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JUNE
“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook.
F E AT U R E S
D E PA RT M E N T S
12 | ‘Humanity at its Best’
4 |
When Dennis Ruhnke decided to do what he and his wife, Sharon, do best — help others, the nation and the world took notice. The Kansas farmer’s simple gesture to share an N95 mask with New York frontline healthcare workers became the pandemic’s symbol for “paying it forward.”
14 | Value of the Journey
6 | 8 | 9 |
E D I TO R’S L E T T E R
Kansas farmer feeds the world A RO U N D K A N S A S
Some events resume CO M M E N TA RY
Lens of opportunity K A N S A S C RO S S W O R D
Famous Kansans and other facts How much do you know about Kansas?
Whether sitting in the back of a truck bed on a rise in the Flint Hills to watch the sunset or canoeing through the overhanging cottonwoods dotting the banks of a lazy stream, we journey not as much for the sunset or stream as we do to reflect on our human experience.
10 |
E N E RGY W I S E
An audit you will actually want
Start with a home energy audit to find savings.
16 |
12
T H E P R E S I D E N T ’S P E N
Keep movin’ on
Setbacks shouldn’t stop forward progress.
20 |
YO U R P L AC E I N T H E G A R D E N
Books create gardening adventures Find a cozy garden spot for reading.
24 |
CO O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E
Taking tea to the limit
THE KANSAS CHIEF
The ultimate refresher gets a makeover.
26 | 28 | 29 |
M A R K E T P L AC E
New products to meet your needs SAFETY
Is your electrical system overloaded? M O N T H LY R E C I P E S
Easy and tasty
From casseroles to sweet endings.
ON THE COVER
14
We are all on the same team. P H OTOS CO U RT ESY K A N S A S T R AV E L A N D TO U R I S M A N D G E T T Y I M A G E S . I L L U S T R AT I O N BY C A R R I E K I M B E R L I N .
JUNE 2020
AMER
TH BEAUICA TIFULE
‘Humanit at its Bes y Kansas farm t’ er unites the world Value the Jouof rney ‘Running towards life’
JUNE 2020 | BROUG HT
TO YOU BY ROLLIN G
HILLS ELECTR IC CO-OP | WWW. KEC.CO
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
3
OP
E D I TO R’S L E T T E R
(ISSN 0091-9586) JUNE 2020 VOL. 70, NO. 6 ©KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2020 WWW.KEC.COOP
One Kansas Farmer Feeds the World
Lee Tafanelli
Chief Executive Officer
Vicki Estes
Director of Communications, Editor
Carrie Kimberlin
Manager of Creative Solutions
Shaylee Arpin
or out of the ordinary for him, or his wife, maybe a Friday. It could Sharon. A retired farmer and a retired have been a Monday. It’s easy teacher, giving of oneself is an extension to lose track when you are of their vocations and a way of life. working from home and the Kansas Country Living is honored to biggest change day-in and share with our readers the article beginday-out is your shirt and ning on Page 12, “Humanity at its Best.” your mind about whether Writer MeLinda Schnyder includes a that shirt is OK to wear for collection of the fraction of responses your next video conference the Ruhnke’s have received from across call. But the date of April 24, 2020, will the country and beyond. It just may not leave my mind anytime soon. A be what you need at this time. The news junkie since a young age, I genRuhnke’s were certainly what the world erally tune into critical news updates needed on April 24. KCL while I work. This day I was fortunate to watch live as New York Governor Andrew Cuomo read aloud the letter he received from Dennis Ruhnke, a retired VICKI ESTES, EDITOR Troy, Kansas, farmer. The overwhelming feeling of pride, of knowing that the world now knows what you’ve known your entire life — Kansans are compassionate, caring people. And that one beautiful act of sharing, of unselfish kindness, can bring joy to others when they need it most. That it can bring hope. That it can unite. Dennis’ now famous gesture of donating an N95 In this April 24, 2020, photo, New York Governor mask to a New York healthAndrew M. Cuomo addresses the media while holding an N95 mask sent to him by Dennis Ruhnke, of Troy. care worker was nothing
Multimedia Communications Specialist
IT WAS A THURSDAY
Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.
Terry Hobbs
President
Vacant
Vice President
Teresa Miller Secretary
Kirk Thompson
THE OFFICE OF GOVERNOR ANDREW M. CUOMO
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 DS&O, 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 Tri-County, 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
JUNE 2020
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THROUGH JULY 17 Friday Nights Municipal Band Concerts in
Stevens Park, Garden City. B ring your lawn chair and enjoy the weekly concert at 7:30 p.m. each Friday. 502 N. Main St., Stevens Park. JUNE 6-7 Dinger Derby, Garden City. T his annual baseball
tournament welcomes 10U through 16U players. Teams from western Kansas and eastern Colorado. Garden City Baseball Fields, Jared Rutti 620-276-1200. JUNE 13-JULY 25 Saturday Nights GCRC Stevens Park Concert
Please check prior to the scheduled date of an event to make sure it has not been canceled due to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus) concerns. JUNE 27 Four Person Golf Scramble, Fredonia. R egistration opens
at 8 a.m., shotgun at 9 a.m. Hosted by the Friends of the Tri-Valley Developmental Foundation. Fredonia Golf Club, Tricia 620-431-7401 ext. 230.
and Silver Screen, Garden City. B ring your blanket or lawn chair to concerts and a family friendly movie every second, third and fourth Saturday from 6-11 p.m. 502 N. Main St., Stevens Park, 620-276-1200, gcrec.com.
JULY TBD Storm the Castle, a Mowbray Metric Ride,
JUNE 20 Midsummer’s Festival, Lindsborg. W atch www. midsummersfestival.com for COVID-19 updates. A Swedish national holiday celebrated with live entertainment, food, children’s activities, blomkrans (crown of flowers), the raising of the Midsommarstång (midsummer pole), a Kubb tournament and more. Downtown Lindsborg, 785-227-8687, www. midsummersfestival.com.
JULY 2-4 Downs Celebration, Downs. E njoy three days of Moore’s
JUNE 26-28 Jim Clanton Memorial Baseball Tournament,
Garden City. T eams 19U, 16U and 14U welcome to the 30th annual baseball tournament. Garden City Baseball Fields, Jared Rutti 620-276-1200.
LINDSBORG
Lindsborg. T he Mowbray Metric Weekend is an annual celebration with three rides over two days. This is a gravel ride that tests your endurance on hilly gravel with a final climb to Coronado Heights. 785-227-8687, www. mowbraymetric.com. Greater Shows Carnival. Three evenings of live music, food, a Lions Club parade and more. Mandy Burda 785-454-6670, downscelebration@gmail. com, downschamber.com. JULY 4 City of Fredonia Fireworks Show, Fredonia. B egins at dark, free to the public. Pryor Football Stadium.
make the memories li le sweden usa tt
www.VisitLindsborg.com
Visit Lindsborg 6
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE 2020
JULY 4 Municipal Band Concert and Fireworks, Garden City. C elebrate the holiday with music and fireworks at 8 p.m. 312 E. Finnup Dr., Lee Richardson Zoo. JULY 4 Old-fashioned Fourth of July, Lindsborg. F ree and open to the public. Parade begins at 5 p.m. in the Swensson Park Gazebo, entertainment at 6 p.m. in the bandshell with finale from the Lindsborg Community Band. Bleacher seating or bring your favorite lawn chairs and blankets. 400 Block N. Main St., 785-227-8687, facebook.com/ LindsborgFrontPorchFriday. JULY 10 Food Trucks and Events, Garden City. E njoy fabulous food
from multiple food trucks! 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 502 N. Main St., Stevens Park, 620-276-0891, gcdowntown.com.
JULY 11 Flea Market Festivals of Antiques, Collectables, Arts
and Crafts, Garden City. T his outdoor festival features 60 vendors from 19 communities offering a variety of goods. Lee Richardson Zoo, Steve Quakenbush 620-272-3664. JULY 11 Jungle Run Car Show, Garden City. R egistration from
8-11 a.m., show from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Lee Richardson Zoo, Jessica Norton 620-276-6243.
AUG. 8 Banner Art Project Art Walk, Garden City. G et an up close look at the banners that will be in the Banner Art Auction and participate in a scavenger hunt. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Main St., Downtown, 620276-0891, gcdowntown.com. AUG. 15 Street Dance, Lindsborg. B ring the family, your lawn chair, and get ready to dance the night away for our annual street dance. 100 block S. Main St., 785-227-8687, visitlindsborg.com/lindsborg-street-dance. AUG. 22 Demolition Derby, Fredonia. B egins at 7 p.m. Wilson
County Fairgrounds.
AUG. 21-22 Tumbleweed Festival, Garden City. C ountry, rock, American and folk music festival. 312 E. Finnup Dr., Lee Richardson Zoo, 620-290-1011, tumbleweedfestival.com. SEPT. 11 Friday Food Trucks and Events, Garden City. E njoy fabulous food trucks! 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 502 N. Main St., Stevens Park, 620-2760891, gcdowntown.com. SEPT. 21-27 Endless Footdrag International Paramotor Event, Fredonia. E vent coincides with Wilson County Old Iron Days. Wilson County Old Iron Club. KCL
JULY 17-18, 24-25 Broadway RFD presents “The Music Man,” Lindsborg. W atch the show at the longestrunning outdoor theatre in Kansas, begins at 8:30 p.m. in the Swensson Park bandshell. Bring your lawn chair. 400 Block N. Main St., 785-2278687, broadwayrfd.org. JULY 22-26 Wilson County Fair and Rodeo, Fredonia. JULY 25 Summer Sidewalk Sale, Garden
City. F ind great bargains from our downtown merchants. Downtown Garden City. AUG. 1 Smoky Valley Classic Car Show,
Lindsborg. D ash plaques are awarded to the first 125 entries. Located in Swensson Park from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. with nearby shopping, galleries and restaurants. 400 block N. Main St., 785-227-8687, visitlindsborg.com/smoky-valleyclassic-car-show. AUG. 7 First Friday Food Trucks and
Events, Garden City. E njoy fabulous food trucks from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 502 N. Main St., Stevens Park, 620-276-0891, gcdowntown.com. AUG. 7 Traditions Soda and Sandwich
Shop Car Show, Garden City. C ar show and music 6-9 p.m. West Laurel St.
JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
7
C O M M E N TA RY
Looking Through the Lens of Opportunity
Lee Tafanelli
Even as Memorial Day approached, it was clear we could not gather as a unified nation or as mourning families to honor the men and women who died while wearing the cloth of this nation.
BY L E E TA FA N E L L I
AFTER 30 DAYS ON THE JOB as CEO of Kansas two simple questions: Are we providing value Electric Cooperatives, Inc., I’ve had time to reflect to our member cooperatives? Are we making a on the challenges and opportunities that lie difference every day? ahead as I begin this new chapter in my life while Many of you are facing tough times, with navigating uncharted territory of a pandemic — as interruption of work and upheavals in family all of us are. schedules. Social distancing alone, in which we Thirty-nine years serving in the U.S. military haven’t been able to celebrate family milestones as well as the last nine years as the state’s adjutant — weddings, graduations, births, and the lives general has certainly prepared me to manage of loved ones who have passed — has added through the unfamiliar and overcome obstacles, additional burden to what we already are carrying just as your electric cooperatives have done since through this pandemic. Even as Memorial Day their inception. Your cooperative’s commitment approached, it was clear we could not gather as a to providing power to nearly 75% of our state’s unified nation or as mourning families to honor territory is just as strong in 2020 as it was in 1938 the men and women who died while wearing when Brown-Atchison Electric Cooperative began the cloth of this nation. This somber occasion of stringing wire and Brown County became the remembering those who paid the ultimate price first county in Kansas to receive service. for our freedom became “virtual” observances in The COVID-19 pandemic has presented Kansas many cases. Nonetheless, we carried on because electric cooperatives with first-time challenges, we must and because optimism brings positivity and they’ve met them head on. Your electric and joy to even the most difficult situations. cooperatives and their leadership have responded I prefer to view challenging situations through with decisions that protect the health and wellthe lens of opportunity, and I envision the being of co-op members, employees and the prospects for prosperity on the horizon. Success communities they serve. They have taken and for KEC, Kansas electric cooperatives and our continue to take steps to be prepared in the event rural communities will require collaboration, there is a significant and ongoing impact from the communication and coordination between all of coronavirus in our communities. They are focused us, whether in-person or virtually. KCL on maintaining a healthy workforce and keeping key personnel — such as lineworkers and member LEE TAFANELLI is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. in Topeka. service representatives — available to continue to provide the excellent service you expect. Outgoing KEC CEO Bruce Graham, who retired after 8 years with KEC and 30 years dedicated to the electric cooperative industry, left a legacy for us to build on. KEC, its member cooperatives, and you — the consumermembers we all serve — benefited from Graham’s leadership and passion for advocating for the electric cooperative industry and the rural way of life. I will continue his dedication to putting our cooperatives and their members first. As I lead KEC in its service to the Kansas electric cooperatives who serve you — our readers — discussions and decisions will be based on answering Despite recent and ongoing challenges, opportunities will bring the
prospect of prosperity.
8
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE 2020
Famous Kansans Crossword Across 1
City on the Kansas River
Photojournalist from Kansas, Eugene ____
4
7 Jayhawks’ e-mail address ending 9
Very long time
10 Kansan who played “Mammy” in Gone with the Wind, Hattie____ 11
Santa’s helper
12
Super Bowl hero in 2020
Packers’ wide receiver who received all-American honors while at Kansas State
13
15 Aircraft, engine parts and beef cuts are some of Kansas’ major ____ 18 It was explored by the early settlers, the ___
Kansas winter weather phenomenon
20
23 Starting point at Colbert Hills golf club 24
Play the role of
Frank Clark got a key one at fourth down in the Super Bowl
25
26 Mahomes scores many, abbr. 27
Arkansas tributary
30
Have a debt to
32
London’s continent, abbr.
Fort that’s a historic site in Pawnee County 33
____ Naismith, inventor of basketball, who taught basketball at University of Kansas 34
Down Unofficial Kansas nickname, 3 words 1
Historic Trail that passes through Kansas- a horseback mail operation, 2 words
2
3
Dole’s running mate, 1996
Kansas highest point, Mount ____
4 5
Anger
6
Time period, for short
7
Garden of ___: in Lucas, KS
___ Dennis, Dep. Commissioner of Kansas State Dept. of Education: named Kansan of the year 2019 by Native Sons and Daughters of Kansas 8
Children’s Mercy Park feature
14
Critter with a black face mask, common in Kansas
16 17
Little trial drink
Agricultural product of Kansas
19 21
Shoe retailer, last name
22
Salon’s need
First name of the Royals World Series winning coach in 2015
27
28
“.... to shining ___”
29
Mineral to be mined
31
“__ are the champions”
ANSWERS CAN BE FOUND ON PAGE 27
E N E R GY W I S E
The Kind of Audit You Actually Want
BY PAT K E E G A N A N D B R A D T H I E S S E N
D E AR PAT AN D B R AD : I need to reduce my
A I RT I G H T J U N K I ES
A N DY H A R P E R , 6 0 I M E D I A P RO D U C T I O N S
MARCELA GARA, RESOURCE MEDIA
energy costs and don’t know where to start. You often recommend a home energy audit. What will an audit tell me? – Jacob D E AR JACO B : You’ve nailed it! A home energy audit is the perfect place to start if you want to reduce your energy bills or make your home more comfortable. An audit can also help you decide whether to invest in a new energy source like a solar array, or a new heating and cooling system like a heat pump, or whether it’s time to upgrade your current system. It’s possible to conduct your own energy audit using a website or app. Online and app audits are great tools you can use to learn about energy use and potential efficiency upgrades. A comprehensive, in-person energy audit provides much more information, but because most of us are staying at home and practicing social distancing, an online audit is currently the safest option. When it’s safe to have visitors in your home, there are typically two options for an in-home energy audit. The least expensive is a home energy survey, sometimes referred to as a “walk-through” audit that
10
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE 2020
is essentially a visual inspection. If you have modest goals about what you want to learn from an energy audit, and if you are fortunate enough to find an experienced and knowledgeable professional, this type of audit might meet your needs. The second, more comprehensive energy audit requires more time and uses several diagnostic tools. The average cost for this type of audit is about $400. Check with your local electric cooperative to see if they offer energy audits or provide a discount or rebate. A comprehensive energy audit will look at four main areas. The first is the envelope of your home, which includes all the places where the exterior and interior meet — roof, walls, doors, windows and foundation. A critical tool for testing the envelope is a blower door test, which has a powerful fan that is mounted in an exterior door frame and used to de-pressurize the home. The auditor can then identify how well-sealed your home is and locate any air leaks. Some auditors will work with you to seal leaks and continue to take blower door readings as the home is tightened up. One advantage of this approach is avoiding excessive air sealing. It’s possible, in some homes, to tighten the home too much, so the energy auditor can determine when to stop sealing leaks so that a healthy supply of air infiltration is maintained. Another tool auditors will use to look at your building envelope is a thermal imaging camera, which shows hot and cold spots that pinpoint exactly where insulation is needed on walls and ceilings. The camera works best Far left: A blower door test measures air leakage in your home. Upper left: A contractor seals ductwork with duct mastic. Lower left: Energy Auditor D. Michael Ingram from Green Collar Crew inspects insulation in the attic of a single family home.
when the exterior temperature is much colder or much warmer than the interior temperature. The second focus of the audit is your home’s HVAC (furnace/AC unit) system and water heater to see how energy efficient they are and whether they should be replaced. If your home has air ducts, the auditor can conduct a duct blaster test to see if your ducts are properly sealed. Ducts located in unheated areas are often a major source of energy loss. The third area the auditor will review includes other energy end use, such as lighting, appliances and other “plugged-in” devices. The auditor may also suggest steps like energy efficient lighting or a smart thermostat. The fourth area included in a comprehensive energy audit is health and safety. Does your home have the correct number and placement of smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors? Should your basement be tested for radon emissions? Make sure you get answers to these questions. Some audits include a sophisticated energy analysis of your home using energy modeling software. These analyses can rank the different energy efficiency opportunities in your home from most- to least cost-effective. This will tell you how much you can save if you invest in all of the suggested costeffective upgrades. After the energy audit is complete, the auditor should sit down with you and explain the findings in detail. This conversation should include a discussion of ways to operate your home to achieve more energy savings and more comfort. A home energy audit may seem like an unnecessary expense, but it truly can save you money in the long run because it helps to ensure every dollar you put into energy efficiency pays for itself. KCL This column was co-written by PAT KEEGAN and BRAD THIESSEN of Collaborative Efficiency. For more information on getting a home energy audit, please visit: www. collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips.
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JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
11
‘Humanity at its
Best
’
BY M E L I N DA S C H N Y D E R
Kansas farmer reminds the world we’re on the same team against COVID-19
Words count. That’s the lesson Dennis Ruhnke says he’s learned since a letter he sent to the governor of New York turned his generally quiet existence on a farm in northeast Kansas into an extended 15 minutes of fame, giving the 72-year-old retired farmer an unexpected and mostly unwanted celebrity status. Gov. Andrew Cuomo read Dennis’ letter at his press briefing broadcast on national television on April 24 and posted a photo of the handwritten note on social media, calling it an example of “humanity at its best.” That triggered an avalanche of media requests that had Dennis and wife Sharon’s phone ringing for two weeks straight. It also sparked online comments, and when folks couldn’t find the Ruhnkes on social media, they found their oldest son Josh, who began collecting comments to share with his parents. Letters — somewhere around 100 at last count — are still arriving via mail at their home in Troy, less than 20 miles from the Kansas-Missouri border. It wasn’t simply words, though, that got reactions from Cuomo, international media and people from around the world. It was Dennis’ action and timing. Seeing the daily news accounts that New York didn’t have enough N95 masks, Dennis decided to send an extra he had along
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE 2020
with the meaningful one-page handwritten letter that managed to unite people by reminding them that we’re all in this together despite our political beliefs, whether we are in a rural or urban setting and whether we live on a coast or in the middle of the country. “This was never a political statement, it was just my dad wanting to help,” Josh said. “And this has gone far beyond what we ever thought it would. When you get a person from the Netherlands or the Philippines wanting to say hello or send their gratitude, it’s amazing because you realize that you’ve expanded past the boundaries of race, gender, creed, nationality, all of it.”
A Simple Gesture from the Heartland
During an early May telephone conversation, Dennis tells me he is sitting on the family farm, enjoying an area that he calls his sanctuary: a small pond he rebuilt and considers his favorite fishing spot.
Please tell your parents thank you for their kindness and for counting all Americans as their neighbors.
all I ever bought when I was a farmer and I thought I might have a few left. I went to the farm and dug around the drawers and found five unused masks, still in the box.” He kept one for himself, Sharon, his son Cory who lives on the farm and Cory’s girlfriend. Sharon reached out to her niece who is a paramedic to see if she wanted the extra mask, but her team had enough personal protective equipment. As Dennis thought of who needed it most, he thought of Cuomo, who was on the news daily giving updates about the city’s struggle in battling COVID-19. Admittedly, Dennis had no idea how to send something to a governor. He doesn’t use the internet for much more than research, but in this case he scored the mailing address for Cuomo. He packaged the mask in a Hills Bros. cappuccino box and added the letter that he wrote on a sheet from a lined notepad. “I decided to put my name on the box at the last moment because I didn’t want it to end up in a dead letter office,” he said. “Just in case it didn’t go anyplace else, it Continued on page 17
THE KANSAS CHIEF
“I’m staring right now at two geese who come visit me every spring and have their young’uns,” he said. “Their babies are out there swimming around them right now. If I look to the north there’s a blue heron standing on the bank. This is where me and my dogs come to chill.” The Ruhnkes are members of Doniphan Electric Cooperative and Dennis is a past board member. They’ve lived in the same house on 50 acres for going on five decades. It’s about a mile from the 200-acre farm where Dennis’ parents moved in 1948, two months before he was born. Dennis retired from farming corn and soybean crops about five years ago, and Sharon is retired from a 45-yearcareer teaching public school. He reads often and is also a news junkie, flipping through CNN, Fox and MSNBC throughout the day. In late March, nearly all he was seeing on television was coverage of how bad things were in New York. “At that time, they were almost pleading for masks,” he said. “People in New York City were dying because they didn’t have these N95 masks. That’s
R U H N K E F A M I LY
Dennis and Sharon Ruhnke, Doniphan Electric Cooperative members, have managed “an avalanche” of media requests since New York Governor Andrew Cuomo read Dennis’ letter to him during an April 24 press briefing. They’ve also received around 100 letters — and counting. JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
13
THE VALUE OF THE
OVER THE
BY D R . T Y F R E D E R I C K S O N
we tend to appreciate the elusive beauty of our world. This intimate understanding of our countryside is a healthy reminder that what we seek often differs from what we actually discover. My love for reading has often clarified this distinction between the journey and the destination. For example, when I was 19 and in the U.S. Navy, I read an essay about two young men who had graduated high school and set off for the West Coast with the intention to join the service. They never made it, but they understood that while their stated destination was unrealized, they had come to know themselves in their pursuit of it. The narrator admits that they “were not running away from something so much as they were running towards something: towards life, towards themselves, towards an end that cannot be known.” Kansans intimately understand this feeling. Whether sitting in the back of a truck bed on a rise in the Flint Hills to watch the sunset or canoeing through the overhanging cottonwoods dotting the banks of a lazy stream, we journey not as much for the sunset or stream as we do to reflect on our human experience. How fortunate we are to be in a place that allows us so many opportunities to “run . . . towards life!” That “the end cannot be known” on our treks into the countryside makes our discoveries that much sweeter. I was reminded of the value of the journey over the destination a few days ago when my two sons and I joined a friend in separate boats. He led us from our lake’s main body up the rippling current of a narrow, winding tributary to locate the white bass spawn. In mid-to-late April, as the water begins to warm, these fish migrate up the creeks where the females lay their eggs. If you are looking for an opportunity to ignite a child’s love for fishing, these places are prime locations to feel
AS KANSANS,
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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the thrill of catching an abundance of fish. And although our boats are small 16-foot flat-bottoms, most Kansas lakes are fed by streams just like the one we fish that are easily accessible by foot. In fact, we tie off a half-mile upstream and walk the sloping drop-offs of the bank and through the quiet woods to pristine bends that hold the promise of a full stringer. Like most who set out on a fishing trip, our goal was to catch fish. And, we did. However, we talk little about the number of white bass we either catch or keep. Rather, our reflections the next morning, and in the days that follow, focus on the joyous feeling of being securely free in our world, as individuals and together. We take pictures with our catch to remind our future selves of our good fortune. But it will not be the fish in these photos that stimulate our memories of our time together. What will, however, is the sheer joy the Kansas countryside offers us on our journeys of self-discovery. Along the creeks, in the woods, and at peace with the world, we are learning profound lessons about who we are and what we may become. Isn’t this what we are all “running towards?” That, although what we find “cannot be known,” by venturing into Kansas’ elusive beauty, we come to know ourselves and build meaningful relationships with others? Having access to some of the world’s most vibrant sunsets and waterways is pretty sweet too. These are certainly among the greatest privileges of being a Kansan. Stay safe. Be well. See you in the country. KCL grew up in Kansas and Australia. He is a graduate of Emporia State University, Wichita State University, and Wilkes University where he is an assistant professor. He is a FreeState Electric Cooperative member and a U.S. Navy veteran.
DR. TY FREDERICKSON
... it will not be the fish in these photos that stimulate our memories of our time together.
JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
15
THE PRESIDENT ’S PEN
Through it All, Keep Moving On
BY T E R RY H O B B S
in describing the pandemic? There has been a plethora of descriptions, definitions and opinions on the subject. I don’t want to belabor the topic because, frankly, that’s all we’ve heard about for quite some time. I do think about all the things I’ve missed. Similar to so many others I missed junior high, high school and college graduations. I missed a grandson’s Eagle Scout ceremony and holding a new baby granddaughter. I missed the spring sporting events and the opening of baseball season. I miss handshakes and hugs. I miss going to the store to get toilet paper without even thinking about it. One thing I really missed was the opportunity to attend the Change of Honor Ceremony scheduled in early April for Adjutant General Lee Tafanelli. General Tafanelli ended a 39-year military career, giving his service to this country. Lee has accepted the role of CEO of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. We are very fortunate as members and consumers of electric cooperatives to have the leadership and vision that Tafanelli brings to our organization. WHAT ARE YOUR FIRST THOUGHTS
Terry Hobbs
Enjoy the moment, be thankful for what we have, remember to stop and smell the roses, and keep moving on!
As we continue to grow with our experiences, we can look forward to new opportunities. I like moving ahead and setting new goals and achievements. I like new ideas and cultivating new concepts. For me, it serves a mandatory purpose in retaining some form of sanity in the ups and downs. Looking ahead and remaining positive keeps me going. Hank Snow was a pioneer in the music industry, and was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. One of his most popular songs dealt with setbacks. The song was titled “I’m Moving On.” No matter our occupation, profession or life journey, we need to keep “movin’ on.” Literally as we move forward in a society that measures time in nanoseconds, the need is now more than ever to take more time for friends, associates and coworkers. Enjoy the moment, be thankful for what we have, remember to stop and smell the roses, and keep moving on! 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.
S TAY S A F E
When storms are rolling your way
The COVID-19 pandemic can present challenges for individuals who must take cover in a community shelter during a tornado. Be proactive before a storm. Ensure your community shelter will be open and assess other available shelter options if necessary. Remember, don’t let the threat of potential virus exposure outweigh the immediate threat of an approaching tornado. Take shelter when necessary. Brought to you by the electric cooperatives of Kansas.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE 2020
‘Humanity at its Best’ Continued from page 13
would at least come back to me and I could try sending it to someone else.” Even if it did get delivered, Dennis didn’t expect the governor to ever see it. In fact, he started the letter: “Dear Mr. Cuomo, I seriously doubt that you will ever read this letter as I know you are busy beyond belief with the disaster that has befallen our country.” Cuomo did see the letter and he read it to a national audience, then shared a photo of the letter on his social media channels, omitting the couple’s last name. When Josh heard that opening line, though, he knew who wrote it. “Without seeing the letter, I recognized my dad’s style of writing right away,” said Josh, who has lived in Arizona for the past 20 years. “He pretty much always starts out everything with ‘you’re probably not going to read this but …’” While others appeared amazed at his parents coming up with the idea and actually going to the effort of mailing the mask, Josh said his family and friends know this is just his mom and dad being themselves. “They’ve always acted this way and they’ve always been giving like this because you don’t go into farming and teaching for glory or money,” he said, recounting other efforts he’s witnessed, including pulling people’s vehicles out of ditches during storms, turning the farm office into a day care when employees needed to bring their kids to work and building a makeshift tent in a pasture to cover an ailing horse during a rainstorm and staying with the animal through the night. Cuomo’s commentary after reading the letter explained why he was moved to share it: “A farmer in northeast Kansas. His wife has one lung and diabetes. He has five masks, he sends one mask to New York for a doctor or a nurse … talk about a snapshot of humanity … How beautiful is that? I mean, how selfless is that? How giving is that?”
R U H N K E F A M I LY
Reactions to the Letter
Learning that Cuomo not only saw the letter but shared the letter publicly was a surprise for the Ruhnkes, and they never would have imagined the reaction from around the world. The story has been told by every major news outlet. Dennis is hearing from college roommates he’s not talked to in decades, and the couple takes calls from former neighbors and farmhands. Josh believes it was a glimmer of hope in a sea of gloom and doom that the world needed. “Dad sent the letter right at the time when everything was bad in the news — death tolls, infection rates and don’t touch each other — and people were craving good news,” he said. Josh made a public Facebook post to allow strangers — or long lost friends — to reach out. FROM NEW YORK: “Every day I hear one bad thing after another — death and sorrow. Your dad’s letter brightened my day. If they ever make it to NY I’d love to take them for a beer.” FROM CALIFORNIA: “To Dennis Ruhnke, retired farmer, Kansas: Sir, I was in tears while your letter was being read. You strengthened people’s faith in humanity. You showed kindness and generosity in the midst of the pain and ugliness around us. You are what America’s greatness is all about. You made me proud to be an American. Thank you!” Continued on page 22 JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
17
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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
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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. T h at’s b e cau s e for s e n i o r s b o r n b e fo r e 1956, it’s a deal too good to pass up. Starting at precisely 8:3 0a m th is mor n i n g the Pre-Store Release begins for the sleek new me d ica l a ler t dev ice t h at come s w it h t he e xc lu s i ve Fa s t He lp™ One-Touch E 911 Button that instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere cel l ser v ice 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 a nd come w ith hefty bills every month. Fa stHelp comes w ith state-of-the-art cellular embedded technolog y. ■ FLYING OUT THE DOOR: Trucks are being loaded with the new medical alert devices called FastHelp. They are now being delivered to That mea ns it works lucky seniors who call the National Rebate Center Hotline at 1-866-964-2952 Ext. HELP2023 today. Everyone is calling to get FastHelp, the sleek new (Continued on next page)
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YO U R P L A C E I N T H E G A R D E N
Books Create Gardening Adventures
Cynthia Domenghini, Ph.D.
A place to hang a hammock, an outdoor couch or even a patch of lawn with some throw pillows can be an inviting space to take an adventure through a book.
20
BY C Y N T H I A D O M E N G H I N I , P H . D .
WITH THE ARRIVAL OF SUMMER and travel restricand establishing a healthy landscape that can also tions still in place it’s time to get creative with feed the wildlife. our explorations. Grab a great book and virtually Consider how you can create a reading nook travel to another garden using your imagination. within your garden. A place to hang a hammock, Children’s books can present insightful themes an outdoor couch or even a patch of lawn with and experiences along with delightful images. some throw pillows can be an inviting space to Here are a few of my favorite children’s books take an adventure through a book. You may even that engage my imagination and help me to think add an outdoor library by securing a weatherproof of gardening differently. box, such as a mailbox, in the garden. You can “Miss Rumphius,” written and illustrated by stock it with books to encourage readers to take a Barbara Cooney, explores the relationship between break and enjoy a journey. a young girl and grandfather and the advice he Though we can’t physically visit all of the lovely gave her to make the world a more beautiful place. gardens we would like to see right now, we can As a grown woman, Miss Rumphius explored take this time to focus on learning and growing. many beautiful areas of the world and wondered Even children’s books can offer a new perspective how she could bring anymore beauty. She settled and approach to gardening. KCL on the idea of scattering lupine seeds everywhere she went. This simple action allowed everyone to CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI is an instructor and coordinator for K-State’s horticultural therapy online enjoy the beauty of the blooming flowers unifying certificate program. the neighborhood. “Growing Vegetable Soup,” by Lois Ehlert, follows the journey of a family growing the plants necessary to provide a harvest suitable to make vegetable soup. The anticipation of the child telling the story includes the steps they follow and the care they give to the seedlings as they grow into mature plants. This story makes a nice companion to a summer garden project for a child. There are many lessons to be learned in the garden. “Grandpa Green” is a lovely, intergenerational story about the role a garden can play in our lives. Author-illustrator Lane Smith leads the reader through the life of the narrator’s great-grandfather through images in the garden. The illustrations are full of imagination and wonderful memories from the great-grandfather’s life. “Blueberries for Sal,” by Robert McCloskey, identifies how nature feeds many species and how we are all related in our quest for survival. This Take a virtual journey to explore the gardens around the world classic children’s story can accompany through insightful children’s books. a lesson on co-existing with animals
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE 2020
NEWS BRIEFS
Largest Solar Farm in Kansas Begins Operation, More than Doubling State’s Utility-Scale Solar Capacity Sunflower Electric Power Corporation’s rural co-op members now enjoying clean, cost-effective energy from facility built, owned and operated by Lightsource BP and Lightsource BP have announced that the Johnson Corner Solar Project entered commercial operation on April 7. The $37 million project, which was financed and constructed by Lightsource BP, is located approximately two miles southwest of Johnson City in Stanton County, Kansas. Lightsource BP, a global leader in the development, financing and management of utility-scale solar energy projects, is the project owner and operator. All the energy from the project is being sold under a 25-year power purchase agreement (PPA) to Sunflower, a not-for-profit electric utility providing wholesale generation and transmission services to six member-owners serving in central and western Kansas. The National Renewables Cooperative Organization (NRCO) played a key role in helping Sunflower develop this important project for the public power community. “Sunflower is proud to have worked with Lightsource BP and NRCO to bring online the state’s largest solar project to date,” said Stuart Lowry, president and CEO of Sunflower. “The Johnson Corner Solar Project adds yet another renewable fuel source to our diversified generation portfolio, which is designed to protect both the affordability and reliability of the energy we provide to our members.” The project delivers 20 megawatts (AC) of clean and affordable on-peak electricity — enough to power the peak demand of over 4,900 homes across Sunflower’s service territory and more than doubling the state’s utility-scale solar capacity, previously at 14.1 megawatts. In addition to providing low-cost, on-peak energy, the Johnson Corner Solar Project will reduce loading on a nearby transmission line that is approaching capacity. As a result, Sunflower’s member-owners will save costs by deferring or ultimately canceling the requirement for expensive infrastructure upgrades. “Lightsource BP is pleased to be part of this project and in helping to keep rates low for electric cooperative members due to value derived from clean and low cost energy supply and transmission
SUNFLOWER ELECTRIC POWER CORPORATION
The Johnson Corner Solar Project delivers enough on-peak electricity to power peak demand of over 4,900 homes.
savings,” said Kevin Smith, CEO of Lightsource BP in the Americas. “We applaud Sunflower Electric Power Corp. for their leadership in bringing the many benefits of solar energy to their communities in central and western Kansas.” The project created more than 200 jobs during peak construction, with the workforce dispatched across 144 acres. Lightsource BP’s construction general contractor was Sterling and Wilson, who hired local subcontractors and recruited from the local labor pool. Precautions and guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and public officials were followed on site, as well as implementation by Sterling and Wilson of additional strict measures to ensure the safety of the workers and mitigate the spread of COVID-19. Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, established in 1957, is a regional wholesale generation and transmission supplier dedicated to serving its members by providing reliable power at the lowest possible cost consistent with sound business and cooperative practices. Sunflower’s member-owner cooperatives include Lane-Scott Electric Cooperative Inc., Dighton; Pioneer Electric Cooperative Inc., Ulysses; Prairie Land Electric Cooperative Inc., Norton; The Victory Electric Cooperative Association Inc., Dodge City; Western Cooperative Electric Association Inc., WaKeeney; and Wheatland Electric Cooperative Inc., Scott City. Sunflower also serves Southern Pioneer Electric Company, a member located in Ulysses. KCL
JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
21
‘Humanity at its Best’ Continued from page 17ď‚„
they net inter had no are a pair that still hand write letters, and have with that ... but fine ectly presence till now, and ... they are perf e, and thank you all, they wanted to say that they love, appreciat they could hand write all of America, and the world. They wished if he were to only each of you a letter back. My father joked that to have paid more change one thing in retrospect, it’d have been ly decline, and ask for attention to his penmanship lol. They gracious kind words and they nothing in return, but again, thanks all for the to be a part of “some are overjoyed as much as they were surprised kes good news� for a change. Sincerely, The Ruhn Sir, I was strengthened people’s in tears while your letter was being read. You generosity in the midst faith in humanity. You showed kindness and what America’s greatness of the pain and ugliness around us. You are rican. Thank you! is all about. You made me proud to be an Ame essor in Brooklyn. Every STE PHA NIE AN NE BOY LE I’m a prof h and sorrow. Your day I hear one bad thing after another — deat make it to NY I’d love dad’s letter brightened my day if they ever to take them for a beer.
T H E S TAT E O F K A N S A S
e with my parents, JOS H RUH NK E I was just on the phon
ed farmer, Kansas: OE CABAN AG To Dennis Ruhnke, retir
đ&#x;˜Š
y day and parents and your that letter brought me to tears. God bless your us. That’s what the agio entire family. I wish their humanity was cont ing love and light from world needs more of. God bless them! Send Brooklyn, NY. with my girlfriend who is REN EE SIM PSO N I’m on the phone your parents sent a nurse and she is blown away by the fact that wants you to let just that letter AND that I actually know you. She letter with affected them know that they share the story of the spreading positivity patients who don’t know about it to continue It really means a lot to and happiness since they can’t have visitors. her and them. live in Presidio, Texas, a TRI SHA AN NE RUN YAN I am 69 and about your folks and I was long way from Kansas. Today I saw the story ks and congratulations. determined to find a way to express my than ns, including the fact Your dad’s action is extraordinary for many reaso of doing so. Please tell that he actually mailed the mask after thinking them I send my best for their future. rg, Pennsylvania, please JUL IE PEL LEG RIN O From Gettysbu and for counting all tell your parents Thank You for their kindness Americans as their neighbors.
s briefings ever LA’ TOYA BROWN E I watch Cuomo’
�✨
â?¤
22 
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 
  JUNE 2020
Kansas Governor Laura Kelly (left) prepares to present Dennis Ruhnke of Troy (center) with his diploma from Kansas State University, while Kansas State University President Richard Myers (right) looks on. The ceremony took place in Topeka on May 5. FROM PENNSYLVANIA: “Please tell your parents thank you for their kindness and for counting all Americans as their neighbors.�
Reaction to the Reaction
The Ruhnkes are overwhelmed by the response. They are ready for the media attention to be over, but are grateful, too, for the outcomes. Gov. Cuomo sent a letter thanking Dennis for “reminding us of the importance of generosity and kindness at a time like this.� The governor also called on Dennis’ birthday, May 5. “I was so shocked he took 10 minutes out of his extremely busy day to call me,� Dennis said. “He was so kind and I wasn’t even nervous, it was just as comfortable as talking to my sister. We bantered back and forth about this and that, and life in general.� The family was asked almost immediately by strangers what they could give them in return for the act of kindness. They wanted nothing in return, asking instead for anyone who could do so to pay it forward. Even so, as N95 masks became more readily available, people started sending the couple masks. With the help of family and friends, they are giving them out to anyone who doesn’t yet have one. Dennis credits his wife working with neighbor Thad Geiger to get the ball rolling on one reward Dennis has always wanted. When Dennis was a senior at Kansas State University, his father died so he left school two credit hours short of his degree
SH OS HA
NA HA NT MA N Josh Ruh nke Please tell your parents that we in New York love them back. to manage the family farm. At a special ceremony on May 5 at the Kansas statehouse, Gov. Laura Kelly and Richard Myers, president of Kansas State, awarded Dennis a bachelor’s degree in agriculture as a member of the class of 1971. Dennis calls the entire experience life changing and said he’s still trying to wrap his mind around all that’s happened. Next on his to-do list is replying to the letters they’ve received, with a handwritten card, of course. “Of the dozens of letters I’ve received, I think only two were typed out,� he said. “Every other one was handwritten and that meant a lot to me. I’m old enough to appreciate the handwritten letter and that’s how I’ll be writing them back.� Most moving, though, was the content of the letters. He said the authors of more than half the letters mentioned that they cried when they heard Cuomo reading Dennis’ letter. And, none have brought up politics or denounced anyone; they’ve all been uplifting and positive. “My wife is putting all of this in a scrapbook that will someday end up in my grandkids’ hands so they can see just what happened,� Dennis said. “They are pretty young right now, from age 13 down to 2, and one of the worst things about this virus is not being able to hug those kids.� At the end of our phone conversation, Dennis apologizes for not having much time for an interview. “I’m still trying to catch my breath from all this,� he said. “Well, at the moment, I’m also trying to catch a fish.� KCL
KA
RE N CH URCH ILL How awesome! In one kind act, you r dad restored faith in humanity for thousands. God Bless!! LILY CH AN G Congrats to your father! He renews my fait h in people. I hope the Universe wa tches over you and your family. Stay safe. đ&#x;?ť
đ&#x;™?â?¤
TE RRY DAVI S Congratu lations to your dad
, and to your entire family for the love and heart you’ve all shown to the world . I’m a R.N., and I am so touched and grateful for the tender gestur e that was made, that you all und erstood what we are facing, and reached out. May you all stay safe and well. It’s folks like you whose loving and powerful spi rits keep us going. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. TI NA RA MO S RE LL OR A I’m an ICU nurse at the Un ive
rsity of Chicago Medical Center wo rking in the COVID unit. thank you for your family’s kindness especially your dad. He’s amazi ng I’m so touched congratulations! For finally get tin g his degree after many years
â?¤
đ&#x;’•đ&#x;™? đ&#x;Ž‰
DE BR A AC KE RM AN TO BE Hi Josh — I live in New Yor
k so I listen to Governor Cuomo’s press conferences whenever I can slip away from my two young kids. Friday was one of those day s. Immediately after hearing the Governor read your father’s lett er, I called my 6 year old into the roo m so that he could listen to the letter being read 3 more times. I do everything I can to make sure my boys grow into good people , and on Friday, I was able to use your father’s words as a life less on for my son. (He also learne da little about “diabeebees.� ) Please let your parents know tha t their words and actions have had , and will continue to have, a positive affect on this world.
đ&#x;˜†
ARCI A MO
SS I stopped and listened to the report of your dad’s selfless act. I’ve been thr ough a lot in my time. I’m a ret ired Navy chief. This brought me to tears. God bless your mom and dad.
CA RY N GI LB ERT- NI
R U H N K E F A M I LY
KO LAOU As a New Yorker , I was in tears when the Governor rea d your father’s letter. You sho uld be proud of your parents. They are the definition of what it means to be an American. Our minds and hearts are with them and our gratitude will never diminish. Bless them and please send the m our NY love! <3 MA RYAN
Dennis Ruhnke heads to his sanctuary: a small pond he rebuilt on his farm and his favorite fishing spot. It’s where he “chills� with his dog and has fished with grandchildren.
N MA SU LL O D’ EL IA I live on Long Island New York and we and NYC are in dire straights with this darn plague . Your parents remind us what humanity is all about. I will pra y for your mom’s recovery (I am a bre ast cancer survivor) and we wil l get through ALL of this togeth er. đ&#x;?ť
đ&#x;™?
JUNE 2020 
  KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING  
23
C O O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E
Totaling Iced Tea’s Refreshing, Flavorful Virtues BY R E B E C C A H O WA R D
with instant kitchen helpers — she seasoned her crockpot chicken and noodles with instant soup mix, used cake mixes for her Sunday Bundt and her famous cherry “crispy,” and made the best iced tea from a jar of Lipton powdered mix. Her tea was always perfectly chilled with just the right amount of not-too-sweetness. With a long metal spoon, she stirred in the proper ratio of instant tea powder-to-water in the vat-sized tea dispenser with a spigot that got a workout from visitors in and out of her house on warm Sunday afternoons. Maybe anything grandma made tasted better (she once made me a simple breakfast sandwich of fried bacon and buttered toast that was the best thing I’ve ever eaten), because I never had the same success with instant tea, usually ending up
with a strange, dusty foam on top or undissolved tea sediment at the bottom of my glass. But she established, for me, a lifelong love of the comforting quench of iced tea. I drink iced tea year-round. It is the ultimate refresher, even in the long, cold days of winter. My choice to wet my whistle at airport layovers in Dallas-Fort-Worth, iced tea is also my mainstay beverage eating out — breakfast, lunch or dinner. One of my favorite meals one Rebecca Howard scorching June day in Nashville was a plate of hot roast beef and sides washed down with a sweating glass of cold iced tea. Tea, over ice, has been a popular drink since the late 1800s, when it was served in railroad stations and hotels, according to “Tea Time! Chill Out with 40 Iced Tea Recipes You can Make at Home — Refreshing, Energizing, and Soothing,” by Martha Stone (CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform; 2017). But iced tea really took off in 1904 when Richard Blechynden, a merchant and tea plantation owner, introduced it at the World’s Fair in St. Louis. Plain, black brewed tea over ice — crisp, clean and slightly floral — is I adapted this iced tea punch from a Food Network recipe. It’s a bit of a nearly perfect and does the job. But riff on an Arnold Palmer, but with a range of flavors, made bubbly with a over the years, my tea penchant has little sparkling water. I’ve made this refreshing drink to sip at home, as well made me aware of the many possible as work functions, luncheons and a tea party for my nieces. brews for this favorite. Mint Simple Syrup f 4 cups water A number of years ago, I was served f 1 cup water f 8 bags of green tea a passionfruit tea at a hotel in Beverly f 1/2 cup sugar (or equivalent of other f 1 cup fresh lemon juice (about 4 lemons) Hills and discovered the flavored tea sweeteners, such as Splenda or Stevia) f 1 cup apple juice was available in stores. Any bagged tea f 1 cup chopped fresh mint f 1 cup Mint Simple Syrup (recipe at right) (from chamomile to Earl Grey) can be f 2 cups chilled sparkling water delicious, iced. f Lemon slices and sprigs of fresh Tea can be tea-less (technically mint for garnish (optional) termed a “tisane”), steeped from dried fruits, fresh or dried herbs and even In a large saucepan, bring 4 cups of water just to the brink of a boil. Add green tea bags, and fresh or dried flowers. My friend Anna steep for several minutes. Let the tea cool to room temperature. once treated me to a luncheon where Make the simple syrup by combining the water and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a bowl, she served a deep-purple iced tea made stirring to dissolve the sugar. Allow to boil just for a few minutes. Remove from heat, add the from brewed dried hibiscus flowers chopped mint, and allow the syrup to cool to room temperature. Strain the syrup through a sieve and discard the mint. infused with cinnamon sticks, orange and lemon, and sweetened with honey. In a carafe or other lidded container, mix tea (discard the bags) with lemon juice, apple juice Warmer days make this drink a and mint simple syrup. Chill in the refrigerator for several hours. To serve, add the sparkling water, then pour into ice-filled glasses. Add fresh slices of lemon and sprigs of mint for garnish must. However one takes their iced tea, (if desired). Have additional sweetener on hand as needed. Makes about 2 quarts of tea. here are a few tips to keep in mind: MY GRANDMA MAE HAD A WAY
Minty Green Tea-Lemonade Punch
24
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE 2020
Tea can be tea-less (technically termed a “tisane”), steeped from dried fruits, fresh or dried herbs and even fresh or dried flowers.
KEEP IT STRONG: I remember when sun tea came out. We had gallon glass milk jars, several tea bag “tags” hanging out from the lids, steeping in the backyard. It took a long time for the sun to filter through the cold water and steep until the tea was strong enough, but it was worth it. There’s nothing sadder than weak tea (or coffee), so whether your tea is solar or brewed from a tea kettle or stove top, be sure to use enough tea bags (eight or more per gallon of water) and allow enough of a steeping period (brewed tea, four minutes or more; sun tea, three to five hours). KEEP IT FLAVORFUL: Surprising flavor pairings (try mixing brewed peppermint and raspberry teas for a simple, yet stunning refresher) can elevate the taste of iced teas. Adding fruit or fruit juice, or herbs like classic mint or even thyme and basil, bolsters iced tea flavor and adds variety to your options. Mixers, like lemonade added to black tea (known as an “Arnold Palmer”), inspire other combinations, like the mint and green tea lemonade punch recipe I share here. KEEP IT SWEET (IF YOU LIKE): If you prefer your tea sweetened, simple syrups are a way of adding sweetness without having undissolved sugar sitting at the bottom of your glass. The basic simple syrup formula is one cup of water to 1/2 cup of sugar, honey or measure-for-measure sweeteners like Splenda or Stevia, heated to simmering until sweeteners are dissolved (this could be added to a large batch of tea or kept in a small pitcher to sweeten individual servings). KEEP IT COLD: Keep your brewed tea chilled in the fridge. If your tea is brewed strong enough, it can be iced over regular water ice cubes, but you can also try freezing part of the tea or compatible fruit juice in ice cube trays to keep the tea from diluting and enhancing flavor. Try garnishing (and chilling) fruity teas with frozen berries. 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.” JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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SAFETY
Has Your Home Kept Pace with Demands of Today’s Electrical Appliances? EACH YEAR, ELECTRICAL MALFUNCTIONS
account for thousands of home fires, injuries, death and property damage. The average American home was built in 1977, and many existing homes simply can’t handle the demands of today’s electrical appliances and devices. Keep safety in mind with these helpful tips from the Electrical Safety Foundation International.
Learn the Warning Signs of an Overloaded Electrical System f Frequent tripping of circuit breakers
or blowing of fuses
f Dimming of lights when other
devices are turned on
f Buzzing sound from switches
or outlets
f Discolored outlets
In addition to addressing warning signs of an overloaded electrical system, make sure your home has smoke alarms tested monthly, change the batteries annually and replace the unit every 10 years.
f Appliances that seem underpowered
How to Avoid Overloading Circuits f Label your circuit breakers to understand the
different circuits in your home.
f Have your home inspected by a qualified
electrician if older than 40 years or if you’ve had a major appliance installed. f Have a qualified electrician install new circuits
for high energy use devices.
f Reduce your electrical load by using energy
efficient appliances and lighting. KCL
Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International
WORKING FROM HOME?
Follow these electrical safety tips to keep you and your home safe from electrical hazards. � Avoid overloading outlets. � Unplug appliances when not in use to save
doors or windows.
energy and minimize the risk of shock or fire.
� Make sure cords do not become tripping hazards.
� Regularly inspect electrical cords and extension
� Keep papers and other potential combustibles at
cords for damage. � Extension cords should only be used on a
temporary basis. � Never plug a space heater or fan into an
extension cord or power strip.
28
� Never run cords under rugs, carpets,
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JUNE 2020
least 3 feet away from heat sources. � Make sure you use proper wattage for lamps
and lighting. � Make sure your home has smoke alarms. Test
them monthly, change batteries annually and replace the unit every 10 years.
JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
29
Split Levels
Fiesta Snacks
KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, JUNE 2020
Mix together chocolate and cream cheese for this layered concoction that will be eaten in a jiff!
KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, JUNE 2020
A stuffed version of the simple taco. Layer up your toppings and tortillas for a delicious twist on the taco.
One Pot Turkey Enchilada Casserole
Mixed Berry French Toast Casserole
KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, JU N E 2020
Think outside the tortilla and try enchiladas in a casserole instead. Same ingredients, healthier options.
KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, JU N E 2020
The only way to make french toast better is to add berries and make it simpler by turning it into a casserole.
f 1/3 cup brown sugar
f 2 Tbs. melted butter
f 1 tsp. ground cinnamon f 12 ounces frozen unsweetened mixed berries Topping
Mixed Berry French Toast Casserole French Toast Casserole f 1 loaf French bread (day-old is great) f 6 eggs f 1 ¾ cups milk f 2 Tbs. granulated sugar f ¼ tsp. salt f 1 tsp. vanilla extract
Cut bread into chunks and spread evenly in a generously greased 9 x 13 pan. Mix eggs, milk, sugar, salt, vanilla and cinnamon together and pour over bread. Gently press bread down into egg mixture to ensure all bread is coated.
Fiesta Snacks
f 1/3 cup refried beans
f 1/2 cup guacamole
f 1 pound chicken, chopped
f 6 ounces shredded cheese
f 1/2 cup salsa, divided f 1/4 cup sour cream f 8 tortillas (8 inches)
Heat oven to 350 F. In skillet, cook chopped chicken until done.
In medium bowl, mix cooked chicken, 1/4 cup salsa and sour cream until blended.
In small bowl, mix refried beans and remaining salsa until blended.
Lay two tortillas on baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Spread chicken mixture over both tortillas. Place second set of tortillas over chicken mixture. Spread guacamole over top tortillas. Place third set of tortillas on top and spread refried bean mixture over tortillas. Place fourth set of tortillas on top and sprinkle shredded cheese over tortillas.
Sprinkle berries evenly over bread. In a small bowl, mix butter and brown sugar for topping and drizzle mixture evenly over bread. Cover and allow to refrigerate overnight before baking. Remove from refrigerator and bake at 350 F for about 45 minutes or until set in the middle. If necessary, tent with foil toward the end of the bake time to prevent over browning.
f 1/3 cup evaporated milk
f 1 (6-ounce) package cream cheese
f 1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels
f ½ cup margarine or butter
f ¾ cup granulated sugar
f ¼ tsp. salt
f ½ tsp. baking powder
f 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
COURTESY FAMI LY FE ATUR ES
Bake 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
COURTESY E AT WHE AT
f ½ cup chopped pecans
COURTESY NATIONAL FESTI VA L OF BR E A DS
Top with remaining crumbs. Bake in preheated 375 F oven approximately 30 minutes, or until tested done. Cool; cut into bars.
Combine flour, baking powder, salt, sugar, margarine, and ¼ teaspoon almond extract. Beat at low speed until fine particles are formed. Press half of the mixture in a greased 9 x 9-inch pan. Spread chocolate mixture on top.
Combine chocolate morsels, cream cheese, and milk in saucepan. Melt mixture over low heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and stir in pecans and ¼ teaspoon almond extract. Set aside to cool.
f ½ tsp. almond extract, divided
Split Levels
NOTE: Top it with maple syrup, powdered sugar, chopped pecans, or a spoonful of fruit and enjoy!
drained and rinsed
or cheddar cheese
f 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
f 1 cup 10-minute rice
f 1 cup salsa
f 1 9-ounce can enchilada sauce
f 1 4.5-ounce can minced green chilies
f 1 15-ounce can canned corn
f 2 15-ounce cans black beans,
One Pot Turkey Enchilada Casserole f 2 Tbs. avocado oil (or your favorite cooking oil) f 2-2.5 pounds turkey breast or 2 packages ground turkey f 1/2 cup diced onion (use frozen for faster prep) f 1-2 packets taco seasoning or 4-5 Tbs. homemade taco seasoning (to your taste)
Heat a saucepan with the avocado oil over medium high heat. Cut the turkey breast into small pieces and saute until cooked through. Midway through cooking, add the chopped onion. When the turkey is cooked, add the taco seasoning. Add the black beans, salsa, corn, green chilies, enchilada sauce and rice. Stir well. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring every few minutes, until the rice is cooked through. Be careful not to let the bottom scorch. If the casserole begins sticking, reduce the heat further.
COURTESY HONEYSUCKLE WHITE
When the rice is cooked through, remove from the heat and let sit for about 5 minutes. Serve over tortilla shells and top with desired toppings.
JUNE 2020
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
30
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FIN D YOUR LO CA L CO - O P N E WS O N 1 6 A Don’t miss the latest news from your Kansas electric cooperative beginning on Page 16A. As a consumermember of your co-op, you have a voice and a vote.