Issuu

GET TYIMAGES/SOPHIAAPKALIKOV

JULY

“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook.

F E AT U R E S

D E PA RT M E N T S

12 | Iconic and Trendy

4 | 6 |

Originally made for manual laborers, bib overalls can be found under such labels as Ralph Lauren and in all colors and patterns. Yet, the most popular remain long-running brands, including Kansas-based Key bib overalls.

8 |

20 | Sensing Change

10 |

Real-time data collection from a device the size of a tennis shoe monitors the performance of the grid in response to the “greening of the grid.”

E D I TO R’S L E T T E R

Cool to be rural

A RO U N D K A N S A S

July and August events heat up CO M M E N TA RY

Around the Kansas Statehouse E N E RGY W I S E

Attic ridge vents

Protect insulation and save energy.

18 |

22 | Co-op News Briefs

YO U R P L AC E I N T H E G A R D E N

Picture this

Tackle this summer succulent project.

An update from the KidWind Challenge and how Kansas teams fared at nationals. Plus, the Rural Prosperity Listening Tour is underway with dates scheduled in July and August in various Kansas communities. Plan to attend and share your thoughts.

24 |

CO O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E

Picking and grinning

Timely tips for summer berry storage.

26 | 2 8 |

M A R K E T P L AC E

Find products, services you need SAFETY

Avoid the big green box

Pad-mounted transformers are not play sets.

2 9 |

M O N T H LY R E C I P E S

Keep the heat outside Chill your electric bill with no baking.

ON THE COVER

You-pick, or u-pick if you are super cool, farms are popular with families seeking quality time together and produce in season. They also offer parents a chance to teach youngsters where their food comes from. P H O T O B Y S H AY L E E A R P I N TA K E N AT R E E S F R U I T F A R M

JULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

E D I TO R’S L E T T E R

It’s Cool to be Rural, Especially in Kansas

(ISSN 0091-9586) JULY 2019 VOL. 69, NO. 7 ©KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2019 WWW.KEC.COOP

Bruce Graham

Chief Executive Officer

Vicki Estes

Director of Communications, Editor

Carrie Kimberlin

Manager of Creative Solutions

Shaylee Arpin

experienced the joy of children picking their own strawberries and eating most of their harvest, you understand the draw of you-pick (or u-pick if you are extra cool) farms for families. Besides taking photos to treasure a lifetime, it’s time spent together away from TV and electronic devices and the noise of modern-day life. (For orchards and u-pick farms near you, visit www. pickyourown.org/KS.htm.) For children not growing up on a farm or with access to a fruit or vegetable garden, a day at a u-pick farm— plucking those juicy berries—rivals picking a prize from the school carnival’s sack of goodies. It’s oh so cool and fun for them. More berries end up in their tummies than in their containers, and the reddish-pink juice oozes from their mouths, permanently staining their clothes. Of course, there’s no worry as generally the kids are dressed in bib overalls, prepared to take on any amount of dirt, berry juice, prickly weeds and crawling bugs often found in the country. Bib overalls, a quintessential symbol of rural America, have periodically made their fashion mark outside of the workwear world. More recently, designer IF YOU’VE EVER

labels like Ralph Lauren are selling overalls, and Nordstrom advertises what they call a “campus chic” men’s bib overall— you don’t want to know how much they cost. The most popular remain the longrunning brands that are the real deal work horses of the bib overall world, such as, Dickies, Liberty, Big Smith, Berne, Round House and Kansas-based Key, still operating in Fort Scott after more than a century. Learn more about the history of bib overalls and the Key brand on Page 12. It’s always been cool to be rural; now others are catching on and appreciating the treasure that is rural America. .

VICKI ESTES, EDITOR

SHARE WITH US!

Have an event you would like to promote? A story idea or comments to share with the editor? A recipe or photo for publishing consideration? ff events@kansascountryliving.com ff letters@kansascountryliving.com ff photos@kansascountryliving.com ff editor@kansascountryliving.com ff recipes@kansascountryliving.com

Multimedia Communications Specialist

Emma DeMaranville Communications Intern

Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.

Keith McNickle President

Terry Hobbs

Vice President

Craig Kostman

Secretary

Teresa Miller Treasurer

You receive Kansas Country 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, Lebo 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 $5.70 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. KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

SUPER COUPON OVER 5,000 5 STAR REVIEWS Customer Rating

1,000+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com

• 15,000 cu. in. of storage • 700 lb. capacity • Weighs 139 lbs.

SUPER COUPON

30", 5 DRAWER MECHANIC'S CARTS

Customer Rating

E YOUR CHOIC OF COLOR

SAVE 640 $

*34836910 * 34836910

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

COMPARE TO

Snap-on BLUE-POINT

$1 89

830

MODEL: KRBC10TBPES

Item 64031, 64033, 64059, 64721, 64722, 64720, 56429

SUPER COUPON

SUPER Customer Rating COUPON

72" x 80" RAPID PUMP 1.5 TON MOVING LIGHTWEIGHT ALUMINUM BLANKET FLOOR JACK Customer Rating

NOW

COMPARE TO

BLUE HAWK $ 99

MODEL: 77280

SAVE 70%

ITEM 69505/62418/66537 shown

$ 99

• Weighs 34 lbs.

COMPARE TO

K TOOL $ 42

151

COMPARE TO

ANY SINGLE ITEM*

ITEM 63878/63991 PERFORMANCE $ 52 64005/69567/60566 MODEL: W2364 TOOL 63601/67227shown

*34831399 * 34831399 Cannot be used with other discounts or prior purchases. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 11/7/19 while supplies last. Limit 1 FREE GIFT per customer per day.

*34825547 * 34825547

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, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, welders, Admiral, Ames, Bauer, Central Machinery, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Diamondback, 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 11/7/19.

SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating

POWDER-FREE NITRILE GLOVES PACK OF 100

SAVE 59%

9 $599

MODEL: KTI63094

ALL IN A SINGLE SUPER POWERFUL LIGHT

20% OFF

3500 WATT SUPER QUIET INVERTER GENERATOR

• 11 hour run time Customer Rating

• 5 mil thickness

NOW

SAVE $ 91

WITH ANY PURCHASE

• Super-Strong, Ultra-Lightweight Composite Plastic • Magnetic Base & 360° Swivel Hook for Hands-Free Operation • 3- AAA Batteries (included) • 144 Lumens

22999

FREE

SUPER BRIGHT LED /SMD WORK LIGHT/FLASHLIGHT

SUPER COUPON

COMPARE TO

7999

NOW

VENOM $ 97

NOW

99 $699

$ 99

MODEL: VEN4145

ITEM 97581, 37050, 64417, 64418, 61363, 68497, 61360, 61359, 68498, 68496 shown

ITEM 64545/64552/64832/64980 62160/62516/60569 shown

COMPARE TO

HONDA

2,019

MODEL: EU3000iS1A

76999

SAVE $1,319

*34840311 * 34840311

*34853152 * 34853152

*34855366 * 34855366

*34859667 * 34859667

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

SUPER COUPON

3 PIECE TITANIUM HIGH SPEED STEEL 99 STEP BITS

3 GALLON, 100 PSI OIL-FREE AIR COMPRESSORS YOUR CHOICE

$39

99 57 • Air delivery: $

HOT DOG

ITEM 69269 97080 shown

PANCAKE

ITEM 61615/60637 95275 shown

COMPARE TO

PORTER-CABLE

9862

MODEL: PCFP02003

0.6 CFM @ 90 PSI

SAVE 59%

Customer Rating

SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating

• Drill 28 hole sizes from 1/8" to 3/4"

NOW

SAVE 85%

COMPARE TO

WARN $ 99

IRWIN $ 98

MODEL: 15504PKSM

ITEM 69087/60379/91616 shown

• Weighs 83.65 lbs. • 21" L x 10-1/8" H

SAVE $ 421

Customer Rating

720

SUPER COUPON

12,000 LB. TRUCK/SUV WINCH

MODEL: 96820

NOW

39999 $299

ITEM 64045/64046/63770 shown

Customer Rating

4-1/2" ANGLE GRINDER

SAVE 44%

NOW

COMPARE TO

PERFORMAX $ 99

MODEL: 2411-1

9 1499 $9

*34869242 * 34869242

*34871552 * 34871552

*34874046 * 34874046

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

SUPER COUPON

12 VOLT LED MAGNETIC Customer Rating CHIPPER/SHREDDER WITH 6.5 HP GAS ENGINE (212 CC) TOWING LIGHT KIT • Dual action slicer cuts through NOW

SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating

CLICK-TYPE TORQUE WRENCHES

the toughest branches

$1 999 $48999 NOW 9 9 $ $429 3799 Customer Rating

COMPARE TO

SAVE 53%

ITEM 64282

BLAZER $ 65

MODEL: C7300

COMPARE TO

POWERHORSE $ 99

569

MODEL: 53134

SAVE $ 140

ITEM 62323

DRIVE ITEM 1/4" 61277/63881/2696/94735 3/8" 61276/63880/807/94892 1/2" 62431/63882/239/94850 COMPARE TO Item 239 HUSKY shown

MODEL: H2DTWA

SAVE 88%

6 FT. x 8 FT. ALUMINUM GREENHOUSE Customer Rating

• Reversible

NOW

99 $229

E YOUR CHOIC

COMPARE TO

PALRAM

29999

59999 SAVE $370

MODEL: 741353

ITEM 63354/47712 shown

*34879852 * 34879852

*34889730 * 34889730

*34891485 * 34891485

*34894168 * 34894168

LIMIT 4 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

40 VOLT LITHIUM CORDLESS 14" BRUSHLESS CHAIN SAW

Customer Rating

NOW

Customer Rating

SAVE $ 25

NOW

WIRELESS SECURITY 2 PIECE ALERT SYSTEM 1500 LB. CAPACITY VEHICLE DOLLIES

$3 99

SAVE 55%

1499

COMPARE TO

MODEL: SFA600

10" PNEUMATIC TIRE NOW

Customer Rating

FIRST ALERT 99 v $ SAVE 69% 32 99

17999 $15 4

ITEM 64715/64478/63287 shown

SUPER COUPON

ITEM 61910/62447/93068 shown

NOW

COMPARE TO

ROUGHNECK $ 99

MODEL: 27918

5699 $39

ITEM 60343/67338 shown

$ 99 SAVE

50%

COMPARE TO

$ 09

FARM & RANCH

Customer Rating

MODEL: FR1055

ITEM 69385/62388/62409/62698/30900 shown

*34896727 * 34896727

*34910710 * 34910710

*34911170 * 34911170

*34913272 * 34913272

LIMIT 1 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 3 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

LIMIT 5 - Coupon valid through 11/7/19*

*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 11/7/19.

ITEM 69645/60625 shown

*34861904 * 34861904 SUPER COUPON

ITEM 63584

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.

THROUGH SEPT. Law of the Saddle (II),

Alma. View the latest art exhibit by Linda Blackburn at The Volland Store. 785-499-3616. THROUGH SEPT. 8 Photography Tour, Logan. View 40 classic photographs by Thomas D. Magelsen in his collection “A Life in the Wild” at the Dane G. Hansen Museum. 785-689-4846. JULY 1-16 Art Exhibits, Ellsworth. Kansas

artists Marty Kottmann, Scott Beahm and Elisa Trujillo will be exhibiting various paintings at the Ellsworth Area Art Center. The Art Center is open Monday-Friday, 12:30-4:30 p.m. and located at 233 N. Douglas Ave. 785-472-5682. JULY 9, 16, 23, 30 Little Astronaut Summer Storytime, Oskaloosa. The summer theme will be “A Universe of Stories” at the Oskaloosa Public Library. Read books and have activities all about space! Children up to age 6 and their caregivers are welcome to attend. 10-11 a.m. bcrottsopl@gmail.com. JULY 10 Astronomer Program, Wamego. NASA Solar System Ambassador Brenda Culbertson will bring her telescopes to Mount Mitchell for an evening of observing the first quarter moon. Observation begins at 8 p.m. All ages welcome! Bring your blanket and lawn chair. 785-456-9181, info@ wamegopubliclibrary.com. JULY 11 Hot Dog Fundraiser, Dodge

City. Free will donation for meal with a cash bar available at the Depot Theater Company from 5-7 p.m. 620-225-1001, brandi@ depottheater.com. JULY 12-28 Sunflower State Games, Topeka. Register for Kansas’ own Olympicstyle sports festival. All ages and skill levels welcome. A large variety of events are open. Compete for the gold or come support the athletes. 785-235-2295, www. sunflowergames.com. JULY 12 Wings of Love Program, Oskaloosa. Join us for the “Rare Jewels of

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

the Rainforests” bird presentation. Event is at the Oskaloosa City Hall from 10-11 a.m. and for all ages. This event is one in a series for the summer library program. Call Rachael Hissong at 785-863-2475. JULY 12 First Friday Food Trucks, Garden

City. Food trucks in Stevens Park from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Call Garden City Downtown Vision at 620-276-0891. JULY 13 Robert Turner Summer Concert Series Opal Agafia and the Sweet Nothings, Mankato. Concert is free and open to all. There will be food vendors and a beer garden on-site at the Mankato City Park. From 7-10 p.m. JULY 13 Oldies Show, Ottawa. Enjoy this live Branson-style Grand O’ Opry show featuring Kinley Taylor Rice and Mike Arnett. Held at the Otttawa Memorial Auditorium. Tickets are $10, 12 and under are free. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., preshow 6:30 and show at 7. 785-214-0013, grandoopry@gmail.com. JULY 13 Flea Market Festival, Garden City. Join more than 4,500 people from Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma and Texas as they converge in Garden City. Flea market to include a variety of goods including food, arts, furniture and more. This event is in conjunction with the Jungle Run auto show. 620-272-3664. JULY 15 Drums Across Kansas, El

Dorado. Drums Across Kansas will be performing with percussion, brass instruments and a color guard as a part of their international summer championship tour. Held at BG Products Veterans Sports Complex. 317275-1212, visit www.drumsacrosskansas.com. JULY 16-20 Scott County Free Fair, Scott

City. Take part in any of a number of events from a Figure 8 race to free barbecue, KPRA Rodeo, Barnyard Olympics and more. http:// scottcofreefair.com. JULY 18 Free Movie, Concordia. Watch the original 1967 version of “The Jungle Book”

beginning at 7 p.m. at the Concordia Broadway Plaza. Concessions available. 785-243-2010, www.broadwayplazaconcordia.com. JULY 19-27 Hamilton County Fair,

Syracuse. Take part in the Hamilton County Fair. www.hamiltoncountyfairgrounds.com, 620-384-5433. JULY 19 Celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Moon Landing, Oskaloosa. Watch the moon landing and participate in fun moon activities. Event is at the Oskaloosa Public Library from 10-11 a.m. and for all ages. This event is one in a series for the summer library program. Call Rachael Hissong at 785-863-2475. JULY 19-20, 26-27 Broadway RFD presents “Theatre Under the Stars,” Lindsborg. The 2019 production of the musical “Into the Woods” will be held in Swensson Park on the Band Shell under the stars. All shows begin at 8:30 p.m. Grab your lawn chair and lemonade for a shady evening at the park. 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com. JULY 20-21 Jewell County Threshing Bee,

Mankato. Something for all ages with more attractions this year at Mankato City Park. JULY 25 Free Concert, Concordia. Red Line

Velocity free concert. Beginning at 7 p.m. at the Concordia Broadway Plaza. 785-243-2010, www. broadwayplazaconcordia.com. JULY 25-28 KKOA Leadsled Spectacular

Car Show, Salina. J oin us in Oakdale Park for drag races, parades and vintage market. Food trucks, music and lots of cars! 730 Oakdale Dr., Oakdale Park, 785-827-9301, www. kustomkempsofamerica.com. JULY 26-27 After Harvest Czech Festival,

Wilson. Musical entertainment by Joe Dolezal, Homebrew, Adam Capps Band plus a parade, mechanical rides and inflatables, kids activities, arts vendors and more. 785-6582272, wilsonczechfest.com, czechfestival@ wilconcom.us.

JULY 26 A Universe of Crafts, Oskaloosa. Join us for some crafting fun. Event is at the Oskaloosa Public Library from 10-11 a.m. and for all ages. This event is one in a series for the summer library program. Call Rachael Hissong at 785-863-2475. JULY 26 Final Friday, Dodge City. Held

at the Depot Theater Company from 7-9 p.m. 620-225-1001, brandi@depottheater.com. JULY 26-27 Gunsmoke: On the Air,

Dodge City. Held at by The Depot Theater Company at the Homestead Theater. Showings at 2 and 7 p.m. 620-225-1001, brandi@ depottheater.com. JULY 26 Americans with Disabilities (ADA) Celebration, Parsons. Join the independent living center for this exciting free public event held outside of SKIL’s Parsons headquarters at 1801 Main St., 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free lunch, special speakers, music, prizes, ADA info. 800-688-5616, www.skilonline.com.

Company. Ticket prices vary by age. 620-2251001, brandi@depottheater.com. AUG. 2 Movie Time, Oskaloosa. Join us

for an out-of-this-world movie. Event is at the Oskaloosa Public Library from 10-11:30 a.m. and for all ages. This event is one in a series for the summer library program. Call Rachael Hissong at 785-863-2475. AUG. 2 First Friday Food Trucks, Garden

City. Food trucks in Stevens Park from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Call Garden City Downtown Vision at 620-276-0891. AUG. 2 Banner Art Walk, Garden City. Downtown Vision’s premier event showcasing artists’ paintings on banners. Downtown Garden City Merchants from 4-7:30 p.m. Call Garden City Downtown Vision at 620-276-0891.

AUG. 3 Smoky Valley Classic Car Show,

Lindsborg. This car show gives out awards to participants including the Police Chief’s Choice and Sheriff’s Choice for cars most likely to be stopped by those agencies and the Kansas Highway Patrol Award for the car most likely to be stopped for no reason at all. Vendors, food and T-shirts located in Swensson Park from 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 888-227-2227, www. visitlindsborg.com. AUG. 4 “Unlucky in Love” Murder Mystery Dinner, Dodge City. Tickets are $40 each with limited seating. Located at The Depot Theater Company, 201 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd. 620-225-1001, www.depottheaterco.com.

Continued on page 17

JULY 27 Summer Sidewalk Sale, Garden City. Downtown Garden City Merchants, all day. Call Garden City Downtown Vision at 620-276-0891. JULY 27 Demolition Derby, Syracuse. Come watch the a demolition derby at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds. Derby starts at 7 p.m. MST. www. hamiltoncountyfairgrounds.com. JULY 27 Branson-style Grand O’ Opry Show, Ottawa. Live music by Duke Mason and Lorena Prater. Held at the Ottawa Memorial Auditorium. Tickets are $10, 12 and under free. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., preshow at 6:30 p.m. and show at 7 p.m. 785-214-0013, grandoopry@gmail.com. JULY 28 Karaoke Cabaret, Dodge City. Held at the Depot Theater Company. 620-2251001, brandi@depottheater.com. AUG. 1-4 Law and Order: C-rhyme and Pun-ishment, Dodge City. Watch this youth production at the Depot Theater JULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

C O M M E N TA RY

Inside, Outside and Around the Statehouse

Bruce Graham

That suspicion is validated by the fact that big business wasn’t willing to fund the study— instead forcing the customers of the subject utilities to foot the bill.

THE 2019 SESSION of the Kansas Legislature has adjourned, legislators are home and the Statehouse in Topeka is comparatively quiet. On the last day of the session though, the Legislative Coordinating Council (LCC), made up of seven key elected leaders, met to begin a study process that could have a significant impact on the state’s utility industry. Earlier this year, the legislature approved a bill that calls for a comprehensive study of 30 utility-related topics to be completed by an independent consultant. The original bill was authored by the state chamber of commerce and other big businesses that want to cut electric rates in Kansas. Certainly, we all want to pay less for things we need every day, but I worry that big business wants a break which would only shift costs to the other customers of the state’s utilities. That suspicion is validated by the fact that big business wasn’t willing to fund the study—instead forcing the customers of the subject utilities to foot the bill. That’s a big deal. The LCC heard a prediction from legislative staff that the study’s price tag could range from $1 million to $10 million! Members of the electric cooperatives in Kansas will have to pay about 30% of that fee. And, depending on what the study reveals, options to manage rates may be few. Electric utilities set rates through a process that involves a cost-of-service study and your not-forprofit electric cooperative is already—and always— looking to do business at the lowest possible cost. Stay tuned to Kansas Electric Cooperatives through social media and Kansas Country Living for the latest on how this study unfolds and the impact it may have on your cooperative and your utility bill. As I mentioned at the beginning of my column, the Statehouse buzz and bustle of January through May has been replaced by an occasional legislativerelated committee meeting or press conference. It is a great chance to slow down and appreciate the splendor of our state Capitol. Guided and self-guided tours are available Monday through Saturday. They are very interesting and free. If you went to the Capitol before the remodel was completed in 2014, trust me, it is worth another trip.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

BY B R U C E G R A H A M

The first thing you will see in the visitor center—which is essentially the Capitol’s walkout basement—is a marble floor map of the state of Kansas and all 105 counties. You’ll find Kansas treasures in the limestone corridors including a page from the original Kansas Constitution, which banned slavery, and a sword that belonged to notorious abolitionist John Brown. The visitor center also has halls with photographs of famous Kansans and other history of note, including a tribute to rural electrification reaching Kansas. Both Gov. Laura Kelly and Lt. Gov. Lynn Rogers also have their offices in the Statehouse. Over the course of the next couple months though, you might be more likely to find Lt. Gov. Rogers in rural Kansas. Rogers and staff members from state government agencies are conducting a rural prosperity listening tour that will hear from folks surrounding 12 Kansas communities. Gov. Kelly created the Office of Rural Prosperity, which Rogers oversees, to look at housing, infrastructure, tourism, agriculture-related businesses, rural hospitals and revitalization of Main Street corridors. Rogers said the perception among rural Kansans is that people in Topeka don’t listen to them. He wants to learn what stands in the way of progress for the communities and determine what changes, including legislation to ease restrictions, could be made. The tour started June 17 and ends Aug. 8. There were scheduled stops in Atchison, Colby, Nickerson and Phillipsburg in June. The remaining opportunities for rural voices to be heard on this tour are: July 8 in Winfield; July 10 in Lindsborg; July 22 in Garnett; July 23 in Independence; July 30 in Ulysses; Aug. 1 in Concordia; Aug. 5 in Sabetha and Aug. 7 in Dodge City. (See Page 22 for more details.) “It’s time for elected officials to be sincere about listening to people in our rural communities who have been overlooked and taken for granted too long,” Rogers said. “We can, and will, do better.” KCL BRUCE GRAHAM

Inc. in Topeka.

is CEO of Kansas Electric Cooperatives,

Rechargeable Digital Hearing Aid Technology Only $ 229!* (*Each when you buy a pair)

The new more powerful HearClearTM HCR3 rechargeable hearing aid combines advanced technology with a low price to provide you with outstanding value.

5 Star Reviews! Outstanding Product! “This product is outstanding. Dad loves it, my mom loves it, and I am grateful! Don’t believe that you have to spend a lot of money to get a quality hearing aid” - Gilmore B.

HCR3 Features! Digital sound processing chip provides clear sound and makes speech easier to understand with less feedback than old analog technology Don’t worry about replacing ba�eries! Full Charge Gives 16 Hours of Use! (Charger Included) Easy On / Off Bu�on Automa�c Noise Reduc�on and Feedback Cancella�on 100% Money Back Guarantee 4 Programs for different listening situa�ons Helps most moderate to significant hearing losses (call us if you need more power)

Even Better In Pairs! Your brain is designed to use both ears working together. In fact, studies show that you may be able to hear up to 3 �mes be�er in noisy situa�ons when using two hearing aids. Buy a pair for the best results and maximum savings!

A) Microphone B) Program Bu�on C) Volume Control D) USB Charging Port & Rechargeable Ba�ery E) New Digital Processor F) Receiver (Speaker) G) Sound Tube

Simple. Affordable. Rechargeable Digital Hearing Aid - For Only $229!* The new HearClearTM HCR3 Rechargeable Digital Hearing Aids are now available to you for an unbelievably affordable price! The HCR3 is packed with the same key technologies that all high end digital hearing aids share while leaving out the extra bells and whistles that increase cost and require expensive adjustments. This helps you hear better, while NOW ON SALE! saving you a lot of money. Your new HearClear HCR3 hearing aids work at a fraction of the cost of name-brand hearing aids, and you won’t have to keep changing the batteries! You will love the discreet, comfortable, lightweight Open-fit design. The HCR3 is pre-programmed for most moderate to significant hearing losses, so you won’t need professional appointments to make costly adjustments. It is shipped directly to you and will help you hear better right out of the box! You can spend thousands for an expensive hearing aid, or you can spend just $249 for a hearing aid that is great for most hearing losses (only $229 each when you buy a pair – hear up to 3 times better than wearing just one). We are so sure you will love your hearing aids that we offer a 100% Money Back Guarantee - Risk Free if you are not satisfied for any reason.

MONEY SAVING OFFER! Use Coupon Code: KC97

1-877-721-7415

*Only $229 Each When You Buy A Pair! (Coupon Code & Price Valid For A Limited Time Only) TM

Aﬀordable Quality Since 1996!

US Company Owned And Operated

The HCR3

FDA

REGISTERED

Visit and Save: www.AdvancedHearing.com/KC97

E N E R GY W I S E

Attic Ridge Vents Protect Insulation, Reduce Energy Bills BY J A M E S D U L L E Y

D E AR J I M : My house has gable attic vents

JAMES DULLEY

on each end. Will these provide adequate ventilation? If I need more, what is my best choice for attic venting, how much of it do I need and can I install it myself? – Bob N. D E AR BO B : Adequate attic ventilation is extremely important to reduce your utility bills and to avoid damage to the roof and attic structure. Having a vent in each side of the gable was the typical attic ventilation configuration in older houses but today is considered woefully inadequate for an efficient house. People often think of attic ventilation as being important only during summer to keep airconditioning costs under control, which it does. A typical dark shingle roof can easily reach 170 degrees and the air temperature inside the attic can reach 140 degrees without adequate ventilation. Even with enough insulation on the attic floor, this extreme radiant heat transfers through the insulation to the ceiling below. What makes things worse is all the structural lumber in the attic also reaches 140 degrees by afternoon. With its thermal mass, it can stay hot well into the evening and continually transfer heat into your house.

During winter, the attic can get cold. No matter how well the vapor barriers were installed in your walls and ceiling, indoor air and water vapor penetrate the attic. If this moisture-laden air is allowed to collect in the attic, even in relatively mild climates, it can condense on the lumber and drip onto the insulation. The R-value of insulation is much lower when it is damp so more heat is lost through the ceiling. In cold climates where the temperature often drops below freezing at night, it is even more important to ventilate the attic to keep the roof cold. If warm air from the ceiling below stagnates near the roof peak, it can melt snow on the roof. This water runs down the roof to a cooler area and refreezes causing an ice dam. Over time this dam causes water to back up under the shingles and leak into the attic and destroy the lumber. Its weight can also damage the gutters. The ideal ventilation flow is coming in low over the insulation keeping it dry and cool. Some of it should flow up under the roof sheathing to keep it cooler and then exhaust out near the peak of the roof. This air flow out the roof peak keeps it cooler during summer and much colder during winter to minimize condensation and ice dam formation. There are various attic venting options and all of them are better than your gable vents. A combination of a ridge vent and soffit vents is most effective and not difficult to install yourself. Once you install proper attic ventilation, you should block off the gable vents because they will interfere with the desired air flow. I stapled extra attic foil over my gable vents to block them. The ridge vent is located along the roof peak where the hot attic air is least dense so it naturally flows up and out. In addition to this, breezes over the top of the ridge vent

To install the mesh ridge vent material, roll it out, flatten it down smooth and cut it to length.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

JAMES DULLEY

cover create a low pressure area to draw even more air through the attic. The cool air is drawn in the soffit vents. This can be as effective as power vents, which consume electricity. Before you run out and buy vents, first calculate how much ventilation you need. This is measured by the net free vent area of the particular vent product you select. The net free vent area is marked on the packaging. It is always less than the actual area of the vent because of screening and other obstructions to the air flow inside the vent. Measure the area of the attic floor. A typical rule of thumb is you will need 1 square foot of net free vent area for each 150 square feet of attic floor area. This amount of vent area should be divided evenly between the ridge vent and the inlet soffit vents. I installed multiple 4-by-16-inch soffit vents. Check inside the attic to be sure the insulation is not blocking the soffit vents. If necessary, attach small baffles to keep the insulation from blocking them. For example, if your attic floor area is 30 feet by 50 feet, you would need 5 square feet of net free vent area in the ridge vent and the same amount in the soffit vents. If you choose to run the ridge vent all the way across the roof because it looks better, even if it is more ventilation than you actually need, match it with the proper amount of inlet soffit vents. Depending upon how much inlet soffit vent area you need and the depth of your soffits, you may find it easiest to install continuous lengths of under-eve soffit vent. This is less time consuming than sawing many small rectangular holes and installing individual soffit vents. To install the ridge vent, saw a slot along the roof ridge

Use either a nail gun or a hammer to install ridge vent material. Nails easily pierce the vent flange.

with a circular saw. Based upon how much free vent area is needed, determine the vent length needed. A typical onefoot-wide ridge vent provides 18 square inches of net free vent area per lineal foot. KCL Send inquiries to JAMES DULLEY, Kansas Country Living magazine, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.

BEST METHODS FOR REMOVING WALLPAPER FROM PLASTER WALLS D E AR J I M : My old house has real plaster walls. I want to remove the

AGES/G GETTY IM

LDER A RY H O U

wallpaper and paint a light color so the room is brighter without lamps. What is the best way to remove the wallpaper? – Judy K.

D E AR J U DY: On most walls, a steamer makes the job easy, but be careful on old plaster walls. Test the steam method in an obscure corner to make sure it does not damage the old plaster. Another method is to lightly spray the wall with warm water from a weed-type pump sprayer. To speed up the job, most hardware stores sell enzyme-based stripper additives to break down the old adhesive faster. KCL

JULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Bib Overall THE ICONIC

BY M E L I N D A S C H N Y D E R

Functional to trendy, bib overalls have Kansas connections BIB OVERALLS —does

any other piece of clothing uniformly bring to mind rural America? When most people think of farmers, they think of them wearing overalls, whether they do or not. From Grant Wood’s wellknown 1930 painting “American Gothic” to portrayals in pop culture, the bib overall has come to symbolize the farmer as much as the hat identifies the cowboy. To be fair, these affordable and longlasting garments were so popular in the early 1900s that communities throughout the Midwest—including several in Kansas—had their own brand sewn in local factories. They were made for the manual laborer, after all. Early advertising targeted farmers, mechanics, miners, railroaders—anyone who needed a tough, comfortable option to protect their clothes from getting dirty while getting in and out of equipment and carrying tools to do the job.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

Some would say it’s never been cooler to wear overalls whether or not the job calls for it. Though pants and shirts made of sturdy materials with convenient features eventually became options, the bib overall has endured. Some would say it’s never been cooler to wear overalls whether or not the job calls for it. In 2018, fashion magazine Vogue covered the trend of fashion brands getting into the business of overalls for men, women and children. Earlier this year, GQ, the international style and culture magazine, published an article titled “Cool Dudes Everywhere Can’t Stop Wearing...Overalls?” The takeaway: wearing workwear anywhere is a trend, and that means pulling on a pair of overalls is OK no matter if the day’s tasks don’t actually call for protective fabric and seven pockets. While designer labels like Ralph Lauren are selling overalls now, the most popular remain the long-running brands that are the real deal, such as Carhartt, Dickies, Liberty, Big Smith, Berne, Round House and Kansas-based Key, still operating in Fort Scott after more than a century.

Key Overalls Started in Fort Scott

salers that decided to start manufacturing bib overalls and use their existing distribution channels. That included H.D. Lee, founded in 1889 in Salina as a wholesaler of food and dry goods. They made their first bib overalls in 1911, and eventually chose to focus on the Lee denim jeans business over groceries. By 1938, Lakin had left the Fort Scott business and the trademark had become Key. The Depression had hit the company hard and McKey reached out to a former competitor for a loan. William E. “Bill” Pollock had retired in 1934 after a long career in apparel, including purchasing a manufacturer in Wisconsin that he would rename Oshkosh Overall Company and famously use the trademark Oshkosh B’Gosh. Instead of a loan, Bill’s son Kenneth Pollock bought the business and moved to Fort Scott to run it. After WWII, the industry consolidated as larger companies realized better efficiencies in manufacturing and transportation. Key remained independent and family-owned; it survived by expanding its product line into more workwear categories (dungarees, jeans, shirts and insulated outerwear) and acquired or developed several labels. Their operations footprint grew beyond Kansas; at one time they had as many as 10 facilities across Kentucky, Missouri, Tennessee and Texas.

“You don’t work your horses in poor fitting, galling harness—why work yourself in any but the easiest fitting, most comfortable and best-wearing work clothes. Key overalls: if they don’t give you absolute satisfaction get your money back or a new pair free.” That copy is from an early advertisement for Continued on page 16 bib overalls made by Lakin-McKey Manufacturing Company in Fort Scott. The company’s first factory opened in 1908 when Harry McKey, a salesman for a large east coast bib manufacturer, recruited C.A. Lakin to help him start making their own garments. In addition to agriculture, the amount of mining in southeast Kansas, southwest Missouri and northeast Oklahoma meant a steady demand for workwear. Throughout the early 1900s, the cost of transportation meant that most apparel retailing and manufacturing was handled regionally. Within 60 miles of Fort Scott there were three factories that coexisted independently of one another While designer labels now sell overalls, the most popular remain the longand all made bib overalls as their main running brands that are the real deal workhorses of the bib overall world. product. There were also grocery wholeJULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

View an Light up indie film. the kids.

Eat your fill.

Walk in the wild.

Love art.

Browse shops.

ART CENTER CINEMA

MARTINELLIâ€™S LITTLE ITALY

ROLLING HILLS ZOO AND WILDLIFE MUSEUM

DOWNTOWN SCULPTURETOUR

THE THE MARKET MARKET SHOP SHOP GIFTS GIFTS && HOME HOME ACCENTS ACCENTS

THE CURIOSITY SHOP (FREE ADMISSION!)

Download the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce App for events, lodging and dining opportunties!

1.877.725.4625

explore. experience. enjoy. salinadowntown.com

34 36 37 2019-20 SEASON

Discover Your

at Rolling Hills Zoo

Math, Science, History

Celebrating 20 Years! 20th Anniversary Gallery Show • See how one man’s dream transforms the prairie • Children’s Exploration Corner • “Remember When” Documentary

TICKETS ON SALE!

and just a bit of mystery!

Experience Our:

IN IN IN IN IN IN IN IN

• Special Events • Keeper Encounters • Animal Meet ‘n Greets • Restaurant • Gift Shop & More!

SEPTEMBER

OCT. - NOV.

NOV. - DEC.

KY EEAA FF R A KK K EA FFR RE YYY A FRI FRI D D Y A A FRI FRI D YYY D

Rolling Hills Zoo’s 20th Anniversary Celebration October 26, 2019

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

APRIL

JUNE

Annual Corporate Sponsors:

625 N. Hedville Rd., Salina • 785.827.9488 • Open Daily!

KKOA

rollinghillszoo.org

July 26-28

Salina’s Oakdale Park • www.kustomkempsofamerica.com

CHILL OUT

7 SLIDES WAVE POOL LAZY RIVER KIDDIE AREA LAP POOL

785-827-6126 | 303 E. IRON, SALINA, KS | SalinaTheatre.com

ART IS TRULY EVERYWHERE IN SALINA See the full event calendar at

kenwoodcove.com

SALINAAE.COM

Plan your Salina experience at

VISITSALINA.ORG

G E T T Y I M AG E / B L I N DT U RT L E

Earlier this year, GQ, the international style and culture magazine, published an article titled “Cool Dudes Everywhere Can’t Stop Wearing...Overalls?” The takeaway: wearing workwear anywhere is a trend.

Continued from page 13

The reason a lot of people do not recognize opportunity is because it usually goes around wearing overalls looking like hard work. THOMAS A. EDISON

In 1990, Kenneth sold the company to his son, William “Bill” Pollock and his wife, Aileen Pollock. Today it’s a multigenerational family business. Bill and Aileen remain primary owners, while their two daughters and son-in-law also own part of the company. While Key no longer operates its own factories, its headquarters are still in Fort Scott. About 50 employees there work in distribution, customer service, product design and back-end quality assurance. Their brands include Lakin McKey Trading and Tuf-Nut apparel for men, women and children; Wolf Mountain gear for hunters; Polar King clothes for extreme conditions; and Key and Key FR (fire-resistant) workwear, popular with linemen.

Evolution of the Bib Overall

You may have seen the commercial still airing where a man in overalls milks a rainbow-eating giraffe and produces a pail full of multicolored Skittles candy. He’s wearing Key overalls, and it’s easy to spot because of the green ribbon on the bib pocket. Chris Barnes, who became president of Key in 2005, said manufacturers have their bib design trademarked so it will be easily identified, though there can be variations. Key’s women’s overalls currently feature a white, square label with a pink Key logo. According to research by Ann Revenaugh Hemken and published in her thesis “The development and use of bib overalls in the United States, 1856-1945” while a student at Iowa State University, the first illustrated advertisement for overalls was 1856.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

The history of manufacturers was hard for Hemken to trace, though she did find examples of the evolution of the overall from a simple garment to one involving complex design and construction features. Women and children’s fits were added, pockets in a variety of shapes and sizes began to appear, strap construction varied as did fabrics and colors offered. Barnes said making changes to the design of their beloved overalls doesn’t happen often, but they do experiment with the characteristics of the materials used and adornments. For example, customer preferences have shifted from ridged, unwashed denim to softer denim. Barnes believes that Key and Carhartt are the only two brands still using the traditional method to make their diamondback style overalls. “If you look at a pair of overalls, the strap goes to the opposite leg. So the left shoulder controls the right leg and the left leg controls the right shoulder. Once the industry started resourcing overseas, some companies took some shortcuts and the straps were sewn on instead of cut on,” he said. “It’s a truer way of making a pair of bibs.” The company didn’t share annual sales, but would say that sales of its overalls are still significant. While Key’s mantra is bigger than overalls— “to outfit every American worker”—Barnes said that item will always personify the company. “We view bib overalls as an iconic item,” Barnes said. “We have other products that we sell more of per year in dollar terms and unit terms, but from a historical standpoint and who we are as a company, the bib overalls are a foundational and fundamental item for us.” KCL

Continued from page 7

AUG. 8- 11 HollyFrontier Western

Celebration, El Dorado. Join us for the 13th year of the biggest party in El Dorado! Bring your family and friends to the Downtown El Dorado Civic Center, 201 E. Central, for a celebration of culture and heritage. 316-3212088, www.frontierwesterncelebration.com. AUG. 8 Free Movie, Concordia. Watch “Mrs. Doubtfire” beginning at 7 p.m. at the Concordia Broadway Plaza. Concessions available. 785-243-2010, www. broadwayplazaconcordia.com. AUG. 9 Mission Complete, Oskaloosa. Join us for a space-tastic end of summer galaxy ice cream celebration. Event is at the Oskaloosa Public Library from 10-11 a.m. and for all ages. This event is one in a series for the summer library program. Call Rachael Hissong at 785-863-2475.

AUG. 10 Run of the Hills 5K and Fun Run, Salina. A challenging run through the zoo with fun at every turn. 625 N. Hedville Rd., 785-827-9488, www.rollinghillszoo.org.

AUG. 22 Free Concert, Concordia. Jason Callahan Band free concert. Beginning at 7 p.m. at the Concordia Broadway Plaza. 785-243-2010, www.broadwayplazaconcordia.com.

AUG. 10 Secrets of Energy Bus Tour, Manhatttan. Tour two energy destinations: Jeffrey Energy Center and Kansas State University’s Triga Mark II Nuclear Reactor Facility. Pre-registration is required by Aug. 8 at 5 p.m. For Tallgrass Tour Bus details and to register, call 785-587-2726 or visit www. flinthillsdiscovery.org/tallgrasstourbus.

AUG. 23-25 150th Birthday Bash,

AUG. 17 Street Dance, Lindsborg. Bring

your family and lawn chair and get ready to dance the night away for our annual street dance. Located at the 100 block of North Main St. 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com.

Wakefield. Spend the day in Wakefield enjoying one of the many activities including: a car show, parade, live bands, softball and cornhole tournaments, food and craft vendors and more. A free hog roast will take place at 6 p.m. Call Jeff at 785-461-5211, visit the Facebook page by searching Wakefield Birthday Bash. KCL Kansas Country Living publishes events free as space allows. Send event information by the fifth of the month prior to publication to events@kansascountryliving.com.

NEVER SEAL YOUR WOOD OR CONCRETE AGAIN PERMANENT ONE-TIME SOLUTION

BEFORE

25% OFF WITH THIS AD

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

• We clean, restore & permanently preserve your product. • Prevents wood from rotting, decaying and further damage from moisture. • Repels mold, mildew & fungus growth. • Prevents concrete from pitting, flaking, dusting and scaling. • Prevents salt & alkali damage. • Backed by technology.

JULY 2019

Free Estimates

844.481.6862 PermaSealUSA.com

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

YO U R P L A C E I N T H E G A R D E N

Succulent Picture Frame a Fun, Summer Gardening Project

BY C Y N T H I A D O M E N G H I N I , P H . D .

attention in part because of the numerous unique varieties, but also due to the minimal care required. In fact, too much attention can be the downfall for succulents. This attribute makes them a perfect choice for this summer fun project that repurposes a picture frame to display an assortment of succulents. Here are the steps to make a picture frame succulent planting. Cynthia Domenghini, Ph.D. First select and prepare a wooden picture frame. The frame border should be at least 1-inch wide. The size of the frame opening depends on how many succulents you would like to display but can be based on what frame you have available. An 8-by-10-inch frame works well. Remove the glass and backing. If desired, apply a finish, such as a stain or paint, to the frame. Attach two small eye hooks to the back-side borders of the frame and secure a wire between them. This will be used to hang the frame when it is complete. The hooks should be spaced equidistant from the top of the frame so it will hang straight. Chicken wire is used to hold the succulents and potting media in place. There will be two layers of chicken wire. Cut one section of chicken wire to cover the back of the frame. Use a staple gun to attach all four edges of the wire flat SUCCULENTS GAIN

STEPS 1. MATERIALS YOU WILL NEED: Staple gun, chicken wire, succulents, sheet moss, picture frame, potting soil. 2. FRAME WITH WIRE: An 8-by-10-inch wooden frame is a good size to display an assortment of succulents. Staple wire on back of frame. Secure the chicken wire to the back of the frame using a staple gun. 3. PLACE SUCCULENTS: Carefully place the succulents between the openings in the wire. 4. MOSS AND WIRE: Place a sheet of moss between the succulent roots and second layer of wire to contain the soil. 5. FIND THE PERFECT SPOT: Hang the frame in a location with at least part sun and monitor as the plants become established.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

and tight. Cut the second layer of wire slightly larger than the first layer. Attach three edges of the second layer leaving the top edge open and allowing the wire to billow out slightly to create a pouch for the soil and plant roots. Carefully place the succulents through the wire openings of the first layer so the root ball is between the layers of wire. Place a sheet of moss inside of the second layer of wire and fill the space with moist potting media. The moss will help keep the soil from falling out of the wire while securing the succulents in place. Moist soil is less likely to fall through the spaces in the wire. Pack the soil tight. Finally, staple the top edge of the second layer of wire to the back of the frame securing the soil and plants inside. The succulent planting is ready to display. Hang it outdoors with at least part sun. Monitor the planting as the succulents become established to ensure they are receiving enough water. If the planting is exposed to rain, watch for signs the plants are receiving too much water. When the temperature drops in the fall, move the frame indoors to a sunny window. A vertical garden, such as this succulent planting, is a perfect adornment to bring a boring wall, fence or window to life. KCL CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI is an instructor and coordinator for K-State’s horticultural therapy online certificate program.

The New $1 Cream for All Your Neuropathy Discomfort A cream, not a pill, may be the most effective solution yet for neuropathy sufferers; increases sensation in the legs and feet, relieving burning, tingling, and numbness By Dr. Henry Esber, Ph.D. BOSTON − An exciting clinical use survey study shows that a new cream can relieve leg and foot discomfort in just 15 minutes of applying. And according to the study participants, burning, tingling, and numbness were the most common symptoms to be relieved. The cream, called Diabasens, recently developed by scientists in San Diego and became an instant hit among those suffering with neuropathy.

It’s patent pending formula works within minutes of contacting the skin, initiating two phenomena’s in the body. The first phenomenon is known as vasodilation which triggers arteries to expand, improving circulation in the extremities. The second is called TRPA1 activation and this is what really has people excited.

Research Shows Correlation Between Nerve Damage and Sensation

Published research shows that neuropathy symptoms arise when the nerves in your legs and feet break down and blood flow is lost to the areas which surround them. As the nerves begin to die, sensation is lost. This lack of sensation is a major cause of burning, tingling, and numbness. Remarkably, Diabasens contains one of the few known substances to activate TRPA1, a special sensory pathway right below the skins surface which controls the sensitivity of nerves. It’s these nerves that allow you to feel hot, cold, and touch. And although this pathway has been known about for years, neither a drug or a pill has been able to target it successfully. That’s why Diabasens is so impressive. “It all comes down to sensation. When sensation is lost the foot feels constantly asleep. It may also burn and tingle. When sensation is increased, these nagging symptoms often go away”, explains Dr. Henry Esber, one of the scientists behind Diabasens. “That’s why Diabasens performed so well in our clinical use survey study. It increases sensation and blood flow wherever it’s applied. It’s impressive to say the least”

A Brilliant Technology Most Failed to Consider

Until now, many pharma companies have failed to develop a means of TRPA1 activation to manage neuropathy. Diabasens is one of the first to take full advantage of this amazing discovery.

“Today’s treatment methods have focused on minimizing discomfort instead of attacking its underlining cause. That’s why millions of adults are still in excruciating discomfort every single day and are always battling effects” explains Esber “Diabasens is different. Since the most commonly reported symptoms...burning, tingling and numb legs and feet...are caused by lack of sensation of the nerves, we’ve designed the formula increase their sensitivity. And since these nerves are located right below the skin, we’ve chosen to formulate it as a cream. This allows for the ingredients to get to the site faster and without any serious side effects” he adds.

Study Finds Restoring Sensation the Key To Effective, Long Lasting Relief

With the conclusion of the human clinical use survey trial, the makers of Diabasens are offering it nationwide. And regardless of the market, its sales are exploding. Men and women from all over the country are eager to get their hands on the new cream and according to the results study participants reported, they should be. In the trial above, participants taking Diabasens as needed experienced relief in just 15 minutes after applying! Burning, tingling and numbness were the most commonly reported symptoms to improve. Even more impressive, when asked if this was the best product they used for their legs and feet, 90% gave a resounding “Yes” with all participants concluding they would absolutely recommend it to someone else.

A breakthrough in neuropathy management and supportive care, Diabasens is shown to provide relief from: • Discomfort • Numbness • Tingling • Swelling • Poor Balance Targets Nerves Right Below the Skins Surface

Diabasens is a topical cream that is to be applied directly the legs and feet. It does not require a prescription. The active ingredient is a compound known as cinnamaldehyde. Studies show that neuropathy and discomfort caused when peripheral nerves breakdown and blood is unable to circulate into your legs and feet.

A NEW WEAPON FOR FIGHTING NEUROPATHY DISCOMFORT: Diabasens increases sensation and blood flow wherever its applied. It’s now being used to relieve burning, tingling, numbness among other discomforts. As these nerves deteriorate, sensation is lost. This is why you may not feel hot or cold and your legs and feet may burn, tingle and go numb. Worse, without proper blood flow, tissues and cells in these areas begin to die, causing pain that seems to never go away. The cinnamaldehyde in Diabasens is one of the very few compounds in that can activate TRPA1, a special sensory pathway that runs through your entire body. According to published research, activating this pathway increases the sensitivity of nerves, relieving feelings of tingling and numbness in your legs and feet. Supporting ingredients boost blood flow, support cellular health and stimulate the nerves for increased sensation.

Amazing Relief Exactly Where You Need It With daily use, Diabasens users report remarkable improvements in their quality of life without of the serious side effects or interactions associated with prescription drugs. Readers can now enjoy an entirely new level of comfort that’s both safe and affordable. Users have found is also extremely effective, especially if nothing else has worked with 90% ravings it’s the best leg and foot product they’ve ever tried.

How to Get Diabasens In order to get the word out about Diabasens, the company is offering special introductory discounts to all who call. Discounts will automatically be applied to all callers, but don’t wait. This offer may not last forever. Call toll-free: 1-800-572-1867.

THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. RESULTS MAY VARY. OFFER NOT AVAILABLE TO IOWA RESIDENTS.

Sensors Help Create a

Greener Grid BY PA U L W E S S L U N D

Electric co-ops are using electronics and analytics to accommodate renewable energy.

Managing Wind and Solar Power

“The grid is going through a lot of changes,” said Banunarayanan. “It’s changing the way we create, transmit and use electricity.”

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

The U.S. electric utility network is moving from one that used to ship out a mostly steady stream of electricity from large coal or nuclear power plants to a more dynamic, decentralized system where power moves back and forth, off and on. Rooftop solar owners can sell excess electricity back to the utility along the same wires that bring power into their home. A wind farm that powers a utility might suddenly quit generating when the wind dies down. How does the electric grid manage all that? Part of the secret is in the sensors, said Banunarayanan. “You install those sensors at different points on the grid and you can get an accurate picture of how the grid is performing,” he said. “The more sensors and real-time information you can get back to the grid operators, the better they can identify and address any problems.” Sensors, like the Aclara power sensor shown here, measure voltage, current and additional data that’s important to electric utilities. Sensors are installed on overhead electrical equipment, like power lines and transformers.

ACLARA

TO ACTUALLY SEE the green power revolution, look up at the power lines. If you spot a little box about the size of a tennis shoe clamped onto one of the wires, you’re looking at something that’s bringing in a whole new era in energy. It’s called a sensor, a container of electronics that collects and sends out information about the wire it’s on, from the voltage inside to the temperature on the outside. Sensors are starting to appear all over the nation’s electric grid—that’s the term for the nation’s network of power plants and substations connected with millions of miles of transmission and distribution power lines. These sensors are also being used with other electrical equipment, like electric meters and transformers—those cylindrical containers you see on top of utility poles. Sensors are one of many technologies that are enabling changes in the way the electric grid is planned and operated, like the rapid growth in renewable energy, said Venkat Banunarayanan, senior director of integrated grid technologies for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).

ACLARA

Just a few years ago, electric utilities could plan their power plant production around one peak time of energy use a day—like 6 p.m., when people came home from work and school, and started to turn on lights, cook dinner and watch TV. Large power plants ran nonstop to keep the electricity flowing. Renewable energy changes how utilities need to plan around people’s schedules. Wind and solar power used to not matter so much—10 years ago, they only generated 3% of our electricity. Today, that’s up to 8% and growing fast. The Sensors, like the Aclara power sensor shown here, allow electric utilities to quickly on-again, off-again nature of wind and and cost-effectively gain better situational awareness of grid conditions. Unlike more solar means your electric co-op needs to traditional methods for monitoring grid conditions, which require utilities to do be ready to switch among power sources extensive planning and turn off power while work is done, power sensors are installed instantly. There are also safety issues— without disrupting operations. utility workers need to know when rooftop solar panels are feeding electricity back onto power lines. These changes mean that Besides electric vehicle charging stations, solar and electric utilities need to look at grid performance wind power will have to be transmitted from the and plan accordingly—throughout every hour of the plains and deserts where it’s generated, to the comday and night—instead of just looking at the peak munities where it’s used. One industry estimate time of energy use in a day. predicts the utility industry will need to spend 20 to 50% more through the year 2030 to upgrade the grid, and 50 to 170% more from 2030 to 2050. Plugging in Electric Vehicles While more power lines and more sensors Electric vehicles are also bringing changes. Banunare keys to greening the grid, Banunarayanan arayanan notes that every major car company is said another essential ingredient is professionals planning to increase production of electric vehiwho know how to use all the information sent in cles, including large and small commercial trucks. through the hardware and software. What happens at night when all those semi“Data scientists or data analysts, who help trucks pull into a warehouse or a rest stop along the interstate and plug in? create decision-quality insights from data—these “There are infrastructure, business model and are some of the hottest jobs right now,” he said. communications issues,” said Banunarayanan. “Utilities are applying these techniques to the “What are the ways in which the infrastructure data that we get from the sensors to create quality needs to be strengthened for commercial trucks to insights and actionable decision making.” For all its cyber-age sophistication, Banunaraybe electrified ... even for sedans and other electric anan sees the greener grid as just another stage in passenger vehicles, what are the implications in a the development of electric utilities. residential subdivision if everyone plugs in at the “The grid is changing; however, the basic funcsame time to charge their vehicles?” tion of the grid is not,” he said. “The grid exists to Alternatives to infrastructure strengthening supply cost-effective, reliable and safe power. It’s just could include providing incentives for charging changing to give consumers more options.” KCL during “off-peak” periods—during midday or the middle of the night, and educating consumerPAUL WESSLUND writes on consumer and cooperative members on the most economical electric vehicle affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative charging periods. Association, the national trade association In addition to installing more sensors, creating representing more than 900 local electric a greener grid could call for upgraded power lines. cooperatives.

The onagain, offagain nature of wind and solar means your electric co-op needs to be ready to switch among power sources instantly.

JULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NEWS BRIEFS

Kansas Teams Compete, Win at KidWind Nationals

TWO KANSAS TEAMS were among the winners at the national KidWind Challenge held May 21-23 in Houston with the Oxford Airsharks from Oxford Junior/Senior High School winning the national championship. The team also won national champion awards in the categories of Power Output and Wind Tracker. They competed in the open division, opting not to use a generator on the turbine provided by KidWind.

Coach Mike Tweedy with The Electric Four from Lebo.

Last year, the team won the national title for grades fourth-eighth. The team comprises ninth-grade students Danny Ball and Austin Gaither and coaches Stephanie Moberly and Elaina Garrett. The Oxford AirAustin Gaither (left) and Danny Ball of the Oxford sharks qualified for nationAirsharks from Oxford Junior/Senior High School als by placing first in their won the national championship at this year’s KidWind division at the Kansas state Challenge in Houston. competition in Topeka. Coffey Electric Cooperative Member In the fourth-eighth grade division, Services Director Mike Tweedy, the The Electric Four from Lebo Hometeam was highlighted in the May issue school Co-op took home the Rookie of Kansas Country Living magazine. Award. The Electric Four team of Jesse Durst, fourth grade; Garrison Knight, Other Kansas teams competing at nationals were Panther Wind, of Paola fourth grade; Daniel Rausch, fifth Middle School; CBCR9, from Stergrade; and Caleb Durst, sixth grade, ling High School; AEKG-Timmy the earned a birth to the national competiTurbine, of USD 273 in Beloit; and the tion after placing third in their division Thunderhawks, from Wheatland High at the KidWind Challenge state compeSchool. KCL tition in Topeka. Coached by Lyon-

RURAL LISTENING TOUR UNDERWAY: MAKE A POINT TO VOICE YOUR CONCERNS

and LT. GOV. LYNN ROGERS kicked off the Office of Rural Prosperity Listening Tour on June 17 in Nickerson. By magazine press time, additional rural community meetings had taken place in Atchison, Colby and Phillipsburg. The Office of Rural Prosperity has partnered with local leaders to spend the day touring communities and learning about the tools used and initiatives created that allow the communities to thrive. The public listening sessions are designed to give Kansans the opportunity to share their thoughts directly with the lieutenant governor during a 90-minute facilitated conversation beginning with brief opening remarks, and attendants will then be divided into small facilitator groups to answer three questions:

visit www.ruralkanprosper.ks.gov. If you can’t attend one of the community events, the website offers a “We’d Like Your Input” form where you can share your thoughts. The tour has the following dates and stops listed at this time:

ff How do we define prosperity—what does in mean in

ff JULY 30 , Ulysses, 5:30-7 p.m. at Grant County Civic Center, 1000

GOV. LAURA KELLY

your community?

ff JULY 8 , Winfield, 5:30-7 p.m. at the Community Center at

Baden Square, 700 Gary St. ff JULY 10 , Lindsborg, 6-7:30 p.m. at the J.O. Sundstrom

Conference Center, 102 N. Main St. ff JULY 22 , Garnett, 6-7:30 p.m. at Anderson County Junior-Senior

High School Auditorium/Commons Area, 1100 KS-31. ff JULY 23 , Independence, time and location to be determined.

W. Patterson Ave.

ff What has the community done well to prosper?

ff AUG. 1, Concordia, time and location to be determined.

ff What barriers or roadblocks stand in the way of

ff AUG. 5 , Sabetha, time and location to be determined.

future prosperity? The lieutenant governor would like to hear from a wide and diverse group of Kansans during these listening sessions. For more information on each session, including registration details,

ff AUG. 7, Dodge City, time and location to be determined.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

Visit www.ruralkanprosper.ks.gov for the latest information about events, dates, locations and/or time changes. KCL

ADVANCED HEARING AID TECHNOLOGY For Only $ 19 9 99

“I was amazed! Sounds I hadn’t heard in years came back to me!” — Don W., Sherman, TX

How can a hearing aid that costs only $19999 be every bit as good as one that sells for $2,400 or more?

The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in Advanced Hearing Aid Technology, those cost reductions have not been passed on to you. Until now...

Can a Hearing Aid Delay or Prevent Alzheimer’s and Dementia?

MDHearingAid® uses the same kind of Advanced Hearing Aid Technology incorporated into hearing aids that cost thousands more at a small fraction of the price.

A study by the National Institute on Aging suggests older individuals with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop Alzheimer’s and dementia over time than those who retain their hearing. They suggest that an intervention — such as a hearing aid — could delay or prevent this by improving hearing!

Over 350,000 satisfied MDHearingAid customers agree: High-quality, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR FDA-registered hearing aids don’t 45-DAY RISK-FREE TRIAL! have to cost a fortune. The fact is, Hearing is believing and we invite you to try you don’t need to spend thousands this nearly invisible hearing aid with no for a hearing aid. MDHearingAid annoying whistling or background noise for is a medical-grade hearing aid yourself. If you are not completely satisfied offering sophistication and high with your MDHearingAid, return it within 45 performance, and works right out days for a FULL REFUND. of the box with no time-consuming For the Lowest Price Call “adjustment” appointments. You can contact a licensed hearing specialist conveniently online or by phone — even after your www.GetMDHearingAid199.com purchase at no cost. No other company provides such extensive Use Code support. Now that you know...why pay more?

1-800-734-4496 JN35

Nearly Invisible

BUY A PAIR AND SAVE!

BATTERIES INCLUDED!

READY TO USE RIGHT OUT OF THE BOX!

and get FREE Batteries for 1 Year Plus FREE Shipping

DOCTOR DESIGNED | AUDIOLOGIST TESTED | FDA REGISTERED

Proudly assembled in America!

C O O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E

Picking and Grinning: Growing Up With an Orchard Bears Love of Summer Fruit

BY R E B E C C A H O WA R D

While I grew, so did my sibling tree (and shrub) orchard family, so that by the time I was ready and able (but probably not particularly willing), there was fruit to pick. Besides the orchard trees, there were berry plants and bushes, too. First, after their spicy yellow blooms gave way in the late spring came the currants, green then near shiny black on trailing bushes around the yard. It took a mighty many for enough juice for the jelly my mom Rebecca Howard would make. Not long after that, a half dozen Montmorency cherry trees would be laden with ruby fruit for which we battled the orioles, picking (and eating) until the sticky juice ran down our aching arms. We filled Tupperware containers to take inside, where my mom ran the fruit through a handcrank pitter that turned the cherries into a pulp she would make into jam or freeze for later. A strawberry patch near the cherry trees, started from wild hybrid plants my mom dug up near my Aunt Clara’s, bloomed with cheery, daisy like flowers that gradually evolved into small greenish-white berries, dimpled with tiny seeds, that deepened red into June, to be picked carefully so as not to damage or disturb the plants and their surroundings. These berries were eaten No fooling, this is the perfect dessert for summer—light, cool and easy to make. Named from the French word “fouler,” which means “crushed,” fools immediately as they were meant to are just that—smashed berries mixed with whipped cream. Make the dessert be—freshly sliced into a bowl, sweetmore decadent by sprinkling each serving with crumbled shortbread cookies, ened with just a little sugar to draw out or use the fool to top toasted pound or angel food cake. their syrupy juices and consumed as is ff 2 1/2 cups fresh ripe raspberries, plus ff juice of 1/2 lime or with ice cream or Cool Whip. additional berries for garnish (if desired) ff 1 1/2 cup heavy cream We grew up accustomed to berry ff 1/2 cup confectioner’s sugar, divided ff 1 tsp. vanilla grazing, largely due to the purple mulberries overloading a towering volPlace berries, 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar and lime juice in a small bowl; mash into a chunky unteer tree behind the chicken house. purée with a fork. Allow to sit for 10 minutes. More nefarious was a patch of raspIn a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, 1/4 cup confectioner’s sugar and vanilla until the cream berries in the same area. It was as if is somewhat stiff and just beginning to hold peaks that do not deflate. these little jewels were not meant to be Gently fold the raspberry purée into the whipped cream. Do not mix too much—some taken. They hung irresistibly on vines streaks of white and red are OK. Serve in individual dishes, topping with additional berries as a that were so spiked with small thorny garnish. Serves 4. stickers it was nearly impossible to get NOTE: You can add more (or less) sugar to the berries depending on the fruit’s sweetness. away without multiple scratches. My The cream and raspberry purée can be made and refrigerated separately a few hours ahead; sister and I never wore gloves (actually, blend together before serving. Leftover fool can be stored for a day or so in the refrigerator. the best armor would have also been You can also try other berries (strawberries, blackberries) using this basic fool formula. coats and boots, but in the 90-degree IN THE DOVETAILING of divine timing and orchardplanning, my mom got it about right. She spent the summer she was pregnant with me planting fruit trees. It was late in her pregnancy, in the spring and summer months just before I arrived, that she dug deep holes to sink plum, apple, peach and cherry saplings into the open yard area north of our house. Once planted, she carried 5-gallon buckets of water in the heat so the little trees would survive (my parents did not own a garden hose long enough to reach). That she did so willingly and energetically while pregnant is not entirely surprising. I was so small, and she was so active, no one really knew I was on the horizon. That she was so on the move that I came into this world a month early, on a day when she, in fact, planned on going fishing, just attests to either the drive inspired by or defiance of going to have a baby.

G E T T Y I M AG E S / I G O R KOVA LC H U K

Raspberry Fool

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

temperatures, not to be), but entered into our assigned picking duties quietly and solemnly, and also sometimes giggly at the number of “ouches” that were pronounced throughout our blooddrawing/berry gathering sessions. We would bide patiently for the deep purple plums and the furry peaches, growing from small, green, fuzzy tufts to rounded fruits the color of sunset, weighing the lanky limbs of the crescentleafed trees in the late summer days. When the time was right, the peaches were harvested and carried into the house and laid out on newspaper to ripen, where they would become the juicy fillings for cobblers and pies, or they were canned or frozen or turned into deep-orange jam. I waited out my last days of summer watching apples grow and take shape, near a tiny vineyard of ripening Concord grapes. The apples weren’t supposed to be ready until after I started school. But that didn’t keep me from taking a tasting visit to stand in the shade of Jonathan or Macintosh, by then three times my height, to bite into a green apple with its first blush. Too sour, but fall was coming. And it was fruit, freshly picked and warm from the sun. I’d eat the whole thing, ready or not. 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.”

SWEET TIPS FOR PICKING, CLEANING AND STORING FRESH SUMMER BERRIES ff PICK BERRIES from the stores or

markets that are plump and have good color, are bright (not dull), free of visible mold and in containers that are not wet or stained. ff BERRIES DO NOT USUALLY RIPEN

If you are using berries right away, you can store them on your countertop. Otherwise, blueberries and strawberries can be stored in the fridge for up to five days; raspberries, blackberries and boysenberries for up to three days.

AFTER PICKING.

ff MOISTURE CAN SHORTEN BERRY SHELF LIFE , so do not rinse or wash

berries until just before using them. Strawberries and blueberries (and sweet cherries) can be rinsed in a colander. More delicate berries (like raspberries), should be placed in a colander and dipped in cold clean water. Drain completely and gently spread berries onto paper towel-lined trays to absorb water. ff ONE TIP TO TRY TO EXTEND THE

eliminating the chance of mold, is to rinse them in a solution of water and white vinegar (1 cup vinegar per 3 cups water), according to the Food52 website.

LIFE OF BERRIES,

Rinse gently under cool running water (to eliminate vinegar taste). Make sure they are completely dry (you can use a salad spinner) and store in paper towel-lined containers with lids partially open (to allow air to circulate). ff CLEAN, DRY BERRIES CAN BE

to freezer bags or containers, leaving a little air space at the top (and if in bags, keep the berries in a single layer to keep air circulating around them), and frozen. Label and date them, and use within 12 months. TRANSFERRED

JULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Financing Available Easy Online Application Serving the Entire State of Kansas

Baby Chicks for Sale! Free catalog at

www.cacklehatchery.com Hatching & shipping in Lebanon, Missouri, since 1936

S U B S C R I B E TO

Would You Like to Reach

128,000

Only $10 a year. Mail check or money order payable to: Kansas Electric Cooperatives, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604

Homes & Businesses? Call 785-478-4554 to discuss advertising options in Kansas Country Living magazine!

Find out more at https://www.kec.coop/kcl

A PAD-MOUNTED TRANSFORMER IS NOT A PLAYSET.

ff While safe, pad-mounted transformers

are not meant for climbing, playing or touching as they carry high voltages of electricity.

Brought to you by the electric cooperatives of Kansas.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

Your Pole Barn Specialists!

VVV Triple V Pole Barns

triplevpolebarns1@gmail.com

triplevpolebarnsllc.com

Moooving? Report your new address to your local electric cooperative.

Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives of the product or services advertised.

BARN BUILDERS

DT Construction Established in 1977  All Workers Insured

FREE ESTIMATES

30x50x10 enclosed 12’ Slider, 1 entry door

Galvalume

40x60x14 enclosed 2 12’ sliders, 1 entry door

Galvalume

40x80x16, 2 12x14 framed overhead door openings, fully insulated in R-foil, 1 entry door

$9,300

Colored Metal $10,300 $16,000

Colored Metal $17,600 Colored Metal $26,200

Galvalume $24,300 40x100x16 enclosed 20’ split slider, 1 entry door Colored Metal $26,300 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 JULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SAFETY

Avoid the Big, Green Box

BY PA U L W E S S L U N D

Keep Kids and Plants Away from Pad-Mounted Transformers

into your neighborhood over your head, or under your feet. It’s easy to spot wires on top of those wooden poles and figure out how electricity gets delivered by overhead lines. But there’s also a way to deduce that you’ve got underground lines—look for green metal boxes about the size of a mini-fridge sitting in people’s front yards. They’re called pad-mounted transformers and they do the same thing as those gray cans up on top of the poles—step higher-voltage electricity down so it’s more useful and safer for your home. The major difference is a pad-mounted transformer connects to underground power lines. No one’s exactly sure what share of power lines in the U.S. are underground, but one industry study estimated 18%. To a lot of people, underground lines look better. But they’re more expen-

ELECTRICITY MIGHT FLOW

Pad-mounted transformers route large amounts of electricity and you should avoid them. Only professional lineworkers and crews should be near them.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

JULY 2019

Never use pad-mounted transformers as benches while waiting for the school bus, and kids should never play on or near them. sive to install. A lot more. As much as five or 10 times the cost, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. And while falling trees and cars crashing into poles can knock out aboveground power lines, underground problems can be more difficult to pinpoint and correct. The big green boxes that connect power lines look surprisingly simple inside—wires come in and go out through the transformer. Now that you know what they are, you don’t have to go looking inside, and you shouldn’t. Those locked boxes are routing a lot of electricity, so only expert lineworkers should be near the equipment. Never use pad-mounted transformers as benches while waiting for the school bus, and kids should never play on or near them. Don’t plant landscaping around pad-mounted transformers because our crews may need to get to them, and roots can interfere with the underground wires. Never dig near a pad-mounted transformer—always dial 811 first before beginning any outdoor projects that require digging. Remember, whether you’re around underground or overhead utility equipment, the same safety rules apply—stay away from power lines. KCL

JULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Patriotic Charcuterie Board

WatermelonInfused Water

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, JULY 2019

Satisfy your guests’ snack cravings with a selection of fruit, cheese and protein.

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, JULY 2019

A simple fruit-infused water can give your summer event an instant upgrade.

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, JU LY 201 9

alternative to more traditional desserts.

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, JU LY 201 9

Try this creatively colorful and patriotic “cake” that makes for a tasty centerpiece.

Red, White and Blue Watermelon Parfait These creamy parfaits are a perfect

Flag Kebab Cake

Flag Kebab Cake ff 1 pint fresh, washed blackberries ff 12 wooden skewers

cut into 1-inch cubes

ff 1 seedless watermelon, flesh

ff 1 angel food cake, cut into 1-inch cubes (white part only) ff dips, such as yogurt, chocolate, caramel or marshmallow (optional)

Thread five blackberries on each of five skewers, followed by alternating watermelon and cake cubes. On remaining skewers, alternate watermelon and cake so first and last cubes are watermelon. Place skewers on platter; fruit and cake will create stars and stripes when lined properly. Serve with dips, if desired.

COURTESY WATERMELON PROMOTION BOARD

pieces diced watermelon

ff whipped cream, for serving

ff 1 cup watermelon, plus three

Red, White and Blue Watermelon Parfait ff 1 cup blueberries ff 1 container (6 ounces) Greek yogurt (vanilla, lemon or coconut)

In pint canning jar, layer blueberries, yogurt and 1 cup watermelon. Top with whipped cream and garnish with three diced watermelon pieces. NOTE: To make ahead or make thicker, drain Greek yogurt on paper towels to absorb some liquid.

COURTESY WATERMELON PROMOTION BOARD

ff herbs, such as basil or mint

Watermelon-Infused Water ff 2 cups watermelon balls or cubes ff 1 cup other fruit, such as berries

Place watermelon, fruit and herbs in pitcher and cover with water. For best flavor, allow to chill in refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving.

COURTESY WATERM ELON P ROMOTION B OAR D

ff lemon juice

Patriotic Charcuterie Board

ff fresh basil leaves

ff 1/2 cup toasted, salted cashews ff 2 ounces cured meats like prosciutto, pancetta, coppa, salami, soppressata, sausage or pepperoni

ff 1/2 medium seedless watermelon, cut into wedges ff 1/2 cup fresh raspberries ff 1 1/2 cups fresh blueberries ff 10 strawberries (dipped in white chocolate, if desired)

ff 1 Honeycrisp apple, cored and sliced ff 5 ounces fresh goat cheese

On large board or platter, arrange watermelon, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, cheese, cashews, meat and apples. Drizzle fruit with lemon juice. Garnish with basil leaves before serving.

CO URTESY WATER MELON PROMOTION BOA RD

JULY 2019

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Texas Grandmother with Leg and Feet Problems Goes from Near Cripple to Walking Her Dog Daily You don’t have to suffer anymore. Doctors never tell you about these 7 natural herbs, yet millions of people in China have used them for relief of leg and feet problems for 3,000 years. In fact, they are guaranteed to relieve your problems and provide soothing comfort - or you pay nothing. By Michael Plane — National Health Press Mary Lentz of Plano, Texas suffered for over twenty years from leg and feet problems. Doctors prescribed one prescription drug after another. Then electrical stimulation. Then surgery. But after all these treatments – her legs and feet actually felt worse. Mary was fed up with suffering. She took matters into her own hands. At wit’s end, she discovered the best herbs for natural relief. She took them, and within just days, her leg and feet problems began to disappear. Now she walks her Golden Retriever Max every day (which she couldn’t do before), works in her garden and regularly plays tennis with friends. “If I kept listening to my doctors, I’d be a cripple today. I’d be in a wheelchair or in a nursing home. I am so thankful for these remarkable herbs.” Leg and feet problems could have been almost like a death sentence for Mary – and a shame for her suffering family. It is a terrible way to live out what should be the best year of your life. Neuropathy is like a wild�ire. It starts with a small �lame, but then quickly turns into a raging �ire in your feet that never stops. Left alone or treated in a way that doesn’t work, it can lead to constant suffering – or even one of the 86,000 Americans who need a limb amputated each year according to the National Institutes of Health.

“I had so much pain from burning nerves in my feet I could barely move…but this makes it calm down so I can walk and sleep. I really love this stuff. Other pills didn’t work. It stops the nerves from hurting so bad. It is amazing. NeuroFlo lets me move and sleep pain-free. It is wonderful.” - Katerina King-Mccausland, Murrieta, CA

At Last – You Don’t Have To Suffer Anymore Here’s why you have these problems: Your arteries have weakened. Your arteries can’t carry enough blood, nutrients and oxygen down to your legs and feet. This damages your nerves and causes your burning, tingling and numbness. The 7 herbs in the pill NeuroFlo strengthen your arteries that carry blood, nutrients and oxygen to your feet and legs. It improves your circulation so oxygenated blood goes to the nerves and repairs them. This makes your nerves grow stronger so your pain fades away and your legs and feet feel much younger again. Until now, scientists could not combine all these herbs into one pill without losing their full potency, but �inally, they have succeeded. Dr. Ryan Shelton, M.D. says “This is new and different. It works for people who’ve tried many other things before. It is natural with no side effects. Don’t give up hope for your leg and feet pain, burning, tingling and numbing. This pill is working for countless people after other treatments have failed them.” From word-of-mouth, over 30,000 doses of this Chinese miracle have already been sold in America. Instead of letting their doctors control their health with no real relief, people are taking this natural approach. They are staying active and independent as they age – and creating a bright future they are excited about, instead of fearing. Now you too can enjoy your best years yet.

Conventional Treatments All Wrong

In America, drugs and other OTC formulas try to super�icially suppress the symptoms. This may be going after the problem completely wrong. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) believes nerve problems are largely caused by stagnant blood circulation. This causes your legs and feet NOT to get enough oxygen-rich, nutrient-rich blood they need to heal. The ingredients in NeuroFlo get this crucial blood �lowing to your legs and feet like a fast-running river stream so they can feel better fast. Want proof? To show how important oxygenated blood �low is, hold your breath. Hold it too long and you’ll pass out. This is what’s happening to your feet and legs now -- they are not getting the oxygenated

Chinese herbs provide fast relief of leg and feet tingling, burning and numbness. They do this by improving the �low of blood, nutrients and oxygen to your legs and feet to repair damaged nerves.

blood �low they need to feel healthy. Now you can get a good night’s sleep peaceful, restful sleep – with no pain, tingling, zinging, itching or zapping. Improve your balance and coordination. No side effects – safe to take with other medications. Enjoy your favorite activities and hobbies again. Be more active, have more fun, enjoy life more. Don’t risk irreversible damage to your feet and hands. Don’t get worse and wind up in the hospital or a nursing home. Neuro�lo is GUARANTEED to work great for you – or you PAY NOTHING with a 90day unconditional money-back guarantee. It is NOT sold in stores or online. No prescription or doctor visit is required.

Special Offer For Our Readers

This is the of�icial nationwide release of NeuroFlo in the United States. And so, the company is offering a special discount supply. A Regional Order Hotline has been set up for local readers to call. This gives everyone an equal chance to try NeuroFlo. Starting at 7:00am today, the order hotline will be open. All you have to do is call TOLL-FREE 1-888-374-6948 and provide the operator with the special discount approval code: NEF158. The company will do the rest. Important: Due to NeuroFlo’s recent media exposure phone lines are often busy. If you call, and do not immediately get through, please be patient and call back.

Proven Fast Natural Relief For: ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑ ☑

Blood Sugar Problems Varicose Veins Swollen Legs Spider Veins Aches & Weakness Many other leg & feet problems

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Results based upon averages. Models are used in all photos to protect privacy.

Focused on Electric co-ops were built by the communities we serve and are led by the communities we serve. When local people work together....

Everyone Wins.

Delivering Energy for Life