E D I TO R’S L E T T E R
Meaning of ‘Dog Days’ Lost in Translation through the Years
(ISSN 0091-9586) JULY 2018 VOL. 68, NO. 7 ©KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2018 WWW.KEC.COOP
Bruce Graham
Chief Executive Officer
Vicki Estes Editor
Carrie Kimberlin
Manager of Creative Solutions
Jackie Kamphaus WHAT AND WHEN, EXACTLY,
are the dog days of summer? Long forgetting my college astronomy lessons, I’ve acquiesced to the modernday definition that characterizes dog days as the lazy ways of man’s best friend when the longest days become the hottest and staying cool means retreating under a shade tree. Or I imagine my 80-pound German Shepherd working her way into a fetal position and plopping her sizeable body on the tiny air conditioning register in the living room. For some reason, perhaps because the sultry heat usually experienced in July began in earnest about mid-May, I decided to reference my go-to guide for weather forecasts, planting dates and other useful tidbits—The Old Farmer’s Almanac. Why would July be considered the dog days when June brought us oppressive heat? The Almanac lists the traditional timing of the dog days as the 40 days beginning July 3 and ending Aug. 11, which coincides with the sunrise appearance of the star Sirius, more commonly known as the Dog Star. Because the Dog Star rises simultaneously with the sun during the hottest days, over time the term “dog days”
has been used to describe this time of extreme heat. Knowing the true meaning behind the dog days of summer won’t keep me cool in July, but this issue of Kansas Country Living, and in particular your local cooperative’s local insert beginning on Page 16A, offers several articles devoting to shoring up your home for peak energy efficiencies year-round, keeping you comfortable when the temperatures rise. Until August, keep your cool! KCL
VICKI ESTES , EDITOR
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: ff events@kansascountryliving.com ff letters@kansascountryliving.com ff photos@kansascountryliving.com ff editor@kansascountryliving.com ff recipes@kansascountryliving.com
Communications Specialist
Shana Read
Director of Education and Training Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.
Keith McNickle President
Terry Hobbs
Vice President
Craig Kostman
Secretary
Teresa Miller 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: 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 Lyon-Coffey, Burlington Ninnescah, Pratt Pioneer, Ulysses Prairie Land, Norton Radiant, Fredonia 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 $5.88 per year. Individual 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.
2
Advertising: Kansas Country Living is a member of American MainStreet Publications (www.amp.coop), collectively reaching more than 27 million readers monthly. Advertisers call 512-441-5200. Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives. KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
G E T T Y I M AG E S / ROY E R
JULY
“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook.
F E AT U R E S
D E PA RT M E N T S
10 | Community Solar
4 |
Electric cooperatives are leading the electric utility industry in the development of community solar using innovative financing and by sharing their practical experience with each other.
14 | The ‘How’ of Solar Panels
Harnessing power from the sun’s energy is not a new concept, but how do solar panels actually generate electricity? From the solar farm to your meter, we take a closer look at the conversion of sunlight to usable electricity.
17 | A Homeowner’s Primer Crack the code to understanding the right R-value for your home’s insulation and decipher the alphabet soup of terms encountered when shopping for a new heat pump.
6 |
A RO U N D K A N S A S
July events heat up CO M M E N TA RY
Part 2: Your power supply
The unique role of groups that partner to deliver affordable, reliable power.
8 |
E N E RGY W I S E
Understanding your energy bill Analyzing your monthly bill can help you save energy and money.
18 |
YO U R P L AC E I N T H E G A R D E N
Gnome gardening
Bring imagination and creativity to your garden with whimsical creations.
24 |
CO O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E
Tomato takeover
Even greenless-thumb gardeners experience the ‘mater summer surplus.
26 |
10
28 |
M A R K E T P L AC E
Find products, services you need SAFETY
Pressure washers: handle with care Know and teach proper use and precautions to your family.
29 |
M O N T H LY R E C I P E S
Simple, delicious summer fare ON THE COVER
17
Solar panels, which comprise smaller photovoltaic cells, allow photons, or particles of light, to knock electrons free from atoms, generating a flow of electricity. P H OTO CO U RT ESY TOUCHSTONE ENERGY
JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
3
JULY 2 THROUGH MID-AUGUST Great Bend Artists at Large, Ellsworth. Artists will exhibit their work at the Ellsworth Area Art Center. Open Monday-Friday, 12:30-4:30 p.m., 223 N. Douglas Ave. FRIDAYS THROUGH JULY 27 Arts in the Park Free Concert Series, Manhattan. Every Friday night at 8 p.m. through July 27 at the Larry Norvell Band Shell: Friday, July 6 - Cash’d Out, A Johnny Cash Tribute, from San Diego, California; Friday, July 13 - Me Like Bees, Indie Rock from Joplin, Missouri; Friday, July 20 - Comedian/Magician Michael Kent from Columbus, Ohio; and Friday, July 27 - Folk Duo James Hill and Ann Janelle from Nova Scotia, Canada. City Park, 1101 Fremont St. THROUGH DEC. 2 Captured: The
Extraordinary Adventures of Colonel Hughes, Topeka. During this 100th anniversary of World War I make sure to see this important exhibit that pays tribute to all soldiers, past and present. The story of this Kansan is both common and exceptional; his service stretches from the American Expeditionary Forces in 1916 to World War I, and then as a prisoner of war in World War II. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday; 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Kansas Museum of History, 6425 S.W. Sixth Ave. THROUGH OCT. 24 Farmers Market, New Strawn. Every Wednesday from 3 to 6 p.m. East side of City Hall parking lot, 620-364-8283.
JULY 21-22, 28-29 “Beauty and the Beast,” Lindsborg. This classic tale comes to life on the Broadway RFD stage with a talented cast from the surrounding Smoky Valley area. Shows at 8:30 p.m. in Swensson Park; bring your lawn chair or use provided bleachers. Tickets at www.broadwayrfd.org.
past. The show runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Sutherlands. 5520 10th St.
at Sunday services. Ages K-6th grade. Register at www.firstpresmanhattan.com.
JULY 7-AUG. 25 Artist-in-Residence
JULY 11-15 Barton County Fair, Great Bend. ATV races, commercial booths, carnival, antique tractor pull, kids day at the fair, musical entertainment, 4-H and open exhibits. Great Bend Expo Grounds, www. bartoncountyfair.com.
series, Lindsborg. Artists of all mediums at Red Barn Studio. 212 S. Main, 785-227-2217. JULY 8 Trail Ride: Maxwell Wildlife
Refuge, Canton. Ride the Smoky Hills of Kansas. Experience our prairie wildflowers and wildlife by horseback. Ride starts at 10 a.m. and finishes by 4 p.m. Full day or half with lunch provided by The Friends of Maxwell. Furnish your own horse. Reservations required. Call 620-628-4455 or e-mail friendsofmaxwell@ yahoo.com. JULY 8-15 Brothers of the Third Wheel National Trike-In, Dodge City. For information call 620-225-8186.
JULY 4 Fireworks Display, Great Bend. Celebrate Independence Day with us. Viewers can watch the show from their vehicles or stretch out on a blanket or lawn chair. Show will begin at dark. Visit our Facebook page at Explore Great Bend or call 620-793-4111.
JULY 8-28 Silver Maple Camp, Kingman. The camp, located south of Kingman, will host three different week-long sessions of bible camp. The first session July 8-14 is for ages 9-13. The second session July 15-21 is for ages 13-18. The third session July 22-28 is for ages 9-18. www.silvermaplecamp.com or email info@ silvermaplecamp.org.
JULY 4 Old Fashioned Fourth of July,
JULY 9-13 Music Camp: Creature
Lindsborg. Swensson Park Bandshell. 400 N. Main, 785-227-8687. JULY 7 Shine and Show, Great Bend. This
monthly free car show offers a glimpse into the
4
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
Praise, Manhattan. Kids will learn about both instrumental and vocal music through hands-on experiences. The free camp includes performances of professionals, large group experiences, as well as a “showcase” performance
JULY 19-20 MINI Takes the States-Mini Cooper Road Rally, Dodge City. For information call 620-225-8186. JULY 20-28 Back to the 80s Hamilton
County Fair, Syracuse. Free events: art walk, street dance, barbecue, ranch rodeo, stock dog clinic, 80s hair contest, cow patty bingo, tractor pull. 8 06 S. Main, 620-384-5433, www.hamiltoncountyfairgrounds.com. JULY 20-21 “Disaster! A Musical at the Waterville Opera House,” Marysville. Marysville Area Community Theatre presents this musical at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and 2 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets available at the door. JULY 21 Summer Sidewalk Sale, Great Bend. Stores will be slashing prices to sell summer stock, so get out and get sizzling deals. Participating stores. Visit our Facebook page at Explore Great Bend. JULY 23-28 Chautauqua County Fair and
Rodeo, Sedan. People of all ages will enjoy some good clean entertainment, eat firstrate food prepared by local cooks, and view
great exhibits. Rodeo Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. each night. The fairgrounds are shaded, the people are friendly, and best of all – the fair is free! Fairground on Park Avenue in the northwest part of Sedan, 918-244-8063, www.chatauquacountyfair.net, Facebook: Chautauqua County Kansas Fair.
JULY 28 National Day of the Cowboy
JULY 24-27 Heartland Day Camp, Manhattan. Kids will enjoy Bible stories, worship, games, arts and crafts, archery, songs, horseback riding and more activities. Ages K-6th grade. Register at www. firstpresmanhattan.com.
City. 7:45 to 10 p.m. Roundup Arena. For information call 620-225-2244.
JULY 25-28 Lincoln County-Sylvan Grove Fair, Sylvan Grove. Anyone may exhibit in the open class divisions. Entertainment includes Peterson Farm Brothers, homemade chili and ice cream contests, youth pedal pull, ranch rodeo, The Brady Weston Band, archery shoot, demolition derby and fireworks. 301 S. Main St., 785-524-4432, www.lincolncoks. com/Community/LincolnCountyFairBoard/ tabid/11341/Default.aspx.
Celebration, Manhattan. Wrangle up the family for a day filled with indoor and outdoor activities embracing the spirit of the Wild West from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission rates apply. 3 15 S. Third St., 785-587-2726. JULY 31-AUG. 5 2018 PRCA Rodeo, Dodge
JULY 20-21, 27-28 Broadway RFD/ “Annie”,
Lindsborg. At 8:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chair or use provided bleachers. Bandshell in Swensson Park. AUG. 3-NOV. 3 Earth to Table Pottery,
Pratt. Celebration of growing, preparing and serving by Marsha Shrack at the Filley Art Museum. 421 S. Jackson St. 620-933-2787. www. vernonfilleyartmuseum.org.
AUG. 3 Shine and Show, Great Bend.
T his monthly free car show offers a glimpse into the past. The show runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at Walmart. 3503 10th St. AUG. 3-4 SRCA Test and Tune Friday
Night, Great Bend. S RCA drag strip event. NHRA Summit Points Race #5 on Saturday. Details at www.srcadragstrip.com. AUG. 7 All Gospel Community Jam, Sedan. Held the first Tuesday of each month beginning at 6:30 p.m. Come and play, sing or simply enjoy; snacks available. 124 E. Main St., 417-499-4110. KCL
We publish events free as space allows. Send your event information by the fifth of the month prior to publication to events@ kansascountryliving.com.
JULY 26-AUG. 5 Dodge City Days, Dodge City. For information call 620-225-8186. JULY 27-30 Phillips County 4-H Fair, Phillipsburg. The fair is entertaining and fun for the entire family. Enjoy seeing the animals, the agricultural exhibits, attractions and tasting delicious homemade food. Opens 8 a.m. every day. C ontact Phillips County Extension Office at 785-543-6845 or www.phillipsrooks.k-state. edu/phillips-county-fair. JULY 27 Boot Hill Bull Fry & Bash, Dodge City. From 6:30 to 9 p.m. For information call 620-225-8188. JULY 27-28 After Harvest Czech Festival,
Wilson. Social garden, live entertainment, Czech queen pageant, Czech princess pageant, talent show, parade, Czech dancers, vendors, rides and inflatables, Czech children’s corner, softball tournament and more. Call 785-6582272 for information.
JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
5
C O M M E N TA RY
Part 2: The Who, What, Where and Why of Your Power Supply
BY B R U C E G R A H A M
Bruce Graham
Establishment of a G&T was one way cooperatives handled a changing industry and, as the evolution continues, these partnerships and people are working for you.
6
MY COLUMN LAST MONTH explained the mission of our team at Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. (KEC), the state’s association for electric cooperatives. I touched on the member services we provide but noted that KEC is just one of the entities that play a cooperative role in bringing electricity to rural Kansas. No doubt you are familiar with the name of your cooperative—after all—you are a memberowner. You might also have a friend or neighbor who works at the co-op or has been elected to its board of trustees. But you may not be aware that your co-op has a relationship with another utility in the state to actually generate and transmit electricity to a nearby substation. From that point, your cooperative is responsible for the construction and maintenance of the necessary distribution system and works to improve the quality of life in rural Kansas. That doesn’t mean your electric co-op is disengaged from the generation and transmission function. Most are members of either Sunflower Electric Power Corporation (Sunflower) or Kansas Electric Power Cooperative (KEPCo). Both are what we call generation & transmission cooperatives (G&Ts), which are owned and governed by their member distribution cooperatives. The principal motivation for organizing a G&T was to improve the quality and dependability of a power supply along with price considerations. For example, prior to KEPCo’s establishment in 1975, the original 25 co-op members were purchasing electricity from investor-owned utilities. But without the leverage of a united voice, the individual cooperatives had to take whatever contract the larger utility would offer. Most distribution co-ops in Kansas were not large enough individually to efficiently construct, finance and operate a power plant. Collectively though, those requirements became a reality. KEPCo’s combined strength also cleared the legal hurdles necessary to secure an allocation of low-cost hydropower. People are usually surprised to learn that hydropower from Corps of Engineers projects in states like Missouri and Arkansas benefits Kansas. KEPCo, headquartered in Topeka, now has 19 cooperatives due to several consolidations,
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
and those cooperatives are served by a diverse generation mix that includes ownership in Wolf Creek (nuclear), Iatan 2 (coal), Sharpe (diesel) and Prairie Sky (solar). KEPCo also purchases power from Westar Energy and Sunflower. Sunflower, based in Hays, was established in 1957. Six Kansas cooperatives chartered the organization when it became apparent that load growth in western Kansas would result in a capacity shortage. Relying on existing utilities for capacity needs was deemed too expensive so one of the first actions taken by the Sunflower Board was the construction of a 22 MW power plant. The Sunflower we know today appears dramatically different from the fledgling company. Sunflower has steadily invested in a strong portfolio of resources that includes 655 MW of generation, approximately 1,200 miles of transmission line, and 409 employees. Sunflower cooperatives now serve approximately 400,000 people in 55 central and western Kansas counties. In 2007, the membership purchased the significant western Kansas utility operations of Aquila, Inc. Sunflower established Mid-Kansas Electric Company as a separate entity to manage the acquired 792 MW of generation and approximately 1,180 miles of transmission. The boards of both groups are currently working toward consolidated operations and governance in order to improve efficiency. There are three co-ops in Kansas that have remained independent of a G&T relationship. Midwest Energy, a customer-owned electric and natural gas co-op, has secured generation resources to serve 93,000 customers in central and western Kansas. Nemaha-Marshall and Doniphan Electric co-ops have maintained a relationship with Westar Energy through the years to meet their power supply needs. Establishment of a G&T was one way cooperatives handled a changing industry and, as the evolution continues, these partnerships and people are working for you. They are mindful of the needs of electric consumers, are proactive in operational decisions, and are advocates for a strong and prosperous rural Kansas. KCL BRUCE GRAHAM is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. in Topeka.
SUPER COUPON
FREE
900 Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
56" x 22" DOUBLE BANK EXTRA DEEP CABINET
RAPID PUMP 3 TON STEEL HEAVY DUTY FLOOR JACK ®
Customer Rating
NOW
• Lifts from 5" to 18-1/4" • Weighs 74 lbs.
NOW
$64999
$7499 $
$
99 SAVE $ 60
87
$
COMPARE TO
POWERBUILT
13527
ITEM 69227/62116 62584/68048 shown
MODEL: 647593
74999
HUSKY
SUPER COUPON
NOW
9 $4499
999 SAVE $ 549
499
99
ITEM 62523
MODEL: EU2000i
NOW
ITEM 69091/61454 62803/63635 67847 shown COMPARE TO
HUSKY
$
229
MODEL: C201H
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
99
$149
SAVE $ 79
$
16999
ITEM 64481 63284 shown
$
SAVE $ 79
139
COMPARE TO
$
BUFFALO SAVE TOOLS $ 59% 65
17
10
SAVE 54%
MODEL: HDFDOLLY
NOW
$799
99
ITEM 61899/63095/63096 63098/63097/93888 shown
$
$119
199
$
COMPARE TO
RYOBI
MODEL: TSS120L
Customer Rating Blade sold separately.
NOW
99
$129
COMPARE TO $
SNAP-ON
• Weighs 4.4 lbs.
$
149
59995
MODEL: PT850
$49 COMPARE TO SUPERWINCH
SAVE $ 469
$ $
189
69
99
$
2663
11
10"
Voted Best Winches
SAVE 67% COMPARE TO
BLACK & DECKER
$
2806
MODEL: HG1300
12"
COMPARE TO
MECHANIX $ 99
99 ITEM 69427/63715/903 shown LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
$
14
MODEL: 507582
NOW
COMPARE TO
BLUE HAWK $ 99
8
$ 99
19
MODEL: 77280
$5 99
ITEM 69505/62418/66537 shown
SUPER COUPON
Customer Rating
2/10/50 AMP, 12 VOLT BATTERY CHARGER/ ENGINE STARTER
$3 5
ITEM 62434, 62426, 62433, 64178, 64179, 62432, 62429, 62428 shown
LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 11/7/18.
99
SAVE 50%
$
49
99
59
10 FT. x 17 FT. PORTABLE GARAGE Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
4 PIECE, 1" x 15 FT. RATCHETING TIE DOWNS
270
MODEL: 76377
SAVE $100
$
19999
ITEM 62859/63055/62860 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
• 400 lb. working load
$699
99
$1 69
Customer Rating
NOW
NOW
$
ITEM 60581 60653 shown
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
SUPER COUPON
COMPARE TO SHELTER LOGIC
$2999
$ 99 SCHUMACHER ELECTRIC MODEL: SE-1250 COMPARE TO
LIMIT 6 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
99
$ 99
14
NOW
ITEM 62340/62546 63104/96289 shown
NOW
SAVE 73%
SAVE 70%
$899
SUPER COUPON
8"
Customer Rating
LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
1500 WATT DUAL TEMPERATURE HEAT GUN (572°/1112°)
Customer Rating
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
NOW
$9
MODEL: GX200UT2QX2
6"
SAVE 62% 99
SAVE 140
4 PIECE ADJUSTABLE MECHANIC'S GLOVES Customer Rating WRENCH SET Customer Rating
MODEL: 99573
$
SAVE $ 230 329
SUPER COUPON
SUPER COUPON
99
$ MODEL: 1125220 ITEM 62891 ITEM 61840/61297/63476/61258 shown
SUPER COUPON
HUSKY
SUPER COUPON
NOW
99
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
COMPARE TO
HONDA $ 99
ITEM 60363/69730 ITEM 69727 shown CALIFORNIA ONLY
NOW
99
11999
COMPARE TO
• Weighs 14.3 lbs. • 11-1/8" L x 4-1/2" H
1190 TORQUE FT. LBS. BOLT BREAKAWAY
$1999 72" x 80" MOVING BLANKET
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
Battle Tested
1/2" COMPOSITE PRO EXTREME 2500 LB. ELECTRIC WINCH WITH TORQUE AIR IMPACT WRENCH WIRELESS REMOTE CONTROL Customer Rating
Customer Rating
29
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
$
LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
SUPER COUPON
ITEM 63036 61368/63092 shown
NOW
99
$9999
ITEM 61970/69684/61969 shown
LIMIT 9 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
SAVE 66% $
6.5 HP (212 CC) OHV HORIZONTAL SHAFT GAS ENGINE NOW
Customer Rating
249
59
MODEL: 190314
SUPER COUPON
SAVE $ 119
17999
ROUNDUP $ 97
99
COMPARE TO $ DEWALT MODEL: DCBL790B
99
$129
COMPARE TO
99 NOW
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
SUPER COUPON
18" x 12" 12" DOUBLE-BEVEL SLIDING MOVER'S DOLLY COMPOUND • Laser guide MITER SAW NOW
Customer Rating
4 GALLON BACKPACK SPRAYER
• Durable polyethylene construction • Overflow top and integrated filter • Chemical resistant seals Customer Rating
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
SUPER COUPON
• 1000 lb. capacity
SUPER COUPON
• Air delivery: 5.8 CFM @ 40 PSI 4.7 CFM @ 90 PSI
Customer Rating
Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, safes, saw mills, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, trencher/backhoe, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/7/18.
SUPER COUPON
21 GALLON, 2.5 HP, 125 PSI 40 VOLT LITHIUM CORDLESS VERTICAL OIL-LUBE BRUSHLESS BLOWER AIR COMPRESSOR Customer Rating
• 4.7 hours run-time
20% OFF ANY SINGLE ITEM*
Cannot be used with other discounts or prior purchases. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/7/18 while supplies last. Limit 1 FREE GIFT per customer per day.
LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
Customer Rating
$
797
MODEL: 20210003
ITEM 62728/62583 47770/62570 shown
2,825
SUPER COUPON
HONDA
COMPARE TO $
SNAP-ON • 21,500 cu. in. of storage $ • 4400 lb. capacity SAVE $ • Weighs 400 lbs. 2,175 MODEL: KRA5308FPBO
2000 WATT SUPER QUIET INVERTER GENERATOR
ANY PURCHASE
• Magnetic Tips • Ergonomic Handles
ITEM 64458/64457/64164/64165 shown COMPARE TO
LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
COMPARE TO $
WITH
6 PIECE SCREWDRIVER SET
Customer Rating
SUPER COUPON
COMPARE TO
ATE TOOLS $ 88
54
MODEL: 33079
SAVE 87%
$
1199
ITEM 63057/62322/63056/63094 60405/90984/63150/61524 shown
LIMIT 8 - Coupon valid through 11/7/18*
At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means that the specified comparison, which is an item with the same or similar function, was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.
E N E R GY W I S E
Understanding Your Energy Bill 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: Every month, I look over my electric bill, but a lot of it doesn’t make sense to me. Is there information included on my bill that can help me save money? – Don D E AR DO N : It’s always a good idea to understand how you’re spending your money. You look over your credit card statement carefully each month, so you should do the same with your utility bills. As you’d suspect, analyzing your bill can help you save energy and money. If you live in an all-electric home, all of your home energy costs will be on the monthly bill from your electric cooperative. This bill will probably have one or more fixed charges that cover some of the costs your co-op incurs in delivering the power to your home. Beyond these fixed fees, you will pay for the power you have used that month, which is sold in kilowatt-hour (kWh) units. One kWh is equal to 1,000 watts over a one-hour period. Think of 10 100-watt lights that are used for one hour. Most electric co-ops charge the same rate for a kWh no matter when you use it, but some offer a Time-ofUse rate that is higher during peak energy hours— when the wholesale price of electricity is higher because there’s greater demand. Some co-ops have different rates for different use tiers, so the rate could be higher or lower as monthly use increases. Electric rates can also vary by season and cost more during high-use months. If you’re being charged more for energy use
during On-Peak hours, you can often adjust the time you use certain appliances and equipment, like your dishwasher, air conditioner, clothes washer or oven to Off-Peak hours. This won’t reduce your electric use, but it can save you money if your co-op offers a Time-of-Use rate. Most energy bills include a chart that shows your electric use over the past 12 months. If your home is electrically heated, you will see how much your use goes up in the winter. This chart can also show how much your use goes up during the summer when you’re running your air conditioner. Your electric co-op may offer tools on their website to help you track energy use and estimate how much you use for space heating, air conditioning and water heating, which are often the three largest energy uses. Knowing how much you spend on heating or cooling can help you determine how much you might save by installing a new heat pump or other energy efficiency upgrade. Some co-ops also offer online energy audit tools that provide ways to reduce energy costs based on a detailed set of questions about your home. If your co-op doesn’t offer an online audit tool, or if you want a different perspective, you can try the ENERGY STAR Home Energy Yardstick (www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?fuseaction=home_ energy_yardstick.showgetstarted). This resource can give you a good idea of your space heating and cooling use. To calculate your Yardstick score, you will need the following basic information about your home: ff Your ZIP code; ff Your home’s square footage; ff Number of full-time home occupants; ff A list of all the different fuels used in your
home (e.g., electricity, natural gas, fuel oil); and
ff Your home’s last 12 months of utility bills
(usually found in the 12-month summary provided on your bill or your co-op may offer a secure way for you to download 12 months of your energy use data, which then can be uploaded directly into the Yardstick.)
Most energy bills include an annual energy use chart, which can provide clues to identify areas of energy efficiency opportunities.
8
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
Continued on page 16
ADVERTISEMENT
Leading Acid Reflux Pill Becomes an AntiAging Phenomenon
Clinical studies show breakthrough acid reflux treatment also helps maintain vital health and helps protect users from the serious conditions that accompany aging such as fatigue and poor cardiovascular health
by David Waxman Seattle Washington: A clinical study on a leading acid reflux pill shows that its key ingredient relieves digestive symptoms while suppressing the inflammation that contributes to premature aging in men and women. And, if consumer sales are any indication of a product’s effectiveness, this ‘acid reflux pill turned anti-aging phenomenon’ is nothing short of a miracle. Sold under the brand name AloeCure, it was already backed by clinical data documenting its ability to provide all day and night relief from heartburn, acid reflux, constipation, irritable bowel, gas, bloating, and more. But soon doctors started reporting some incredible results… “With AloeCure, my patients started reporting less joint pain, more energy, better sleep, stronger immune systems… even less stress and better skin, hair, and nails” explains Dr. Liza Leal; a leading integrative health specialist and company spokesperson. AloeCure contains an active ingredient that helps improve digestion by acting as a natural acid-buffer that improves the pH balance of your stomach. Scientists now believe that this acid imbalance is what contributes to painful inflammation throughout the rest of the body. The daily allowance of AloeCure has shown to calm this inflammation which is why AloeCure is so effective. Relieving other stressful symptoms related to GI health like pain, bloating, fatigue, cramping, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, and nausea. Now, backed with new clinical studies, AloeCure is being recommended by doctors everywhere to help improve digestion, calm painful inflammation, soothe joint pain, and even reduce the appearance of wrinkles – helping patients to look and feel decades younger.
FIX YOUR GUT & FIGHT INFLAMMATION Since hitting the market, sales for AloeCure have taken off and there are some very good reasons why. To start, the clinical studies have been impressive. Participants taking the active ingredient in AloeCure saw a stunning 100% improvement in digestive symptoms, which includes fast and lasting relief from reflux. Users also experienced higher energy levels and endurance, relief from chronic discomfort
and better sleep. Some even reported healthier looking skin, hair, and nails. A healthy gut is the key to a reducing swelling and inflammation that can wreak havoc on the human body. Doctors say this is why AloeCure works on so many aspects of your health. AloeCure’s active ingredient is made from the healing compound found in Aloe vera. It is both safe and healthy. There are also no known side effects. Scientists believe that it helps improve digestive and immune health by acting as a natural acid-buffer that improves the pH balance of your stomach. Research has shown that this acid imbalance contributes to painful inflammation throughout your entire body and is why AloeCure seems to be so effective.
EXCITING RESULTS FROM PATIENTS To date over 5 million bottles of AloeCure have been sold, and the community seeking non-pharma therapy for their GI health continues to grow. According to Dr. Leal, her patients are absolutely thrilled with their results and are often shocked by how fast it works. “For the first time in years, they are free from concerns about their digestion and almost every other aspect of their health,” says Dr. Leal, “and I recommend it to everyone who wants to improve GI health without resorting to drugs, surgery, or OTC medications.” “I was always in ‘indigestion hell.’ Doctors put me on all sorts of antacid remedies. Nothing worked. Dr. Leal recommended I try AloeCure. And something remarkable happened… Not only were all the issues I had with my stomach gone - completely gone – but I felt less joint pain and I was able to actually sleep through the night.” With so much positive feedback, it’s easy to see why the community of believers is growing and sales for the new pill are soaring.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND ALOECURE AloeCure is a pill that’s taken just once daily. The pill is small. Easy to swallow. There are no harmful side effects and it does not require a prescription. The active ingredient is a rare Aloe Vera component known as acemannan. Made from of 100% organic Aloe Vera, AloeCure uses a proprietary process that results in the highest quality, most bio-available levels of acemannan known to exist. According to Dr. Leal and several of her colleagues, improving the pH balance of your stom-
ach and restoring gut health is the key to revitalizing your entire body. When your digestive system isn’t healthy, it causes unwanted stress on your immune system, which results in inflammation in the rest of the body. The recommended daily allowance of acemannan in AloeCure has been proven to support digestive health, and calm painful inflammation without side effects or drugs. This would explain why so many users are experiencing impressive results so quickly.
REVITALIZE YOUR ENTIRE BODY With daily use, AloeCure helps users look and feel decades younger and defend against some of the painful inflammation that accompanies aging and can make life hard. By buffering stomach acid and restoring gut health, AloeCure calms painful inflammation and will help improve digestion… soothe aching joints… reduce the appearance of wrinkles and help restore hair and nails … manage cholesterol and oxidative stress… and improve sleep and brain function… without side effects or expense. Readers can now reclaim their energy, vitality, and youth regardless of age or current level of health. One AloeCure Capsule Daily • Helps End Digestion Nightmares • Helps Calm Painful Inflammation • Soothes Stiff & Aching Joints • Reduces appearance of Wrinkles & Increases Elasticity • Manages Cholesterol & Oxidative Stress • Supports Healthy Immune System • Improves Sleep & Brain Function
HOW TO GET ALOECURE This is the official nationwide release of the new AloeCure pill in the United States. And so, the company is offering our readers up to 3 FREE bottles with their order. This special give-away is available for the next 48-hours only. All you have to do is call TOLL-FREE 1-800-746-6095 and provide the operator with the Free Bottle Approval Code: AC100. The company will do the rest. Important: Due to AloeCure’s recent media exposure, phone lines are often busy. If you call and do not immediately get through, please be patient and call back. Those who miss the 48hour deadline may lose out on this free bottle offer.
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. ALL DOCTORS MENTIONED ARE REMUNERATED FOR THEIR SERVICES. ALL CLINICAL STUDIES ON ALOECURE’S ACTIVE INGREDIENT WERE INDEPENDENTLY CONDUCTED AND WERE NOT SPONSORED BY THE AMERICAN GLOBAL HEALTH GROUP.
Tri-County Electric Cooperative, Hooker, Oklahoma, dedicated its community solar array, the first community solar project in Oklahoma, on April 26, 2016.
Building a Community with
Solar Energy
BY PA U L W E S S L U N D
How power from the sun is bringing consumers and co-ops closer and their consumermembers are joining together to invest in community solar installations, which generate clean, renewable electricity for their local communities. Growth in electric cooperative interest in community solar skyrocketed in the past four years, says Tracy Warren, senior program manager with the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). “It’s clean, local and homegrown power,” she says. “The benefits stay within the community. There is just a lot to like.” What makes community solar unique is not any special technology, but rather how it’s organized and financed. Basically, the electric co-op builds and operates an array of solar panels, then sells or leases the long-term energy output of the panels. In return, the home or business that participates typically receives credit on their electric bill for the portion of their power generated by those solar cells.
ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES
10
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
“It’s fun to see the community solar credit on your electric bill,” says Warren. That fun helps drive the popularity of community solar for both electric co-ops and their consumer-members, says Warren. She coordinates online conferences about how to set up community solar programs that typically attract more than 250 people from co-ops around the country. A survey conducted four years ago found 38 electric co-ops had started a community solar project or were planning to. That number grew to 198 this year. Two electric cooperatives that serve rural Kansans have launched community solar options for their consumer-members and a third has recently approved construction of a solar farm. Midwest Energy, Hays, was the first utility in Kansas to offer its consumer-members a solar energy option: the Midwest Energy Community Solar Array, located in Colby. The project, in part-
nership with Clean Energy Collective of Louisville, Colorado, was offered on a first-come, first-served basis, with 3,960 panels available for purchase. The array was completed and began producing commercial electricity on Feb. 1, 2015. Tri-County Electric Cooperative (TCEC), Hooker, Oklahoma, which serves rural Kansans in the extreme southwest corner of the state, was the first utility in Oklahoma to offer its members a community solar option with its 1-megawatt 3,840-panel solar farm completed in March 2016 in partnership with Today’s Power, Inc. And more recently, Butler Electric Cooperative, headquartered in El Dorado, has selected an engineering and construction proposal for a solar farm to be located near the co-op’s Pony Meadows substation. The 1-megawatt array has an estimated completion date of December 2018.
Co-ops are also smoothing the road to community solar with innovative financing and by sharing their practical experience with each other.
fuels to generate electricity in that co-op’s area and what those fuels cost. “A lot of co-ops already have plenty of wind and plenty of hydro,” says Carroll. “They’re always having to watch out for the best interests of their members. Expensive power is not what they’re about. They’re about the safest, most reliable, cheapest power possible. Solar has traditionally been a more expensive energy source.” But that expense is changing fast. Costs for some of the major solar panel parts have fallen 85 Community solar is not for everyone percent in a seven-year period, says a report by The number of electric co-ops nationwide offering NRECA, as technology improves and more mass community solar is still just a fraction of the more production lowers prices. than 900 electric co-ops in the United States. Part “As you start making things at larger and of the reason for that small portion is that commularger scale, they just get cheaper,” says Carroll. nity solar is still developing. Another reason is that “It’s the same as what happened with large-screen community solar might not make sense for some televisions. They used to be terribly expensive, local electric co-ops, says Paul Carroll, a senior $25,000, and now you can get a large-screen TV project manager for grant projects at NRECA. for 500 bucks.” “There’s not a one-size-fits-all anything,” says Co-ops are also smoothing the road to commuCarroll. He says some state laws restrict community solar with innovative financing and by sharing nity solar-style setups. The co-op also needs to their practical experience with each other. consider factors like solar power not being availThe National Rural Utilities Cooperative able when the sun doesn’t shine, the most practical Finance Corporation, an organization that provides financing for electric co-ops, has developed a program that lets electric co-ops take advantage of tax incentives to build community solar systems. The organization also provides loans to support renewables and energy efficiency. Community solar’s popularity has also been helped by a program that puts together information on solar energy, and shares The Midwest Energy Community Solar Array in Colby was dedicated on April 23, 2015. that with other co-ops. That JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
11
information can cover technical details from the most productive size of a solar power installation, to the best siting procedures in order to make sure the co-op complies with zoning and land use rules. That collaboration between the electric co-ops and the Department of Energy is called the SUNDA project, which stands for the descriptive but intimidating full name, Solar Utility Network Deployment Acceleration.
A new relationship with the co-op
NRECA’s Tracy Warren credits the SUNDA project with boosting community solar by finding, refining and promoting ideas from pioneering co-ops to others just thinking about trying it out. Among the ideas catching on, she says, are financial arrangements that make a basic change to the structure of buying a share of the solar panels and then receiving credits. Instead, co-op members can lease part of the solar array, or even just pay for it month-to-month. Community solar offers energy uniquely suited to local, member-owned electric co-ops, says Warren. A co-op can work with its members to decide how to tailor community solar to suit local conditions, or whether to offer it at all.
Among the advantages of community solar, says Warren, is that if an individual member doesn’t want to participate, they don’t have to. For members who do sign up, she says, “They feel like this is something they can do for future generations. They like the environmental benefits.” Another advantage to community solar has been its affect on local charities. Mike Morley, director of corporate communications and government affairs for Midwest Energy in Hays, says he’s aware of at least three instances where members have moved or died and their solar panels were donate to charities. “The church, the local Catholic school, and the Hays Arts Council have all been beneficiaries of panels where folks have moved away.” TCEC initially offered community solar to residential members only but have since opened it up to not-for-profit organizations. “This has been popular among local museums,” says Chris Purdy, vice president of Member Solutions at TCEC. “One successful fundraising effort in Kansas is the Morton County Historical Society of Elkhart. They’ve subscribed to 18 panels to date and always welcome contributions.” He noted their June 2018 Continued on page 20
THE BENEFITS OF COMMUNITY SOLAR Community solar installations (also known as solar gardens or farms) are typically owned and maintained by the electric co-op, but consumers reap the benefits. So how does it work?
Lo
1. The co-op builds the
community solar installation. The solar panels turn sunlight into electricity.
2. The co-op maintains the 3. Consumers enroll or solar installation, ensuring clean and reliable solar energy is generated and distributed.
subscribe to be a part of the community solar program.
4. Consumers get credit on their bill for the renewable energy generated.
It’s important to note, solar installations don’t make sense for some parts of the country, but your electric co-op can always help you find ways to be more energy efficient and save on your monthly bill.
12
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
Advertisement
Eliminate Belly Fat with Vinegar! Find Out How…
by James Victor If you want to lose weight and keep it off -- hate dieting and are tired of taking pills, buying costly diet foods or gimmick “fast loss” plans that don’t work-- you’ll love the easy Vinegar way to lose all the pounds you want to lose. And keep them off! Today, the natural Vinegar weight loss plan is a reality after years of research by noted vinegar authority Emily Thacker. Her just published book “Emily’s Vinegar Diet Book” will help you attain your ideal weight the healthiest and most enjoyable way ever. You’ll never again have to count calories. Or go hungry. Or go to expensive diet salons. Or buy pills, drugs. If you like food and hate dieting, you’ll love losing weight the Vinegar way. Suddenly your body will be energized with new vigor and zest
as you combine nature’s most powerful, nutritional foods with vinegar to trim away pounds and look years younger. You’ll feel and look years younger shedding unhealthy pounds that make one look older than their age. In fact, the book’s program is so complete that it also helps you: • Learn secrets of ageless beauty and glowing skin • Help build the immune system, to fight arthritis and disease • Speed the metabolism to use natural thermogenesis to burn fat PLUS so much more that you simply must use the book’s easy Vinegar way to lose all the weight you want to lose-- and enjoy all its other benefits-- before deciding if you want to keep it. TO ORDER A COPY of Emily’s Vinegar Diet Book see Savings Coupon with Free Gift Offer
Hydrogen Peroxide Can Heal WHAT? by James Victor Hydrogen peroxide is trusted by every hospital and emergency room in the country for its ability to kill deadly germs like E. coli and the swine flu virus. In fact, it has attracted so much interest from doctors that over 6000 articles about it have appeared in scientific publications around the world. Research has discovered that hydrogen peroxide enables your immune system to function properly and fight infection and disease. Doctors have found it can shrink tumors and treat allergies, Alzheimer’s, asthma, clogged arteries, diabetes, digestive problems and migraines. Smart consumers nationwide are also discovering there are hundreds of health cures and home remedy uses for hydrogen peroxide. A new book called The Magic of Hydrogen Peroxide is now available that tells you exactly how to use hydrogen peroxide by itself... and mixed with simple everyday kitchen items... to make liniments, rubs, lotions, soaks and tonics that treat a wide variety of ailments. It contains tested and proven health cures that do everything from relieving chronic pain to making age spots go away. You’ll be amazed to see how a little hydrogen peroxide mixed with ordinary kitchen items can: • Relieve arthritis, rheumatism
& fibromyalgia • Treat athlete’s foot, foot and nail fungus • Clear up allergies and sinus problems • Soothe sore throats, fight colds and flu • Help heal boils and skin infections • Whiten teeth without spending a fortune • Destroy dental bacteria and heal gingivitis • Help heal cold sores, canker sores • Relieve insect bites and stings • Soothe sore feet, soothe muscle aches • Help minor wounds and cuts heal faster • Clear up acne, rashes and yeast infections The Magic of Hydrogen Peroxide also shows you how to make money saving household cleaners that: • Kill germs on kitchen surfaces and utensils • Make a powerful scouring powder that works wonders on sinks, refrigerators and ovens • Disinfect coffee makers, tea pots and blenders • Sanitize wood cutting boards and spoons • Make wood floors, grout and linoleum gleam • Kill bacteria on fruits, vegetables and meats • Clean toilets, tubs, showers • Clean and disinfect pet stains • Remove mold and mildew • Remove wine, ink and blood stains • Boost laundry detergents • Clean windows & mirrors • Rid pets of parasites • Make plants flourish TO ORDER A COPY of The Magic of Hydrogen Peroxide see Savings Coupon with Free Gift Offer
AMISH Vinegar Secrets Revealed by James Victor Vinegar secrets direct from the Amish! Tightly woven into the Amish way of life are threads of self-reliance and natural healing. For generations, these secrets have remained hidden within their culture. But now, you can learn the powerful healing secrets of apple cider vinegar the Amish depend on! Learn generations worth of natural Amish healing! No one does natural healing and prevention better than the Amish! In this firstever Amish vinegar guide, you’ll find hundreds of tried-and-true ways to use apple cider vinegar for better health. Scientific research has proven what the Amish have always known: apple cider vinegar is the foundation of better health. It is: • Antibacterial • Anti-inflammatory • Antifungal • Antiviral • Antioxidant • Antimicrobial And what research has proven, the Amish have already been doing for generations! • No harmful side-effects • No drug interactions • All natural Simple, POTENT solutions the drug companies don’t want you to know about! With Amish Vinegar Secrets, you’ll get 168-pages of hundreds of Amish healing remedies: • Relieve nagging headaches • Make your own daily health tonic • End embarrassing dandruff • Ease a sore throat • Treat itchy athlete’s foot • Get rid of corns and calluses • End hiccups • Prevent nighttime leg cramps • Bring relief from arthritis • Fade age spots • Relieve varicose vein
discomfort • Help heal and soothe itchy skin Amish weight loss secrets included. Now you can learn Amish secrets of using apple cider vinegar for permanent weight loss — without ever counting calories or going hungry again! You’ll learn the simple ways the Amish use apple cider vinegar in their daily diets to lose weight and keep it off. Just simple, delicious apple cider vinegar added to your daily lifestyle for SAFE weight loss! Amish Clean! Did you know apple cider vinegar cleans better, deeper and more vigorously than most store-bought cleaners? Learn the secret of cleaning and disinfecting your home, effectively eliminating germs the natural way — with no worries of toxic residue! • Eliminate allergies • Prevent colds and flu • Kill germs on contact • Get rid of mold and mildew • Deep clean bathrooms • Disinfect kitchens Amish beauty secrets. Have you ever looked at the natural beauty of the Amish? REALLY looked? Beautiful, radiant, blemishfree skin even after spending long days in the hot sun! Their secret is wholesome apple cider vinegar! • Supple skin, naturally • No harsh soaps or cleaners • Look younger • Balance skin’s pH levels • Add a healthy glow to skin • Improve complexion and MORE Amish Vinegar Secrets is a full 168-pages packed cover to cover with potent natural remedies! TO ORDER A COPY of Amish Vinegar Secrets see Savings Coupon with Free Gift Offer ©2018 JDI MPR100S04
Savings Coupon Here’s how to get the Amish Vinegar Secrets, Emily’s Vinegar Diet Book and The Magic of Hydrogen Peroxide on a 90 day money back guarantee. Simply fill out this coupon and mail to:
James Direct Inc., Dept. MPR105, 500 S. Prospect Ave., Box 980, Hartville, Ohio 44632 _____ Get any 1 book for $12.95 + $3.98 S & H (Total of $16.93) _____ SAVE - Get any 2 books for only $20 with FREE S & H _____ SAVE - Get any 3 books for only $30 with FREE S & H Check the books you want below: Qty ___ AVS Amish Vinegar Secrets Qty ___ VB Vinegar Diet Qty ___ HP Hydrogen Peroxide Total Enclosed _________ Orders mailed within 10 days also receive a FREE Mystery Gift PLEASE PRINT Phone (___________ ) ___________________ Name ___________________________________________________ Address _________________________________________________ City ___________________________ State ______ Zip _________ I am enclosing $ ______ by q Check q Money Order (Payable to James Direct Inc., OH residents please add 6.5% sales tax) Charge my: ___ VISA ___ MasterCard ___ Amex ___ Discover Card No. __________________________________ Exp. Date _____ Signature ________________________________________________
THE ‘HOW’ OF
SOLAR PANELS Harnessing power from the sun’s energy is not a new concept by any means. With recent technological advances and lower costs, solar energy has become an attractive option, and electric cooperatives are leading the electric utility industry in the development of community solar farms. The question that remains for many is how do solar panels actually generate electricity? Let’s break this seemingly abstract concept down and take a closer look at the conversion of sunlight to usable electricity. SOLAR PANELS
Solar panels, like the ones you see on street signs or rooftops, consist of smaller, connected photovoltaic (PV) cells (“photo” meaning light and “voltaic” meaning the production of electricity). These cells have two layers of a semi-conducting material, typically silicon, which are the meat of the solar panels. The cells are infused with additional elements giving the top layer a negative charge
and the bottom layer a positive charge. These two silicon layers are also sandwiched between several other coatings, including a glass casing, to optimize the PV cell’s energy production and provide protection from outside debris.
JOURNEY OF SOLAR ENERGY
Now that we’ve covered the construction of solar panels, let’s explore the electrical process they
The energy travels through the grid and distribution lines maintained by the coop and into the homes and businesses of the co-op’s consumer-members.
Once the electricity is converted to AC, it is fed into the power grid system.
14
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
facilitate. The sun emits massive amounts of solar energy each day in the form of photons, which are small particles of light. When these photons collide hard enough with PV cells, electrons are knocked loose from atoms in the top silicon layer of the cells, leaving gaps to be filled by electrons from the bottom layer. Because of the electric field created by the two silicon layers, the loose electrons circulate through the cells in a single direction, out toward the metal sides of the solar panel, creating electricity with a direct current (DC). This is where the power inverter comes in. The newly generated electricity flows out of the panels, through conductive wire and into the inverter system. This system exists because the majority of home appliances and electronics operate on an alternating current (AC) power. The inverter takes care of this discrepancy and converts the power from DC to AC, allowing us to charge our phones and watch TV using electricity generated through solar panels. Once the electricity is AC, it flows from the
inverter to our breaker box and into our homes as needed. Any solar energy that goes unused will flow through your electrical meter and back onto the electric grid.
COOPERATIVE SOLAR
Solar is booming, especially among utilities. In fact, electric cooperatives are leading the electric utility industry in the development of a type of solar called “community” solar. This “shared” solar model allows co-ops to develop an array for members who can either purchase the power or lease panels. A community solar program makes solar more equitable for co-op members who are unable to install rooftop solar because of tree shading, renting rather than owning their home or a number of other factors. To date, Midwest Energy, Hays, and Tri-County Electric Cooperative, Hooker, Oklahoma, are the two electric co-ops offering community solar to consumermembers in Kansas. Continued on page 21
An electric cooperative invests in the construction of a community solar farm. The farm’s solar panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC). An on-site power inverter converts the electricity from DC to alternating current (AC).
JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
15
E N E R GY W I S E Continued from page 8
Some homes also have significant uses besides heating and cooling that increase winter or summer bills, like a well pump, spa or swimming pool. Just total up your average electricity use for the months when you use the most energy and subtract the average amount you use in “shoulder months”—when you’re not cooling or heating your home. The difference is likely the amount you pay each month for heating and cooling. If someone says switching to a new heating or cooling system could save you 20 percent, they may mean you can save 20 percent on heating or cooling costs. Some homes also have significant uses besides heating and cooling that increase winter or summer bills, like a well pump, spa or swimming pool. You may receive a separate monthly bill for natural gas, propane or heating oil which might be
delivered on an as-needed, keep-filled basis. The Home Energy Yardstick can accommodate any type of fuel you use in your home. Hopefully this information can help you analyze your energy bill and give you some general ideas on how you might be able to cut your energy expenses. The best way to turn these ideas into specific actions is to conduct an energy audit of your home. Contact your electric co-op to see if they offer free energy audits or if they can recommend a local professional. KCL This column was co-written by PAT KEEGAN and BRAD THIESSEN of Collaborative Efficiency. For more information on understanding your utility bill, please visit www.collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips.
IMPROVE HOME’S DUCT SYSTEM FOR COMFORT AND SAVINGS
Improving Duct Performance Ducts are often concealed in walls, ceilings, attics, basements or crawlspaces, and can be tricky to repair. However, there are things that you can do to improve the performance of your duct system. Here’s a DIY approach to finding duct problems in your home: ff START BY INSPECTING THE DUCTS you
can see (e.g. in the basement, attic and garage), then ask yourself the following:
16
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
ff Are there any obvious holes, gaps or
disconnections in the ducts? ff Are the connections at vents and
registers well-sealed where they meet the floors, walls and ceiling? GET TY IMAGES/MYRKU
High utility bills? Stuffy rooms? Dusty house? It could be your duct system. A duct system that is properly sealed and insulated can make your home more comfortable, energy efficient and safe—all while helping to reduce your energy bills. However, in typical homes, about 20 to 30 percent of the air that moves through the duct system is lost due to leaks, holes or poorly installed ducts. The result is higher utility bills and difficulty keeping the house comfortable, no matter how the thermostat is set.
ff Are flex ducts straight with only gentle
curves and not ripped, torn, squashed (stepped-on) or disconnected? ff SEAL THE LEAKS AND HOLES you can
access with duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape.
Wrap ducts in unconditioned spaces with duct insulation to keep them from getting too hot or cold.
ff WRAP DUCTS that go through
unconditioned space (attics, basements/ crawlspaces, or garages) with duct insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter. ff AFTER SEALING AND INSULATING YOUR DUCTS, have a professional check your system to ensure it’s balanced.
Prefer a hands-off approach? Work with a qualified home energy professional to conduct a home energy audit to find and
solve these problems. Your electric co-op may have pre-screened contractors to help you, as well as service discounts for their customers. Many homeowners choose to work with a professional contractor for duct improvement projects. Most heating and cooling equipment contractors also repair ductwork. KCL Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, ENERGY STAR program.
CRACK THE CODE: A Homeowner’s Primer
A RT I C L E S BY DIANE VETO PA R H A M
WHAT’S IN YOUR ATTIC? A peek in most attics will reveal the tried-andtrue materials commonly used to insulate homes: fiberglass, cellulose, mineral wool or spray-foam insulation. Regardless of type, the keys to effective insulation are the same—getting the right R-value for your home’s insulation, proper installation and air sealing. FIBERGLASS: This is the insulation that looks like cotton candy, commonly seen in long strips—called batts or rolls—between wall studs and ceiling joists. It might be pink, white or yellow, and it also comes in a loose-fill form, often blown into attic spaces. Made of tiny glass fibers, it can be uncomfortable to touch; wear gloves and a mask while handling it. MINERAL WOOL: Like fiberglass, this comes in batts, rolls or loose-fill forms. It’s made from natural and recycled materials and often appears greenishbrown in color. CELLULOSE: Grayish in color, cellulose is a loose-fill insulation that can be blown in between attic joists. It is chemically treated to be resistant to moisture, fire, insects and nesting
rodents. Over time, it can settle, reducing its insulation value and requiring an additional layer to bring it back to the recommended R-value for your home. SPRAY-IN FOAM: More expensive than other types of insulation, sprayin foam is becoming a more common choice because it provides more insulation and better air sealing, Touchstone Energy’s Alan Shedd says. Sprayed on the interior of your roof, it wraps the attic into your home’s envelope; if your HVAC unit is in the attic, it’s going to operate more efficiently in that more temperate environment. “It’s more expensive than blowing in another 6 inches of fiberglass or cellulose, but it’s certainly worth getting prices,” Shedd says. “For new construction, it’s a no-brainer.” If you’re climbing up to look at what you’ve got, be sure to protect yourself. Bring a flashlight, so you can check your insulation in every nook and cranny and also see where you are stepping. Only walk where you are sure of secure footing, so you don’t drop through the ceiling below. Wear gloves, eye protection and a dust mask if you’ll be handling any insulation. Also, limit your time up there if temperatures are very hot or cold. KCL
A SHOPPER’S GUIDE TO HEAT PUMP TERMINOLOGY AND ACRONYMS Baffled by the alphabet soup that greets you when you start looking at heat pumps? If an HVAC contractor starts spouting numbers for SEER, EER, HSPF and COP, just remember those terms are a handy shorthand for comparing the efficiency of one heat pump to another. A higher number indicates a more efficient system. That can save you money in energy costs over the life of the unit, but you may have to pay a little more for it up front. Know these terms before you shop: SEER: Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This rates the cooling efficiency of an air-source heat pump. To earn ENERGY STAR certification, heat pumps must have a SEER of at least 15; mini-split SEER ratings can be in the 30s. You can buy less expensive, traditional
models with a SEER of 13, the NRECA’s Brian Sloboda says. “The good news is, if you have an older unit, it’s probably below that, so the lowest amount you spend on a new unit will still save you money.” EER: Energy Efficiency Ratio. It’s not tied to seasonal performance, but it is a measure of cooling performance. You’ll find this on geothermal (ground-source) heat pumps, usually rated 18 and up. HSPF: Heating Seasonal Performance Factor. The flip side of SEER, this rates an air-source heat pump’s heating efficiency. Look for a rating of 8.2 or above for ENERGY STAR-certified models. COP: Coefficient of Performance. If you’re shopping for geothermal systems, watch for this measure of heating efficiency, and aim for a rating of 3.6 or higher for more efficient models. KCL
JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
17
YO U R P L A C E I N T H E G A R D E N
Gnome Gardening Brings Imagination, Creativity to Garden
BY C Y N T H I A D O M E N G H I N I , P H . D .
imagination and creativity to life in the garden. Incorporating whimsical creations, such as gnomes, along with their home and accessories into the landscape invites gardeners young and old to share in the work and play of gardening. There is no end to the ideas you can create and better yet, there’s no wrong way to garden with this approach. In my yard, the gnome garden is an ever-changing environment of miniature villages often reflecting our own lives. Over the years, our collection of gnome accessories and homes have expanded. The homes are connected in a neighborhood set-up with glass rock stepping stones. There’s even a park with a seesaw and swing set. A campground is also available for gnomes who need a weekend getaway. My son imagined and built a tree house for the gnomes with a rope ladder leading to it. One lesson I learned quickly while gardening with my children is to allow them to take the lead rather than deciding in advance that an idea may be too far-fetched. Plants are also important to the design of gnome gardens. Gnome homes fit perfectly tucked beneath giant hosta (Hosta spp.) leaves. Ground covers are great for creating yards for the gnomes and identifying different sections of the garden. We use stonecrop (Sedum spp.), English ivy (Hedera helix), creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) and even moss to define garden spaces. The variety of color and texture come together with a patchwork quilt-type appearance. Trees provide a good location for a gnome garden. The shade they provide welcomes playful gardeners tending to their gnomes and plants. Trees also help identify the area for the gnome village so accessories aren’t lost in the larger landscape. During the winter months, we pack our garden features away to keep them from deteriorating due to the weather. Before replacing them in the spring, we clean up leaf debris and prepare the garden for the gnomes. Gnome homes can be purchased or created using items in the yard or those commonly found in the home. A broken clay pot can be turned upside down to create a home with the cutout piece serving as the doorway. An empty soup can
GNOME GARDENING BRINGS
Cynthia Domenghini, Ph.D.
An empty soup can turned on its side can resemble a bungalow. Children can help build homes using scrap wood. Gnome gardening does not have to be an expensive endeavor.
18
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
turned on its side can resemble a bungalow. Children can even help build homes using scrap wood. Gnome gardening does not have to be an expensive endeavor. Accessories for the garden are fun to add throughout the growing season. Popsicle sticks wired together vertically with a gap in between each stick looks just like a picket fence. Small twigs connected with twine can create a rope ladder for gnomes to climb trees, or if the twigs are placed closer together, it can be a swinging bridge to cross a body of water. We’ve turned a hummingbird feeder into a hot air balloon, a piece of scrap wood into a dock overhanging a small fish pond, and piled up matchbox cars to simulate a demolition derby. The accessories are only limited by imagination. During this summer heat find a shady spot under a tree and begin with a single gnome home. Then invite the children in your life to inspire the garden to grow. In no time it will be an active garden growing memories alongside the plants. KCL CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI is an instructor and coordinator for K-State’s horticultural therapy online certificate program.
The broad leaves of the giant blue hosta provide shelter for the gnome home underneath.
Why pay $1,600 or more? HEAR BETTER 45-DAYEE
RISK-FRL
FOR ONLY
$299EA!
SAME HIGH-QUALITY DIGITAL HEARING AIDS OFFERED BY AUDIOLOGISTS AND ENT’S.
TRIA
✔ Risk-FREE 45-day home trial – 100% Money-back Guarantee!
WOW...
That’s 4 low
payments
74.75 per aid!
of only $
HURRY, OFFE
R ENDS SOON
.
✔ FREE unlimited support from our licensed professionals (via phone, email and chat) ✔ FREE shipping
✔ No restocking fees
Honest prices, no gimmicks, and zero risk! If you’re struggling with hearing loss it may be affecting you in ways you may not realize: feelings of isolation, depression, and stress by “pretending” you’re hearing others. Maybe you avoid going to your favorite restaurant because of background noise. Even worse, untreated hearing loss may be linked to dementia.
How would your life improve if you addressed your hearing loss? We think you’d agree it’s worth $299 for a hearing aid. The Apollo™-6200 is the perfect digital hearing aid to give you clear hearing and easy understanding. Designed with American-Made technology, you get the BEST technology for the BEST price.
AMERICAN-MADE TECHNOLOGY ★ FDA REGISTERED ★ 100% DIGITAL ★ DOCTOR DESIGNED Did you know... An independent study concluded that many consumers were more satisfied and received more value through Hearing Help Express than from their local hearing aid provider. To read the entire study visit: www.hearinghelpexpress.com/2018/01/26/hearing-aid-industry-analysis
“Had I known what a difference these hearing aids would make in my life I would have gotten them sooner. Life is so much more fun when you can hear it.” R. Mendelson
The typical hearing aid costs over $2,000 because of mark-ups and prepaid labor you may not use. Order safely from Hearing Help Express, you get manufacturer-direct prices (no middleman mark-ups or Audiologist prepaid labor charges), saving you over 80%. Try the Apollo™-6200 completely Risk-FREE! With as little as $74.75 down for each hearing aid (100% refundable). Try the Apollo-6200 for 45 days and see if it’s everything we’ve promised!
Try the Apollo™-6200 hearing aid Risk-FREE for 45 days! 100%
Satisfaction
GUARANTEED
Expires: 9/30/18 Trusted Since 1979
• Hearing aids by mail for 39 years • Over 750,000 satisfied customers
For fastest service call toll-free (Mon-Fri • 8 am - 5 pm CST)
1-888-847-1189
Order online
PROMO CODE
www.HearingHelpExpress.com 94-442
If you decide the Apollo-6200 is right for you, we’ll gladly set you up on our easy 0% APR payment plan for the remaining three payments of $74.75 for each hearing aid (your initial payment will be applied as your first monthly payment). Credit card required to process order.
A+
Rating
Continued from page 12
savings is about $50 thanks to community solar. Some co-ops find a community solar program can help with economic development, as businesses look to locate in areas where they can meet the organization’s renewable energy goals. “The community solar model is well-suited for co-ops because it is flexible, and it can be a way of matching supply with the demand from the co-op membership,” says Warren. “The co-op can gauge how interested its members are in participating and then size the program accordingly.” Warren even sees community solar as a way to build a stronger bond between the local co-op and its members.
The community solar model is well-suited for co-ops because it is flexible, and it can be a way of matching supply with the demand from the co-op membership. “They’re literally helping to provide the power for the co-op,” she says. “That’s changing the relationship between the consumer-member and the co-op.” KCL PAUL WESSLUND writes for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape.
KEPCO’S PRAIRIE SKY SOLAR FARM PART OF NEW FRONTIER
Elizabeth Snodgrass
Growing up with pioneering, missionminded parents, Elizabeth Snodgrass was destined to follow in their footsteps. Born in 1917 to Edwin Forest Snodgrass and Susie Harper Snodgrass at Pleasant Look Farm, Towanda, Elizabeth spent most of her adult life working as a missionary, first serving the homeless on the lower east side of New York City and later as a field missionary traveling from Boston, Massachusetts, to
Sacramento, California. In an interview with Kansas Country Living in May 2016 to discuss her decision to sell her family’s property to Kansas Electric Power Cooperative (KEPCo) where Prairie Sky Solar Farm now operates, she recalled special memories of life with her family on the farm before they had electricity. “To have a radio we had to take the car battery into the house and hook it up,” she said. “And we’d have a radio but if we wanted to go somewhere we had to put the car battery back into the car,” she laughed. Elizabeth said her parents taught her the importance of being invested in the community, and they led by example, even donating land for a local grade school and cemetery.
20
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
Elizabeth said through the years people had wanted to buy a few acres of the family farmland but she said she simply didn’t want to divvy it up a few acres at a time. When KEPCo approached her about purchasing the property to use for the solar farm, she said she knew her family would approve. “They would be happy to have the land be a part of the new frontier today.” Unfortunately, Elizabeth passed away June 23, 2016, at the age of 98 before KEPCo’s solar farm was completed. KCL
Family of Elizabeth Snodgrass attended the dedication of KEPCo’s Prairie Sky Solar Farm in March 2017. From left: Joseph Plank, Myra Slusser, Jana and Steve Plank. Not pictured: Glen Snodgrass who was instrumental in working with adjacent property owners.
Mark Barbee, left, senior vice president, engineering and operations for KEPCo, explains the process of converting solar energy during tours of KEPCo’s Prairie Sky Solar Farm. The solar array comprises 4,560 photovoltaic panels on 8.5 acres of land in Butler County. Continued from page 15
In addition, the two generation and transmission cooperatives that generate electricity for the state’s 29 distribution cooperatives, have or will have added solar to their generation mix. Kansas Electric Power Cooperative Inc. (KEPCo), Topeka, built Prairie Sky Solar, a utility-scale 1-megawatt solar electricity generating facility located near Andover and dedicated in March 2017. KEPCo is owned by 19 rural electrical co-ops whose members cover about half of Kansas and belong to the following electric distribution co-ops: Ark Valley, Bluestem, Brown-Atchison, Butler, Caney Valley, CMS, DS&O, Flint Hills, Freestate, Heartland, Lyon-Coffey, Ninnescah, Prairie Land, Radiant, Rolling Hills, Sedgwick County, Sumner-Cowley, Twin Valley, and Victory. In February of this year, Mid-Kansas Electric Company Inc., along with its sister company Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, announced its plan to purchase renewable energy from a 20-megawatt solar project scheduled for construction in southwest Kansas. The cooperatively operated wholesale generation and transmission utility has signed a 25-year power purchase agreement with Lightsource BP, an independent power producer that will build, own and operate the solar facility. Construction of the project is scheduled to begin in early 2019. Sunflower serves the following
electric distribution co-ops: Lane-Scott, Pioneer, Prairie Land, Victory, Western, and Wheatland.
ROOFTOP SOLAR
If the costs make sense and you have a roof suitable for solar, a rooftop solar array can be an option for a business or homeowner, but please be aware of the costs and responsibilities. Before installing solar PV on your home, contact your electric cooperative to find out more about solar generation, policies regarding member-owned generation and to ask for advice on maintaining the system. KCL KALEY LOCKWOOD writes on cooperative issues for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Virginia-based service arm of the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives.
This ‘shared’ solar model allows co-ops to develop an array for members who can either purchase the power or lease panels. JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
21
C O O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E
Remembering Summers of Tomato Takeover
BY R E B E C C A H O WA R D
sheltered under wind-protective milk jugs; then eventually, the plants grew to such gangly and gargantuan proportions that they needed to be caged in lengths of fencing big and tall enough to hold a human being (or blot out one having a freak accident in his flip-flops). The plants grew and bloomed bright yellow flowers, furry leaves, gave off a sour, distinctive smell and drew horned, “eye”-spotted, tomatogreen worms that also smelled sour and inspired Rebecca Howard nightmares. And before long, the others came—the tomatoes. Just a few at first, here or there in innocent little bowls and buckets. Then, the top of the deep freezers and a table on the back porch were covered with old newspapers and a sea of tomatoes in all stages of development—from still pinkish and ripening to fully red and fruit-fly worthy. They lined the kitchen window sills. Soon, their takeover crept across the dining room table … They were the big ones, too, the beefeaters or beefsteaks, the ones called Better Boy, Big Boy, Early Girl, Early Big Better Boy/Girl. My parents could not be happier, they who took salt shakers into the garden to sprinkle and munch whatever warm juiciness they found. We had sliced tomatoes with every meal. My mother made sandwiches of wheat bread spread with mayo-like salad dressing to hold thick, meaty slices of blood-red tomaA traditional Spanish recipe, this raw soup of tomatoes and other toes seasoned with salt and pepper. They veggies is served cold to refresh during the heat of summer. were fried, not quite green, but more of a greenish pink, in sweet/sour disks crispyff 1 pound fresh ripe Roma membrane removed), chopped edged yet center-wilted in their seasoned tomatoes, chopped ff juice of 1 lemon flour coating and a turn in a hot skillet. ff 3/4 cup vegetable juice ( such as V-8) ff 1 Tbs. balsamic vinegar My mother canned them, whole, in ff 1 cup cucumber, peeled, ff 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce many daily sessions of steamed peelings. seeded and chopped ff 1/2 tsp. ground cumin (Ever peel a tomato? Peeling a grape may ff 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper ff 1 tsp. salt be just slightly harder.) She also made ff 1/2 cup chopped red onion ff 1/4 tsp. pepper homemade tomato juice, deeply flavored ff 1 large garlic clove, minced ff additional chopped cucumber or with onion, garlic and green pepper. ff 1 small jalapeño pepper (seeds and red onion for garnish (optional) I was a child reluctant and ambivaPurée the tomatoes in the blender until smooth but still slightly chunky, working in a lent about tomatoes—their strong, sour couple of batches, if necessary. Place the tomatoes in a large bowl, add the vegetable taste and “gishy” texture and, well, overjuice, cucumber, bell pepper, onion, garlic, jalapeño, lemon, balsamic vinegar, Worcesterabundance in their summer takeover shire sauce, cumin, salt and pepper. Stir to combine. Put about 2 cups of the mixture in the blender and purée for about 20 seconds. Return to the bowl and stir. Cover and chill made me not as big a fan as the rest the soup for at least 2 hours or overnight (flavors improve with more chilling time). Serve of the family, but I did my part. And topped with chopped cucumber or red onion as garnish. Makes 4 servings. despite putting a big dent in them, our immediate family couldn’t always keep Every summer, even those who have a near greenless thumb and no space have at least one tomato plant. And if you have one tomato plant—and it’s doing reasonably well—you can end up with too many tomatoes. I know this because I grew up with people who didn’t know the meaning of “too many” tomatoes. That may even be an understatement. One year, my mom and dad put out 41 (this number is etched in my brain) tomato plants. My parents’ tomato “patch” equaled a few patches, as close and convenient as the back door, and as far away as the far corner of the barn, where, one year my dad, checking out the growing ruby crop, had a blowout in his flip flop; the discarded broken shoe remained stuck in the muddy skid he left behind all summer, a casualty to the cause. The tomatoes were often started from seed in moist little swelling peat pods laid out in the dining room window seat in early spring; young plants were carried outside with cautious, tender love in the first warm days of April or May to be
Garden Gazpacho
24
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
up with the high volume, either. Summers meant giving big buckets and brown grocery sacks full to family, friends, neighbors. The tomato surplus reached its zenith some 10 years ago, when my parents, themselves finally maxed out, their salt-shaking wrists a little weary, decided to truck some of their freshly picked fruits to an area farmer’s market to sell. My father was not pleased with the organization of the event, and, refusing to pay for a booth space, turned on his heel (if he’d been wearing a flip-flop, it would have had a blow-out), huffing back to the truck. He and his tomatoes could do better than this. My mother drove him around town for the next two hours, and he offered them to several grocery stores and a McDonald’s and was flatly rejected. Those garden-fresh tomatoes were well good enough for any of those places, but there was protocol—and the FDA—that said otherwise. My mom keeps fewer tomato plants now, but still a good-sized jungle conveniently located near the back door. And, I, the tomato-resistant, usually keep a couple plants myself (preferring the less “gishy,” sweeter plum or Roma variety). Why, you have to! I understand now that a home-grown tomato is a different species than one store-bought. If there is something that tastes more like summer than a freshly picked tomato, still warm from the sun, I don’t know what it is. 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.”
TIPS: MAKE WAY FOR ‘MATERS ff ROAST ‘EM: Place Roma tomatoes
that have been sliced lengthwise and scooped of their center flesh and seeds on a foil-lined baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, balsamic vinegar; sprinkle with minced garlic, salt and pepper. Roast at 425 degrees for 25 minutes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Serve warm or room temp.
ff SALSA-FY ‘EM: Chop your favorite
tomatoes, add chopped onion, garlic, green pepper, jalapeño pepper, cilantro and maybe a sweet something like chopped fresh peaches or pineapple for a quick, easy salsa. ff SAUCE ‘EM: Make a fresh pasta sauce
by sautéing in olive oil chopped, fresh tomatoes, chopped zucchini, onion,
garlic, fresh chopped basil, and salt and pepper for several minutes until vegetables soften. ff SLICE ‘EM: Alternate equal-sized slices
of fresh tomato and mozzarella cheese on a platter. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar, olive oil and salt and pepper. Sprinkle with chopped fresh basil.
JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
25
Baby Chicks for Sale! Free catalog at
www.cacklehatchery.com Hatching & shipping in Lebanon, Missouri, since 1936
Would You Like to Reach
128,000 Homes & Businesses? Call Carrie at 785-478-4554 to discuss advertising options in the next monthly issue of Kansas Country Living magazine!
S U B S C R I B E TO
Find out more! View our media kit at http://bit.ly/kcl2018 26
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
Only $10 a year. Mail check or money order payable to: Kansas Electric Cooperatives, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604
POLE BARNS FREE CUPOLA A&C By
WITH PREMIUM PACKAGE UPGRADE
BARN BUILDERS, LLC
Specializing in Post Frame Metal Buildings
Serving the Entire State of Kansas
800.889.1096 www.aandcbuilders.com
• Comes in various Sizes and Colors. • Website shows nearly 100 uses for this product. • Helps prevent Bruising, Cuts, Scratches, and Burns. • Ideal for those who Bruise Easily or have Thin Skin. • Protection from thorny/needled plants & trees. • Easily worn under regular gloves or over sleeves.
Moooving? Report your new address to your local electric cooperative.
BARN BUILDERS
DT Construction Established in 1977 All Workers Insured
FREE ESTIMATES
VVV
30x50x10 enclosed 12’ Slider, 1 entry door
Galvalume
40x60x14 enclosed 2 12’ sliders, 1 entry door
Galvalume
$15,000
Colored Metal
$16,400
Colored Metal
$17,900
Contact Us for Free Quotes!
$25,200
Office: 918-797-2062 Fax: 918-696-2022 Toll Free: 800-714-0147 Cell: 918-575-0368
36x60x16 18’ split sliding door, 15’x60’ lean-to, 1 entry door
Colored Metal
40x80x16, 2 12x14 framed overhead door openings, fully Colored Metal insulated in R-foil, 1 entry door 40x100x16 enclosed 20’ split slider, 1 entry door
$8,300
Your Pole Barn Specialists!
$9,300
Galvalume
$23,300
Colored Metal
$25,300
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
Triple V Pole Barns
triplevpolebarns1@gmail.com
triplevpolebarnsllc.com Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives of the product or services advertised. JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
27
SAFETY
Handle with Care: Pressure Washers Can Cause Serious Injuries are handy for cleaning large, sturdy surfaces such as buildings, farm equipment and driveways. It’s important to always follow the safety instructions included in the owner’s manual and discuss proper use and precautions of pressure washers with your family members. PRESSURE WASHERS
Risks ffThe strong spray from a pressure
washer can cause serious wounds that might first appear minor, which can cause a person to delay treatment, increasing risk for infection, disability or amputation.
ffThe fast, strong spray can throw
objects that strike and injure others who are close by.
ffElectric shock can occur if safety
instructions are not followed.
ffUsing small, gasoline-powered
engines can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use any equipment powered by gasoline engines inside buildings or other partially enclosed spaces unless the gasoline engine can be placed outdoors and away from air intakes.
High-pressure washers can help with a variety of cleaning and maintenance projects around the house and farm. Make sure family members always follow safety precautions when using these devices.
Precautions ffNever point a pressure washer at
yourself or others.
ffNever attempt to push or move
objects with spray from the washer.
ffAlways test the ground fault circuit
interrupter (circuit breaker or outlet) before using a pressure washer.
ff Always plug a properly grounded
pressure washer into a properly grounded receptacle.
ff If an extension cord must be used,
keep the pressure washer’s power cord connection out of any standing water, and use a heavy-duty extension cord with components rated for use in wet locations. Keep both the power cord and extension cord connections as far away as possible from the item being washed and away from any water runoff.
ff Wear rubber-soled shoes that
provide some insulation when using the pressure washer.
ff Never cut or splice the pressure
washer’s power or extension cords.
ff Never remove the grounding prong
from the pressure washer’s power cord plug or the extension cord.
ff Always have a qualified electrician
check the pressure washer for electrical problems after it has tripped a circuit breaker.
ff Never allow children to operate a
pressure washer. Keep children at a safe distance when an adult is using a pressure washer.
Pressure washer injuries ff Call 911 if emergency help is
needed.
ff Take care of any wounds: Before treating the wound, wash
your hands with soap and clean water. Put pressure on the wound with a clean cloth to stop bleeding. After bleeding has stopped, pour bottled or clean running water over the wound. Gently clean around the wound with soap and clean water. Pat dry and use an adhesive bandage or dry clean cloth to cover the wound. Leave unclean wounds open.
G E T T Y I M AG E S /C H E R RY B E A N S
Persons who have high pressure spray wounds are urged to get medical attention as soon as possible. The seriousness of high pressure injection injuries is generally underestimated. The potential for serious injury should be considered with any device that produces greater than 100 pounds per square inch (PSI) of pressure. KCL Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH)/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (NCIPC).
28
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
JULY 2018
JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
29
Caprese Omelet
KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, JULY 2018
Make this farm-to-table recipe using your tomato harvest and farm fresh eggs.
KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, JULY 2018
and grilling that brings people together.
Pineapple Pork Kebabs There’s something about being outdoors
Mini Pecan Lemon Berry Tarts
KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, JU LY 201 8
For a simple take on dessert, try these mini treats with a three-ingredient pecan crust.
KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, JU LY 201 8
nutritious snacking solution for kids.
Green Bean Twists & Beefy Lettuce Cups Beef and veggies provide a simple and
Green Bean Twists & Beefy Lettuce Cups Beefy Lettuce Cups ff 8 ounces corned beef, chopped ff 1/2 cup shredded carrots
Green Bean Twists ff 8 ultra-thin slices roast beef, about 2 ounces, cut in half lengthwise ff 1/2 cup chopped water chestnuts
blanched and chilled
ff 16 green beans, trimmed,
dry-roasted cashew pieces
ff 2 Tbs. unsalted, ff 2 Tbs. teriyaki sauce ff 8 butter lettuce leaves
To make the Green Bean Twists: Wrap one slice roast beef around each bean, creating spiral, arrange on plate and serve. Yields 16 twists. To make the Beefy Lettuce Cups: In medium bowl, stir together corned beef, carrots, water chestnuts, cashew pieces and teriyaki sauce. Spoon onto lettuce leaves and serve. Makes 8 lettuce cups.
COURTESY OF THE BEEF CHECKOFF
ff 2 cups pecan pieces or halves
Mini Pecan Crusts
ff 1/2 cup lemon curd
ff 24 Mini Pecan Crusts
Berry Tarts
Mini Pecan Lemon Berry Tarts ff 1/4 cup butter, melted
ff 1/2 cup blueberries or raspberries ff powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
ff 2 Tbs. sugar
To make Mini Pecan Crusts: Heat oven to 350 F. Line mini muffin tin with paper liners. In food processor, blend pecans, butter and sugar until mixture forms coarse dough. Scoop about 2 tsp. pecan mixture into each muffin tin. Use back of wooden spoon or fingers to press mixture evenly along bottom and up sides of each muffin cup. Bake 12 minutes, or until crusts are golden brown. Allow crusts to cool completely before removing from pan. To make Tarts: Spoon 1 teaspoon lemon curd into each Mini Pecan Crust. Top each with one raspberry or three small blueberries. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired. COURTESY AMERICAN PECAN COUNCIL
ff 2 cups pineapple chunks
Pineapple Kebabs
ff 3-4 Tbs. barbecue rub
ff 3-4 flexible skewers
ff 2 1/2 cups teriyaki marinade
ff 1/2 boneless fresh pork loin
1 to 1 1/2-inch square pieces
ff 1 sweet onion, cut into
1 to 1 1/2-inch square pieces
ff 1 red bell pepper, cut into
Heat grill or smoker to 250 F. Cut pork loin into 2-inch cubes.
Season pork loin, sweet onion, red bell pepper and pineapple chunks with rub.
Thread pork loin, onion, pepper and pineapple on skewer; repeat until length of skewer is almost full. Repeat with additional skewers.
Put assembled kebabs in large re-sealable bag and add teriyaki marinade. Carefully remove air from marinade bag and refrigerate 20 minutes.
Remove kebabs from marinade bag and place on grill over indirect heat; cook 12-14 minutes, remove and set aside.
COURTESY SMITHFI ELD A ND PITM ASTER STER LING BA LL
Increase grill temperature to 400 F. Sear kebabs at high heat, until caramelized. Using meat thermometer, check pork loin cubes for doneness; remove from heat once pork reaches internal temperature of 145 F. Serves 3 to 4.
ff 1/2 beefsteak tomato, sliced
Caprese Omelet ff 2 tsp. olive oil
ff 1/4 cup lowfat shredded
ff 1 8-ounce glass of milk
ff 1 Tbs. fresh basil, chopped
mozzarella cheese
ff 1 large egg ff 2 large egg whites ff 3 Tbs. fat free milk
Heat olive oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat. Beat eggs and 3 Tbs. milk together in a small bowl until well mixed.
Pour egg mixture into heated pan, swirling the pan until eggs cover the bottom. Allow the eggs to set and no visible liquid remains, about 2 -3 minutes.
After the eggs have set, arrange the tomatoes, cheese and basil on one side of the eggs. Using a spatula, carefully fold omelet in half, bringing the egg portion over the filling. Remove omelet from pan and serve with remaining 8-ounce glass of milk and enjoy. One serving.
COURTESY MILKPEP
JULY 2018
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
30