On Kansas Day, January 29, 2025, Kansas celebrated 164 years of statehood. Jane Blochlinger of Concordia, right, was asked “Why is Kansas important to you?” Blochlinger said, “I have lived all over Kansas since being married. We moved to Concordia when my daughter was five. I love Kansas! My dad came to visit one time and said, ‘I forgot how beautiful Kansas is.’” Sharing stories with Blochlinger included Susie Haver, left, and Michelle Bombardier of the Cloud County Tourism Office.