Easy Financing Available! LUMBER AND HOME IMPROVEMENT
Kansas’ Zero-Turn Mower
Headquarters Available at Olathe, Emporia, Dodge City, El Dorado, Great Bend, Topeka & Wichita Stores
Available at El Dorado & Dodge City Stores
Available at the Great Bend Store
We Service What We Sell!
See store for details.
VISIT ANY OF OUR KANSAS LOCATIONS OR GO ONLINE sutherlands.com DODGE CITY
1510 Soule St. 620-371-0751
EL DORADO
2850 W. Central Ave 316-322-7788
GREAT BEND 5520 10th St. 620-792-2900
OLATHE
16665 W. 151st. St. 913-782-6666
EMPORIA
1700 Industrial Rd 620-343-6100
WICHITA
2263-2273 N. Amidon St. 316- 838-8200
TOPEKA
2210 NW Tyler St 785-232-3900
MAY
“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook.
F E AT U R E S
D E PA RT M E N T S
12 | Road to Santa Fe
4 |
Fifth generation Kansan Dave Kendall has spent the last two years pondering the significance of the Santa Fe Trail and talking to experts about its place in history. It’s all been in preparation for a documentary he plans to release to coincide with the 200th anniversary of the opening of the country’s first international road of commerce.
6 | 8 |
14 | Ways to Explore the Trail
10 | 16 |
Whether you’re up for a road trip or sticking to surfing the web, there are many ways to explore the physical remnants and cultural heritage of the Santa Fe Trail in Kansas.
16A |
20 | Overlanding: Finding Your Own Adventure
18 | 24 |
CO M M E N TA RY
Get hooked on electrical safety E N E RGY W I S E
Outdoor energy savings times three T H E P R E S I D E N T ’S P E N
Recognizing teachers, mothers YO U R LO C A L CO - O P N E W S
Important electrical safety news YO U R P L AC E I N T H E G A R D E N
Tomato season is upon us
CO O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E
Lavender shortbread
May flowers inspire floral flavors.
26 |
20
29 |
M A R K E T P L AC E
Barns, chicks, weed killer L E T ’S D I S H
A revamp of our recipe section
More space to print more detailed recipes. CO LO R A D O OV E R L A N D E R /C A R L Z O C H P H OTO G R A P H Y
KANSAS TOURISM
D I S CO V E R K A N S A S
Festivals and events finally resume
Tomato growing tricks of the trade.
Defined as self-reliant overland travel to remote destinations where the journey is the principal goal, overlanding is today’s nearest equivalent of embarking on the Santa Fe Trail, with your vehicle as the wagon and the horses are under the hood.
12
E D I TO R’S L E T T E R
Let’s get out and about — safely
ON THE COVER This year we celebrate the 200th anniversary of the opening of the Santa Fe Trail, the country’s first international road of commerce. Winding through Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado and New Mexico, Kansas has the largest piece of the trail at nearly 500 miles, which can be roughly followed along U.S. DISCOVE R KANSA S Highways 56, 54 and 50. Filmmaker Road to San documents ta trail’s signif Fe icance
PHOTO CREDIT: NEW MEXICO TRUE MAY 2021 | BROUG HT
MAY 2021
Overland Find your ing own adventure Lavender May flower Shortbrea d s inspire fl oral
TO YOU BY ROLLIN G
HILLS ELECTR IC
flavors
CO-OP | WWW. KEC.CO
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
3
OP
E D I TO R’S L E T T E R
Discover Kansas, Discover In-Person Events this Summer
(ISSN 0091-9586) MAY 2021 VOL. 71, NO. 5 ©KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC. 2021 WWW.KEC.COOP
Lee Tafanelli
Chief Executive Officer
Vicki Estes
Director of Communications, Editor
Carrie Kimberlin
Manager of Creative Solutions
Shaylee Arpin WHO IS READY TO SEE AND BE SEEN? I think we are all
eager to get out and about among our neighbors and fellow Kansans. And this issue provides the perfect opportunity to do so. We are excited to be able to publish in-person events in this Discover Kansas issue for our readers to experience. A few events still offer virtual participation, but the majority are outside, openair happenings for all ages. Discover Kansas activities begin on Page 6. Send us a photo of your family’s first postpandemic outing and we may publish it in future issues of Kansas County Living. Send photos to photos@kansascountryliving. com, include your name and the name of others in the photo, the name of your electric co-op, and the name of the event/place. Before venturing out, be sure to contact the organizer to make sure the event is still scheduled as planned. In our continued celebration of Kansas Electric
Cooperatives, Inc.’s 80th anniversary this year, we share another photo from our archives of KEC’s earlier days. The photo below was taken during our building’s open house in 1990. Willie Wiredhand greeted guests and mingled with the crowd during the building tour. Willie is still going strong in 2021, but LED Lucy now leads the way in energy savings. Enjoy your May activities! KCL
VICKI ESTES, EDITOR
Multimedia Communications Specialist Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.
Terry Hobbs
President
Teresa Miller Vice President
Kirk Thompson
Secretary
Jim Christopher Treasurer
You receive Kansas C ountry Living as a service of the following electric co-ops as a cost-effective way to share important information about services, energy savings, electric safety, director elections, meetings and management decisions. It also contains legal notices that otherwise would be published in other media at greater cost: 4 Rivers, Lebo Alfalfa, Cherokee, OK Bluestem, Wamego Brown-Atchison, Horton Butler, El Dorado CMS, Meade Caney Valley, Cedar Vale Doniphan, Troy DSO, Solomon Flint Hills, Council Grove FreeState, McLouth & Topeka Lane-Scott, Dighton Ninnescah, Pratt Pioneer, Ulysses Prairie Land, Norton Rolling Hills, Beloit Sedgwick County, Cheney Sumner-Cowley, Wellington TCEC, Hooker, OK Twin Valley, Altamont Victory, Dodge City Western, WaKeeney Wheatland, Scott City Your co-op’s board of directors authorizes a subscription to Kansas Country Living on behalf of the membership at a cost of $5.58 per year. Individual non-member subscriptions are $10 per year (tax included).
Co-op Members: Please report address changes to your local electric co-op. Postmaster: Send returns to Kansas Country Living, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267. Kansas Country Living is published monthly by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS, and additional entry offices. Editorial offices: P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267; 785-478-4554. Advertising: Kansas Country Living is a member of American MainStreet Publications (www.amp.coop), collectively reaching an audited circulation of 9,378,177 monthly. Advertisers call 512-441-5200. Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives.
4
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
Make your home more comfortable than ever
“To you, it’s the perfect lift chair. To me, it’s the best sleep chair I’ve ever had.” — J. Fitzgerald, VA
NOW
also available in Genuine Italian Leather (and new Chestnut color)
Three Chairs in One Sleep/Recline/Lift
ACCREDITED BUSINESS A+
Pictured: Genuine Italian Leather chair chestnut color.
You can’t always lie down in bed and sleep. Heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches – and dozens of other ailments and worries. Those are the nights you’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in: one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises your feet and legs just where you want them, supports your head and shoulders properly,and operates at the touch of a button. Our Perfect Sleep Chair® does all that and more. More than a chair or recliner, it’s designed to provide total comfort. Choose your preferred heat and massage settings, for hours of soothing relaxation. Reading or watching TV? Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment and promotes back pressure relief, to prevent back and muscle pain. The overstuffed, oversized REMOTE-CONTROLLED EASILY SHIFTS FROM FLAT TO A STAND-ASSIST POSITION
biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage. White glove delivery included in shipping charge. Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of Genuine Italian leather, stain and water repellent custom-manufactured DuraLux™ with the classic leather look or plush MicroLux™ microfiber in a variety of colors to fit any decor. New Chestnut color only available in Genuine Italian Leather. Call now!
The Perfect Sleep Chair®
1-888-745-7365
Please mention code 114806 when ordering.
Genuine Italian Leather
Chestnut
classic beauty & durability
Long Lasting DuraLux™
Mahogany (Burgundy)
Tan
Chocolate
Blue
Burgundy
Cashmere
Chocolate
Indigo
stain & water repellent
MicroLux™ Microfiber
breathable & amazingly soft
Because each Perfect Sleep Chair is a made-to-order bedding product it cannot be returned, but if it arrives damaged or defective, at our option we will repair it or replace it. © 2021 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.
46562
Footrest may vary by model
discover kansas
MAY
MAY 7-8 150th
THROUGH MAY 25 Spirited: Prohibition
in America, Dodge City. Discover how the 18th amendment ushered in the cultural revolution of the Roaring ’20s and how it still effects current liquor laws. Boot Hill Museum, 620-227-8188, boothill.org. THROUGH JUNE 27 Bison Exhibit, Logan. A
traveling exhibit exploring the past, present and future of this great North American mammal. Hansen Museum, 110 W. Main St., 785-6894846, Search Hansen Museum on Facebook. THROUGH OCT. 31 Flying Free: 25 Years
of Grassroots Art Exhibit, Lucas. Exhibit features unique and original works by 121 Kansas artists and 19 artists from around the country. The Art Center, 213 S. Main, 785-525-6118, grassrootsart.net. MAY 1 150 Celebration & Victory
Day, Concordia. “Prisoners of Plenty” documentary viewing, exhibits and tours. POW Camp Concordia, 785-243-4303. MAY 1 Gnome Around Downtown,
Garden City. 620-276-0891.
MAY 1 May Day Celebration, Derby. Veteran’s fundraiser includes rock ‘n’ roll show, live auction and mounted horseback shooting exhibition. Bring your chairs and coolers to set up your site. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Mr. Gourdman’s Pumpkin Patch, 3750 S. Dusty Road, Gary 316-733-1887. MAY 1-8 Spring Art Walk Festival —
ArtCrawl, Pittsburg. Fourth and Broadway, 620-687-4535, visitcrawfordcounty.com.
MAY 1-31 Permanent Art Collection Exhibit, Fredonia. Fredonia Arts Councils, 320 N. Seventh St. MAY 6-9 Big Kansas Road Trip, Brown, Doniphan and Nemaha Counties. Create your own adventure in the towns, cafes, attractions and on the scenic roads. We supply the options and you choose what you want to do. www.bigkansasroadtrip.com. MAY 7 First Friday Food Truck and
Events, Garden City. 620-276-0891.
6
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
Check prior to the scheduled date of an event for Birthday & changes due to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) concerns. Chisholm Trail Festival, Cattle Drive, Caldwell. MAY 8 Square Fair Crafts Festival, Born on the Chisholm Trail and nicknamed the Garnett. Enjoy over 100 crafters, Border Queen by the Texas cowboys, Caldwell entertainment, a quilt show, activities for the is celebrating her 150th Birthday with a huge kids, and a variety of eating options. 100 E. lineup of events. 18 N. Boyd St., 620-845-4117, Fourth Ave., 785-448-6767, www.garnettks.net. www.caldwellkansas.com. MAY 8-9 SCACC Carp Derby, Scott MAY 7-8 Heartland Family History City. Derby from 9 a.m.-noon. Must have a Conference, Virtual. Join other family valid fishing license. 620-872-3525, chamber. history enthusiasts as we learn new tips and scottcityks.org. tricks for discovering our families’ unique MAY 8-9 Spring Farm Tour, Paola. Plenty stories and connect with one another through of furry things to pet and feed, delicious our shared interests. tgtopeka.conference@ homemade goods and fresh produce available gmail.com, heartlandfhc.org. for purchase and fun demonstrations about life MAY 7-OCT. 9 Farmers and Flea Market, on the farm. 201 S. Pearl, 913-294-4045, www. Meriden. Held every SECOND Friday and ThinkMiamiCounty.com. Saturday May through October. Jolene Bickel MAY 13-16 2021 Kansas FITASC & 5-Stand 785-845-2306 or Lisa Cain 785-501-5547, Championship, Fall River. Attend meridenthreshers.org. the 2021 Kansas FITASC and 5-Stand Shoot MAY 8 Antique Fest, Abilene. Outside Championships along with four separate 100 booths plus four antique malls; shop more than target shooting events. Flint Oak Ranch. 100 vendors. 313 N. Buckeye Ave., 785-263-2782, MAY 15 Armed Forces Day, Salina. Free http://abileneantiquefest.com. admission for active and retired military MAY 8 Barber County Wildflower Tour, personnel and their immediate families. Military Medicine Lodge. After a guided tour you’ll ID required. 625 N. Hedville Road, 785-827be treated to a drive through the beautiful 9488, www.rollinghillszoo.org. Gyp Hills before a barbecue lunch at Gyp Hills MAY 15 Cabela’s King Kat National Guest Ranch. 400 W. El Dorado Ave., 620-886Qualifier, Milford. Anglers compete in 5311, www.ksbyways.org. Cabela’s King Kat National Qualifier. Spectators MAY 8 Hutchinson Art Fair, Hutchinson. welcome. 3710 Farnum Creek Road, 785-238The event will include fine art for sale by local 2885, www.acornsresortkansas.com. and regional artists. 2000 N. Poplar, 620-663MAY 15 Elrod’s Cirque, Winfield. The 1081, http://hutchinsonartcenter.net. 100-mile course takes riders through the far MAY 8 Mingo Madness, Colby. reaches of Cowley County. Featuring over 4,000 Geocachers from all around the world will be in feet of climbing, this course is as rugged as it Colby to celebrate 20 years of geocaching with is beautiful. 107 E. 7th Ave., 620-218-1971, www. the oldest geocache in existence. 285 E. Fifth walnutvalleyoutpost.com. St., www.oasisontheplains.com. MAY 15 Peony Festival, Stockton. Visit MAY 8 New Event Grand Opening, the Stockton Area Chamber of Commerce Dodge City. Enjoy entertainment all day Facebook page for all events and times. 115 S. including a hot dog feed, ice cream social and Walnut, 785-415-2081, www.stocktonks.com. new exhibits in the STAR Bond Expansion. Boot MAY 19 Xeriscaping: Beautiful Hill Museum, 620-227-8188, boothill.org or Landscapes with Less Water, Virtual. search Boot Hill Museum on Facebook. Learn how to landscape using plant materials
that require little to no water outside of our natural rainfall. Webinar from noon-1 p.m. hnr.k-state.edu/extension/info-center/k-stategarden-hour-webinar-series/k_state_garden_ hour.html. MAY 21-22 Frontier Days Rodeo and
BBQ, Abbyville. Experience much more than just rodeo — parade, barbecue and family activities. 100 E. Ave. F, 620-727-4569, www. abbyvillerodeo.com. MAY 21-23 Four State Farm Show,
Pittsburg. Now held on the campus of Pittsburg State University, both indoor booths and outdoor exhibitors will be on display for the 20,000-plus attendees. 117 E. Fourth St., 800-356-8255, visitcrawfordcounty.com.
show, plus a memorial service Monday at 11 a.m. at Veteran’s Memorial Park. 100 W. Fourth, 620313-0629, www.caneyks.com. MAY 29 Glory Days, Holton. The celebration starts on Friday night and continues through Saturday. 400 New York Ave., 785-3643963, www.exploreholton.com. MAY 29-30 Cruise Shoes and BBQs,
Grainfield. E njoy fair style food, a car show, burger battle, poker run, coed sand volleyball tournament, and lots of kids activities. lovesmalltownamerica.com/grainfieldks/gcdc or search Cruise, Shoes and BBQs on Facebook.
MAY 22 Sketching Workshop, Logan. Taught by Laurie Albin. Hansen Museum, 110 W. Main St., 785-689-4846, Search Hansen Museum on Facebook.
MAY 29-31 Sand Dunes Memorial Weekend Poker Runs and ATV Rodeo, Syracuse. Multiple events over the holiday weekend. Contact the park to reserve a camping space. 620-384-2480, syracusesanddunespark.com or search Syracuse Sand Dunes on Facebook.
MAY 23-30 Fly Fishing 101 and 102,
MAY 30-OCT. 3 Steam Locomotive #3415
Lawrence. This two class series will concentrate on basic techniques of fly fishing with an introduction to equipment, casting, tying on, knots and fly selection during the first class. 2730 Harper St., 785-832-7980, www. lawrenceks.org/lprd/ppnc. MAY 28-29 Beef Empire Days PRCA
Rodeo, Garden City. Watch top cowboys and cowgirls compete in your favorite rodeo events. Brian Schwindt at 785-383-3596. MAY 28-30 Street Fair & Homecoming,
Mulberry. Parade, turtle races and other kids games, food vendors, cake walk, reunion and alumni banquet, garden tractor pull, plus live music and food vendors. 100 S. Military Ave., 620-231-7949, visitcrawfordcounty.com. MAY 28-31 Geneseo City Museum Open
House, Geneseo. Watch Geneseo history come alive in museum collections from high schools, veterans, post offices, outer space artifacts, turn-of-the-century items and nature. Geneseo City Museum, 907 Silver, 620-824-6015. MAY 28-31 Mayfest and 150th
Anniversary, Caney. Art and food vendors, games and contests, live music, a 5K run, car
Ride, Abilene. Trips are narrated and last approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. 200 S.E. Fifth, 785-263-1077, www.asvrr.org. MAY 31 Garden City Municipal Band
Memorial Day Service Concert, Garden City. Valley View Cemetery, 620-276-0891.
JUNE
JUNE 2 Effective Irrigation Webinar, Virtual. Learn about the many factors that go into keeping your plants thriving. Webinar from noon-1 p.m. hnr.k-state.edu/extension/ info-center/k-state-garden-hour-webinarseries/k_state_garden_hour.html. JUNE 3-5 Flint Hills PRCA Rodeo, Strong
City. A parade, dances and several other community activities round out three days. Hwy. 50, 620-794-1875, www.flinthillsrodeo.org. JUNE 3-5 National Orphan Train
Celebration, Concordia. Featuring debut of “The Orphan Train Story” documentary by Pippa White at Brown Grand Theatre with speaker Clark Kidder, author of “A History of the New York Juvenile Asylum and Its Orphan Trains.” orphantraindepot.org.
JUNE 3-5 Street Fair and Homecoming, Frontenac. Activities include a parade, live music, carnival, kids games, a 5K and “Heritage Hall,” a historical exhibit. E. McKay St., 620-2319210, visitcrawfordcounty.com. JUNE 4 Evening on the Old Salt Road,
Geneseo. Celebrate the 200th anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail with enactors, music and food of the prairie from 5-8 p.m. Geneseo City Museum, 907 Silver, 620-824-6015. JUNE 4-6 June Jaunt Festival, Great Bend. Live music, vendors and jumbo yard games come to Jack Kilby Square. 1400 Main St., 620-793-4111, www.exploregreatbend.com. JUNE 4-6 Pickin’ on the Plains Bluegrass Festival, Colby. We feature Ricky Skaggs. Dan Tyminsky, The Issaacs, Monroe Crossing, Trinity River Band, Echo Creek, Nu Blu and Driven and the McLemores. 350 S. Range, 785460-7643, www.oasisontheplains.com. JUNE 4-12 Beef Empire Days, Garden City. A celebration that brings the beef industry to individuals and provides education to the community. Steven’s Park and Downtown Garden City, 620-275-6807, beefempiredays.com. JUNE 5 Dalton Gang Hideout, Meade. The hideout is having a birthday celebration from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 502 S. Pearlette, 620-8732731, oldmeadecounty.com/hideout.htm. JUNE 5 Riverless Festival, Phillipsburg.
Vintage camper show, crafts, food, turtle races and entertainment. 205 F St., 785-543-2321, www.phillipsburgchamberandmainstreet.com. JUNE 5 Tri County Cruisers Car Show,
Oakley. Join the fun, food, fast cars and old cars on display Saturday at Annie Oakley park. 627 E. Fifth St., 785-671-1000, www.visitoakleyks. com/parks. JUNE 5 Vintage Camper Show,
Phillipsburg. Campers show off their vamped up interior and exterior vintage campers. Activities include music, car show, food vendors, craft vendors, and kids play zone. 205 F St., 785-543-2321, www. visitphillipscounty.org. Continued on page 27 MAY 2021
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
7
C O M M E N TA RY
Get Hooked on ‘Deadliest Safety Catch’ Message
Lee Tafanelli
Electrical safety is a 24/7 endeavor we take seriously, and why KEC launched the statewide electrical safety campaign, ‘Deadliest Safety Catch.’
8
BY THE TIME YOU’VE OPENED this magazine and found your way to this column, chances are you have flipped an electric switch to turn on a light, plugged in a coffee pot to get your day started, and opened the refrigerator rummaging for your next meal. Obviously, these daily routines require electricity on demand, which, during everyday life, goes unnoticed. That is a good thing, but also can breed complacency when it comes to electrical safety. May is Electrical Safety Month and it’s one of many opportunities for Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. to raise awareness with our readers and the general public on how to avoid potential electrical hazards. Part of KEC’s mission is to spread safety awareness, not just this month but year-round. From the high-voltage safety demonstrations co-op linemen perform each year at the Kansas State Fair to your co-op’s safety features and infographics published monthly in Kansas Country Living, electric co-ops seek to keep the public safe around electricity. Electrical safety is a 24/7 endeavor we take seriously, and the reason KEC launched the statewide electrical safety campaign, “Deadliest Safety Catch” in fall 2020 that highlights real-world electrical safety hazards discovered in our own Kansas backyard. It’s also why you might find yourself faceto-face with one of our Loss Control, Safety and Compliance professionals while out in the field. Their travels to the state’s 30 electric cooperatives throughout the year to teach safety workshops and train employees on best practices many times has
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
BY L E E TA FA N E L L I
led to opportunities to teach electrical safety to unsuspecting Kansans. The team occasionally encounters unsafe practices of fellow Kansans going about their daily routines unaware of potential safety hazards. Safety hazards are equal opportunists and staff has found potentially deadly situations in all aspects of work and recreation. From metal ladders propped against trees for trimming limbs near electrical lines, to hay bales stacked underneath electrical lines (see photo below), our safety crew has spotted numerous unsafe situations, that, with one false move of a hand or wrong turn of equipment, can turn fatal. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International, between 2011 and 2018, 38% of all electrically related workplace fatalities were caused by overhead power lines. Contact with power lines is the leading cause of electrical fatalities for agricultural workers, and accounts for 53% of electricalrelated fatalities in the construction industry. Just as a doctor traveling on an airline responds to the call of duty when a fellow a passenger needs medical attention, our safety crew is compelled by a sense of duty to “catch it and change it” if they observe a potential electrical safety hazard along their journeys. Don’t be a cautionary tale they cite in their workshops. KEC and Kansas’ electric cooperatives urge readers to slow down and take simple precautions to avoid electrical-related fires, injuries, property loss and fatalities. KCL LEE TAFANELLI is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. in Topeka.
Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction
B.
C
enturies ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, C. the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear. On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed. We found a limited supply of turquoise from Arizona and snatched it up for our Sedona Turquoise Collection. Inspired by the work of those ancient craftsmen and designed to showcase the exceptional blue stone, each stabilized vibrant cabochon features a unique, one-of-a-kind matrix surrounded in Bali metalwork. You could drop over $1,200 on a turquoise pendant, or you could secure 26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise for just $99. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you aren’t completely happy with your purchase, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. Jewelry Specifications: • Arizona turquoise • Silver-finished settings Sedona Turquoise Collection A. Pendant (26 cts) $299 $99* B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw) $299 $99* $747 $249 Complete Set** ** Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings. Call now and mention the offer code to receive your collecion.
1-800-333-2045 Offer Code STC460-01
Rating of A+
You must use the offer code to get our special price. * Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.
Stauer
® 14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. STC460-01, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
A.
Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color
“With depleting mines, turquoise, the most sacred stone to the Navajo, has become increasingly rare.” –– Smithsonian.com
26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise
ONLY $99 Affo rd the E xtra o rdina ry.®
E N E R GY W I S E
Three Ways to Save Energy Outdoors
BY PAT K E E G A N A N D B R A D T H I E S S E N
1
Pumps and Maintenance
Many of us have one or more pumps that service our yard or reside on our property. Pumps can supply water for a swimming pool, your lawn and garden, or your septic system or well. It’s easy to let maintenance slip, which cuts the pump’s efficiency and shortens its life. Maintaining pumps involves cleaning the filters or checking oil and belts. If you have multiple pumps and need to hire a professional for assistance, try to do all the maintenance at once to reduce the overall cost. You may also want to consider replacing older pumps with energy efficient ENERGY STAR®-rated ones before they break down. While you’re at it, check for leaks in the water lines, which make your pumps work harder and longer.
2
Outdoor Lighting
If you have security lighting, there’s a good chance you can save a little energy. Some security lights can be 500 to 1,000 watts. That’s the equivalent of 40 to 80 indoor LED bulbs — quite a lot of energy! Adding timers, motion sensors and light sensors can reduce your bulb energy use. Plus, when you use your lights less often, your neighbors may appreciate a little less light pollution! Switching to LEDs is another great strategy. Solar lights are also a good way to light walkways, a water feature or your deck — without using any electricity at all.
10
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
3
D E LW I N ST E V E N C A M P B E L L
Grilling
Using your oven can raise your kitchen’s temperature up to 10 degrees, increasing the need for running your air conditioner, so grilling outdoors is a great way to save energy. If you like to barbecue or grill most of Summer brings several your meals, you may want opportunities to save energy. By grilling instead of using to consider the fuel you an oven, you not only save use. If natural gas is availenergy but you can help able, it can be less expensive your house stay cooler. than propane. Natural gas Rethinking outdoor lighting is also convenient because and maintaining pumps and related equipment are two you don’t have to refill any additional ways to save money tanks like you would with and reduce energy use. propane. On the downside, if you don’t already have gas lines running to your patio or deck, the cost of installing them can be prohibitive. Other fuel types like charcoal briquettes or wood take more preparation and can be fussy to work with, and charcoal grills emit three times as much carbon as gas grills. Whichever fuel type you choose for your grill, you can save energy by barbecuing (keeping the lid closed during cooking) rather than grilling (cooking with the lid off or open at higher heat). Hopefully these ideas will help you enjoy your outdoor living space this summer — and help you save energy! KCL This column was co-written by PAT KEEGAN and BRAD THIESSEN of Collaborative Efficiency. For more information on surprise energy hogs, please visit: www.collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips.
S COT T VA N OS D O L
summertime, the deck becomes our kitchen, and my wife and I spend most of our free time in the backyard. We’ve invested a lot of time and effort making the interior of our home more energy efficient, but we’re wondering if there are ways we can save energy outdoors as well. – Josh D E AR JOS H : The most common way to save energy during summer months is lowering your cooling costs indoors. Since you and your wife are spending a lot of time outdoors, you can certainly save energy and money by reducing your air conditioning use inside. Setting the thermostat just a few degrees higher can make quite a difference. But to answer your main question, yes — there are ways to save energy outdoors. Here are three:
C R E AT I V E C O M M O N S
D E AR PAT AN D B R AD : During
ADVERTISEMENT
Natural Pill Shocker Beats Out Other Powerful Joint Treatments
2021’s first major breakthrough is a new pill that uses the science behind an immune modulating botanical that “drastically reduces joint discomfort”. Richard Watson Health News Today From comfort...to mobility...the relief users report continues to amaze the millions who seek non-pharma therapies for joint health. The pill, sold as VeraFlex®, contains a concentrated dose of a patented natural flavonoid called UP446. Scientific studies show it functions as a powerful immune modulator, which supports healthy inflammation response, a key function to prevent further joint deterioration, and significant decrease in discomfort. “Our customers say the first thing they notice is within days of using there’s less stiffness, soreness and discomfort around joints. But, they also notice some surprising improvements often associated with premature aging. They say they feel less bloated, are regular, and experience far less digestive discomfort”, explains Dr. Liza Leal, a board-certified pain-management specialist and spokesperson for VeraFlex. “It’s why they love the product. While most pharmacy products can destroy your digestive system, VeraFlex promotes absorption of nutrients and supports a healthy immune system. It also relieves excess discomfort from your entire body, especially around stiff and degrading joints. It’s remarkable.”
An Amazing Breakthrough Until now, many doctors have overlooked the idea of combining ingredients from different health categories, specifically linking joint health to gut health. But researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center provided the first evidence that bacteria in your gut could be the key driving force behind joint discomfort. And VeraFlex is proving it may be the only way going forward. “Most of today’s top treatments are financially out of reach. That’s why millions of adults are still in excruciating discomfort most days or willing to accept potentially devastating side effects,” explains Dr. Leal. “VeraFlex is a cost-effective way for virtually anyone looking to improve joint health. Since the most commonly reported symptoms - stiffness, soreness, and limited range of motion - are caused by certain enzymes, we’ve designed the formula to help inhibit those enzymes and support healthy inflammation response, a key to supporting healthy immune function. However, since most drug store products are designed to suppress both good and bad
inflammation, and with excessive use, they often tear the stomach lining and can A New Discovery is Quietly Helping affect the immune system. We’ve introduced a way for the pill to optimize the Users Maintain Vital Joint Health stomach acid and enhance the absorption The data collected by researchers was of VeraFlex’s clinical ingredients. This makes it stunning. safe and effective for daily use. The groups taking the VeraFlex ingredient reported staggering improvements over a 30-, 60-, Support Immune Health and Fight and 90-day period including flexibility, improved Joint Discomfort comfort, and joint mobility. Sufferers across the country are eager to get A second study was conducted to ensure the their hands on the new pill and according to the data was accurate. But this time, the study was research, they should be. done to see how quickly it worked and again the Because the other patented ingredient in results participants experienced while taking the VeraFlex is called Maxcell®, a bioenhancer VeraFlex compound blew away researchers. made from a blend of aloe vera (acid buffer), Shockingly, both men and women expejujube (immune support), black pepper (helps absorption), and licorice root (support digestive rienced an improvement in flexibility in as little as 3 days, beating even powerful traditional health). treatments. Studies have found that this special blend The ingredients create a triple play for suphas the remarkable ability to protect the active ingredient through the digestive system and porting joint health. First is accelerated action simultaneously support healthy immune func- that’s clinically shown to improve comfort and tion! It ensures the ingredients are not destroyed mobility...second is lasting comfort... and third is long term safety without known side effects. by your stomach acid. This would explain why so many users are experiencing impressive results so quickly. The Science Behind VeraFlex Because each dose of VeraFlex delivers the same Research shows that the joint stiffness, sore- amount of UP446 as the clinical studies, readers ness and even the discomfort are likely caused can now experience the same afford- able comby certain enzymes released by the body’s fort with daily use. immune system. “The science and clinical studies are remarkThe active ingredient in VeraFlex greatly able.” explains Dr. Leal. “This product starts inhibits the product of these enzymes resulting working incredibly fast. Users should expect to in a potentially dramatic decreasing in swelling be highly satisfied with the results.” and discomfort. This enzyme-inhibiting characteristic is what researchers call immune modulation and is why people experience relief so quickly. VeraFlex users can generally expect to start to see more flexibility in just a few days...and with continued use, a tremendous improvement to overall joint function that may help them move more like they did years prior” explains Dr. Leal. “I recommend this product because it works.”
Rapid Results & Lasting Comfort The secret behind VeraFlex is its active ingredient UP446 which is protected by 8 patents and is backed by over $2 Million in safety studies. It’s also undergone two double blind placebo controlled clinical trials, with 8 different research publications confirming the incredible results. In the first, 60 participants were randomly placed into four groups.
How to Claim Three Free Months of VeraFlex This is the official nationwide release of the new VeraFlex pill. And so, the company is offering our readers up to 3 FREE bottles with their order. This special give-away is available for only a limited time so don’t wait. All you have to do is call toll free 1-800-583-5956 and provide the operator with the Approval Code: VF2021. The company will do the rest. The company is so confident it will work that each order is backed by our 100% satisfaction guarantee, if you don’t love the results, we’ll refund the purchase price, no questions asked. With such an incredible offer this is expected to sell out. Don’t wait to call, US operators are standing by.
THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. RESULTS MAY VARY.
KANSAS TOURISM
ing 200 Years c a r T
of the
BY M E L I N D A S C H N Y D E R
Kansans’ documentary captures significance of country’s first international road of commerce DAVE KENDALL has driven the length of the Santa Fe Trail — about 1,200 miles through five states — yet the spot he believes might be the most striking to see along the route is just 50 miles from his doorstep. It’s a small roadside park off U.S. Highway 56 about three miles east of Baldwin City. The area marks the 1856 site of one of the first Civil War battles; the clash happened near a stand of blackjack oak trees along the Santa Fe Trail. From 25 years of heavy freight wagon traffic by then, wheel ruts were deep enough to be used as trenches during the conflict. Several of those swales are still visible at Black Jack Battlefield and Nature Park, where officials recently added a short gravel loop around what’s often called the Black Jack ruts.
12
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
“It’s a good place to go and think about all the wagons that must’ve been coming down that slope to create these deep impressions in the earth that are still there,” said Kendall, an independent documentary filmmaker and producer who lives in Dover, southwest of Topeka. “That’s the kind of place that you can go and just muse about what was involved as all those freight wagons made their way across the midsection here on the Santa Fe Trail.” The fifth generation Kansan has spent the past two years pondering the significance of the trail and talking to experts about its place in history. That’s how long he’s been working on a documentary to coincide with this year’s 200th anniversary of the opening of the country’s first international road of commerce.
M I C H A E L H E N RY
DAV E K E N DA L L
In September 1821, a small group of men led by William Becknell set out on a trade mission from Franklin, a river town in central Missouri, through unsettled land to Santa Fe, Mexico’s northern colonial outpost. Missouri had become a state a month prior to their departure and while the pack train was en route, Mexico won its independence from Spain and subsequently lifted trade restrictions. The men and the mules loaded with $300 in goods were welcomed rather than detained upon arrival in Santa Fe after a two-and-a-half-month journey. The September launch of that expedition is now considered the start of the Santa Fe Trail, which would go on to see heavy wagon traffic for freight hauling and military activity until railroad transportation covered the same route by 1880. During those six decades, the route developed into a two-way exchange of commerce and culture. The trail also played a role in conflict during wartimes and as the associated expansion of the United States displaced native people along the route. In 1821, Missouri was the edge of the American frontier. Eventually the territory along the rest of the trail formed into Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado and New Mexico. Kansas has the largest piece of the trail — nearly 500 miles, including a split near Dodge City where the Mountain Route heads to Colorado then down into New Mexico and the Cimarron Route cuts a diagonal across Oklahoma on its way to New Mexico. Much of the Santa Fe Trail today is on private property though you can roughly follow it in Kansas by driving U.S. Highways 56, 54 and 50. Along the way are markers, museums, historic sites, forts, ruts and other trail-related attractions. The Santa Fe Trail Association and communities across all five states are commemorating the bicentennial with events, activities and even a few new and improved historic attractions (see article on Page 14). The 200th anniversary was the main push for Kendall to launch the documentary, which has the working title “The Road to Santa Fe,” though he
DAV E K E N DA L L
Rex Buchanan, left, and Roger Boyd, president of the Douglas County chapter of the Santa Fe Trail Association, standing at the trail ruts at Black Jack Prairie near Baldwin City.
had another incentive. He Left: William Marion Walter, great-greatgrandfather of Dave Kendall, came to this part of wanted to finally dig into the country in 1857 working on the Santa Fe Trail family stories that his greatbefore settling down to farm in Morris County. great-grandfather was a teamAbove: Dave Kendall, fifth generation Kansan, has ster on the Santa Fe Trail. been working two years on a documentary to “I thought maybe learncoincide with the 200th anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail, the country’s first commercial highway. ing more about the trail would help me understand more about my family’s past,” he said. He learned William Marion Walter got off the steamboat in Kansas City in 1857 and drove a wagon on the trail for no more than two years before settling down to farm in Morris County. Walter also served as postmaster for what was in the 1860s identified as “Far West” Kansas. Kendall likely is not the only Kansan who didn’t know as much as he felt he should about the Santa Fe Trail, considering he grew up in Morris County not too far from it. He didn’t remember learning in history class that the Arkansas River was an international boundary for the trail’s first 25 years and that the trail had a commerce role not an immigrant role in opening up the west and southwest. Growing up, Council Grove had always been the home of the rival to his Herington High School. Now, he better understands that Council Continued on page 28 MAY 2021
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
13
J OA N N E VA N CO E V E R N / S A N TA F E T R A I L A S S O C I AT I O N KANSAS TOURISM
J O H N N O LT N E R F O R T R A V E L K A N S A S
ansas K WAY S T O E X P L O R E T H E S A N TA F E T R A I L I N
Whether you’re up for a road trip or sticking to surfing the web, there are many ways to explore the physical remnants and cultural heritage of the Santa Fe Trail in Kansas, which saw heavy trail traffic from 1821 to 1880. Driving Tours
There are nine chapters of the Santa Fe Trail Association in Kansas and several have designed self-guided auto tours of trail highlights (find a page for each chapter at santafetrail. org). One such option is the Wet/Dry Routes Chapter’s tour that includes stops at 15 markers along the Wet Route from Larned to Dodge City. There are also driving tours designed by communities and attractions, including a 22-site map of wayside markers available at Fort Leavenworth, the oldest continuously active Army post west of the Mississippi, and a 30-mile trip through Cimarron National Grassland with several trail-related outdoor exhibits and stops, highlighted by ruts and a view of the Point of Rocks navigational landmark. You can also follow the Santa Fe Trail via the 96 granite markers placed by the Daughters of the American Revolution from 1902 to 1906, when traders still lived along the route and helped the organization place the markers on the actual trail. The Santa Fe Trail Center Museum & Research Library has resources for locating the markers (santafetrailcenter.org/ dar-markers). The ultimate driving tour, of course, would be following the entire Santa Fe National Historic Trail, one of 19 trails designated by the National Park Service.
Historic Sites and Attractions
Websites for the NPS’ Santa Fe National Historic Trail (nps. gov/safe) and the SFTA (santafetrail.org) have interactive maps showing historic sites, interpretive centers, museums and other attractions by state. The NPS describes nearly 50 sites in Kansas, from Mahaffie
14
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
Stagecoach Stop and Farm Historic Site — the only remaining stage station open to the public — on the edge of the Kansas City metro area in eastern Kansas to the Cimarron National Grassland in the southwest corner. Also among the sites are frontier forts established to protect commerce along the trail, including Fort Larned, now a national historic site with a museum and several well-preserved buildings as well as the nearby Santa Fe Trail Center Museum & Research Library. In one of the state’s most notable trail towns, Council Grove, there are 10 Santa Fe National Historic Trail sites and another 15 sites included on a self-guided tour. Among the more immersive experiences is walking through untilled prairie alongside large ruts, or swales, left by freight wagons traveling the trail. Two of the most well-defined sets are at Ralph’s Ruts, 4 miles west of Chase, and Black Jack Ruts near Baldwin City, where a footpath was recently created. The Quivira Chapter has a passport and site book (2021santafetrailkansas.com/get-your-passport) to encourage visiting central Kansas’ Santa Fe Trail sites. Print off or pick up the booklet at participating attractions in Barton, McPherson and Rice counties. A fully stamped passport by the end of 2021 enters you in a grand prize drawing.
Online
Check online — websites and Facebook pages — for virtual tours and digital collections at trail attractions. A new digital tour of the 35 miles of trail running across Rice County in central Kansas is scheduled to be available this year via a kiosk at the Coronado Quivira Museum in Lyons and on its website, cqmuseum.org. Some chapters have been hosting monthly virtual programs related to the trail that they also post online. Check the
event schedule at santafetrail.org. You can also watch video segments of interviews and footage shot along the trail by Dave Kendall for his upcoming documentary “The Road to Santa Fe” at prairiehollow.net or facebook.com/PrairieHollow.
Geocaching
The Santa Fe National Historic Trail GeoTour includes 70 geocaches that use GPS coordinates to guide you to important sites in all five states. Each geocache profile describes the location’s connection to the trail, and many of the containers hold maps and information to help you explore more sites on the trail. Learn more at geocaching.com/play/ geotours/santa-fe-trail.
Events
The SFTA and communities along the route plan to continue commemorating early trail development in upcoming years, from Becknell’s return trip to Missouri from Santa Fe in 2022 to 2025’s 200th anniversary of the government survey that legitimized the route, treaties with the Kaw and the Osage tribes and the first Mexican traders traveling east via the trail. SFTA chapters and towns have websites dedicated to the anniversary and you’ll find links to many of those sites on the trail-wide association’s website, santafetrail.org and its companion site santafetrail200.org. Here’s a sampling of events in upcoming months: f MAY 27-30, SANTA FE TRAIL DAYS IN LARNED:
includes a hunt for lost “treasure box” of Susan Shelby Magoffin, an early traveler of the trail, santafetraildays.org.
f JUNE 5, TRAILS AND TRAILBLAZERS: festival in
downtown Baldwin City, tours of Black Jack Battlefield, santafetrail.org.
f JULY 23-24, EASTERN MCPHERSON COUNTY & MARION COUNTY SANTA FE TRAIL DAYS:
reenactments, walking tours and more in McPherson, Galva, Canton and parts of Marion County, 2021santafetrailkansas.com. f AUG. 14, LITTLE ARKANSAS RENDEZVOUS:
focused on making a river crossing and life on the trail for buffalo soldiers, Native peoples, traders and other trail travelers, 2021santafetrailkansas.com.
f SEPT. 17-18, RENDEZVOUS AT COUNCIL
GROVE: “Voices of the Wind People Pageant,” participation of the Kaw Tribe, Mountain Men Exposition, antique wagon show, santafetrail200.com. KCL
MAY 2021
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
15
THE PRESIDENT ’S PEN
Teachers, Mothers Deserve Our Appreciation, Recognition
BY T E R RY H O B B S
don’t know much biology. Don’t know much about science books, don’t know much about the French I took.” Those are lyrics from a song made popular by Herman’s Hermits. Unfortunately, those lyrics could’ve been written by yours truly. There are a lot of things I don’t know much about. Those are also words about some subjects taught everyday in schools across this country. In the month of May we celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week. Teachers spend an inordinate amount of time molding, forming, and educating our youth. Teachers deserve a whole year of appreciation. There will be many baskets full of flowers and cards purchased for another big day in May. Mother’s Day became an official holiday in 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson signed a measure proclaiming the second Sunday in May as such. Mothers also deserve a whole year of appreciation. Abe Lincoln said “All that I am, or “DON’T KNOW MUCH ABOUT HISTORY,
Terry Hobbs
hope to be I owe to my angel mother.” I was fortunate enough to have both, a mother and a schoolteacher rolled up into one. Nobody has to worry about me ending a sentence with a preposition, or not wearing clean underwear just in case I would be involved in an accident. Whether in a classroom or a household, both teachers and mothers deserve great appreciation and recognition. This time of the year also brings a lot of cooperatives hosting their annual meetings. I urge co-op consumer-members to attend these events. If you are seeking sustenance, information, or enlightenment about the energy industry, find the date of the annual meeting for your power provider and participate in the activities. KCL TERRY HOBBS is the board president for Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. He is also a member of Western Cooperative Electric’s Board of Trustees in WaKeeney.
Would You Like to Reach 132,000 Homes & Businesses? Call 785-478-4554 to discuss advertising options in Kansas Country Living magazine!
Find out more at https://www.kec.coop/kcl
16
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
YO U R P L A C E I N T H E G A R D E N
Tomato-Growing Tricks of the Trade
BY C Y N T H I A D O M E N G H I N I , P H . D .
GARDENERS ARE FAMOUS for
sharing their tricks of the trade. Ask a gardener how to grow the biggest and best tomatoes and you will inevitably receive Cynthia a variety of recDomenghini, Ph.D. ommendations. There are a few common problems and proactive steps that can be taken to ensure your tomato harvest is juicy and sweet. Many gardeners swear by adding eggshells to each hole in which a tomato is planted to give the plants a boost of calcium. Blossom end rot is a common disease in tomatoes that occurs from a lack of calcium and the belief is that the eggshells will help prevent this from occurring. While eggshells do have a high amount of calcium that is necessary to keep the shell strong to protect the egg inside, the damage from blossom end rot occurs on the fruit when the soil has become too dry and the calcium is not able to be transported through the plant. A better solution for the problem of blossom end rot is to maintain a consistent watering schedule so the available calcium can reach the plant. Eggshells do make a good addition to the compost heap and can positively impact the calcium level. However, this is not a quick fix for problems with the tomato plants. Companion planting is a strategy that allows plants to support each other. Tomatoes do well when planted near onions, marigolds and carrots, among others. Garlic is said to help prevent red spider mites on tomatoes. Many varieties of herbs can have positive effects when planted near tomato plants including better tasting fruit when basil
18
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
is grown nearby. Remember to avoid planting tomatoes in the same location of the garden year after year if possible. The practice of crop rotation prevents soil-borne diseases from infecting crops year after year. Tomatoes are categorized by growth habit as: determinate, indeterminate and semi-determinate. Indeterminate plants continue growing unless inhibited by disease or frost. They can easily fill a 4-foot by 4-foot space if allowed to grow naturally. These varieties have a vining growth habit and produce fruit throughout the growing season. Determinate plants produce a crop of tomatoes at one time of the growing season and then are done with fruit production. The growth of determinate varieties is also limited. Semi-determinate plants fall between the other two types in terms of growth habit. Though more compact than indeterminate plants, semi-determinate still produce fruit throughout much of the growing season making them a great choice for gardeners with limited space. Indeterminate varieties require regular pruning to promote healthy growth. Without pruning, the weight of the numerous branches and fruit will cause branches to break and force the plant to lay down and continue branching. Pruning indeterminate varieties to one dominate stem directs the sugar production toward fruit development. This enhances the flavor and size of the fruit. Suckers are stems that grow between the dominate stem and leaves and should be pruned off the plant. What remains after a properly pruned indeterminate tomato plant is approximately four stems that branch out from the nodes above where the first fruit develops. Determinate varieties typically do not require pruning, but can benefit from staking or caging.
Keeping stems off the ground and allowing adequate air flow promotes healthy plants by reducing the risk of bacterial spread. Store-bought tomato cages are often too small for healthy tomato plants regardless of growth habit. Instead, you can create a cage using wire fencing that has openings wide enough for your hand. Cut a section of fencing about 4-feet long and shape it into a cylinder. Wire the cylinder closed. Place the wire cage around the tomato plant and support it with stakes pounded into the ground. As the warmer weather approaches, tomato season is upon us. There are many opportunities to experiment with new varieties, planting combinations and soil amendments. Keep good notes to share with fellow gardeners along with the delicious harvest. KCL CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI is an instructor and coordinator for K-State’s horticultural therapy online certificate program.
Heirloom tomatoes, such as this ripening “Black Cherry” cultivar, are rich in flavor.
Now, THIS is a Knife! This 16" full tang stainless steel blade is not for the faint of heart —now ONLY $99!
I
n the blockbuster film, when a strapping Australian crocodile hunter and a lovely American journalist were getting robbed at knife point by a couple of young thugs in New York, the tough Aussie pulls out his dagger and says “That’s not a knife, THIS is a knife!” Of course, the thugs scattered and he continued on to win the reporter’s heart. Our Aussie friend would approve of our rendition of his “knife.” Forged of high grade 420 surgical stainless steel, this knife is an impressive 16" from pommel to point. And, the blade is full tang, meaning it runs the entirety of the knife, even though part of it is under wraps in the natural bone and wood handle. Secured in a tooled leather sheath, this is one impressive knife, with an equally impressive price. This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers. But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99, 8x21 power compact binoculars, and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Down Under Bowie Knife. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Down Under Bowie Knifes for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through BONUS! Call today and your fingers at a price that won’t drag you under. you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath! Call today!
EXCLUSIVE
FREE
Stauer® 8x21 Compact Binoculars -a $99 value-
with purchase of Down Under Knife
What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives
êêêêê
“This knife is beautiful!” — J., La Crescent, MN
êêêêê
“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.” — H., Arvada, CO
Down Under Bowie Knife $249*
Offer Code Price Only $99 + S&P Save $150
1-800-333-2045
Your Insider Offer Code: DUK152-01
California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
You must use the insider offer code to get our special price.
Stauer
®
14101 Southcross Drive W., Ste 155, Dept. DUK152-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com
Rating of A+
*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price. Not shown • Etched stainless steel full tang blade ; 16” overall • Painted natural bone and wood handle actual • Brass hand guards, spacers & end capsize. • Includes genuine tooled leather sheath
OVERLANDING CO LO R A D O OV E R L A N D E R /C A R L Z O C H P H OTO G R A P H Y
Finding Your Own Adventure BY E U G E N E B U C H A N A N
Colorado’s stay at home order lifted last spring, Pat Drake and his family — including wife, Isabel, and kids Olivia, Cruz and Catalina — fired up their Toyota TRD Pro 4x4 and set off for a secret spot in Colorado National Monument to get away from it all. Following weeks of self-isolating, this isolation — clean air, campfires, stargazing and chasing lizards — was far more soulful and a OVERLAND much-needed reprieve from IN THE FLINT HILLS quarantining with the kids. Named for the massive amounts The Drakes are part of of flint eroded from the the burgeoning craze of area’s bedrock, the Flint Hills, “overlanding” — a pastime historically known as Bluestem long popular in Australia and South Africa that’s Pastures or Blue Stem Hills, now catching on stateside. comprise eastern Kansas and In short, it’s car camping north-central Oklahoma. Through in style with all the creathem winds this 200-mile-long ture comforts in a trustoff-road route, which begins in worthy rig that can get you Alma, Kansas, and ends in Cedar off the beaten track and, Vale near the Oklahoma border. more importantly, back En route you’ll find yourself high home. Since routes are often bumpy, and in the on the surrounding hills and boondocks, overlanders are low in the meadows below on completely self-sufficient, this beautiful tour through the exploring the country’s back Sunflower State. roads 1 mile at a time. “It offers that feeling of freedom and a way to get away from it all,” says Drake, who owns rental company Colorado Overlander, which
KANSAS TOURISM
AS SOON AS
20
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
outfits trips for people heading across the western U.S. “For us, it’s just a great way to escape — my family loves it.” Indeed, with the craziness of the coronavirus and many people forsaking flying in favor of staying closer to home, the sport has seen a surge across the country, opening the car doors to a style of camping as perfect for families as it is friends. According to Arizona’s Overlandjournal.com, overlanding is defined as “self-reliant overland travel to remote destinations where the journey is the principal goal.” It’s most often accomplished by mechanized off-highway transport — including trucks, campers and SUVs — where the principal form of lodging is camping in your rig. Or, as with the new craze of roof-top tents (RTTs for those in the know), on your rig, like Snoopy and his Sopwith Camel. Lengths can vary from days to weeks, months and even years. The common denominator: the journey itself is the purpose, with the dirt roads traveled are both the means and the end. “It’s today’s nearest equivalent of embarking on the Santa Fe or Oregon Trail,” says Drake. “Your wagon is your vehicle and the horses are under the hood. The hazards and goals might not equal those iconic migrations of the 1800s, but the sense of accomplishment and lessons learned do.” World-class overland routes exist of all shapes and sizes across the country. With the nation’s diverse array of terrain and roads, its topography lends itself perfectly to the pursuit, from the rolling hills of the Appalachians to the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains and lush forests of the Northwest. Routes for these self-reliant journeys exist for everyone from novices to seasoned experts, from cross-country mega journeys like the 2,500-mile Continental Divide Trail from Mexico to Canada and 5,000-mile Trans America Trail from Virginia to Oregon to simple overnighters close to home. And here’s their real beauty: Without the stress of a daily
It’s today’s nearest equivalent of embarking on the Santa Fe or Oregon Trail. Your wagon is your vehicle and the horses are under the hood. PAT DRAKE, COLORADO OVERLAND
obsession, many sharing first-person accounts, waypoints and gear reviews. “Overlanding’s been a hot trend for several years but the pandemic has definitely turned the needle up,” says Travis Titus, founder of rental company Titus Adventure Company, describing it as a blend of RVing and backpacking. Companies like Titus and Drake make it easier for those testing the waters by renting complete rigs, usually 4x4s, fitted with rooftop tents, outdoor camping equipment and more. Otherwise, it’s easy to spend as much as $100,000 on a fully outfitted rig. “A lot of people just do it as a quick and easy escape into the wilderness,” says Drake. “I love seeing first-timers’ reaction when they come back — you can tell they loved it.” The husband-and-wife team of Eric and Camila Collier became overland aficionados in 2017 after a trip to Utah. “We love its flexibility,” says Eric. “It allows you to be spontaneous. Today’s pace of life is so fast; overlanding lets you break out of your day-to-day routine and explore without much planning — when you have a vehicle and everything you need to camp you can just focus on the experience.” This also makes it easy to rally, he adds. With traditional camping, you have to pack, plan and make a checklist of everything you need. With overlanding, your vehicle is already equipped with everything from tent to stove. “All you have to do is decide where to go and what to do — the fun stuff,” he says. You’ll also be instantly tied into a great community of like-minded people — such as Tennessee natives and Lifestyle Overland bloggers Kevin and Sarah McCuiston. With their daughter Caroline in tow, the couple fell in love with life on the road in 2018, piling into a tricked-out Toyota Trail Edition 4Runner dubbed The Beast, complete with a Gobi Sport Utility roof rack with built-in tent.
Hauling a Turtleback Trailer filled with gear behind them, the two have documented their exploits on YouTube, with their adventures taking them from the Gulf Coast to the Arctic Coast and a bevy of bumpy roads in between. “We’ve always loved spending time outdoors, so it was natural to go from road trips and car camping to overlanding,” says Kevin, who helped pioneer an 800-mile overland route from New Mexico through Colorado. “We were already living the pastime; we just didn’t know there was a word for it.” KCL EUGENE BUCHANAN, has written about the outdoors for more than 25 years, with freelance articles published in the New York Times, Men’s Journal, Sports Afield, Outside, National Geographic Adventure and other publications.
CO LO R A D O OV E R L A N D E R /C A R L Z O C H P H OTO G R A P H Y
goal, overlanding lets you take in history, wildlife, culture, scenery and anything else that catches your attention along the way. As well as camping, you can hike, mountain bike, fish, photograph, paddle, birdwatch and more, whenever and wherever you want. And with souped-up vehicles suited to the task, overlanding bridges the gap between RVs — which let you camp but restrict you to paved sites — and regular cars, which make camping a chore. Combine all this with the social distancing parameters of COVID19 and overlanding has fast become a burgeoning poster child of the camping market. Overland Journal, published five times per year, has 175,000 newsletter subscribers and more than 200,000 Instagram followers. And even though its fans are getting off the beaten path, they’re happy to share what they know with other like-minded overlanders — from vernacular like RTTs and tire tread width to GPS coordinates of places they’ve explored. “Overlanding is getting super popular, especially during the pandemic,” maintains Shannon Stowell, CEO of Washington’s Adventure Travel Trade Association, whose membership includes many overland companies. “Even when tourism comes back, people are still going to want to be self-reliant and get away from the crowds. There’s going to be a whole new segment that falls in love with it.” Business is booming, Stowell adds, for rental companies and those who help organize self-drive trips, handling everything from itineraries and gear to camping reservations. In the past few years, a convoy of such companies have cropped up around the country, making the pastime easier for weekend warriors. There are also websites, Facebook groups, blogs, chatrooms and more all dedicated to the overland
COLORADO OVERL ANDER
G
MAY 2021
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
21
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
Doctor urges seniors to carry medical alert device Seniors snap up new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills People don’t always do what their doctor says, but when seasoned veteran emergency room physician, Dr. Philip B. Howren says every senior should have a medical alert device, you better listen up. “Seniors are just one fall away from being put in a nursing home,” Dr. Howren said. “With a medical alert device, seniors are never alone. So it keeps them living independently in their own home. That’s why seniors and their family members are snapping up a sleek new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills ever,” he said. Many seniors refuse to wear old style help buttons because they make them look old. But even worse, those medical alert systems come
with monthly bills. To solve these problems Universal Physicians, a U.S. company went to work to develop a new, modern, state-of-the-art medical alert device. It’s called “FastHelp™” and it instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever. “This slick new little device is designed to look like the pagers doctors wear every day. Seniors love them, because it actually makes them look important, not old,” Dr. Howren said. FastHelp is expected to hit store shelves later this year. But special newspaper promotional giveaways are slated for seniors in select areas. ■
■ NO MONTHLY BILLS: “My wife had an old style help button that came with hefty bills every month and she was embarrassed to wear it because it made her look old,” said Frank McDonald, Canton, Ohio. “Now, we both have FastHelp™, the sleek new medical alert device that our grandkids say makes us look ‘cool’ not old,” he said. With FastHelp, seniors never have to worry about being alone and the best part is there are no monthly bills ever.
Seniors born before 1956 get new medical alert device with no monthly bills ever
It’s just what seniors have been waiting for; a sleek new medical alert device with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with just the push of a button for a one-time $149 price tag that’s a real steal after today’s instant rebate The phone lines are ringing off the hook. That’s because for seniors born before 1956, it’s a deal too good to pass up. Sta r ting at precisely 8:30am this morning the Pre-Store Release begins for the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp™ OneTouch E 911 Button that instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever. “It’s not like old style monitored help buttons that make you talk to a call center and only work when you’re at home and come with hefty bills every month. FastHelp comes with state-of-the-art cellular embedded technology. That means it works at home or anywhere, anytime cell service is available (Continued on next page)
■ FLYING OUT THE DOOR: Trucks are being loaded with the new medical alert devices called FastHelp. They are now being delivered to lucky seniors who call the National Rebate Center Hotline at 1-866-964-2952 Ext. HELP2651 today. Everyone is calling to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device because it instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.
(Continued from previous page)
cellular embedded medical alert device that cuts out the middleman by instantly connecting you directly to highly trained 911 operators all across the U.S. There’s absolutely nothing to hook-up or install. You don’t need a land line and you don’t need a cell phone. Everything is done for you. “FastHelp is a state of the art medical alert device designed to make you look
important, not old. Old style monitored help buttons you wear around your neck, or require expensive base station equipment or a landline are the equivalent of a horse and buggy,” Lawrence says. “It’s just outdated.” Millions of seniors fall every year and spend hours lying on the floor helpless and all alone with no help. But seniors who fall and get immediate help are much
more likely to avoid getting sent to a nursing home and get to STAY living in their own home independently. Yet millions of seniors are still risking their safety by not having a medical alert device. That’s because seniors just can’t afford to pay the monthly bills that come with old style medical alert devices. That’s why seniors born before 1956 are rushing to
cash in the whopping $150 instant rebate before the 7 day deadline ends. So there’s no need to wait for FastHelp to hit store shelves later this year because seniors born before 1956 can get it now just by using the $150 instant rebate coupon printed in today’s newspaper before the 7-day deadline ends. If lines are busy keep trying, all calls will be answered. ■
HOW TO GET IT: IF BORN BEFORE 1956: Use the rebate coupon below and call this Toll-Free Hotline: 1-866-964-2952 EXT. HELP2651
IF BORN AFTER 1956: You cannot use the rebate coupon below and must pay $299 Call: 1-866-964-2955 EXT. HELP2651 THE BOTTOM LINE: You don’t need to shop around. We’ve done all the leg work, this deal is too good to pass up. FastHelp with the instant rebate is a real steal at just $149 and shipping and there are no monthly bills ever.
PROS: It’s the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp One-Touch E 911 Button that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts or deposits. It connects you to the vast available network of cellular towers for free and saves seniors a ton of money because there are no monthly bills ever making this deal irresistible. Plus it’s the only medical alert device that makes seniors look important, not old. CONS: Consumers can’t get FastHelp in stores until later this year. That’s why it’s so important for seniors born before 1956 to call the National Rebate Center Hotline within the next 7 days. For those who miss that deadline, the sleek little medical alert device will set you back over $300 bucks. P7201A OF22137R-1
REBATE COUPON
whether you’re out watering the garden, driving in a car, at church or even hundreds of miles away on a tour or at a casino. You are never alone. With just a single push of the One-Touch E Button you instantly get connected to free unlimited help nationwide with no monthly bills ever,” said Jack L aw rence, E xecutive Director of Product Development for U.S. based Universal Physicians. “We’ve never seen anything like it. Consumers absolutely love the sleek new modern design and most of all, the instant rebate that practically pays for it and no monthly bills ever,” Lawrence said. FastHelp is the sleek new medical alert device with the best of combinations: a quality, high-tech engineered device that’s also an extremely great value because there are no monthly bills ever. Better still, it comes with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever – which makes FastHelp a great choice for seniors, students and professionals because it connects to one of the largest nationwide networks everywhere cell service is available for free. And here’s the best part. All those who already have an old style monitored medical alert button can immed iat ely el i m i nat e those month ly bills, wh ich is why Universal Physicians is widely advertising this announcement nationwide. “So if you’ve ever felt a medical alert device was too complicated or expensive, you’ll want to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert dev ice w ith no monthly bills,” said Lawrence. The medical alert device slugfest was dominated by two main combatants who both offer old style monitored help buttons that come with a hefty bill every month. But now Universal Physicians, the U.S. based heavyweight, just delivered a knockout blow sending the top rated contenders to the mat with the unveiling of FastHelp. It’s the sleek new
PAID ADVERTISEMENT
EXPIRES
7 Days From Today’s Publication Date
After Coupon Expires: The FastHelp is $299.00 plus shipping & handling
$150 Off
FastHelp
™
One-touch help. Anytime. Anywhere. With no monthly bills ever.
HELP2651
FastHelp, the new medical alert device that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.
USE THIS COUPON: To get $150 off FastHelp you must be born before 1956 and call the National Rebate Center Hotline at 1-866-964-2952 EXT. HELP2651 before the 7-day rebate deadline ends. FASTHELP IS COVERED BY A 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE LESS SHIPPING AND A 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANT Y. FASTHELP IS A 3G GSM CELLULAR DEVICE. FASTHELP WILL NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE 911 CALLS WHEN CELLULAR SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE SUCH AS IN REMOTE AREAS. FASTHELP USES GPS TRIANGULATIONS TO APPROXIMATE YOUR LOCATION WHEN YOUR DEVICE IS TURNED ON. DR. HOWREN IS A COMPENSATED MEDICAL ADVISOR AND FRANK MCDONALD IS AN ACTUAL USER AND COMPENSATED FOR HIS PARTICIPATION. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. UNIVERSAL PHYSICIANS 7747 SUPREME AVE, NORTH CANTON, OH 44720.
C O O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E
May Flowers, Tin-Can Bouquets, Inspire Floral Flavors
BY R E B E C C A H O WA R D
the yard is heady with blooms. The currant bushes kick the whole thing off early, their small, bright-yellow blossoms bold with a potent sweet-spicy scent that drifts everywhere. Soon, I’ve easily lost my school shoes, and my winter-numb feet find the new grass. I spend my days in a dream that only the spring sun makes, sniffing my way in a connect-the-dots from blossom to blossom through all the flowering phases: tulips and daffodils; crabapple, apple, plum and peach trees; roadside forsythia and quince. I wander, admiring and inhaling deeply, from the blooming Russian olive trees on the south side of the yard to the sweet lilac windbreak on the north. It all comes to a heavenly peak in May, where
I find my nose discerning the different “flavored” aromas of bearded iris (I imagine lemon in the pale yellow and grape in the deep purple) and the light citrus of the snowy mock orange. I bury my face in the perfumed fringe of large peony blooms. I pull a taste of honey-ripe nectar in a droplet from the stamen of a honeysuckle blossom. There is so much, it must be shared. With sharp kitchen knives, we slit crosses in the plastic lids of coffee cans to fashion tin-can bouquets to Rebecca Howard take to the cemetery, and just before Memorial Day, my mother, sister and I gather from the array of flowers in the yard and put the arrangements together from the sturdiest blooms. Of these, my mother’s peonies, deeply fragrant and ranging in shades from white-ishpink to dark wine, take center stage in bouquets that are accented with the ruffles of her old-fashioned rose, sprays of the mock orange, stems of bearded iris, tufts of lilac and sometimes strands Using part rice flour makes this buttery shortbread light as air and twice as yummy. Just the right amount of dried lavender lends a lilt of floral flavor of honeysuckle and purple sprigs of — and a bit of color — without overpowering. This same recipe can be blooming sage. modified (see below) to make Rose Petal Shortbread, too. The coffee cans, dressed up with aluminum foil, are half-filled with water, f 1 cup granulated sugar, plus f 1 tsp. lemon zest 2 Tbs. for garnish loaded in boxes and, along with an extra f 21/2 Tbs. dried lavender flowers (culinary gallon of water and a spade or shovel, grade), plus 1/2 Tbs. for garnish f 2 cups unsalted butter, softened to room temperature taken on the trip to Humboldt Cemef 31/2 cups all-purpose flour tery, where they are sturdied by partially f 1/2 tsp. vanilla extract f 1 cup white rice flour burying them next to the headstones of f 11/2 tsp. salt people I don’t know, but always rememWith a stand or electric hand mixer, cream sugar, butter, vanilla, lemon zest and lavender until ber. A final drink of water is splashed light and fluffy. into the cans to keep the flower tokens Whisk together flours and salt, and add to butter mixture and combine until the dough comes from our little corner of the world fresh together (it will be crumbly, but stick together when squeezed). for as long as possible. Line a 12-by-16-inch pan (you can also use a 13-by-9-inch pan for slightly thicker shortbread) with “I paint the flowers so they will not parchment. Place dough in pan and break up any large clumps, spreading evenly. Press dough die,” the artist Frida Kahlo said. Memodown gently and sprinkle the remaining sugar and lavender flowers on top. ries of the childhood flora that both With a rolling pin or drinking glass, roll out the dough evenly to smooth the top. (Use a little soothed and dazzled me can do that, additional sugar if the dough sticks to the rolling pin.) Prick indentations into the top of the too. But in my own way, still hoping shortbread with a fork (this prevents the shortbread from rising unevenly). to keep the flowers fresh and alive, I Bake at 350 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until shortbread is light golden brown. have taken thousands of photographs of blooms I find, where I now live and Cut the squares while still warm and remove cookies from pan when cool. wander, gathering their images from FOR ROSE PETAL SHORTBREAD: Substitute 3 Tbs. finely chopped dried rose petals (food gardens, fields and along roadsides, grade) for the lavender, keeping the lemon zest and vanilla extract. You can also add 1/2 tsp. of posting a different one each day on rosewater with the other flavorings. Sprinkle additional chopped rose petals and sugar over top. my social media pages, It’s so easy to Makes 24 2-by-2-inch cookies take pictures of flowers. They do all the FROM APRIL THROUGH JUNE,
Lavender Shortbread
24
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
work, as they always have; I just bear witness to the natural artistry, my head always turned bloom-ward. Beyond their visual and aromatic beauty, some flowers offer flavor, too. Floral notes bring interesting tastes into cooking and baking. I began my blog with a post about a birthday cake I made infused with rosewater and decorated with candied rose petals. Edible flowers, like calendula, peppery nasturtium (great for pesto) and tart pansy, make colorful additions to tossed green salads. Chive blossoms add an oniony boost to savory dishes, too, and are pretty as a garnish on soups and other dishes. Zucchini blossoms, though limited in availability (unless you grow them), can be stuffed with soft cheese and fried. The light flavor of dried chamomile adds an interesting flavor dimension to rice or baked goods, like tea cookies. It pairs well with apple dishes, too. Dried hibiscus makes a delicious steeped tea, but can also bring tarty taste to sauces and marinades, jams and jellies. I’ve used the subtle, but effective herbal flavor of lavender buds to make everything from shortbread (see recipe shared here), lemonade and even ice cream. It’s important to remember that with lavender, along with any flowers one is using for edibles, to use a culinary/food grade version that has not been treated with any chemicals and is pesticide-free. Orange blossom water, found online or in some supermarkets or specialty food stores, has a delicate flavor, but a little goes a long way in providing a nice little floral lift to desserts, like rice pudding, as well as some sweeter bread recipes. It is also recommended for salad dressings and even adding to fruit salads or smoothies. Roses are definitely on the stronger side in flavor and perfume-y aspects (not to everyone’s taste), but I have loved using rosewater to make
Turkish delight (a gummy-style candy), Pavlova and jams. Dried rose petals (food grade) can also be used in vanilla cakes, quick breads and the shortbread recipe shared here. Candied petals (purchased or made by brushing flowers with reconstituted powdered egg whites, sprinkling with superfine sugar and allowing to air-dry at least 12 hours), from roses to violets, also make great cake or cupcake toppers, so the beauty — and taste — of a bouquet can be found in every bite. KCL REBECCA HOWARD grew up in Kansas and has written for the Los Angeles Daily News, the Los Angeles Times and LA Parent Magazine, and currently writes the food blog, “A Woman Sconed.”
MAY 2021
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
25
Reach 132,000
Homes & Businesses!
Call 785-478-4554 to discuss advertising options or visit https://www.kec.coop/kcl.
Looks like
Mother Nature
finally met her match. The strongest most versatile steel building kits available.
CALL NOW
BARN BUILDERS
FOR CURRENT SPECIALS
(800) 825-0316
DT Construction Established in 1977 All Workers Insured
worldwidesteelbuildings.com/living
FRE E EST I M AT ES
50 YEAR STRUCTURAL WARRANTY!
30x50x10 enclosed 12’ Slider, 1 entry door
Galvalume
40x60x14 enclosed 2 12’ sliders, 1 entry door
Galvalume
$12,000
Colored Metal $13,300 $20,000
Colored Metal $21,500
40x80x16, 2 12x14 framed overhead door openings, fully insulated in R-foil, 1 entry door
Colored Metal $32,000
40x100x16 enclosed 20’ split slider, 1 entry door
Galvalume $31,000 Colored Metal $32,000
40 years in business and thousands of satisfied customers. Call today for a reference near you!
918-527-0117
Price includes labor and material
www.DTCBarns.com S U B S C R I B E TO
Only $10 a year. Mail check or money order payable to: Kansas Electric Cooperatives, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604
26
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
SHARE WITH US!
Have an event you would like to run in Around Kansas? A story idea or comments you want to share with the editor? A recipe and photo for us to consider publishing? Let us know: f events@kansascountryliving.com f letters@kansascountryliving.com f photos@kansascountryliving.com f editor@kansascountryliving.com f recipes@kansascountryliving.com
discover kansas Continued from page 7
JUNE 7-12 Southwest Kansas Pro-
AM, Garden City. For more than 35 years Garden City has been the host for Kansas’ longest-running professional golf tournament. Enjoy different events along with the main tournament. The Golf Club at Southwind, Paige Kraus, 620-272-2177. JUNE 10-13 Prairiesta “Here’s to 150
Years,” Russell. Prairiesta celebrates Russell County’s history, heritage and culture. 507 N. Main St., 785-483-4000, www.russellcoks.org. JUNE 11-12 Swing Into Summer
Festival, Stockton. The event begins with a cruise night on Friday from 6-10 p.m. The car show begins with registration at 8 a.m. on Saturday. www.stocktonks.com. JUNE 11-13 Paradise Creek Festival
and Rodeo, Plainville. A professional rodeo, games, craft show, stage shows and more. 222 W. Mill St., 785-434-2841, www. plainvilleks.com. JUNE 12 Midsummers Festival,
POLE BARNS America’s Barn Builders Proud supporter of our military.
Serving the Entire State of Kansas
Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives of the product or services advertised.
Lindsborg. Celebrate with Swedish food, music, dancing, art, games and raising of the Midsommarstång (Midsummer Pole). 500 block S. First St., 785-227-8687, www. midsummersfestival.com. JUNE 12-18 Rocky Mountain Race Week, Great Bend. The ultimate test of drag racers, competing on quarter mile strips every day for a week in Colorado, Nebraska and Kansas. 455 W. Barton County Road, 620-792-5079, www. srcadragstrip.com. JUNE 17-19 Downs Celebration, Downs. Three evenings of live music, food, a car show, parade and more. Mandy Burda, 454-6670, downscelebration@gmail. com, downschamber.com or search Downs Chamber of Commerce on Facebook. JUNE 19 Smackdab Motorcycle Run,
Lebanon. Start in the Center 48 in Lebanon, Kansas, and travel to the Center 52 in Rugby, North Dakota, all in one day. Hwy. 9, 785-282-5110, smithcoks.com.
JUNE 19 Swing into Summer Car
Show, Stockton. Enjoy activities and live music. 102 Hwy. 24, 785-542-8430, www. stocktonks.com. JUNE 19-20 All American Catfish Tournament – Cheney Reservoir Cats, Cheney. This night fishing event takes place on Cheney Reservoir. 16000 N.E. 50th St., 620-662-3391, https://ksoutdoors. com/State-Parks/Locations/Cheney. JUNE 26 Art in the Park, Garden City. Celebration of art featuring fine art and craft vendors, live music, food and free family arts and crafts projects. JUNE 26 Jamestown 4th of July Display and BBQ, Concordia. 785-439-6621. JUNE 26 Lights on the Lake, Osawatomie. Celebration includes food vendors, a concert and fireworks. Bring attire for waterslide, sunscreen, bug spray, chairs and coolers. 32942 W. Lakeside Drive, 913-731-6317.
JULY
JULY 2 Old-Fashioned Independence
Day Celebration and Fireworks, Pittsburg. Celebrate with live music, games, food and more at Crawford State Park. 117 W. Fourth St., 620-362-3671, visitcrawfordcounty.com. JULY 3 150 Celebration and 4th of
July Fireworks, Concordia. Cloud County Fairgrounds, concordiaks.org. JULY 3 July Jubilee, Holton. Enjoy music, local cuisine and many family activities. You won’t want to miss the fireworks! 10975 Hwy. 16, 785-364-3963, www.exploreholton.com. JULY 3-4 Ruritan Club Rodeo, Hepler. Bring your hat, your boots and your appetite. 200 W. Farlington St., 620-368-4379, www.facebook.com/HeplerRuritan-428483265580.
Continued on page 30 MAY 2021
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
27
ing 200 Years Trac
of the
Grove had a prominent role on the trail. For a time, it was the last chance for traders heading southwest to get goods, services and prepare for the toughest portion of the trail. In 1825, it was Fort Union in New Mexico was established in July 1851 several miles north of the two main branches of the Santa Fe Trail. The fort protected travelers where the first treaty establishing rightalong the Santa Fe Trail, provided a resting place and refitting point for mail of-way on the trail was signed between coaches, and was the major Army supply depot in the Southwest. the U.S. government and tribes. This is the third full-length documentary Kendall has created as an independent Buchanan walking and conducting interviews producer. That means he’s funding the project while Kendall filmed. through grants, donations and sponsorships. He’s now in the editing stage and aims for a Kendall, who has a master’s degree in Media broadcast debut this September on KCPT, Kansas Anthropology from the University of Kansas, is City PBS. The two-hour film will then be available likely best known as the producer and host of the to air on other PBS stations; reach out to your public television series “Sunflower Journeys” from local station’s program director to request it. 1987 to 2015. In all the stories he filed for the Two years ago, he’d planned that the project program, he only recalls covering the Santa Fe Trail would be shown publicly for the first time during once, when the National Park Service designated it a the Symphony in the Flint Hills Signature Event, National Historic Trail in 1987. a June 12 concert by the 80-piece Kansas City He started this project in spring 2019 to give Symphony. Kendall is an emcee at the annual event himself extra time for research, and he knew organizers had planned to incorporate but the pandemic cut short bicentennial elements in addition to selecting a site the time he was able along the Santa Fe Trail. For now, he’s holding off on to film and interview scheduling any in-person screenings. in New Mexico and The documentary could eventually be available Colorado. He had online. For now, you can watch segments completed work in containing elements of his research under the Missouri before projects tab at his website, prairiehollow.net. These COVID-19 and was able are not clips from the documentary but separate to safely continue day pieces produced using some of the content he’s trips throughout Kansas, gathered in making the film. He’s also using audio though he didn’t work he and Buchanan collected to create monthly in tandem as much as segments for Kansas Public Radio; they can be he’d planned with Rex heard at kansaspublicradio.org. Buchanan, director “I didn’t have an appreciation for the emeritus of the Kansas significant part the Santa Fe Trail played in Geological Survey. American history and now I do,” Kendall said. “I They’d planned to hope that’s what people pick up from watching do more scenes with this documentary.” KCL
DAV E K E N DA L L
He’s now in the editing stage and aims for a broadcast debut this September ... 28
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
MAY 2021
NEW MEXICO TRUE
Continued from page 13
let’sdish
Grilled Warm Potato Salad with Bacon
Honey-Chipotle Pork Kabobs
Caramel Sticky Rolls
YIELD: 6 SERVINGS
YIELD: 4 SERVINGS
YIELD: 9 SERVINGS
f 6 slices bacon thick-cut, cooked until
f 1 lbs. New York (top loin) pork chops
f Nonstick cooking spray
crisp, then coarsely crumbled f 2 lbs. red new potatoes (golf-ball size), scrubbed and poked with a fork f 2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil f 4 green onions including green tops, cut crosswise into thin rounds f 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil f 1 Tbs. apple cider vinegar f 1 large clove garlic minced f 2 Tbs. fresh parsley minced f 1 tsp. kosher salt f 1/2 tsp. sugar f 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper Prepare a medium fire in a charcoal grill or preheat a gas grill on medium. In a medium bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil until well coated. Arrange potatoes around cool outer edges of grill or place on upper rack if grill is so equipped. Cover and grill potatoes until tender when pierced with a knife, about 20 minutes. While potatoes are grilling, put green onions and bacon in a large bowl, and make dressing. Combine olive oil, vinegar, garlic, parsley, salt, sugar and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside. When potatoes are tender, transfer to a cutting board and cool for 5 minutes. Cut potatoes in half and add to bacon and onions in the bowl. Stir dressing to combine and pour over potatoes. Gently toss to thoroughly combine. Serve immediately. The potato salad can be made up to 2 hours prior to serving. Cover and set aside at room temperature. E ATP ORK .ORG
about 1 inch thick, cut into 1-inch cubes f 1 sweet potato (about 12 oz.), cut into 1-inch cubes f 12 oz. small red potatoes or white potatoes, about 1 inch in diameter (or halved if 2 inches in diameter) f Salt to taste f 1/2 cup barbecue sauce f 1/2 cup honey f 3 canned chipotle chiles in adobo sauce minced, or more to taste f 12 scallions, cut into 1-inch pieces f 1/2 cup goat cheese crumbled f 1 Tbs. fresh cilantro chopped Place sweet potatoes and red or white potatoes in a medium saucepan, cover with cold water by 1 inch, and season water with salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until potatoes are cooked but still firm, 3 to 5 minutes. Drain and set aside to cool slightly. Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine barbecue sauce, honey and chipotles. Divide mixture in half and set both batches aside.
f flour, for rolling pastry f 1 frozen puff pastry, thawed f caramel sauce, divided f 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped f powdered sugar
Heat oven to 400 F. Spray muffin tin with nonstick cooking spray. Sprinkle flour on work surface. Flatten pastry sheet and roll into rectangle. Drizzle caramel sauce over pastry and spread within 1/2 inch of edges. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over caramel sauce. Starting on short end, evenly roll pastry with filling to other end. Cut pastry into nine pieces. Place pastries cut side up into muffin cups. Bake 22 minutes, or until golden brown. Immediately remove from pan to wire rack. Let cool 10 minutes. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce and dust with powdered sugar. CULINARY.NET
Thread pork, sweet potatoes, potatoes and scallions onto eight 12-inch skewers (pre-soaked in water if wood or bamboo). Prepare a grill to medium-hot heat and thoroughly oil the grate. Cook 21/2 to 3 minutes on each side, brushing with one batch of the sauce each time you turn, cooking until all four sides are charred, pork is cooked through, and the sauce is used up, about 10 minutes. Transfer skewers to a platter and set aside to rest 3 minutes. Sprinkle skewers with cheese and cilantro. Serve hot with the remaining batch of sauce on the side. E ATP ORK .ORG
MAY 2021
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
29
discover kansas
Continued from page 27
JULY 3 City Fireworks Display, Great
Bend. Bring your lawn chair and tune into 100.7 FM for musical addition to the fireworks. 1209 Williams St., 620-793-4111, www. exploregreatbend.com. JULY 4 4th of July Celebration, Fort Leavenworth. Events start at 4 p.m. with concessions, games, concert, “Salute to the Union” at 8 p.m. and fireworks at dusk. Grant Ave., 913-684-1723, https://home.army.mil/ leavenworth/index.php. JULY 4 Old-Fashioned Fourth of July, Lindsborg. Decorate strollers, wagons, bikes or yourself for the parade. Concessions start at 5 p.m.; entertainment at 6 p.m. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. 400 N. Main, 785-227-8687, www.visitlindsborg.com. JULY 10 Flea Market Festivals, Garden City. This is an outdoor festival of antiques, collectibles, arts, crafts and food that draws 60
vendors from 19 communities and neighboring states. Lee Richardson Zoo, Steve Quakenbush 620-272-3664.
run. The Salty Pup Triathlon is for youth ages 15 and younger. 9 Emerson Loop, 620-663-6179, www.hutcchrec.com.
JULY 10 Jungle Run Car Show, Garden City. Registration is from 8-11 a.m., show is from 1 a.m.-2 p.m. Lee Richardson Zoo, Jessica Northon 620-276-6243.
AUG. 7 Smoky Valley Classic Car Show, Lindsborg. Vendors, food and T-shirts located in the shade of Swensson Park. 400 N. Main, 785-227-8687, www.visitlindsborg.com/smokyvalley-classic-car-show.
JULY 17-18 Storm the Castle – Mowbray Metric Ride, Lindsborg. Storm the Castle is a gravel ride that tests your endurance on hilly gravel with a final climb up to Coronado heights for a light lunch. 104 E. Lincoln St., 620242-7133, www.visitlindsborg.com. JULY 21-24 Rodeo, Pretty Prairie. Four-day
event attended by thousands of rodeo fans from all over the world and is Kansas’ Largest Night Rodeo. 202 Elm St., 620-459-6205, www. pprodeo.com. JULY 24 Bike Brew Q, Great Bend.
Bend. Event includes obstacle mud run, mud volleyball, wet-dry parade, paint in the park, car show, mega kites, concert and fireworks. 17th & McKinley, 620-793-4111, www. exploregreatbend.com.
JULY 30-31 Czech Festival, Wilson. Join us for the Czech pageants, parade, Czech dancers, games, social garden, vendors, pong and softball tournaments, basketball, and entertainment. 785-658-2272.
AUG. 26-27 Tumbleweed Festival,
AUGUST
Buhler. Spend as much time as needed taking pictures and exploring. 13209 E. 82nd Ave., 620543-3073, www.kansasmaze.com. Garden City. Enjoy professional music groups playing jazz, rock, Latino, South African, Caribbean, Sydeco, folk, bluegrass and more. Lee Richardson Zoo, tumbleweedfestival.com, Tumbleweed Festival on Facebook. AUG. 27-29 The Big Dig, Concordia. See historic construction equipment and steam engines at work. South of Concordia, 785-2434303, cloudcountytourism.com.
AUG. 4-7 Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo, Abilene. Over 500 cowboys and cowgirls compete for over $37,500 in prize money, plus entertaining specialty acts between events. 619 N. Rogers, Fairgrounds, 785-263-4570, www.ckff.net.
AUG. 28 Brews on the Bricks Craft Beer
AUG. 5-7 Kansas Biggest Rodeo, Phillipsburg. See world champion rodeo cowboys and cowgirls duke it out with young gun contenders. Hwy. 183, 785-543-2448, www. phillipsrooks.ksu.edu.
AUG. 28 Miltonvale Tootlefest,
AUG. 7 Salty Dog/Salty Pup Triathlon, Hutchinson. Sprint triathlon distances include: 400-meter swim, 10.5-mile bike, 3.1-mile
MAY 2021
AUG. 14 Party in the Park, Great
AUG. 21-SEPT. 11 Sunflower Festival,
Nickerson. Fun for everyone. 11 N. Nickerson St., 620-960-6463, www.nickersonks.org.
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
Celebration includes the time capsule, corn hole, horseshoes, pickle ball tournaments, free swim, barbecue and festivities all day. Concordia City Park, concordiaks.org.
Event includes cycling, craft brew expo and barbecue food trucks. All proceeds go to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. www. exploregreatbend.com.
JULY 31-AUG. 1 Klear Nearly Days,
30
AUG. 14 150 Celebration Day, Concordia.
Festival, Hays. A premier craft beer event that enables breweries from across the region to showcase their beers. It also features food vendors, live music and games. 1200 Main St., 785-621-4171. Miltonvale. miltonvaleks.com. AUG. 28 Yoder Heritage Day, Yoder. Tractor pulls, horse-drawn events, parade down Main Street, quilt auction, buggy races, food and entertainment. 9816 S. Main, 620-728-1223, www.yoderkansas.com. KCL
ADVA NCED DIGITA L HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY Now Rechargeable!
BUY 1 GET 1
FREE Only $ 299 99 Reg: $599.98
Each When You Buy a Pair – LIMITED TIME ONLY!
How can a rechargeable hearing aid that costs only $29999 be every bit as good as one that sells for $2,400 or more?
The answer: Although tremendous strides have
“I was amazed! Sounds I hadn’t heard in years came back to me!”
— Don W., Sherman, TX
CHARGE AT NIGHT AND GO ALL DAY NOW WATER RESISTANT
been made in Advanced Digital Hearing Aid Technology, those cost reductions have not been passed on to you. Until now...
NEW
The MDHearingAid® VOLT+ uses the same kind of Advanced Digital RECHARGEABLE Hearing Aid Technology incorporated into hearing Charging Case aids that cost thousands more at a small fraction of the price. 30-Hour Battery Life Water Resistant to 3 Feet Over 600,000 satisfied MDHearingAid customers agree: High-quality, digital, FREE Limited Time BONUS OFFER FDA-registered rechargeable hearing $100 aids don’t have to cost a fortune. The fact is, Additional Charging Case Value! you don’t need to spend thousands for a hearing aid. MDHearingAid is a medical45-DAY RISK-FREE TRIAL! grade, digital, rechargeable hearing aid If you are not completely satisfied with offering sophistication and high performance, your MDHearingAids, return them and works right out of the box with no timewithin 45 days for a FULL REFUND! consuming “adjustment” appointments. For the Lowest Price Call You can contact a licensed hearing specialist conveniently online or by phone — even after your purchase at no cost. No other Nearly Invisible company provides such extensive support. www.MDVolt.com Now that you know...why pay more?
1-800-977-5541 Use Code
DOCTOR DESIGNED | AUDIOLOGIST TESTED | FDA REGISTERED
RY56
and get FREE Shipping
K E E P YO U R FA M I LY S A F E KEC and Kansas’ electric cooperatives urge readers to slow down and take simple precautions to avoid electrical-related fires, injuries, property loss and fatalities. See inside for details.
Y OWNED FAMIL
H
KANSAS PROUD SINCE 1917
LUMBER AND HOME IMPROVEMENT
GET YOUR NEW BUILDING We specialize in:
Post Frame Buildings Horse Barns Work Shops Pole Barns
5,999
$
Materials only
18' x 30' x 9' 9" Post Frame Package Customize your building just the way you want it. We have many options available! Skylights, insulation, cupola, horse stalls, weathervane and much more! Pricing may vary due to county codes. Price good through May 21, 2021
Quality Materials • Energy Efficient • Best Value Design Software • On Time • We Listen To Your Needs Start Building Today! Easy Financing Options
Get A FREE Quote sutherlands.com
sutherlands.com/credit-card
VISIT ANY OF OUR KANSAS LOCATIONS OR GO ONLINE sutherlands.com DODGE CITY
1510 Soule St. 620-371-0751
EL DORADO
2850 W. Central Ave 316-322-7788
GREAT BEND 5520 10th St. 620-792-2900
OLATHE
16665 W. 151st. St. 816-681-5998
TOPEKA
2210 NW Tyler St. 785-232-3900
WICHITA
2263-2273 N. Amidon St. 316-838-8200
FOLLOW US sutherlands_buildings