deep regret for the worthwhile initiatives that have not yet become reality.One of the greatest benefits of public service is the many friends one accumulates, including constituents, colleagues, legislative staff, and even lobbyists.&nbsp; These bonds of friendship will remain even as we depart.&nbsp; They have enriched my life, and I count myself greatly blessed by them.&nbsp;Serving in the Kansas House of Representatives is a unique experience, and I will leave office next January with a deep respect for the institution and all who serve within its walls.&nbsp; Though our politics and strategies may not always align, I am convinced that all who serve do so with a genuine desire to make the great state of Kansas better.Leaving office is made easier by knowing that the person who will succeed me in office is someone who will represent the 118th&nbsp;District with distinction.&nbsp; Jim Minnix of Scott City is the only one who filed for the position, so is virtually assured of election in November.&nbsp; Jim is a farmer-rancher and a 25-year member of the Scott County Commission.&nbsp; I am honored to turn over the reins to Jim.Though the date of retirement is set, I am still your representative until January.&nbsp; Please let me know of your issues and concerns throughout the rest of 2020.Don Hineman, 118th&nbsp;District Kansas State Representative

LETTER: Hineman announces he will not seek re-election

Kansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson gained $1.75 on Friday to end the week and the month of May at $25.75 a barrel. The average price for the month of May was $18.93, an increase of nearly $9 a barrel over the month before, but down more than $30 from the average price in May of last year. The Energy Information Administration reported on U.S. crude-oil production through March of this year, with Kansas operators managing to pump more than 86-thousand barrels per day. That's down from a year ago, when the state managed nearly 92-thousand barrels per day. National production totaled about 12.7 million barrels per day. Baker Hughes confirms a continuing contraction in new oil-and-gas exploration. The weekly Rotary Rig County notes just 301 active drilling rigs nationwide, down 17 rigs. The count in Texas was down eleven rigs.&nbsp; Drilling activity is down in Kansas as well, with just four drilling rigs active across the state. The total number of inactive rigs is up one at 203. One operator is preparing to spud a new well on a lease in Ellis County. There are just four new drilling permits this week across the state, three in western Kansas and one east of Wichita.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 23 new well-completions for the week, 399 so far this year, compared to 655 at this time last year. There are 11 new completions in eastern Kansas, and 12 west of Wichita, including one in Stafford County. The government reported a 20,000 barrel decline in U.S. crude oil production last week, to 11.412 million barrels per day. Average production in the U.S. is down more than 800,000 barrels per day from the same week a year ago. The Energy Information Administration reports an increase in U.S. crude oil inventories of nearly eight million barrels. EIA says stockpiles are about 13% above the five-year average for this time of year. EIA reports crude imports last week of 7.2 million barrels per day, up by two million barrels per day from a week earlier. The four-week average is down more than 16% from a year ago. Analysis from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows how pricing among crude-oil benchmarks and local grades are closely interconnected. WTI and London Brent pricing impacts the price of crude oil just about everywhere on the planet. So when U.S. futures prices dropped below zero earlier this year, so did the published prices at Kansas refineries, among many others. On April 20, the near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude dropped as low as -$40.32 a barrel before closing at more than $37 below zero. That same day, prices at the Coffeyville Resources refinery dropped to -$47.50. The Energy Information Administration says Nymex prices directly impact other price markers because of physical linkages such as pipelines, as in Coffeyville, or because of a specific pricing formula, as is the case at CHS in McPherson. But there are limitations, including quality disparities between grades, and geographic transportation obstacles. The government reports on one silver lining amid the dire energy-related news of late: EIA says energy-related CO2 emissions will drop by 11 percent this year. If realized, that would represent the largest decline, in both percentage and absolute terms, in EIA emissions records dating back to 1949. The head of the International Energy Agency warns that global oil consumption has not peaked, telling Bloomberg TV that a sustained economic recovery and low prices could take global demand back were it was before the pandemic. Some industry observers insist we may have reached the peak for global demand, after consuming nearly 100 million barrels a day of crude oil or its equivalent last year. They argue the pandemic could trigger permanent changes like working-from-home and less overseas travel, thus reducing consumption permanently. A new report from an industry group shows Texas operators paid more than $13.4 billion in taxes and royalties in 2019, a 14% increase over a year earlier. The Houston Chronicle reports those figures were assessed when benchmark prices were about $50 a barrel.&nbsp; For the last several weeks China has been snapping up crude oil amid historic low prices. Reuters now cites customs data showing Russia has overtaken the Saudis as China's top supplier.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Association of American Railroads reports a continuing slump in total freight train traffic compared to last year. Oil-by-rail showed a slight increase over a week earlier, but remains about 26% behind last year's oil tanker traffic. Despite sitting atop the largest oil reserves in the world, gasoline is a precious commodity in Venezuela because of U.S. and international sanctions. This week the first of five tankers arrived in Venezuela from Iran, another oil nation targeted by sanctions. The U.S. State Department told the New York Times that Venezuela's government is a criminal organization that used illegally obtained gold to buy fuel from Tehran. There's no word if the U.S. would try to block future shipments.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574099516454.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARKansas Common crude at CHS in McPherson gained $1.75 on Friday to end the week and the month of May at $25.75 a barrel. The average price for the month of May was $18.93, an increase of nearly $9 a barrel over the month before, but down more than $30 from the average price in May of last year. The Energy Information Administration reported on U.S. crude-oil production through March of this year, with Kansas operators managing to pump more than 86-thousand barrels per day. That's down from a year ago, when the state managed nearly 92-thousand barrels per day. National production totaled about 12.7 million barrels per day. Baker Hughes confirms a continuing contraction in new oil-and-gas exploration. The weekly Rotary Rig County notes just 301 active drilling rigs nationwide, down 17 rigs. The count in Texas was down eleven rigs.&nbsp; Drilling activity is down in Kansas as well, with just four drilling rigs active across the state. The total number of inactive rigs is up one at 203. One operator is preparing to spud a new well on a lease in Ellis County. There are just four new drilling permits this week across the state, three in western Kansas and one east of Wichita.&nbsp; Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 23 new well-completions for the week, 399 so far this year, compared to 655 at this time last year. There are 11 new completions in eastern Kansas, and 12 west of Wichita, including one in Stafford County. The government reported a 20,000 barrel decline in U.S. crude oil production last week, to 11.412 million barrels per day. Average production in the U.S. is down more than 800,000 barrels per day from the same week a year ago. The Energy Information Administration reports an increase in U.S. crude oil inventories of nearly eight million barrels. EIA says stockpiles are about 13% above the five-year average for this time of year. EIA reports crude imports last week of 7.2 million barrels per day, up by two million barrels per day from a week earlier. The four-week average is down more than 16% from a year ago. Analysis from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows how pricing among crude-oil benchmarks and local grades are closely interconnected. WTI and London Brent pricing impacts the price of crude oil just about everywhere on the planet. So when U.S. futures prices dropped below zero earlier this year, so did the published prices at Kansas refineries, among many others. On April 20, the near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude dropped as low as -$40.32 a barrel before closing at more than $37 below zero. That same day, prices at the Coffeyville Resources refinery dropped to -$47.50. The Energy Information Administration says Nymex prices directly impact other price markers because of physical linkages such as pipelines, as in Coffeyville, or because of a specific pricing formula, as is the case at CHS in McPherson. But there are limitations, including quality disparities between grades, and geographic transportation obstacles. The government reports on one silver lining amid the dire energy-related news of late: EIA says energy-related CO2 emissions will drop by 11 percent this year. If realized, that would represent the largest decline, in both percentage and absolute terms, in EIA emissions records dating back to 1949. The head of the International Energy Agency warns that global oil consumption has not peaked, telling Bloomberg TV that a sustained economic recovery and low prices could take global demand back were it was before the pandemic. Some industry observers insist we may have reached the peak for global demand, after consuming nearly 100 million barrels a day of crude oil or its equivalent last year. They argue the pandemic could trigger permanent changes like working-from-home and less overseas travel, thus reducing consumption permanently. A new report from an industry group shows Texas operators paid more than $13.4 billion in taxes and royalties in 2019, a 14% increase over a year earlier. The Houston Chronicle reports those figures were assessed when benchmark prices were about $50 a barrel.&nbsp; For the last several weeks China has been snapping up crude oil amid historic low prices. Reuters now cites customs data showing Russia has overtaken the Saudis as China's top supplier.&nbsp;&nbsp; The Association of American Railroads reports a continuing slump in total freight train traffic compared to last year. Oil-by-rail showed a slight increase over a week earlier, but remains about 26% behind last year's oil tanker traffic. Despite sitting atop the largest oil reserves in the world, gasoline is a precious commodity in Venezuela because of U.S. and international sanctions. This week the first of five tankers arrived in Venezuela from Iran, another oil nation targeted by sanctions. The U.S. State Department told the New York Times that Venezuela's government is a criminal organization that used illegally obtained gold to buy fuel from Tehran. There's no word if the U.S. would try to block future shipments.

News From the Oil Patch: Prices creep up, production way down

June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month so this is the perfect time to add some color to your meals. Many of the early garden crops are showcased at our local farmer’s markets that most likely opened this weekend. More and more choices and varieties will show up as the summer progresses.&nbsp;

It is important to include five to nine fruits and vegetables in your diet every day. For some that is not a difficult task but for many families that is not an easy task due to various reasons. In addition to fresh, fruits and vegetables can be purchased in many ways – canned, frozen and even dried. I have always liked to buy frozen because I can take out the amount that I need and return the bag to the freezer. The very best option is to grow fruits and vegetables yourself. If you have questions about getting your garden growing, don’t hesitate to call the Extension Office and we have Master Gardeners who would be happy to give you a call and give you some encouragement.&nbsp;

I often hear that fresh fruits and vegetables are too expensive. When all the options are compared, they usually cost the least when they are purchased in their fresh form. Prices can vary a lot depending on many factors such as the season, the store and the package size. Sometimes it will seem more expensive to buy a whole melon rather than a cut melon, but your cost per serving will usually end up being lower when you buy the whole melon. Fresh does have more of a risk of spoilage, so be sure to eat it all before it spoils.&nbsp;

If we compare the nutritional value, fruits and vegetables may be the most nutrient dense food of all of the foods in your grocery cart. If we compare a bag of apples to a bag of potato chips there is absolutely no comparison. I think everyone will agree that even if you have to pay a little more for a bag of apples, it is a win-win when nutrition is compared.&nbsp;

From avocados and apples to zucchini and watermelon there are so many fruits and vegetables to choose from. My favorite activity when I visit schools or a summer program is to write the ABC’s on a poster and have the students try to find a fruit or vegetable for every letter of the alphabet. We often have some very creative answers including quiche made with vegetables. Whether you have them as a snack, on a salad or in a smoothie, they will provide your body with the necessary vitamins and fiber. Make it a goal for your family to get at least five fruits and vegetables every day this next week.

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>June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month so this is the perfect time to add some color to your meals. Many of the early garden crops are showcased at our local farmer’s markets that most likely opened this weekend. More and more choices and varieties will show up as the summer progresses.&nbsp;It is important to include five to nine fruits and vegetables in your diet every day. For some that is not a difficult task but for many families that is not an easy task due to various reasons. In addition to fresh, fruits and vegetables can be purchased in many ways – canned, frozen and even dried. I have always liked to buy frozen because I can take out the amount that I need and return the bag to the freezer. The very best option is to grow fruits and vegetables yourself. If you have questions about getting your garden growing, don’t hesitate to call the Extension Office and we have Master Gardeners who would be happy to give you a call and give you some encouragement.&nbsp;I often hear that fresh fruits and vegetables are too expensive. When all the options are compared, they usually cost the least when they are purchased in their fresh form. Prices can vary a lot depending on many factors such as the season, the store and the package size. Sometimes it will seem more expensive to buy a whole melon rather than a cut melon, but your cost per serving will usually end up being lower when you buy the whole melon. Fresh does have more of a risk of spoilage, so be sure to eat it all before it spoils.&nbsp;If we compare the nutritional value, fruits and vegetables may be the most nutrient dense food of all of the foods in your grocery cart. If we compare a bag of apples to a bag of potato chips there is absolutely no comparison. I think everyone will agree that even if you have to pay a little more for a bag of apples, it is a win-win when nutrition is compared.&nbsp;From avocados and apples to zucchini and watermelon there are so many fruits and vegetables to choose from. My favorite activity when I visit schools or a summer program is to write the ABC’s on a poster and have the students try to find a fruit or vegetable for every letter of the alphabet. We often have some very creative answers including quiche made with vegetables. Whether you have them as a snack, on a salad or in a smoothie, they will provide your body with the necessary vitamins and fiber. Make it a goal for your family to get at least five fruits and vegetables every day this next week.	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: National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month

Help is on its way, but reopening Kansas schools won’t be easy.&nbsp; With the state’s economy in free fall and Kansas COVID-19 cases still on the rise, educators are meeting in school districts across Kansas to plan for reopening schools this fall even though start-up dates remain uncertain.

Planning help is available from Center for Disease Control guidelines, and federal legislation is ready to provide funds for school health safety and broadband technology.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, an Oklahoma state representative announced through his weekly report that the legislature’s budget reduction for the coming year “protected” schools because federal relief funds would fully offset Oklahoma’s three percent K-12 school funding reduction. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Before “creative budgeting” gains a foothold in Kansas, let’s remember that federal relief funds are for costs incurred by the virus and may not cover all those costs.&nbsp; New routines will likely require additional consumable supplies and equipment for school sanitation.&nbsp;&nbsp; Food service changes and individual health checks such as temperature-taking will continue indefinitely.&nbsp;

The anticipated broadband technology funding cannot provide computers/tablets for each student or ongoing upgrades.

School health safety and technology requirements will increase the workload and could require more teachers as well as increase operating costs.&nbsp; Despite this, offering remote learning for each school’s students will be necessary to address possible future outbreaks of COVID-19 or new emergencies that may require students to remain at home.

The virus taught us that fully online access for students is necessary, but it can’t replace traditional schooling.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Our virus lockdown renewed our sense that human connection is fundamental and crucial to the full experience of individual learning, teamwork and community building that traditional public schools bring.&nbsp;

Consequently, the return to school means creating two systems—remote and traditional—because we can’t ignore a future need to learn from home and because in-person school is essential both to learning and getting Kansans back to work.&nbsp;

Each school district is responsible to find its own way to meet the challenges working within three CDC guidelines “where feasible.” &nbsp;Each option is costly and problematic.&nbsp; They are:

Traditional school.&nbsp; The problem is all health safety guidelines published in fall would need to be met because no school would accept the moral or legal responsibility of reopening with even one child in danger of infection.&nbsp; Providing classrooms, cafeterias and buses with six-foot social distancing would be expensive.

All remote.&nbsp; This option is probably the least added expense to schools and safest for students and educators but costly to families who would have to provide home support for children.&nbsp; Moreover, its effectiveness is questioned by parents and researchers.

Blended.&nbsp;&nbsp;This option is some combination of remote and traditional.&nbsp; Proposals include traditional school for elementary students using high school space for separation while middle and high school students study online. Other suggestions are a longer school day with half of students attending in the morning and half in the afternoon; or having students alternate two days in school and two online with academically challenged students attending school a third day each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Given current tax revenue projections, schools may face a state budget cut. But before we take a hatchet to K-12 school funding, we need to take a realistic look at the considerable added expense of restarting our schools and provide ways to “come back better” for Kansas students.&nbsp;

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1576185211786.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>Help is on its way, but reopening Kansas schools won’t be easy.&nbsp; With the state’s economy in free fall and Kansas COVID-19 cases still on the rise, educators are meeting in school districts across Kansas to plan for reopening schools this fall even though start-up dates remain uncertain.Planning help is available from Center for Disease Control guidelines, and federal legislation is ready to provide funds for school health safety and broadband technology.&nbsp;Meanwhile, an Oklahoma state representative announced through his weekly report that the legislature’s budget reduction for the coming year “protected” schools because federal relief funds would fully offset Oklahoma’s three percent K-12 school funding reduction. &nbsp;&nbsp;Before “creative budgeting” gains a foothold in Kansas, let’s remember that federal relief funds are for costs incurred by the virus and may not cover all those costs.&nbsp; New routines will likely require additional consumable supplies and equipment for school sanitation.&nbsp;&nbsp; Food service changes and individual health checks such as temperature-taking will continue indefinitely.&nbsp;The anticipated broadband technology funding cannot provide computers/tablets for each student or ongoing upgrades.School health safety and technology requirements will increase the workload and could require more teachers as well as increase operating costs.&nbsp; Despite this, offering remote learning for each school’s students will be necessary to address possible future outbreaks of COVID-19 or new emergencies that may require students to remain at home.The virus taught us that fully online access for students is necessary, but it can’t replace traditional schooling.&nbsp;&nbsp;Our virus lockdown renewed our sense that human connection is fundamental and crucial to the full experience of individual learning, teamwork and community building that traditional public schools bring.&nbsp;Consequently, the return to school means creating two systems—remote and traditional—because we can’t ignore a future need to learn from home and because in-person school is essential both to learning and getting Kansans back to work.&nbsp;Each school district is responsible to find its own way to meet the challenges working within three CDC guidelines “where feasible.” &nbsp;Each option is costly and problematic.&nbsp; They are:Traditional school.&nbsp; The problem is all health safety guidelines published in fall would need to be met because no school would accept the moral or legal responsibility of reopening with even one child in danger of infection.&nbsp; Providing classrooms, cafeterias and buses with six-foot social distancing would be expensive.All remote.&nbsp; This option is probably the least added expense to schools and safest for students and educators but costly to families who would have to provide home support for children.&nbsp; Moreover, its effectiveness is questioned by parents and researchers.Blended.&nbsp;&nbsp;This option is some combination of remote and traditional.&nbsp; Proposals include traditional school for elementary students using high school space for separation while middle and high school students study online. Other suggestions are a longer school day with half of students attending in the morning and half in the afternoon; or having students alternate two days in school and two online with academically challenged students attending school a third day each week.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Given current tax revenue projections, schools may face a state budget cut. But before we take a hatchet to K-12 school funding, we need to take a realistic look at the considerable added expense of restarting our schools and provide ways to “come back better” for Kansas students.&nbsp;Sharon Hartin Iorio is Dean Emerita Wichita State University College of Education.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Educators plan for an uncertain future

I just noticed that May was designated as Older Americans Month, so I’ll take advantage of the last day of the month to share some information from Erin Yelland, our Adult Development and Aging specialist at KSU. We are hearing a lot these days about how our seniors may be experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Let’s take a closer look and share some ways to combat this.

Loneliness is a feeling or experience that some people might have. It can occur when you do not have as much social interaction as you would like or even after a major life transition – such as divorce, death, a move, or even quarantine due to COVID19. Social isolation is when someone has little contact with other people on a regular basis. &nbsp;

So, what are some ways to combat loneliness and social isolation?&nbsp;

Connecting can be difficult during COVID19 but here are some easy ideas. Pick up the phone and call your friends, step outside and chat with neighbors, mail a letter, connect via video calls, send silly pictures, and try to have fun from afar.

Give me a call for some excellent fact sheets from our Keys to Embracing Aging resources. I am happy to share.

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1574802720194.jpeg" alt="Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District." />
 <figcaption>Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District.</figcaption>
 </figure>I just noticed that May was designated as Older Americans Month, so I’ll take advantage of the last day of the month to share some information from Erin Yelland, our Adult Development and Aging specialist at KSU. We are hearing a lot these days about how our seniors may be experiencing loneliness or social isolation. Let’s take a closer look and share some ways to combat this.Loneliness is a feeling or experience that some people might have. It can occur when you do not have as much social interaction as you would like or even after a major life transition – such as divorce, death, a move, or even quarantine due to COVID19. Social isolation is when someone has little contact with other people on a regular basis. &nbsp;So, what are some ways to combat loneliness and social isolation?&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Focus on your sense of purpose</li><li>Maintain your sense of belonging</li><li>Connect with community groups, family members and friends.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>Connecting can be difficult during COVID19 but here are some easy ideas. Pick up the phone and call your friends, step outside and chat with neighbors, mail a letter, connect via video calls, send silly pictures, and try to have fun from afar.Give me a call for some excellent fact sheets from our Keys to Embracing Aging resources. I am happy to share.Donna Krug is the District Director and Family &amp; Consumer Science Agent for the Cottonwood Extension District. You may reach her at: (620)793-1910 or <a href="mailto:dkrug@ksu.edu">dkrug@ksu.edu</a>&nbsp; K-State Research &amp; Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

KRUG: Happy Older Americans month

“I cannot see, but I have a vision.” That statement from a blind educator in Ethiopia might introduce a visionary program through which rural Kansans are helping encourage literacy halfway around the globe.

LeAnn and Stan Clark and Laurie Curtis shared the story of this innovative nonprofit organization known as Ethiopia Reads. They told about Jane Kurtz, the co-founder of Ethiopia Reads, who had grown up in Ethiopia where her father was a missionary pilot.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jane moved back to the United States, married a Presbyterian minister, and became a children’s book writer. Several of her books drew on her years growing up in Ethiopia.

An Ethiopian refugee in the U.S. came across her books and was touched. He contacted Jane and encouraged her to develop literacy in Ethiopia and send children’s books there. That was the beginning of Ethiopia Reads.

Jane Kurtz received a grant from North Dakota Presbyterian churches to gather books and send them to Ethiopia. She and her husband later moved to be near his parents at Moundridge, where they met LeAnn Clark.

LeAnn had grown up in Chapman, where she met her future husband Stan. They both went on to K-State. He was an agricultural engineer, and LeAnn became a teacher in the rural community of Hesston, population 3,709 people. Now, that’s rural.

In 2004, LeAnn was president of the Kansas Reading Association. She wanted her organization to take on an international project. She found such a project when she met Jane and learned about Ethiopia Reads.

Laurie Curtis also joined in this effort. At the time, she was director of the Reading Specialist program in the College of Education at K-State. She is an international expert on literacy and early childhood education. Now retired, she serves on the board of Ethiopia Reads.

“Early literacy is almost nonexistent in Ethiopia,” Curtis said. “They need books to read in order to learn.” LeAnn and Stan Clark took on the task of gathering books to send to Ethiopia. They received donations of children’s books from schools, libraries, and individuals. They sorted and packaged the books. The organization raised funds to send a shipping container of books to Ethiopia.

Meanwhile, Curtis’ colleague, Jackie Spears wrote a grant to bring U.S. teachers to Ethiopia to teach reading skills. They found that the needs in Ethiopia were immense.

Children’s books were almost never present in homes. In the few libraries that existed, the librarian’s typical role was to be a gatekeeper to protect the books rather than helping kids read them. For example, the Americans stopped at one library in Ethiopia and asked where the children’s section was located. “Oh, we don’t have a children’s section,” was the response. “If we did, children might come in.”

Curtis set out to change that mindset and help people in Ethiopia enhance their children’s lives by developing a librarian training curriculum. LeAnn and Stan Clark continued to volunteer to gather, sort, label and ship books.&nbsp;&nbsp;

To date, Ethiopia Reads has started 80 public-, school- and mobile libraries serving 100,000 children annually. The organization has trained 450 librarians and teachers and has donated and distributed 200,000 Ethiopian- and English-language books to more than 350 schools in every region of Ethiopia. In the remote regions, the mobile libraries literally consist of horses carrying books in saddlebags or a book cart pulled by a donkey.

“Training of librarians is so important,” Curtis said. Ethiopia Reads has hosted several training conferences in Addis Ababa. In March 2020, some 170 people attended the Children’s Reading Summit. “A small but energetic Ethiopian staff manages all the Ethiopia Reads programs within the country,” Curtis said.

“We’ve met some amazing people, and we’ve had great community support,” LeAnn said. “We’re accepting books as well as monetary donations. I’m so proud of the way this organization works.”

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

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590586807143.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By RON WILSON Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development“I cannot see, but I have a vision.” That statement from a blind educator in Ethiopia might introduce a visionary program through which rural Kansans are helping encourage literacy halfway around the globe.LeAnn and Stan Clark and Laurie Curtis shared the story of this innovative nonprofit organization known as Ethiopia Reads. They told about Jane Kurtz, the co-founder of Ethiopia Reads, who had grown up in Ethiopia where her father was a missionary pilot.&nbsp;&nbsp;Jane moved back to the United States, married a Presbyterian minister, and became a children’s book writer. Several of her books drew on her years growing up in Ethiopia.An Ethiopian refugee in the U.S. came across her books and was touched. He contacted Jane and encouraged her to develop literacy in Ethiopia and send children’s books there. That was the beginning of Ethiopia Reads.Jane Kurtz received a grant from North Dakota Presbyterian churches to gather books and send them to Ethiopia. She and her husband later moved to be near his parents at Moundridge, where they met LeAnn Clark.LeAnn had grown up in Chapman, where she met her future husband Stan. They both went on to K-State. He was an agricultural engineer, and LeAnn became a teacher in the rural community of Hesston, population 3,709 people. Now, that’s rural.In 2004, LeAnn was president of the Kansas Reading Association. She wanted her organization to take on an international project. She found such a project when she met Jane and learned about Ethiopia Reads.Laurie Curtis also joined in this effort. At the time, she was director of the Reading Specialist program in the College of Education at K-State. She is an international expert on literacy and early childhood education. Now retired, she serves on the board of Ethiopia Reads.“Early literacy is almost nonexistent in Ethiopia,” Curtis said. “They need books to read in order to learn.” LeAnn and Stan Clark took on the task of gathering books to send to Ethiopia. They received donations of children’s books from schools, libraries, and individuals. They sorted and packaged the books. The organization raised funds to send a shipping container of books to Ethiopia.Meanwhile, Curtis’ colleague, Jackie Spears wrote a grant to bring U.S. teachers to Ethiopia to teach reading skills. They found that the needs in Ethiopia were immense.Children’s books were almost never present in homes. In the few libraries that existed, the librarian’s typical role was to be a gatekeeper to protect the books rather than helping kids read them. For example, the Americans stopped at one library in Ethiopia and asked where the children’s section was located. “Oh, we don’t have a children’s section,” was the response. “If we did, children might come in.”Curtis set out to change that mindset and help people in Ethiopia enhance their children’s lives by developing a librarian training curriculum. LeAnn and Stan Clark continued to volunteer to gather, sort, label and ship books.&nbsp;&nbsp;To date, Ethiopia Reads has started 80 public-, school- and mobile libraries serving 100,000 children annually. The organization has trained 450 librarians and teachers and has donated and distributed 200,000 Ethiopian- and English-language books to more than 350 schools in every region of Ethiopia. In the remote regions, the mobile libraries literally consist of horses carrying books in saddlebags or a book cart pulled by a donkey.“Training of librarians is so important,” Curtis said. Ethiopia Reads has hosted several training conferences in Addis Ababa. In March 2020, some 170 people attended the Children’s Reading Summit. “A small but energetic Ethiopian staff manages all the Ethiopia Reads programs within the country,” Curtis said.“We’ve met some amazing people, and we’ve had great community support,” LeAnn said. “We’re accepting books as well as monetary donations. I’m so proud of the way this organization works.”For more information, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ethiopiareads.org/">www.ethiopiareads.org</a>.We commend LeAnn and Stan Clark, Laurie Curtis, and all those involved with Ethiopia Reads who are making a difference by changing lives through childhood literacy. Their vision is coming true.

Opinion