Reel World: Sunflower Journeys

January 29 is Kansas' birthday. So this month seems like the perfect time to highlight our collection of Sunflower Journeys. This KTWU production is a series of programs related to Kansas history, geography and culture that covers a broad range of topics illustrating various aspects of the past, present and future of the Sunflower State.

While the Sandhill Plum is our state fruit, we don’t have an actual state food. According to the internet, Kansas is known for its barbeque. Grab some ribs or burnt ends with a side of mac & cheese and sit down to an episode or two and delve into your state's history and uniqueness. (BTW Do you know a group of students willing to get the ball rolling to make barbeque our official state food? :-) )

Here are a few episodes close to home to get you started.

Sunflower Journeys. Episode 2801 - Docking, Horseshoes & Cemetery

This episode highlights the early history of the Docking State Office Building and visits the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association world tournament in Topeka. You'll also meet Deb Goodrich, a person who takes history quite seriously as she shows us around the Topeka cemetery.

Sunflower Journeys. Episode 3005, Flowers & Farms

Learn about the Bigger family who raised award-winning peonies in Topeka. KSU Extension in Topeka teaches us about soil testing, including a tour of the KSU soil testing lab in Manhattan, Kansas. Then you'll meet Kate Johnson, a city dweller who decided to become a non-traditional farmer using Kickstarter funding.

Sunflower Journeys. Episode 3102 - An Artists' Touch

In this episode learn about Arts Connect, a nonprofit group dedicated to promoting arts in Topeka. See a new community art project in Wamego, Kansas, that features Toto, the dog from the Wizard of Oz books and films. Then meet JooYoung Choi, an artist at the Wichita Riverfest who invites you to explore her colorful imaginary world.