This past weekend, Makayla and I spent some time in Kansas City on a couple of occasions. Saturday evening, we visited the Midland Theatre for the first time for a concert. Then on Monday, we took advantage of an overdue Christmas gift to Makayla by visiting the Titanic exhibit at Union Station (photos here). I’m usually skeptical when places use the word ‘immersive’ when describing their exhibit, but I think that was a spot-on way to describe the Titanic experience. They had really neat effects throughout, and Makayla and I both walked away with several new tidbits of knowledge (which is saying something for Makayla, as she is a Titanic aficionado).
A Morning Rooted in Agriculture
From March 15–21, communities across the country celebrate National Agriculture Week. Here in Franklin County, one of the constants we always look forward to during this celebratory period is Farm Bureau’s annual Chamber Coffee. It’s become a bit of a tradition that always includes warm hospitality, a yummy homemade breakfast, and ends with a room full of folks reminded just how much agriculture shapes who we are. In a county like ours, where roughly 12% of the workforce is tied directly to ag, it doesn’t take much convincing!
This morning, we heard about Franklin County Farm Bureau’s role as the voice of agriculture, carried out through advocacy, education, and service (pictures here). Programs like Day on the Farm and Bread in a Bag are key educational programs that continue to give Franklin County students hands-on exposure to where their food and resources come from. Lisa Rivers shared that Bread in a Bag is synonymous with longtime volunteer, Peggy Coen. Peggy has contributed to this program for more than 20 years, and as a sign of thanks, they presented her with an engraved rolling pin (picture here). Like so many FCFB volunteers, they do not serve for recognition or to be highlighted, but rather to make a difference in the community they live in, with the neighbors who make it up. Way to go, Peggy!
Alongside these two annual programs, they launched a new initiative with the Ottawa Recreation Commission that received national recognition. In the summer of 2025, FCFB hosted the Ag Education Summer Series, which facilitated and hosted lessons, demonstrations, and farm tours over eight weeks. This ended up being a really impactful couple of months, and a perfect example of a local partnership. To FCFB’s surprise, the American Farm Bureau Federation recognized this program with the Activities of Excellence Award. Only 24 other communities receive this award each year across the entire United States. A massive honor and testament to the work being done in Franklin County!
These are just a handful of ways the FCFB is moving the needle towards progress in our community. Some other activities include large-scale meal packing, food drives, advocacy gatherings at the local and state level, and the list goes on and on. Every county in Kansas has a Farm Bureau chapter, but Franklin County’s is one that consistently stands out as a driving force across the state. One of the best ways to stay up to date with all the fun stuff the FCFB gets up to is to become a member. Anyone can become a FCFB member and receive a wide range of benefits (view them here). From flowers to produce, décor to jewelry, it pays to be a member!
We were also reminded of the role that Kelly Neufeld and his team at Farm Bureau Financial Services play in supporting their clients by helping to protect assets, manage risk, and plan for the future. What started as a way to help farmers continue successfully from one generation to the next is not just for farmers anymore. A misconception is that you have to live/work in agriculture to be a Farm Bureau Financial client to receive services, but that’s not the case! Anyone can benefit from their expertise; they’re just a call away (more info here).
Legislature Enters Final Stretch Ahead of Adjournment
The Legislature is officially in the final stretch, with the first adjournment set for March 27. Lots of movement still, a few stalled conversations, and more than a little negotiating happening behind the scenes. One issue that continues to hover over everything else is property taxes. Both chambers are pushing a few pieces of legislation around, but nothing has made it across the finish line yet. On the education front, a bill banning cell phone use during the school day was signed by the Governor this week. There are a whole host of topics being discussed, with bills on pharmacies, app stores, World Cup security, and more still to be decided. Lots of action to be had with little time left in the session!
If these topics interest you, make sure to stop by our March Legislative Coffee tomorrow morning at the Ottawa Police Department, in the Municipal Courtroom (more info here). Starting at 10am, you’ll have the opportunity to talk directly to our state Senators and Representatives about what is taking place in Topeka during these final few weeks. See you there,
Ryland Miller
President/CEO
Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce
ryland@ottawakansas.org
785-242-1000
