The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.

West of Salina, on the way to Colorado, I saw them for the first time, towering over the plains, their immense blades turning in slow rhythmic circles.&nbsp;

I was excited to see them, their sheer size awe inspiring.&nbsp;

My excitement, however, mixed with concern as the giant machines changed the quiet vastness of the open prairie into something commercial, even industrial.&nbsp;

Twenty years later, having passed by hundreds more – they’ve multiplied at a startling pace – my feelings about them haven’t settled. Fifty-one utility scale windfarms are now scattered across 36 counties, most west of Wichita but more appearing in the northeast and southeast regions. Wind developers require forty to seventy acres per turbine. Farms with a hundred or more turbines thus span thousands of acres. There are nearly 4,500 turbines ranging from 213 ft tall to the hub, 323 ft with blades 323 ft, at the state’s first wind farm in Gray County, to newer models reaching 374 ft to the hub, 514 ft with blades, at Prairie Queen in Allen County.&nbsp;

For reference, the Kansas State Capitol Building is 304 ft, the Statue of Liberty 305 ft. Wind power accounts for 47 percent of the state’s electricity, a dramatic rise from less than 20 percent a decade ago.&nbsp;

More wind power means less coal and natural gas. It also means compensation for landowners and employment opportunities for area residents. Plus, wind farms support local communities through taxes, supplying counties with steady&nbsp;

income to improve infrastructure and fund schools. And compared to traditional sources, wind energy delivers cheaper electricity.&nbsp;

Wind farms divide communities, separating those who profit from those that do not. They cause heated disputes over zoning laws, especially setback requirements, noise levels, and environmental compliance. Other concerns include light pollution, property values, shadow flicker, transmission lines, and rural aesthetics.&nbsp;

I get it, renewable energy takes on a different meaning with a turbine whirling nearby. To paraphrase a Douglas County resident: “I’m for clean power projects, just put them somewhere else.”&nbsp;

NIMBYism (not in my backyard) is a real barrier to wind expansion, especially in the populated eastern counties.&nbsp;

In response to a permit request, Franklin County enacted a temporary moratorium on wind development. Douglas County residents successfully lobbied for more stringent regulations that stalled a windfarm proposal. Shawnee, Harvey, and Linn counties have recently banned wind projects. About a fifth of Kansas counties prohibit new wind installations, many in sensitive areas of the Flint Hills. Governors from both parties have issued executive orders to protect Flint Hills from wind developers. The Trump administration’s recent efforts to slow wind power introduces further complications, likely politicizing what had been a nonpartisan issue in Kansas.&nbsp;

Currently, the fragmented system of local regulations enables developers to capitalize on the financial vulnerabilities of counties and landowners.&nbsp;

Perhaps statewide standards could lead to a more equitable distribution of wind power’s impacts. Yet limiting local control raises its own set of thorny issues.&nbsp;

I am still awed by the turbines and still unsettled. I wonder how many is enough. How tall will they get? Where will they go?&nbsp;

Chances are development stays west, and in places Kansans rarely visit but where in fact the burdens of wind energy are felt the most.

You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/9/1756906385173.png" alt="Mark R. Joslyn" />
 <figcaption>Mark R. Joslyn</figcaption>
 </figure>By: MARK JOSLYNUniversity of KansasWest of Salina, on the way to Colorado, I saw them for the first time, towering over the plains, their immense blades turning in slow rhythmic circles.&nbsp;I was excited to see them, their sheer size awe inspiring.&nbsp;My excitement, however, mixed with concern as the giant machines changed the quiet vastness of the open prairie into something commercial, even industrial.&nbsp;Twenty years later, having passed by hundreds more – they’ve multiplied at a startling pace – my feelings about them haven’t settled. Fifty-one utility scale windfarms are now scattered across 36 counties, most west of Wichita but more appearing in the northeast and southeast regions. Wind developers require forty to seventy acres per turbine. Farms with a hundred or more turbines thus span thousands of acres. There are nearly 4,500 turbines ranging from 213 ft tall to the hub, 323 ft with blades 323 ft, at the state’s first wind farm in Gray County, to newer models reaching 374 ft to the hub, 514 ft with blades, at Prairie Queen in Allen County.&nbsp;For reference, the Kansas State Capitol Building is 304 ft, the Statue of Liberty 305 ft. Wind power accounts for 47 percent of the state’s electricity, a dramatic rise from less than 20 percent a decade ago.&nbsp;More wind power means less coal and natural gas. It also means compensation for landowners and employment opportunities for area residents. Plus, wind farms support local communities through taxes, supplying counties with steady&nbsp;income to improve infrastructure and fund schools. And compared to traditional sources, wind energy delivers cheaper electricity.&nbsp;Even so, resistance is building.&nbsp;Wind farms divide communities, separating those who profit from those that do not. They cause heated disputes over zoning laws, especially setback requirements, noise levels, and environmental compliance. Other concerns include light pollution, property values, shadow flicker, transmission lines, and rural aesthetics.&nbsp;I get it, renewable energy takes on a different meaning with a turbine whirling nearby. To paraphrase a Douglas County resident: “I’m for clean power projects, just put them somewhere else.”&nbsp;NIMBYism (not in my backyard) is a real barrier to wind expansion, especially in the populated eastern counties.&nbsp;In response to a permit request, Franklin County enacted a temporary moratorium on wind development. Douglas County residents successfully lobbied for more stringent regulations that stalled a windfarm proposal. Shawnee, Harvey, and Linn counties have recently banned wind projects. About a fifth of Kansas counties prohibit new wind installations, many in sensitive areas of the Flint Hills. Governors from both parties have issued executive orders to protect Flint Hills from wind developers. The Trump administration’s recent efforts to slow wind power introduces further complications, likely politicizing what had been a nonpartisan issue in Kansas.&nbsp;Currently, the fragmented system of local regulations enables developers to capitalize on the financial vulnerabilities of counties and landowners.&nbsp;Perhaps statewide standards could lead to a more equitable distribution of wind power’s impacts. Yet limiting local control raises its own set of thorny issues.&nbsp;I am still awed by the turbines and still unsettled. I wonder how many is enough. How tall will they get? Where will they go?&nbsp;Chances are development stays west, and in places Kansans rarely visit but where in fact the burdens of wind energy are felt the most.You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

INSIGHT KANSAS: Mixed Emotions about wind turbines? You are not alone

As we fire up the grills and enjoy a well-deserved long weekend, it’s worth remembering that Labor Day honors labor unions and workers across the country for their grit, ingenuity, and tireless efforts that have strengthened and helped build the entire nation.

The first Labor Day started on &nbsp;September 5, 1882. Early Gilded Age workers began the fight for fundamental rights, including the eight-hour workday, the weekend, grievance policies, and other benefits such as vacations, sick leave, unemployment insurance, workers' compensation, the Family Medical Leave Act, and an end to child labor.&nbsp; As labor unions flourished, income inequality fell, and a “Great Levelling” of middle-class growth occurred. However, starting in the 1970s, labor union membership weakened, and the “Great Levelling” began to slip away, resulting in a decline of the middle class over the past 50 years.

Today, pay&nbsp;gaps are widening.&nbsp; In 2024, Fortune Magazine reported that the CEO-to-worker&nbsp;pay&nbsp;ratio ballooned 12.9%, from 560:1&nbsp;in 2019 to&nbsp;632:1 for the 100 largest low-wage employers. This indicates that CEOs, on average, earn significantly more than typical workers, and it is more than double the S&amp;P 500 average ratio of 285-to-1.

The “only effective answer to organized greed is organized labor,"&nbsp;according to former labor leader Thomas Donahue,&nbsp;and there have been some notable victories for workers in the last several months. Minimum wage laws have increased in some states&nbsp;to reflect the rising cost of living better; however, a significant wealth gap persists between union and non-union workers. Union workers’ wages have increased by 10-20% more than those of non-union workers. They also own more homes compared to non-union workers and have better retirement plans.

However, significant challenges and a renewed assault on fundamental worker protections are present. Aggressive anti-union campaigns are on the rise. There are also efforts to change the criteria for classifying workers as independent contractors, which could make it easier for companies to reclassify employees and strip them of benefits and protections, such as minimum wage and overtime.

We often take Labor Day for granted.&nbsp;As we reflect on Labor&nbsp;Day,&nbsp;the fight for workers' rights is never truly over.&nbsp;It is an ongoing effort that requires constant vigilance and collective action to&nbsp;honor and achieve Lincoln’s vision of “a more perfect Union,” and fully realize the promise of liberty and equality.&nbsp; "If any man tells you he loves America, yet hates labor, he is a liar. If any man tells you he trusts America, yet fears labor, he is a fool."-- Abraham Lincoln.&nbsp;

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756423857722.png" alt="Courtesy of Greg Stephens" />
 <figcaption>Courtesy of Greg Stephens</figcaption>
 </figure>By: GREG STEPHENSSalina Area Workers CoalitionAs we fire up the grills and enjoy a well-deserved long weekend, it’s worth remembering that Labor Day honors labor unions and workers across the country for their grit, ingenuity, and tireless efforts that have strengthened and helped build the entire nation.The first Labor Day started on &nbsp;September 5, 1882. Early Gilded Age workers began the fight for fundamental rights, including the eight-hour workday, the weekend, grievance policies, and other benefits such as vacations, sick leave, unemployment insurance, workers' compensation, the Family Medical Leave Act, and an end to child labor.&nbsp; As labor unions flourished, income inequality fell, and a “Great Levelling” of middle-class growth occurred. However, starting in the 1970s, labor union membership weakened, and the “Great Levelling” began to slip away, resulting in a decline of the middle class over the past 50 years.Today, pay&nbsp;gaps are widening.&nbsp; In 2024, Fortune Magazine reported that the CEO-to-worker&nbsp;pay&nbsp;ratio ballooned 12.9%, from 560:1&nbsp;in 2019 to&nbsp;632:1 for the 100 largest low-wage employers. This indicates that CEOs, on average, earn significantly more than typical workers, and it is more than double the S&amp;P 500 average ratio of 285-to-1.The “only effective answer to organized greed is organized labor,"&nbsp;according to former labor leader Thomas Donahue,&nbsp;and there have been some notable victories for workers in the last several months. Minimum wage laws have increased in some states&nbsp;to reflect the rising cost of living better; however, a significant wealth gap persists between union and non-union workers. Union workers’ wages have increased by 10-20% more than those of non-union workers. They also own more homes compared to non-union workers and have better retirement plans.However, significant challenges and a renewed assault on fundamental worker protections are present. Aggressive anti-union campaigns are on the rise. There are also efforts to change the criteria for classifying workers as independent contractors, which could make it easier for companies to reclassify employees and strip them of benefits and protections, such as minimum wage and overtime.We often take Labor Day for granted.&nbsp;As we reflect on Labor&nbsp;Day,&nbsp;the fight for workers' rights is never truly over.&nbsp;It is an ongoing effort that requires constant vigilance and collective action to&nbsp;honor and achieve Lincoln’s vision of “a more perfect Union,” and fully realize the promise of liberty and equality.&nbsp; "If any man tells you he loves America, yet hates labor, he is a liar. If any man tells you he trusts America, yet fears labor, he is a fool."-- Abraham Lincoln.&nbsp;You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

OPINION: Labor Day of reflection and resolve

By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University President

What inspires me, as the president of Fort Hays State University, is the impact of our students, faculty, and staff. What I love about Elle Hutchinson’s story is how it embodies the essential traits we relish at FHSU. Elle is a determined contender, an inspired innovator, and a caring individual. Elle’s journey in higher education has been nothing short of remarkable.

Elle shared that Fort Hays State University (FHSU) was the perfect fit for her when choosing a university. Growing up near Hays and engaging with FHSU alumni allowed her to appreciate the institution's value. Elle shared with me that the decision was ultimately grounded in affordability, the transferability of her credits from Barton Community College (BCC), and her desire to remain close to family.

Elle graduated with her associate’s degree from BCC, graduating with highest honors, just a week before she walked across the stage at Great Bend High School, a unique achievement that pushed the boundaries of what she thought was possible.

Like FHSU, BCC is very student-focused. When the leadership at BCC learned about Elle pursuing her high school diploma and her associate's degree simultaneously, they worked with Elle to create and promote a program designed to facilitate an academic pathway for other high school students. That spirit of innovation, of always blazing a new path, is precisely what FHSU is all about.

The challenge of pursuing two degrees simultaneously truly motivated Elle. She wanted to challenge herself, push beyond conventional boundaries, and set an exemplary trajectory for her educational experience. Hearing how other high school students benefited from the initiative Elle helped establish strengthened her resolve and motivated her to keep moving forward.

Managing coursework from two institutions (Great Bend High School and BCC) came with several obstacles. “I encountered skepticism from peers and guidance counselors who doubted my ability to succeed. However, this motivated me to seek assistance from those who believed in my potential. I found that surrounding myself with encouraging support systems was crucial.”

Maintaining balance among the demands of work, academics, and personal life is another skill Elle developed. Balancing her commitments meant focusing weekdays primarily on work and studies. This sometimes involved finding creative ways to integrate schoolwork into her social time, ensuring she could enjoy life while fulfilling her responsibilities. Through it all, Elle’s priority was always to remain close to family and friends.

Elle carried that philosophy with her to FHSU, where she served on the Student Government Association, holding several leadership roles, and as a student assistant in the Office of Student Fiscal Services. While at FHSU, she majored in Business Education – Corporate Communications. She chose this major for its versatility in the real world, plus its helpfulness in pursuing a legal career.

“Law has long been a field I aspired to enter, primarily due to its versatility and my passion for helping others. An attorney can do almost anything; they are not confined to just practicing law. Additionally, there is a lot of variety within the practice of law,” Elle shared

Elle is interested in agricultural law. Last summer, she interned at Bauer &amp; Pike Law Firm in Great Bend, which solidified her interest in the legal field and introduced her to the complexity and balance built into our legal system. She also benefited greatly from this real-world learning experience and from the dedicated mentorship she received.

Another pivotal experience for Elle was her employment as a student worker in the Student Fiscal Services office at FHSU. “I engaged with a team that shared professional guidance, and we became lifelong friends.” Working in Student Fiscal Services opened Ellie’s eyes to the available financial resources available to help keep the Fort Hays State experience affordable. She learned about many different scholarships that helped reduce the cost of tuition for her at FHSU. She also gained a heightened awareness of the financial resources that exist to make the next step in her academic career, law school, more affordable.

Staying focused on her academic and career goals often required establishing a balance in the demands for her time to ensure she still maintained a social life, which always remained important to her. “I believe that healthy interaction with friends can enhance productivity. Though I prioritized homework, I ensured that I scheduled social activities to maintain my mental health. This kept me motivated. There were many times when I had to make a tough decision to stay in and study rather than go out. You have to be willing to make sacrifices.”

Elle credits her achievements to her family. “They supported me through the good, the bad, and the ugly. I cannot imagine trying to do all of this without such amazing parents, support systems, and role models.”

Elle credits her remarkable success to her father, Shawn Hutchinson; her mother, Jamie Hutchinson; her BCC advisor, Karen Kratzer; the student fiscal services staff; and Dr. Wendy Rohleder-Sook, FHSU chairman of the department of communication studies, law, and political science. She is also grateful for the mentorship of Judge Charles Pike (Great Bend Municipal judge) and Julie Carroll, attorneys at the Bauer and Pike Law firm, where she interned last summer.

With her current studies completed, including a FHSU bachelor's degree earned with honors, she is taking a gap year before pursuing law school. In the interim, she is working in her family-owned small business, Satellite Pros &amp; Central Plains Security, and has recently accepted a position as a media consultant for Barton County.

As we celebrate Elle’s achievements, let us also recognize the spirit of those who support our students, from faculty to family. Together, we forge paths for the future, inspired by stories like Elle’s that remind us of the impact we can have in our communities. 

Here’s to Elle and all our students who strive for greatness, shaped by their experiences and determination, while driven to serve the greater good!

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/8/1756390432923.jpeg" alt="Elle Hutchinson. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University" />
 <figcaption>Elle Hutchinson. Photo courtesy Fort Hays State University</figcaption>
 </figure>By TISA MASON Fort Hays State University PresidentWhat inspires me, as the president of Fort Hays State University, is the impact of our students, faculty, and staff. What I love about Elle Hutchinson’s story is how it embodies the essential traits we relish at FHSU. Elle is a determined contender, an inspired innovator, and a caring individual. Elle’s journey in higher education has been nothing short of remarkable.Elle shared that Fort Hays State University (FHSU) was the perfect fit for her when choosing a university. Growing up near Hays and engaging with FHSU alumni allowed her to appreciate the institution's value. Elle shared with me that the decision was ultimately grounded in affordability, the transferability of her credits from Barton Community College (BCC), and her desire to remain close to family.Elle graduated with her associate’s degree from BCC, graduating with highest honors, just a week before she walked across the stage at Great Bend High School, a unique achievement that pushed the boundaries of what she thought was possible.Like FHSU, BCC is very student-focused. When the leadership at BCC learned about Elle pursuing her high school diploma and her associate's degree simultaneously, they worked with Elle to create and promote a program designed to facilitate an academic pathway for other high school students. That spirit of innovation, of always blazing a new path, is precisely what FHSU is all about.The challenge of pursuing two degrees simultaneously truly motivated Elle. She wanted to challenge herself, push beyond conventional boundaries, and set an exemplary trajectory for her educational experience. Hearing how other high school students benefited from the initiative Elle helped establish strengthened her resolve and motivated her to keep moving forward.Managing coursework from two institutions (Great Bend High School and BCC) came with several obstacles. “I encountered skepticism from peers and guidance counselors who doubted my ability to succeed. However, this motivated me to seek assistance from those who believed in my potential. I found that surrounding myself with encouraging support systems was crucial.”Maintaining balance among the demands of work, academics, and personal life is another skill Elle developed. Balancing her commitments meant focusing weekdays primarily on work and studies. This sometimes involved finding creative ways to integrate schoolwork into her social time, ensuring she could enjoy life while fulfilling her responsibilities. Through it all, Elle’s priority was always to remain close to family and friends.Elle carried that philosophy with her to FHSU, where she served on the Student Government Association, holding several leadership roles, and as a student assistant in the Office of Student Fiscal Services. While at FHSU, she majored in Business Education – Corporate Communications. She chose this major for its versatility in the real world, plus its helpfulness in pursuing a legal career.“Law has long been a field I aspired to enter, primarily due to its versatility and my passion for helping others. An attorney can do almost anything; they are not confined to just practicing law. Additionally, there is a lot of variety within the practice of law,” Elle sharedElle is interested in agricultural law. Last summer, she interned at Bauer &amp; Pike Law Firm in Great Bend, which solidified her interest in the legal field and introduced her to the complexity and balance built into our legal system. She also benefited greatly from this real-world learning experience and from the dedicated mentorship she received.Another pivotal experience for Elle was her employment as a student worker in the Student Fiscal Services office at FHSU. “I engaged with a team that shared professional guidance, and we became lifelong friends.” Working in Student Fiscal Services opened Ellie’s eyes to the available financial resources available to help keep the Fort Hays State experience affordable. She learned about many different scholarships that helped reduce the cost of tuition for her at FHSU. She also gained a heightened awareness of the financial resources that exist to make the next step in her academic career, law school, more affordable.Staying focused on her academic and career goals often required establishing a balance in the demands for her time to ensure she still maintained a social life, which always remained important to her. “I believe that healthy interaction with friends can enhance productivity. Though I prioritized homework, I ensured that I scheduled social activities to maintain my mental health. This kept me motivated. There were many times when I had to make a tough decision to stay in and study rather than go out. You have to be willing to make sacrifices.”Elle credits her achievements to her family. “They supported me through the good, the bad, and the ugly. I cannot imagine trying to do all of this without such amazing parents, support systems, and role models.”Elle credits her remarkable success to her father, Shawn Hutchinson; her mother, Jamie Hutchinson; her BCC advisor, Karen Kratzer; the student fiscal services staff; and Dr. Wendy Rohleder-Sook, FHSU chairman of the department of communication studies, law, and political science. She is also grateful for the mentorship of Judge Charles Pike (Great Bend Municipal judge) and Julie Carroll, attorneys at the Bauer and Pike Law firm, where she interned last summer.With her current studies completed, including a FHSU bachelor's degree earned with honors, she is taking a gap year before pursuing law school. In the interim, she is working in her family-owned small business, Satellite Pros &amp; Central Plains Security, and has recently accepted a position as a media consultant for Barton County.As we celebrate Elle’s achievements, let us also recognize the spirit of those who support our students, from faculty to family. Together, we forge paths for the future, inspired by stories like Elle’s that remind us of the impact we can have in our communities. Here’s to Elle and all our students who strive for greatness, shaped by their experiences and determination, while driven to serve the greater good!

INSIGHT KANSAS FARM BUREAU: Farm fit summer

Governor Laura Kelly has received national media attention this summer for resigning from the National Governors Association and joining a lawsuit against the federal government over the release of appropriated funds. These actions reflect the current, charged political climate. But beneath the headlines is an issue that should be important to all Kansans, regardless of party identification. This issue is the balance of state and federal power.

Governor Kelly’s decision to join other states in suing the federal government was based on a delay in the release of already-approved federal dollars that are used to fund key programs in Kansas. The Kelly administration has said these delays are political. The delayed funds, which were included in legislation that was passed by Congress and signed into law, would be used by Kansas for items like broadband buildout, clean water, school improvement, and other important local development projects. Such delays have tangible consequences. Without appropriated funds, projects stall, jobs are delayed, and communities that have planned for these investments are left waiting.

Governor Kelly also announced she will pull back from the National Governors Association. She explained this decision by pointing to the rising partisanship in an institution that has been characterized with bipartisan cooperation in the past. This decision indicates the increasing difficulty of consistent effective communication between state officials and federal institutions in today's deeply polarized political environment. It also raises the question of where governors will now find common ground across party lines, and whether alternative forums for collaboration can fill the gap.

It is important to understand that this political moment is not just an argument about spending between a Democratic governor and Republican federal administration. It is, more broadly, an argument about the merit of federalism, which is our system of dividing powers between national and state governments. Federalism provides a framework where states can respond to local conditions, represent their constituents directly, and, when necessary, counter federal actions that don't best serve their communities. This balance is about making sure political decisions, even national ones, align with the unique needs of our state.

Conflict between states and the federal government are not new. In fact, they are as old as the nation itself. But instances like these remind us that there are benefits to be gained by making sure power remains diffused, accountable, and responsive. It makes certain that decisions involving Kansans are not merely decided in Washington, but also in Topeka, by representatives who work and reside among us.

Governor Kelly's actions, particularly lawsuits, will work their way through the courts for a while, and there will be disagreement about the case merits. But her actions pose a fundamental question: how does our state claim its space in a changing national landscape? The answer is to remain vigilant and ensure the values of balance and local control are not lost in our federal system.

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

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/6/1750441394328.jpeg" alt="Brianne Heidbreder,&nbsp;PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University." />
 <figcaption>Brianne Heidbreder,&nbsp;PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.</figcaption>
 </figure>By: BRIANNE HEIDBREDERInsight KansasGovernor Laura Kelly has received national media attention this summer for resigning from the National Governors Association and joining a lawsuit against the federal government over the release of appropriated funds. These actions reflect the current, charged political climate. But beneath the headlines is an issue that should be important to all Kansans, regardless of party identification. This issue is the balance of state and federal power.Governor Kelly’s decision to join other states in suing the federal government was based on a delay in the release of already-approved federal dollars that are used to fund key programs in Kansas. The Kelly administration has said these delays are political. The delayed funds, which were included in legislation that was passed by Congress and signed into law, would be used by Kansas for items like broadband buildout, clean water, school improvement, and other important local development projects. Such delays have tangible consequences. Without appropriated funds, projects stall, jobs are delayed, and communities that have planned for these investments are left waiting.Governor Kelly also announced she will pull back from the National Governors Association. She explained this decision by pointing to the rising partisanship in an institution that has been characterized with bipartisan cooperation in the past. This decision indicates the increasing difficulty of consistent effective communication between state officials and federal institutions in today's deeply polarized political environment. It also raises the question of where governors will now find common ground across party lines, and whether alternative forums for collaboration can fill the gap.It is important to understand that this political moment is not just an argument about spending between a Democratic governor and Republican federal administration. It is, more broadly, an argument about the merit of federalism, which is our system of dividing powers between national and state governments. Federalism provides a framework where states can respond to local conditions, represent their constituents directly, and, when necessary, counter federal actions that don't best serve their communities. This balance is about making sure political decisions, even national ones, align with the unique needs of our state.Conflict between states and the federal government are not new. In fact, they are as old as the nation itself. But instances like these remind us that there are benefits to be gained by making sure power remains diffused, accountable, and responsive. It makes certain that decisions involving Kansans are not merely decided in Washington, but also in Topeka, by representatives who work and reside among us.Governor Kelly's actions, particularly lawsuits, will work their way through the courts for a while, and there will be disagreement about the case merits. But her actions pose a fundamental question: how does our state claim its space in a changing national landscape? The answer is to remain vigilant and ensure the values of balance and local control are not lost in our federal system.Brianne Heidbreder, PhD is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kansas State University.You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

INSIGHT KANSAS: Governor Kelly’s pushback underscores the role of states in a balanced union

Pottawatomie County farmer and rancher

Agriculture needs you. Maybe I should give you a little more background. There are people and groups who attack agriculture, and we need you to be an advocate to help our consumers better understand what we do.&nbsp;

I admit it is scary when you start looking into who we are up against. The money seems limitless; we will never outspend our opponents to get our message out. The people funding the assaults against agriculture are billionaires. We are also up against activist celebrities, and we will never be able to match their glitz and glamour. That is the bad news.&nbsp;

I know, why start off with doom and gloom? Well, here is the good news, the consumer still respects farmers and ranchers. They trust us, and that is something no amount of money and fame can buy. The trick is figuring out just how to use the trust the public has in us to our advantage.&nbsp;

That is where you come in. We all need to do our own part in being the face of agriculture. We need to tell our story and let everyone know why we do what we do. But use some caution when doing this. I know we all see people who use confrontation to their advantage, but that is not helpful when it comes to reassuring people about how their food is raised or grown.&nbsp;

Be open and honest when you talk about the care and responsibility you use. Explain the steps we go through to safeguard our food. Talk about withdrawal periods for vaccinations and the safe use of pesticides. Be sure to talk about the practices you are implementing on your farm or ranch that protect the air, water and soil for the next generation. Share your plan with them and the lengths you go to ensure food safety and to protect our natural resources.&nbsp;

My point is that we are all doing incredible things to produce more food while making our world better. We are all trying to get better each day in the way that we produce food and we need to make sure our consumers know this. Surveys continually show farmers and ranchers are among the most trusted professions, and we need to use this to dispel misinformation from activists.&nbsp;

This effort will take each and every one of us and that is why organizations like Kansas Farm Bureau are so important. KFB can provide training to tell your story, but it also provides the avenues and the opportunities to let our consumers know that their food is safe and our natural resources are cared for.&nbsp;

The only thing left is for you to answer the call when the opportunity arises. I know we are all busy and the last thing we need is something else on our plate, but this is an important part of what we need to do.&nbsp;

Yes, I agree it is very daunting knowing that the other side has money and celebrities, but we have something they will never have and that is trust. We are used to facing long odds and rolling our sleeves up and getting to work. This is no different.&nbsp;"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

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

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690818396954.jpeg" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By: GLENN BRUNKOWPottawatomie County farmer and rancherAgriculture needs you. Maybe I should give you a little more background. There are people and groups who attack agriculture, and we need you to be an advocate to help our consumers better understand what we do.&nbsp;I admit it is scary when you start looking into who we are up against. The money seems limitless; we will never outspend our opponents to get our message out. The people funding the assaults against agriculture are billionaires. We are also up against activist celebrities, and we will never be able to match their glitz and glamour. That is the bad news.&nbsp;I know, why start off with doom and gloom? Well, here is the good news, the consumer still respects farmers and ranchers. They trust us, and that is something no amount of money and fame can buy. The trick is figuring out just how to use the trust the public has in us to our advantage.&nbsp;That is where you come in. We all need to do our own part in being the face of agriculture. We need to tell our story and let everyone know why we do what we do. But use some caution when doing this. I know we all see people who use confrontation to their advantage, but that is not helpful when it comes to reassuring people about how their food is raised or grown.&nbsp;Be open and honest when you talk about the care and responsibility you use. Explain the steps we go through to safeguard our food. Talk about withdrawal periods for vaccinations and the safe use of pesticides. Be sure to talk about the practices you are implementing on your farm or ranch that protect the air, water and soil for the next generation. Share your plan with them and the lengths you go to ensure food safety and to protect our natural resources.&nbsp;My point is that we are all doing incredible things to produce more food while making our world better. We are all trying to get better each day in the way that we produce food and we need to make sure our consumers know this. Surveys continually show farmers and ranchers are among the most trusted professions, and we need to use this to dispel misinformation from activists.&nbsp;This effort will take each and every one of us and that is why organizations like Kansas Farm Bureau are so important. KFB can provide training to tell your story, but it also provides the avenues and the opportunities to let our consumers know that their food is safe and our natural resources are cared for.&nbsp;The only thing left is for you to answer the call when the opportunity arises. I know we are all busy and the last thing we need is something else on our plate, but this is an important part of what we need to do.&nbsp;Yes, I agree it is very daunting knowing that the other side has money and celebrities, but we have something they will never have and that is trust. We are used to facing long odds and rolling our sleeves up and getting to work. This is no different.&nbsp;"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;"Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

INSIGHT KANSAS FARM BUREAU: Faces of trust

According to recent reports the summer heat is causing corn to sweat in the field. Is it the corn’s profuse perspiration causing the issue or maybe the county fair is the party responsible?

More likely it’s just summer in early August. There are two options, hot and humid or hot and dry. Either way, the corn is still sweating, with each acre pumping up to 4,000 gallons of water into the air every day. Kansas’ 6.4 million acres of corn pumps out enough sweat each day to cover a football field in more than 15 miles of water.

Corn sweat doesn’t actually make the temperature rise, rather it makes hot summer days feel hotter by adding to the humidity in the air. In addition to evaporation, all plants release water through tiny pores in their leaves during a process called transpiration, or plant sweat.

August is the peak growing season for corn and other fall crops, and correspondingly the peak for humidity, especially with the rains portions of the state have received this summer. The extra moisture can turn a normal August afternoon into a “three-shirt day” where even light work outdoors requires changing shirts more than once.

I do have a small quibble with the National Weather Service over its recent change in the adjectives used to describe our hot, humid summers. In March, the agency substituted “extreme” for “excessive” for heat-related watches and warnings.

Unsurprisingly, I wasn’t consulted on the change, and I have no problem alerting folks about the dangers posed by intense summer weather. But I’m not convinced that classifying normal, expected bouts of summer heat as excessive or extreme are of any help. Everyone should be mindful of the toll working outdoors can take. Plenty of breaks in the shade and cold water are crucial to staying safe in the heat.

As the change from excessive to extreme indicates, adjectives are arbitrary, and neither one is as effective as the description used in explaining the meaning of an extreme heat watch or warning: dangerous heat is possible or happening.

Dangerous means the situation is serious, as the weather in Kansas often is (there’s a 161-degree swing between the hottest and coldest record temps in the state). It also works across a range of conditions from hot and cold to flash floods and severe thunderstorms. It’s an adjective that conveys the stakes of the weather, especially in summer for individuals most at risk of high temperatures like older adults, young children and those without access to cooling resources. It’s easy to poke fun at labeling typical summer weather as excessive or extreme. Call it dangerous and people are likely to actually pay attention.

While July is the hottest month, August is still the heart of summer where triple-digit readings on the thermometer are commonplace. Our electricity bills may be extreme, but that’s just summer.

The days are getting shorter and soon harvest will put an end to sweating corn. For now, it’s still summer. Do your best to stay cool and maybe pack an extra shirt or two if you’re doing anything outside. Afterall, it’s just another August in Kansas.

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687183475033.png" alt="Greg Doering" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Farm BureauAccording to recent reports the summer heat is causing corn to sweat in the field. Is it the corn’s profuse perspiration causing the issue or maybe the county fair is the party responsible?More likely it’s just summer in early August. There are two options, hot and humid or hot and dry. Either way, the corn is still sweating, with each acre pumping up to 4,000 gallons of water into the air every day. Kansas’ 6.4 million acres of corn pumps out enough sweat each day to cover a football field in more than 15 miles of water.Corn sweat doesn’t actually make the temperature rise, rather it makes hot summer days feel hotter by adding to the humidity in the air. In addition to evaporation, all plants release water through tiny pores in their leaves during a process called transpiration, or plant sweat.August is the peak growing season for corn and other fall crops, and correspondingly the peak for humidity, especially with the rains portions of the state have received this summer. The extra moisture can turn a normal August afternoon into a “three-shirt day” where even light work outdoors requires changing shirts more than once.I do have a small quibble with the National Weather Service over its recent change in the adjectives used to describe our hot, humid summers. In March, the agency substituted “extreme” for “excessive” for heat-related watches and warnings.Unsurprisingly, I wasn’t consulted on the change, and I have no problem alerting folks about the dangers posed by intense summer weather. But I’m not convinced that classifying normal, expected bouts of summer heat as excessive or extreme are of any help. Everyone should be mindful of the toll working outdoors can take. Plenty of breaks in the shade and cold water are crucial to staying safe in the heat.As the change from excessive to extreme indicates, adjectives are arbitrary, and neither one is as effective as the description used in explaining the meaning of an extreme heat watch or warning: dangerous heat is possible or happening.Dangerous means the situation is serious, as the weather in Kansas often is (there’s a 161-degree swing between the hottest and coldest record temps in the state). It also works across a range of conditions from hot and cold to flash floods and severe thunderstorms. It’s an adjective that conveys the stakes of the weather, especially in summer for individuals most at risk of high temperatures like older adults, young children and those without access to cooling resources. It’s easy to poke fun at labeling typical summer weather as excessive or extreme. Call it dangerous and people are likely to actually pay attention.While July is the hottest month, August is still the heart of summer where triple-digit readings on the thermometer are commonplace. Our electricity bills may be extreme, but that’s just summer.The days are getting shorter and soon harvest will put an end to sweating corn. For now, it’s still summer. Do your best to stay cool and maybe pack an extra shirt or two if you’re doing anything outside. Afterall, it’s just another August in Kansas."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

INSIGHT KANSAS FARM BUREAU: Corn sweat and August

The heat of the summer has officially moved in and with that the day-to-day summer routines become fairly predictable.&nbsp;

For my husband, that means waking up before the summer sun rises to begin the daily irrigation chores and coming home well past dark after completing the evening irrigation duties.&nbsp;

The irrigation responsibilities bookmark every day until it’s time to shut off the systems and allow the corn and soybeans to begin to dry down for harvest. It’s an everyday event for the rest of summer unless it rains enough to allow for a small reprieve from the daily watering tasks.

The spring and early summer presented us with many challenges this year. Abundant rains – while needed and appreciated – delayed our planting schedule or created situations requiring fields to be replanted. Because of the extended periods of rain we received in June, our wheat harvest and all additional work requiring heavy machines in fields was noticeably delayed. When the wheat harvest began, stories of trucks or combines getting stuck in the mud was a repeated thread heard over and over.&nbsp;

The usual cadence associated with wheat harvest was never achieved. There was never a hard push to get the grain out of the fields before the summer storms rolled in. Rarely did we experience the flow of finishing a field and knowing exactly which ripened field of wheat we’d move into next and work in late into the night. This year the wheat was dry and ready for harvest, but the ground was not.

The buzzing of crop dusters also increased during this time as many farmers in our area navigated needed management practices by keeping their spray rigs out of the soggy fields and relying on outsourcing applications from the sky.&nbsp;

The clock has also been ticking on getting any additional fall crops planted in the fields the wheat has come out of. Fields that farmers had preliminarily identified as potential double-crop acres may not see those crops later this fall.

Needless to say, it’s been an interesting summer.

A couple of Sundays ago, a member of our church family approached me before the service to check on us and to let me know that she was praying for the farmers. She recognized the challenges faced during this season and commented she didn’t know how we did what we did.

I told her farming isn’t for everyone, and then referenced a prayer attributed to Reinhold Niebuhr I was introduced to many, many, many years ago that I rely on still to this day to help me navigate challenges and draw strength from.

"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."

And so we go.&nbsp;One day at a time this summer.&nbsp;

Doing what we can and accepting what we can’t.&nbsp;

It is my hope that we may all experience that serenity.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573617414005.jpeg" alt="Kim Baldwin Insight" />
 <figcaption>Kim Baldwin Insight</figcaption>
 </figure>By: KIM BALDWINMcPherson County farmer and rancherThe heat of the summer has officially moved in and with that the day-to-day summer routines become fairly predictable.&nbsp;For my husband, that means waking up before the summer sun rises to begin the daily irrigation chores and coming home well past dark after completing the evening irrigation duties.&nbsp;The irrigation responsibilities bookmark every day until it’s time to shut off the systems and allow the corn and soybeans to begin to dry down for harvest. It’s an everyday event for the rest of summer unless it rains enough to allow for a small reprieve from the daily watering tasks.The spring and early summer presented us with many challenges this year. Abundant rains – while needed and appreciated – delayed our planting schedule or created situations requiring fields to be replanted. Because of the extended periods of rain we received in June, our wheat harvest and all additional work requiring heavy machines in fields was noticeably delayed. When the wheat harvest began, stories of trucks or combines getting stuck in the mud was a repeated thread heard over and over.&nbsp;The usual cadence associated with wheat harvest was never achieved. There was never a hard push to get the grain out of the fields before the summer storms rolled in. Rarely did we experience the flow of finishing a field and knowing exactly which ripened field of wheat we’d move into next and work in late into the night. This year the wheat was dry and ready for harvest, but the ground was not.The buzzing of crop dusters also increased during this time as many farmers in our area navigated needed management practices by keeping their spray rigs out of the soggy fields and relying on outsourcing applications from the sky.&nbsp;The clock has also been ticking on getting any additional fall crops planted in the fields the wheat has come out of. Fields that farmers had preliminarily identified as potential double-crop acres may not see those crops later this fall.Needless to say, it’s been an interesting summer.A couple of Sundays ago, a member of our church family approached me before the service to check on us and to let me know that she was praying for the farmers. She recognized the challenges faced during this season and commented she didn’t know how we did what we did.I told her farming isn’t for everyone, and then referenced a prayer attributed to Reinhold Niebuhr I was introduced to many, many, many years ago that I rely on still to this day to help me navigate challenges and draw strength from."God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."And so we go.&nbsp;One day at a time this summer.&nbsp;Doing what we can and accepting what we can’t.&nbsp;It is my hope that we may all experience that serenity."Insight" is a weekly column published by Kansas Farm Bureau, the state's largest farm organization whose mission is to strengthen agriculture and the lives of Kansans through advocacy, education and service.&nbsp;

INSIGHT KANSAS FARM BUREAU: Serenity and courage

University lecturer specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government

Make no mistake. It’s coming. An invasive non-native species of podcasters, influencers, tech-bros, reality TV stars, and spurned college students aboard the disinformation train destroying a healthy democratic habitat faster than out of work loggers at a spotted owl convention.

While much focus is on the vanishing checks from Congress or Supreme Court on presidential powers under Trump 2.0, the most endangered check, or species, may be the professional bureaucrat. In the biggest reshaping of the federal workforce since the Gilded Age, coerced mass layoffs impacting 284,000 workers and presidential loyalty tests have burned wide swaths of their habitat.

To some that’s not a bad thing. Bureaucracy is typically a pejorative term. One that values processes over people and impersonalized service. Red tape. That’s fair. An old DMV comes to mind. But to others, vanishing professional bureaucrats is the proverbial canary in a coal mine.

Let’s take the curious tale of Kansas Department of Labor’s (KDOL) modernization project.

Since 2002, KDOL had been trying to modernize a Byzantine unemployment insurance IT system equivalent to Atari Pong technology. Governor Brownback officially pulled the plug in 2011 before it was complete. By the time Governor Kelly could re-start the project, Covid hit in 2020 with an avalanche of unemployment claims frying the archaic system. This perfect storm vastly delayed payments to angry laid off workers while fraudsters made off with $460 million in claims. Under a new Labor Secretary with a long career modernizing local government technology, the $43 million system finally launched last November. Score one for the professional bureaucrat.

Six months later, what’s left of the U.S. Department of Labor’s bureaucratic expertise absurdly decided to claw back $1 million of a $1.7 million grant intended to safeguard the new system from fraud because “equity” was in the grant description. Never mind “equity” would make software useable on ALL our devices and for rural Kansans without broadband. Now fraudsters have equitable access.

Downstream impacts to localities of exceedingly politicized and bonkers incompetency doesn’t stop there - birth rates tied to transportation funds, shutting down FEMA call centers amid horrific flooding, walking back diversity goals in the home of Brown v Board. It will be endless. As a long-time public administrator, I see these as microcosms of graver concerns echoing the age of spoils.

In the 1830s, newly elected President Andrew Jackson ushered in an era of politicized civil service under his “to the victors belong the spoils of the enemy” philosophy swapping out non-partisan workers for his partisan loyalists regardless of aptitude. A philosophy Mark Twain would bluntly scorch decades later… “We will not hire a blacksmith who never lifted a sledge. We will not hire a teacher who does not know the alphabet…but when it comes to our civil service, we serenely fill great numbers of our minor public offices with ignoramuses.”

Thanks to Twain and rampant political corruption, Congress formalized a new era of merit-based hiring in 1883. A new discipline of public administration transformed government from the dark age of spoils to a professional bureaucracy of expertise that puts American people first using efficacy, efficiency, economy, and equity as guideposts.

As I’ve experienced, public administrators can be the only adults in the room “checking” the veracity, narcissism and sheer incompetence of politically tinged decision-making. Losing them is a harbinger for our democratic ecosystem.

There is no “I” in running government. Only ruining government.

Bill Fiander is a university lecturer specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government.

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1752693344014.jpeg" alt="Bill Fiander, (University lecturer specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government); photo courtesy of Megan Martin" />
 <figcaption>Bill Fiander, (University lecturer specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government); photo courtesy of Megan Martin</figcaption>
 </figure>By:&nbsp;BILL FIANDERUniversity lecturer specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local governmentMake no mistake. It’s coming. An invasive non-native species of podcasters, influencers, tech-bros, reality TV stars, and spurned college students aboard the disinformation train destroying a healthy democratic habitat faster than out of work loggers at a spotted owl convention.While much focus is on the vanishing checks from Congress or Supreme Court on presidential powers under Trump 2.0, the most endangered check, or species, may be the professional bureaucrat. In the biggest reshaping of the federal workforce since the Gilded Age, coerced mass layoffs impacting 284,000 workers and presidential loyalty tests have burned wide swaths of their habitat.To some that’s not a bad thing. Bureaucracy is typically a pejorative term. One that values processes over people and impersonalized service. Red tape. That’s fair. An old DMV comes to mind. But to others, vanishing professional bureaucrats is the proverbial canary in a coal mine.Let’s take the curious tale of Kansas Department of Labor’s (KDOL) modernization project.Since 2002, KDOL had been trying to modernize a Byzantine unemployment insurance IT system equivalent to Atari Pong technology. Governor Brownback officially pulled the plug in 2011 before it was complete. By the time Governor Kelly could re-start the project, Covid hit in 2020 with an avalanche of unemployment claims frying the archaic system. This perfect storm vastly delayed payments to angry laid off workers while fraudsters made off with $460 million in claims. Under a new Labor Secretary with a long career modernizing local government technology, the $43 million system finally launched last November. Score one for the professional bureaucrat.But we’re not done.Six months later, what’s left of the U.S. Department of Labor’s bureaucratic expertise absurdly decided to claw back $1 million of a $1.7 million grant intended to safeguard the new system from fraud because “equity” was in the grant description. Never mind “equity” would make software useable on ALL our devices and for rural Kansans without broadband. Now fraudsters have equitable access.Downstream impacts to localities of exceedingly politicized and bonkers incompetency doesn’t stop there - birth rates tied to transportation funds, shutting down FEMA call centers amid horrific flooding, walking back diversity goals in the home of Brown v Board. It will be endless. As a long-time public administrator, I see these as microcosms of graver concerns echoing the age of spoils.In the 1830s, newly elected President Andrew Jackson ushered in an era of politicized civil service under his “to the victors belong the spoils of the enemy” philosophy swapping out non-partisan workers for his partisan loyalists regardless of aptitude. A philosophy Mark Twain would bluntly scorch decades later… “We will not hire a blacksmith who never lifted a sledge. We will not hire a teacher who does not know the alphabet…but when it comes to our civil service, we serenely fill great numbers of our minor public offices with ignoramuses.”Thanks to Twain and rampant political corruption, Congress formalized a new era of merit-based hiring in 1883. A new discipline of public administration transformed government from the dark age of spoils to a professional bureaucracy of expertise that puts American people first using efficacy, efficiency, economy, and equity as guideposts.As I’ve experienced, public administrators can be the only adults in the room “checking” the veracity, narcissism and sheer incompetence of politically tinged decision-making. Losing them is a harbinger for our democratic ecosystem.There is no “I” in running government. Only ruining government.Bill Fiander is a university lecturer specializing in public administration, urban planning, and state/local government.You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

INSIGHT KANSAS: The vanishing professional bureaucrat

I love a good road trip, especially one around Kansas. That is why I am so excited about the listening tour Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) President Joe Newland and I will be embarking on July 21-23 and 30-31. Tour stops are listed at <a href="http://www.kfb.org">www.kfb.org</a>, and you can register there also. Joe and I along with district directors will be at every stop.

This is truly a listening tour, and we want to hear what is on your mind. Your board of directors has spent the last year going over the organization’s strategic plan and we would like to present it to all our members for their input also.

This is also a time when we would like to hear your ideas of what Kansas Farm Bureau should look like in the future. Let’s talk about things that are going well and other places where we can make improvements. Where are some areas that we can grow and maybe some innovative ideas that we need to try.

The bottom line is that we want to hear from you. The grassroots nature of Kansas Farm Bureau is why we have been so successful for more than 100 years. Our organization is driven by you, the members, and that is why this listening tour is so important.

I know the dates and locations may not work for everyone. Believe me, we tried to make it as convenient as possible for everyone. We also know calendars are jam packed, so we did the best we could to accommodate as many as possible.

I know I speak for Joe and your district director when I say we want to hear from you. If you cannot attend, please reach out to us and tell us what you think. Our emails and phone numbers are easy to find, and if you need some help reach out to your count coordinator. We really do want to hear from all of you.

I know you are busy but if we could get a couple of hours of your time, the discussion about the future of Kansas Farm Bureau will be even better with more voices. Please go on the Kansas Farm Bureau website and click through the links to register. Supper will be provided.

I am looking forward to going all around the state, but I am even more excited to have a discussion about our strategic plan and the future of Kansas Farm Bureau. I am proud of our organization, and I think we can make it even better in the years to come.

Find the site closest to you, or, if you want a road trip of your own, sign up for the location of your choice. The last one is at the Dodge City Roundup if you are a rodeo fan. I cannot wait to see you and hear your ideas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/7/1690818396954.jpeg" alt="Glenn Brunkow" />
 <figcaption>Glenn Brunkow</figcaption>
 </figure>By: GLENN BRUNKOWPottawatomie County farmer and rancherI love a good road trip, especially one around Kansas. That is why I am so excited about the listening tour Kansas Farm Bureau (KFB) President Joe Newland and I will be embarking on July 21-23 and 30-31. Tour stops are listed at <a href="http://www.kfb.org">www.kfb.org</a>, and you can register there also. Joe and I along with district directors will be at every stop.This is truly a listening tour, and we want to hear what is on your mind. Your board of directors has spent the last year going over the organization’s strategic plan and we would like to present it to all our members for their input also.This is also a time when we would like to hear your ideas of what Kansas Farm Bureau should look like in the future. Let’s talk about things that are going well and other places where we can make improvements. Where are some areas that we can grow and maybe some innovative ideas that we need to try.The bottom line is that we want to hear from you. The grassroots nature of Kansas Farm Bureau is why we have been so successful for more than 100 years. Our organization is driven by you, the members, and that is why this listening tour is so important.I know the dates and locations may not work for everyone. Believe me, we tried to make it as convenient as possible for everyone. We also know calendars are jam packed, so we did the best we could to accommodate as many as possible.I know I speak for Joe and your district director when I say we want to hear from you. If you cannot attend, please reach out to us and tell us what you think. Our emails and phone numbers are easy to find, and if you need some help reach out to your count coordinator. We really do want to hear from all of you.I know you are busy but if we could get a couple of hours of your time, the discussion about the future of Kansas Farm Bureau will be even better with more voices. Please go on the Kansas Farm Bureau website and click through the links to register. Supper will be provided.I am looking forward to going all around the state, but I am even more excited to have a discussion about our strategic plan and the future of Kansas Farm Bureau. I am proud of our organization, and I think we can make it even better in the years to come.Find the site closest to you, or, if you want a road trip of your own, sign up for the location of your choice. The last one is at the Dodge City Roundup if you are a rodeo fan. I cannot wait to see you and hear your ideas.

INSIGHT KANSAS FARM BUREAU: Driving for the future

In Kansas, we pride ourselves on hard work, strong communities, and self-reliance.

Kansans value hard work, strong communities, and a sense of fairness. But over the past several months, decisions made in Washington have left many of our neighbors behind. While the rhetoric often celebrates rural America, the policies tell a different story. Kansas farmers and rural communities bear the brunt of recent federal funding cuts.

The Trump administration’s policy decisions have undermined the livelihoods and well-being of Kansans across the state by hurting our agricultural economy, straining our rural healthcare systems, and further fraying the safety net that supports our communities.

Start with Kansas agriculture. While national headlines focused on culture wars, the administration quietly slashed funding for the US Agency for International Development (USAID). That may seem like a distant concern, but USAID doesn’t just deliver humanitarian aid, it opens and stabilizes global markets for American-grown crops.

USAID’s Food for Peace program, in particular, has benefited Kansas farmers for decades by buying surplus wheat and grain harvests and sending them overseas as humanitarian aid, helping to stabilize prices here at home while feeding millions abroad.

When the US pulled back from investing in international food security, it also pulled away from the long-term global demand for wheat, corn, soybeans, and other Kansas exports. In 2024, over half of Kansas-grown wheat was sold abroad, but those markets have now dried up and farmers are struggling to sell their goods. In fact, Kansas exported over $800 million worth of wheat in 2023, and more than $4.75 billion in total agricultural products in 2024, underscoring how vital international markets are to the state’s economy.

At the same time, Trump launched trade wars that sparked retaliatory tariffs from major trading partners like China, which have struck Kansas’ producers hard. According to state and independent estimates, Kansas farmers lost nearly $1 billion in income due to those retaliatory tariffs, especially in soybeans, wheat, and pork.

Despite emergency bailouts, many family farms have seen shrinking profits. For some Kansans, these cuts will mean the end of a multi-generational farming legacy. This isn’t just a market correction; it is the fallout of political choices that ignored the economic ecosystems rural states depend on.

These are not abstract policy changes. They are devastating blows to rural Kansas economies.

It’s important to be clear: these outcomes weren’t inevitable. They were the result of policy decisions that favored cuts over stability and care. Trump campaigned as a champion of the “forgotten man and woman,” appealing to working-class and rural voters in places like Kansas.

But his administration’s actions have abandoned Kansans who need the most help. The same administration that promised to “put America first” has without a doubt put rural America last.

To add insult to injury, most of Kansas’ House delegation has gone along with cutting federal funds every step of the way. Representatives Mann, Schmidt, and Estes all voted in favor, while Representative Davids was the sole opponent from Kansas’ House delegates.

The Senate is scheduled to vote on the USAID funding cuts in mid-July. Thus far, Senator Marshall has been an outspoken critic of USAID while Senator Moran has remained mostly silent on the organization itself. However, both Senators, and Moran in particular, have advocated that Food for Peace be moved to the US Department of Agriculture so the program can continue.

The long-term effects of these policies are still unfolding, but one thing is certain: cutting development aid at the expense of farmers is not building a stronger Kansas. It’s time we choose leaders who will invest in our people, protect our communities, and put Kansas first for real.

Kansas deserves elected officials who understand the realities of life in small towns and farming communities; leaders who don’t just use rural voters as a backdrop for campaign speeches, but who fight for policies that support hardworking Kansans.

Kansans know what it means to take care of each other. Our policies should reflect that.

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/9/1694699489540.png" alt="Alexandra Middlewood, (PhD&nbsp;Associate Professor and Chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University)" />
 <figcaption>Alexandra Middlewood, (PhD&nbsp;Associate Professor and Chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University)</figcaption>
 </figure>By: ALEXANDRA MIDDLEWOODInsight KansasIn Kansas, we pride ourselves on hard work, strong communities, and self-reliance.Kansans value hard work, strong communities, and a sense of fairness. But over the past several months, decisions made in Washington have left many of our neighbors behind. While the rhetoric often celebrates rural America, the policies tell a different story. Kansas farmers and rural communities bear the brunt of recent federal funding cuts.The Trump administration’s policy decisions have undermined the livelihoods and well-being of Kansans across the state by hurting our agricultural economy, straining our rural healthcare systems, and further fraying the safety net that supports our communities.Start with Kansas agriculture. While national headlines focused on culture wars, the administration quietly slashed funding for the US Agency for International Development (USAID). That may seem like a distant concern, but USAID doesn’t just deliver humanitarian aid, it opens and stabilizes global markets for American-grown crops.USAID’s Food for Peace program, in particular, has benefited Kansas farmers for decades by buying surplus wheat and grain harvests and sending them overseas as humanitarian aid, helping to stabilize prices here at home while feeding millions abroad.When the US pulled back from investing in international food security, it also pulled away from the long-term global demand for wheat, corn, soybeans, and other Kansas exports. In 2024, over half of Kansas-grown wheat was sold abroad, but those markets have now dried up and farmers are struggling to sell their goods. In fact, Kansas exported over $800 million worth of wheat in 2023, and more than $4.75 billion in total agricultural products in 2024, underscoring how vital international markets are to the state’s economy.At the same time, Trump launched trade wars that sparked retaliatory tariffs from major trading partners like China, which have struck Kansas’ producers hard. According to state and independent estimates, Kansas farmers lost nearly $1 billion in income due to those retaliatory tariffs, especially in soybeans, wheat, and pork.Despite emergency bailouts, many family farms have seen shrinking profits. For some Kansans, these cuts will mean the end of a multi-generational farming legacy. This isn’t just a market correction; it is the fallout of political choices that ignored the economic ecosystems rural states depend on.These are not abstract policy changes. They are devastating blows to rural Kansas economies.It’s important to be clear: these outcomes weren’t inevitable. They were the result of policy decisions that favored cuts over stability and care. Trump campaigned as a champion of the “forgotten man and woman,” appealing to working-class and rural voters in places like Kansas.But his administration’s actions have abandoned Kansans who need the most help. The same administration that promised to “put America first” has without a doubt put rural America last.To add insult to injury, most of Kansas’ House delegation has gone along with cutting federal funds every step of the way. Representatives Mann, Schmidt, and Estes all voted in favor, while Representative Davids was the sole opponent from Kansas’ House delegates.The Senate is scheduled to vote on the USAID funding cuts in mid-July. Thus far, Senator Marshall has been an outspoken critic of USAID while Senator Moran has remained mostly silent on the organization itself. However, both Senators, and Moran in particular, have advocated that Food for Peace be moved to the US Department of Agriculture so the program can continue.The long-term effects of these policies are still unfolding, but one thing is certain: cutting development aid at the expense of farmers is not building a stronger Kansas. It’s time we choose leaders who will invest in our people, protect our communities, and put Kansas first for real.Kansas deserves elected officials who understand the realities of life in small towns and farming communities; leaders who don’t just use rural voters as a backdrop for campaign speeches, but who fight for policies that support hardworking Kansans.Kansans know what it means to take care of each other. Our policies should reflect that.Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Washington abandoned rural Kansas and farmers are paying for It

If there’s one constant in the world, it’s every living thing is looking for food while avoiding becoming a meal. Farmers fight weeds, bacteria and fungus from the moment seeds go into the ground until the crop is harvested. Ranchers are on constant alert for predators waiting for the right opportunity to secure an easy meal.

In growing food, there’s a constant battle against pests, both seen and unseen. One of agriculture’s greatest successes over the past 75 years has come from managing these threats even if they’re not eliminated entirely.

The New World screwworm (NWS) is a parasitic pestilence of fly larvae that burrows into open wounds on livestock causing serious to fatal injury to infected animals. NWS was a scourge in the United States until 1966 when a government program used sterile flies to eradicate the breeding stock.

This biological barrier eventually banished the NWS to the Caribbean and South America, but recent sightings in Central America and Mexico have put the United States on alert. Like any fence, the barrier occasionally develops some weak spots. An outbreak occurred in Texas in 1976 and the NWS cropped up again in the Florida Keys in 2016, affecting wild deer there.

Vigilance is key to halting the most recent migration, and officials are working to reverse the course of NWS before it can reestablish in the United States. While not cheap, these efforts provide enormous economic benefits, with one U.S. government estimate showing an outbreak similar to the one in 1976 could cause nearly $2 billion in losses.

The reemergence of NWS into the public discourse is also an opportunity to highlight how dedicated farmers and ranchers are in caring for their livestock. It’s easy for someone outside of the industry to only see cattle grazing in a pasture as they drive by on the highway and believe the animals are largely on their own.

While this is the time of year cattle are likely to have the least amount of interaction with their caretakers, it’s still substantially more than what a passersby can see from the road. There are regular water checks, replenishment of supplemental mineral and salt in addition to periodic fence checks.

This is in addition to more thorough assessments when rotating cattle to fresh pasture. When I was growing up, moving cattle to a new pasture always involved a stop at the pens to spray the cattle with a mild insecticide to combat flies, ticks and other biting insects. This also offered the chance for close evaluation of the herd.

We’d start the day before sunrise so we could move the cattle when it was coolest, and the observation started as soon as we began guiding them to the pen. We studied the strides looking for any sign of a limp or lethargy that could indicate an illness. Once in the pen, we paid close attention to posture, coat, eyes and mouth for any signs of sickness or distress. Any potentially sick animals would be separated for further evaluation and treatment if necessary.

Catching problems early makes them much easier to solve. Screwworms are still a threat, but through care and vigilance they were spotted early, and mitigation measures are underway to protect all the herds in the United States.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/6/1687183475033.png" alt="Greg Doering" />
 <figcaption>Greg Doering</figcaption>
 </figure>By: GREG DOERINGIf there’s one constant in the world, it’s every living thing is looking for food while avoiding becoming a meal. Farmers fight weeds, bacteria and fungus from the moment seeds go into the ground until the crop is harvested. Ranchers are on constant alert for predators waiting for the right opportunity to secure an easy meal.In growing food, there’s a constant battle against pests, both seen and unseen. One of agriculture’s greatest successes over the past 75 years has come from managing these threats even if they’re not eliminated entirely.The New World screwworm (NWS) is a parasitic pestilence of fly larvae that burrows into open wounds on livestock causing serious to fatal injury to infected animals. NWS was a scourge in the United States until 1966 when a government program used sterile flies to eradicate the breeding stock.This biological barrier eventually banished the NWS to the Caribbean and South America, but recent sightings in Central America and Mexico have put the United States on alert. Like any fence, the barrier occasionally develops some weak spots. An outbreak occurred in Texas in 1976 and the NWS cropped up again in the Florida Keys in 2016, affecting wild deer there.Vigilance is key to halting the most recent migration, and officials are working to reverse the course of NWS before it can reestablish in the United States. While not cheap, these efforts provide enormous economic benefits, with one U.S. government estimate showing an outbreak similar to the one in 1976 could cause nearly $2 billion in losses.The reemergence of NWS into the public discourse is also an opportunity to highlight how dedicated farmers and ranchers are in caring for their livestock. It’s easy for someone outside of the industry to only see cattle grazing in a pasture as they drive by on the highway and believe the animals are largely on their own.While this is the time of year cattle are likely to have the least amount of interaction with their caretakers, it’s still substantially more than what a passersby can see from the road. There are regular water checks, replenishment of supplemental mineral and salt in addition to periodic fence checks.This is in addition to more thorough assessments when rotating cattle to fresh pasture. When I was growing up, moving cattle to a new pasture always involved a stop at the pens to spray the cattle with a mild insecticide to combat flies, ticks and other biting insects. This also offered the chance for close evaluation of the herd.We’d start the day before sunrise so we could move the cattle when it was coolest, and the observation started as soon as we began guiding them to the pen. We studied the strides looking for any sign of a limp or lethargy that could indicate an illness. Once in the pen, we paid close attention to posture, coat, eyes and mouth for any signs of sickness or distress. Any potentially sick animals would be separated for further evaluation and treatment if necessary.Catching problems early makes them much easier to solve. Screwworms are still a threat, but through care and vigilance they were spotted early, and mitigation measures are underway to protect all the herds in the United States.

INSIGHT KANSAS FARM BUREAU: Protecting the herds

This is actually happening in these United States by a prejudice, hurtful president.&nbsp;

A woman is lured&nbsp;to a public building by ICE! As she waits with her military veteran husband, ICE agents give her a time to come back to get her papers in order, she decides to breastfeed their infant child first. Just then, armed agents storm the couple, tear the baby from the mother, and place her under arrest. She is then put in a queue for deportation.&nbsp;This is America?

President Trump and his administration are carrying out the cruelest and most savage sweeping mass deportation program in modern U.S. history.&nbsp;Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, acting at Trump's direction have detained and deported veterans, their children, their spouses - even those who served alongside us on the battlefield. This is being done under&nbsp;the guise&nbsp;of "making America safe again," when statistically America has never been safer.

"Take&nbsp;Sae Joon Park, a Purple Heart recipient and Army combat veteran who came to the U.S. as a child. He served honorably in 'Operation Just Cause' and was wounded twice; one was a gunshot wound to his back, temporarily paralyzing him. Like too many veterans, Park returned home with PTSD. Struggling with addiction, he was convicted of a drug offense over 15 years ago. Park served his time. He stayed in compliance with immigration authorities. He built a life, raised a son, and tried to move forward. But, just days before Independence Day, Trump's ICE told him to leave or be jailed. He self-deported to South Korea - exiled from the nation he bled and nearly died for."&nbsp;

Our diversity is what makes us strong as we were admired around the world.&nbsp;The Fourth of July is the best time for all of us — and every institution in America — to stand up to Trump’s Tyranny supported by his self-serving congressional Republicans.

Dr. Richard A. French, President and business owner, a humanistic scholar, a former Executive Director of the American Cancer Society, High School Principal and teacher, Glendale CA, 626-806-4596, prefer: drfrenchfds@yahoo.com&nbsp;to communicate.

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.By: DR. RICHARD A. FRENCHThis is actually happening in these United States by a prejudice, hurtful president.&nbsp;A woman is lured&nbsp;to a public building by ICE! As she waits with her military veteran husband, ICE agents give her a time to come back to get her papers in order, she decides to breastfeed their infant child first. Just then, armed agents storm the couple, tear the baby from the mother, and place her under arrest. She is then put in a queue for deportation.&nbsp;This is America?President Trump and his administration are carrying out the cruelest and most savage sweeping mass deportation program in modern U.S. history.&nbsp;Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents, acting at Trump's direction have detained and deported veterans, their children, their spouses - even those who served alongside us on the battlefield. This is being done under&nbsp;the guise&nbsp;of "making America safe again," when statistically America has never been safer."Take&nbsp;Sae Joon Park, a Purple Heart recipient and Army combat veteran who came to the U.S. as a child. He served honorably in 'Operation Just Cause' and was wounded twice; one was a gunshot wound to his back, temporarily paralyzing him. Like too many veterans, Park returned home with PTSD. Struggling with addiction, he was convicted of a drug offense over 15 years ago. Park served his time. He stayed in compliance with immigration authorities. He built a life, raised a son, and tried to move forward. But, just days before Independence Day, Trump's ICE told him to leave or be jailed. He self-deported to South Korea - exiled from the nation he bled and nearly died for."&nbsp;Our diversity is what makes us strong as we were admired around the world.&nbsp;The Fourth of July is the best time for all of us — and every institution in America — to stand up to Trump’s Tyranny supported by his self-serving congressional Republicans.Dr. Richard A. French, President and business owner, a humanistic scholar, a former Executive Director of the American Cancer Society, High School Principal and teacher, Glendale CA, 626-806-4596, prefer: drfrenchfds@yahoo.com&nbsp;to communicate.You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

OPINION: Trump celebrates Fourth of July by deporting veterans and their families

Regarding the destruction of Gaza, the United Nations has published a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.un.org/unispal/document/a-hrc-59-23-from-economy-of-occupation-to-economy-of-genocide-report-special-rapporteur-francesca-albanese-palestine-2025/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLTDWlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBTMHBsM1FWYVAwWktVUHlCAR7hzrKplPXfrejnDrMHZqdBeGTpNT1YsZTjFpHtianqeb8EaQxs9IbWqTWrpQ_aem_shWz8InKe-fGUGp2H-ic3Q">report</a>&nbsp;by Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://trt.global/world/article/b9154d1412cb">naming</a>&nbsp;dozens of&nbsp;companies—including arms manufacturers and technology firms—that&nbsp;profit from what she&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSiCC4m9HOI">calls</a>&nbsp;"the economy of genocide."&nbsp; Here's an excerpt:

"While life in Gaza is being obliterated and the West Bank is under escalating assault, this report shows why Israel's genocide continues: because it is lucrative for many."

Notably, prominent Israeli Holocaust and genocide scholars&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ushmm.org/research/about-the-mandel-center/all-fellows-and-scholars/amos-goldberg">Amos&nbsp;Goldberg</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/19/Tv/video/amanpour-bartov-omer">Omer Bartov</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2025-01-30/ty-article-magazine/.highlight/theres-no-auschwitz-in-gaza-but-its-still-genocide/00000194-b8af-dee1-a5dc-fcff384b0000">Daniel Blatman</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.democracynow.org/2023/10/16/raz_segal_textbook_case_of_genocide">Raz Segal</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/top-genocide-scholars-unanimous-israel-committing-genocide-gaza-investigation-finds">Shmuel Lederman</a>&nbsp;have all&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thepalestineproject.medium.com/yes-it-is-genocide-634a07ea27d4">concluded</a>&nbsp;that Israel is committing&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/FranceskAlbs/status/1865300945615143388">genocide</a>&nbsp;in Gaza.

Other genocide scholars who have reached this determination&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/top-genocide-scholars-unanimous-israel-committing-genocide-gaza-investigation-finds">include</a>&nbsp;Martin Shaw, author of the book "What is Genocide?"; Melanie O’Brien, president of the International Association of Genocide Scholars; and Dirk Moses, senior editor of the Journal of Genocide Research.

When institutions and&nbsp;corporations ignore the clear assessments of these scholars, they abandon both moral responsibility and international law.&nbsp; The cost of this silence is measured in human lives.&nbsp;

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSiCC4m9HOI">Francesca Albanese speaks on the economy of genocide</a><a target="_blank" href="https://forensic-architecture.org/investigation/a-cartography-of-genocide">A&nbsp;Cartography&nbsp;of Genocide</a>:

Israel's Conduct in Gaza Since October 2023(Report by research group Forensic Architecture)

<a target="_blank" href="https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1h/k1hdr3f0i9">Testimony of pediatric intensive care physician Tanya Haj-Hassan</a>

You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

The views and opinions expressed in this editorial article are those of the author and do not reflect the official policy or position of Salina Post or Eagle Media.&nbsp;The&nbsp;editorial is intended to stimulate critical thinking and debate on issues of public interest and should be read with an open mind. Readers are encouraged to consider multiple sources of information and to form their own informed opinions.By: TERRY HANSENMilwaukee, WisconsinRegarding the destruction of Gaza, the United Nations has published a&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.un.org/unispal/document/a-hrc-59-23-from-economy-of-occupation-to-economy-of-genocide-report-special-rapporteur-francesca-albanese-palestine-2025/?fbclid=IwY2xjawLTDWlleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETBTMHBsM1FWYVAwWktVUHlCAR7hzrKplPXfrejnDrMHZqdBeGTpNT1YsZTjFpHtianqeb8EaQxs9IbWqTWrpQ_aem_shWz8InKe-fGUGp2H-ic3Q">report</a>&nbsp;by Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://trt.global/world/article/b9154d1412cb">naming</a>&nbsp;dozens of&nbsp;companies—including arms manufacturers and technology firms—that&nbsp;profit from what she&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSiCC4m9HOI">calls</a>&nbsp;"the economy of genocide."&nbsp; Here's an excerpt: "While life in Gaza is being obliterated and the West Bank is under escalating assault, this report shows why Israel's genocide continues: because it is lucrative for many."Notably, prominent Israeli Holocaust and genocide scholars&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.ushmm.org/research/about-the-mandel-center/all-fellows-and-scholars/amos-goldberg">Amos&nbsp;Goldberg</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.cnn.com/2024/12/19/Tv/video/amanpour-bartov-omer">Omer Bartov</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/2025-01-30/ty-article-magazine/.highlight/theres-no-auschwitz-in-gaza-but-its-still-genocide/00000194-b8af-dee1-a5dc-fcff384b0000">Daniel Blatman</a>,&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.democracynow.org/2023/10/16/raz_segal_textbook_case_of_genocide">Raz Segal</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/top-genocide-scholars-unanimous-israel-committing-genocide-gaza-investigation-finds">Shmuel Lederman</a>&nbsp;have all&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://thepalestineproject.medium.com/yes-it-is-genocide-634a07ea27d4">concluded</a>&nbsp;that Israel is committing&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://x.com/FranceskAlbs/status/1865300945615143388">genocide</a>&nbsp;in Gaza.Other genocide scholars who have reached this determination&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/top-genocide-scholars-unanimous-israel-committing-genocide-gaza-investigation-finds">include</a>&nbsp;Martin Shaw, author of the book "What is Genocide?"; Melanie O’Brien, president of the International Association of Genocide Scholars; and Dirk Moses, senior editor of the Journal of Genocide Research.When institutions and&nbsp;corporations ignore the clear assessments of these scholars, they abandon both moral responsibility and international law.&nbsp; The cost of this silence is measured in human lives.&nbsp;References:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSiCC4m9HOI">Francesca Albanese speaks on the economy of genocide</a><a target="_blank" href="https://forensic-architecture.org/investigation/a-cartography-of-genocide">A&nbsp;Cartography&nbsp;of Genocide</a>: Israel's Conduct in Gaza Since October 2023(Report by research group Forensic Architecture)<a target="_blank" href="https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1h/k1hdr3f0i9">Testimony of pediatric intensive care physician Tanya Haj-Hassan</a>You can send us your opinions/letters to the editor, along with your name, city and or county location to&nbsp;newstips@salinapost.com

OPINION: The economy of genocide

It’s Fourth of July season!&nbsp; Time for barbecues and Chinese-made fireworks (watch out for those tariffs).&nbsp; For Independence Day, I suggest also celebrating some folks that really make America great—immigrants.

Throughout our history, waves of immigrants have made our country stronger, bringing in new Americans willing to risk everything to live the American dream.&nbsp; Immigrants believe the inscription at the base of the Statue of Liberty, “give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free.” They work hard, raise families, and establish communities and businesses. Naturalized citizens take a citizenship test and an oath in which they swear off allegiance to any other government or leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Today, politicians and pundits spew outrage at the suggestion that the U.S. was founded on slavery and the removal of Native Americans.&nbsp; It’s a plain fact that these things happened.&nbsp; Yet they do not need to define us.&nbsp; Himself the grandson of Irish migrants, President Kennedy offered a far more inspiring vision in his 1958 book,&nbsp;A Nation of Immigrants,&nbsp;which celebrated the American story. President Reagan was pro immigration too.

America is so much more than our sins of the past–and present.&nbsp; We are a dynamic, vibrant country that has repeatedly reinvented ourselves.&nbsp; Today, studies show that immigrants contribute far more to the U.S. economy than they take out– and yes, that is after accounting for public welfare benefits.&nbsp; Immigrants stabilize the population of communities that would otherwise be declining, including many in rural Kansas.&nbsp; They take jobs that many native-born Americans will not.&nbsp; Studies show that immigration helps relieve one of America’s worst economic challenges today:&nbsp; the housing shortage. While immigrant families need housing too, the fact that many work in construction more than offsets that, resulting in a net increase in the nation’s housing stock.

Immigrants enrich our culture, while also becoming a part of it.&nbsp; Migrant families typically assimilate within three generations.&nbsp; The children of immigrants from non-English speaking countries are usually bilingual and serve as translators for their parents.&nbsp; The immigrants’ grandchildren typically speak English as their first and perhaps only language.

A few years ago, TLC aired&nbsp;All American Muslim,&nbsp;about a Lebanese American family in suburban Detroit. The show was discontinued, but not because of prejudice. Instead, the family’s daily life was so typical, so suburban, so&nbsp;American, the show simply lacked the drama that reality TV viewers expect. Just another American family, nothing to see here.

Immigration enriches our culture. For example, German immigrants brought us the Christmas tree.&nbsp; Today, more and more Americans observe&nbsp;Dia de los Muertes&nbsp;(Day of the Dead), a celebration of our ancestors. The day originated in Mexico and is becoming mainstream here.

If you’re looking to binge watch something patriotic this weekend, I recommend&nbsp;Finding Your Roots&nbsp;with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.&nbsp; Streaming on the PBS app Passport, the show features famous Americans whose ancestors come from all over the world.&nbsp; For most guests, researchers document their family history in the old country as well as their journeys to the United States, uncovering stories of courage, sacrifice, and hard work. &nbsp; Of course, some find scandal in their genealogy too.&nbsp; Many guests are brought to tears when Gates shows them a timeline of their family history.&nbsp; Even when records are unavailable, DNA testing and other research can help uncover more information about their past than they ever imagined possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;

This Fourth of July, celebrate something that really makes the USA great. Welcome immigrants into your community and learn their American stories—and yours.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2025/7/1751494323778.jpeg" alt="Michael A. Smith; photo courtesy of Michael A. Smith" />
 <figcaption>Michael A. Smith; photo courtesy of Michael A. Smith</figcaption>
 </figure>By: MICHAEL A. SMITHIt’s Fourth of July season!&nbsp; Time for barbecues and Chinese-made fireworks (watch out for those tariffs).&nbsp; For Independence Day, I suggest also celebrating some folks that really make America great—immigrants.Throughout our history, waves of immigrants have made our country stronger, bringing in new Americans willing to risk everything to live the American dream.&nbsp; Immigrants believe the inscription at the base of the Statue of Liberty, “give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses, yearning to breathe free.” They work hard, raise families, and establish communities and businesses. Naturalized citizens take a citizenship test and an oath in which they swear off allegiance to any other government or leader.&nbsp;&nbsp;Today, politicians and pundits spew outrage at the suggestion that the U.S. was founded on slavery and the removal of Native Americans.&nbsp; It’s a plain fact that these things happened.&nbsp; Yet they do not need to define us.&nbsp; Himself the grandson of Irish migrants, President Kennedy offered a far more inspiring vision in his 1958 book,&nbsp;A Nation of Immigrants,&nbsp;which celebrated the American story. President Reagan was pro immigration too.America is so much more than our sins of the past–and present.&nbsp; We are a dynamic, vibrant country that has repeatedly reinvented ourselves.&nbsp; Today, studies show that immigrants contribute far more to the U.S. economy than they take out– and yes, that is after accounting for public welfare benefits.&nbsp; Immigrants stabilize the population of communities that would otherwise be declining, including many in rural Kansas.&nbsp; They take jobs that many native-born Americans will not.&nbsp; Studies show that immigration helps relieve one of America’s worst economic challenges today:&nbsp; the housing shortage. While immigrant families need housing too, the fact that many work in construction more than offsets that, resulting in a net increase in the nation’s housing stock.Immigrants enrich our culture, while also becoming a part of it.&nbsp; Migrant families typically assimilate within three generations.&nbsp; The children of immigrants from non-English speaking countries are usually bilingual and serve as translators for their parents.&nbsp; The immigrants’ grandchildren typically speak English as their first and perhaps only language.A few years ago, TLC aired&nbsp;All American Muslim,&nbsp;about a Lebanese American family in suburban Detroit. The show was discontinued, but not because of prejudice. Instead, the family’s daily life was so typical, so suburban, so&nbsp;American, the show simply lacked the drama that reality TV viewers expect. Just another American family, nothing to see here.Immigration enriches our culture. For example, German immigrants brought us the Christmas tree.&nbsp; Today, more and more Americans observe&nbsp;Dia de los Muertes&nbsp;(Day of the Dead), a celebration of our ancestors. The day originated in Mexico and is becoming mainstream here.If you’re looking to binge watch something patriotic this weekend, I recommend&nbsp;Finding Your Roots&nbsp;with Henry Louis Gates, Jr.&nbsp; Streaming on the PBS app Passport, the show features famous Americans whose ancestors come from all over the world.&nbsp; For most guests, researchers document their family history in the old country as well as their journeys to the United States, uncovering stories of courage, sacrifice, and hard work. &nbsp; Of course, some find scandal in their genealogy too.&nbsp; Many guests are brought to tears when Gates shows them a timeline of their family history.&nbsp; Even when records are unavailable, DNA testing and other research can help uncover more information about their past than they ever imagined possible.&nbsp;&nbsp;This Fourth of July, celebrate something that really makes the USA great. Welcome immigrants into your community and learn their American stories—and yours.

INSIGHT KANSAS: Immigration is Patriotic

Good friends can have a good time no matter what they are doing together. That is how I ended up helping with a Yoga on the Farm event at Hildebrand Dairy near Junction City recently. The event was organized by CommonGround Kansas, an organization of farm women in Kansas who share information and personal stories about farming and the food they grow.

Yoga on the farm events have been around for years but this was my first time attended one. I was pretty impressed to see around 50 people show up on a hot June weekend to moo-ve through poses on a lush green lawn next to cattle grazing in a pasture. The cows didn’t make anyone too self-conscious because they only stared at the humans in the strange poses for a little while before they got back to snacking on the grass.

Participants in the event got a lot more than a yoga session. Melissa Hildebrand Reed, one of the farm owners, gave a tour of the farm including a sneak peak of two milking robots they are installing. Participants were also able to learn what the dairy cattle eat by building a trail mix version of the ration, and everyone got delicious soft serve ice cream at the farm’s dairy store.&nbsp;One of my favorite parts of the day was getting to see Melissa and her staff connecting with curious people. She does such a good job of teaching people about the farm, showing them how they take care of their cows and explaining how they make the dairy products you can buy in their farm store or at grocery stores throughout the state.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575406519723.jpeg" alt="Jackie Mundt" />
 <figcaption>Jackie Mundt</figcaption>
 </figure>By: JACKIE MUNDTPratt County farmer and rancherGood friends can have a good time no matter what they are doing together. That is how I ended up helping with a Yoga on the Farm event at Hildebrand Dairy near Junction City recently. The event was organized by CommonGround Kansas, an organization of farm women in Kansas who share information and personal stories about farming and the food they grow.Yoga on the farm events have been around for years but this was my first time attended one. I was pretty impressed to see around 50 people show up on a hot June weekend to moo-ve through poses on a lush green lawn next to cattle grazing in a pasture. The cows didn’t make anyone too self-conscious because they only stared at the humans in the strange poses for a little while before they got back to snacking on the grass.Participants in the event got a lot more than a yoga session. Melissa Hildebrand Reed, one of the farm owners, gave a tour of the farm including a sneak peak of two milking robots they are installing. Participants were also able to learn what the dairy cattle eat by building a trail mix version of the ration, and everyone got delicious soft serve ice cream at the farm’s dairy store.&nbsp;One of my favorite parts of the day was getting to see Melissa and her staff connecting with curious people. She does such a good job of teaching people about the farm, showing them how they take care of their cows and explaining how they make the dairy products you can buy in their farm store or at grocery stores throughout the state.Looking around the crowd it was obvious some people were hardcore yoga enthusiasts, others were there for the novelty of a unique experience, a great photo op, to see the cows or for the post-workout ice cream. Regardless of the reason, everyone walked away having met a real life dairy farmer, more clearly understanding of how dairy farms work and having a great story to tell their friends about where dairy products come from.Events like this are so powerful because they demystify farms, give people the chance to ask questions and help the public build confidence in how their food is grown or produced. The farm women who volunteer for CommonGround Kansas are really effective advocates because in addition to being farmers, they are wives, mothers, caretakers, grocery shoppers and so many other roles. They have so many of the same concerns, fears and goals as all of the rest of us — we have so much common ground.One of the most important needs we all have is to be well fed. Meeting a farmer and realizing you have something in common can completely change your perspective. Having the opportunity and comfort to ask questions about how food is grown can lead to confidence and peace of mind. Opening farms to the public creates more informed, loyal consumers.My first time at Yoga on the Farm was delightful, and I look forward to more opportunities like it in the future. If you have the opportunity to attend yoga or any other event on a farm, I hope you will take advantage because you will likely learn something new, make powerful connections and may even get a cute selfie with a farm animal.

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