Kansas Country Living August 2018 by American MainStreet Publications

F E AT U R E S

D E PA RT M E N T S

12 | Auto Artistry

4 |

The Automotive Restoration program at McPherson College is helping to bring back skilled trades, offering an option for students who want to work with their hands and earn a college degree.

19 | Help Improve Cell Coverage We’ve all experienced dropped calls and slow download and upload speeds in rural areas of our state. Kansas Farm Bureau needs your help to identify these areas lacking cellphone coverage.

20 | Electrifying Your Ride

E D I TO R’S L E T T E R

Back to school and reality

6 | 8 |

A RO U N D K A N S A S

Take in some family fun CO M M E N TA RY

Part 3: Your power supply

The unique role of groups that partner to deliver affordable, reliable power.

10 |

E N E RGY W I S E

Portable air conditioners

When used correctly, portable air conditioners can improve comfort and cooling costs.

The economics of electric vehicles are affected by geography, climate and how your electricity is generated.

18 |

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

A perennial favorite

The low-maintenance Lenten rose brightens the winter season with blooms.

G E T T Y I M AG E S / P H OTO S BY J I M

24 |

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

Let me bake a cake

This birthday tradition is founded on fluffy frosting.

26 | 28 |

M A R K E T P L AC E

Find products, services you need SAFETY

Back-to-school food safety Take precautions when packing school lunches.

GETTYIMAGES/POINTIMAGES

29 |

G E T T Y I M AG E S / P H OTO S BY J I M

AUGUST

“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook.

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

ON THE COVER McPherson College automotive student Seamus Hnat and Professor Garrick Green examine the underside of an automobile. P H OTO CO U RT ESY M C P H E R SO N CO L L E G E

AUGUST 2018

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

E D I TO R’S L E T T E R

Back to School, Back to Reality, Back to Basics

(ISSN 0091-9586) AUGUST 2018 VOL. 68, NO. 8 ©KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2018 WWW.KEC.COOP

Bruce Graham

Chief Executive Officer

Vicki Estes

Director of Communications, Editor

Carrie Kimberlin

Manager of Creative Solutions

Jim Dulley’s Energy Wise article on Page 10, I couldn’t help but think about all the places I could use a portable air conditioner. The garage and shed come to mind. A little cool air circulating in those sweltering structures might motivate me to organize their contents before the school year commences. I have two items to unearth in the garage and test—a microwave and mini fridge—before my daughter transports them to college. A dorm room housing four females screams electrical overload (think computers, cell phones, hair dryers, curling irons, coffee maker, and I heard a rumor someone plans to bring a panini maker). I will follow the advice of Safe Electricity and purchase power strips with over-current protectors. This will shut the power off automatically if there is too much current being drawn. I’d hate to be the roommate whose computer work is interrupted by someone making a sandwich, but at least they will avoid potential fire hazards. Students attending the Automotive Restoration program at McPherson College will head back to their unique classrooms too. The now worldrenowned program kept a low profile until it caught the attention of former WHILE REVIEWING

late night TV show host and classic car enthusiast Jay Leno back in 1997. The program allows students to work with their hands while earning a college degree in five areas of concentration. Learn how the program is helping to bring back skilled trades on Page 12. While our college students enjoy seamless cellphone use on campus, some rural areas of Kansas still do not. You can help change this. See Page 19 for details. Enjoy your August! KCL

VICKI ESTES , EDITOR

KANSAS PRIMARY ELECTION TUESDAY, AUGUST 7

Jackie Kamphaus

Communications Specialist 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.

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

AUGUST 2018

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AUG. 31-SEPT. 1 PRCA Rodeo, Longford. This 63rd annual event, which won the

AUG. 2-4 Kansas Biggest Rodeo,

Phillipsburg. J oin us as we celebrate our Western heritage, visit with friends and neighbors, admire and cheer on the American cowboy and cowgirl as they ride, rope, wrestle and race. Parade on Aug. 4 at 2 p.m. Phillips County Fairgrounds. 785-543-2448, www. phillipsburgchambermainstreet.com. AUG. 2-4 Oz Comes to Kansas, Bonner

Springs. F ollow the yellow brick road for new adventures in Farm Town USA at the Ag Hall of Fame, performances by the Mesner Puppet Theater, and memorabilia displays from the International Wizard of Oz Club. Stay for KC Theater League’s Wizard of Oz at Providence Amphitheater next door, each evening Aug. 1-4. 630 N. 126th, 913-721-1075, www.aghalloffame. com, www.providenceamp.com. AUG. 2 Wacky Trike Races, Dodge City.

atch corporate teams race against each other W on these crazy, zany, adult-sized trikes. See who will win bragging rights and the traveling trophy for the year to come, plus food, fun and music. Teams must register to compete. dcdays@dodgechamber.com, dodgecitydays. org, 620-227-3119.

AUG. 2 Soda Fountains in Kansas,

Dodge City. D uring the glory days of the soda fountain, Kansas pharmacists created tonics and curatives that evolved into refreshments like the Brown Cow, the Mudslide, and Don’t Care. This presentation at Boot Hill Museum at 2 p.m. will explore soda fountains in Kansas today and the revival of soda fountains throughout the nation. Presented by Cindy

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST 2018

LONGFORD PRCA RODEO

2016 WPRA Small Rodeo of the Year and the 2016 Justin Boots Best Footing Award, kicks off Friday at 6 p.m. with a first-come, first-served barbecue followed by rodeo events and live concert by Mountain Deer Revival. Saturday activities include kids pedal pull, turtle races and parade at 5:30 p.m., more rodeo events and a Saturday evening dance. Mutton busting both nights (4-10 years of age/weight limit 60 lbs.) as well as wild steer scramble, six standard PRCA events and kids calf scramble. www. longfordprcarodeo.com, Facebook/Longford-PRCA-Rodeo. Higgins, a journalist and Kansas historian. 500 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd.

from 3-5 p.m. Stringer Fine Arts, 600 E. 11th, 620-899-9012.

AUG. 3 Shine and Show, Great Bend.

AUG. 7 All Gospel Community Jam,

AUG. 3-4 SRCA Test and Tune Friday

AUG. 10-11 Railroad Date Nail Show, Salina. Trading, buying selling railroad date nails, railroad memorabilia, time tables, keys, padlocks, lanterns HO Model train engines, cars, track, anything Railroad-related. Held at Trinity Lutheran Church. Free admittance. Friday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 9th St. and W. Crawford St., call Marvin Bush at 785-472-4274.

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. Night, Great Bend. S RCA drag strip event. NHRA Summit Points Race #5 on Saturday. Details at www.srcadragstrip.com. 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. 4 Longhorn Cattle Drive, Dodge

City. R elive history watching the majestic longhorn cattle flood Wyatt Earp Blvd. Begins at 9 a.m. Come early and get a front-row seat as longhorn cattle are driven through the streets of Dodge City, just like the cowboys did in the 1800s! AUG. 4 DC Days Classic Car Show, Dodge City. D o you like strolling back through time and looking at classic cars? Come and gaze at beautiful automobile masterpieces plus cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award. C ontact the Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce at 620-227-3119, dcdays@ dodgechamber.com or visit dodgecitydays.org. AUG. 5 Emancipation Day Celebration, Hutchinson. Gospel Fest and ice cream social

Sedan. Held the first Tuesday of each month beginning at 6:30 p.m. Come and play, sing or enjoy snacks. 124 E. Main St., 417-499-4110.

AUG. 11 Grand O’ Opry, Ottawa. G uests Arnie Johnson and Jim Winters. 6:30 p.m. pre-show; 7 p.m. showtime. Ottawa Memorial Auditorium, 301 S. Hickory, 785-214-0013. AUG. 11 Cruis’n the Ville, Leonardville. R egistration from 9-11 a.m.; show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.; parade at 3:30 p.m. Door prizes and 50/50 pot drawing; merchant drawings. Call Bart at 785-485-2183 or Vern at 785-485-2540, visit Leonardville PRIDE Facebook page. AUG. 11 Cruisin’ the Center, Smith Center. R egistration starts at 2 p.m., car, truck, motorcycle show and judging from 3:30-6 p.m. Sixteen categories, plus Mike Hughes Memorial Best Race Car trophy to be awarded. Cruisin’ from 6-9 p.m., free drive-in movie at 9:30 p.m. Call Smith Center Chamber of Commerce at 785-282-3895, email scchamber@smithcenter. com.

AUG. 11 Run for Your Momma, Marion. 1 0th annual half-marathon and 5K. Races begin and end at Marion County Lake. Free post-race breakfast for all participants. www.facebook. com/runforyourmomma, or mopsofmarion@ outlook.com. AUG. 12-SEPT. 28 Native American

Paintings, Ellsworth. S haron Hesket (Sahlfeld) will be displaying her Native American paintings and other art at the Ellsworth Area Art Center, open Monday-Friday 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. 223 N. Douglas Ave.

and burgers at Scott City Park on Main Street. Registration for the show begins at 8 a.m. Saturday at Scott City Park. Enjoy games, cruise to Lake Scott, hog roast, Saturday movie in the park, awards include Participants Choice, Top 20, 7 Specialty and a Rat Rod Award. Call Rex 620-214-9039 or Phil 620-290-2618.

AUG. 17-18 Test and Tune Friday Night

AUG. 17-19 Old Settlers Days, Mulvane. J oin us for a tradition that’s 145 years strong with road race, rodeo, carnival, arts and crafts, parade, talent show, Little Miss Pioneer pageant, turtle races food, entertainment. Various locations in Mulvane, 316-259-8814, www.officialmulvaneoldsettlers.com.

AUG. 17-19 Lake Scott Rod Run & Car Show, Scott City. C ome Friday for brats

AUG. 17-19 Flint Hills Beef Fest, Emporia. F riday enjoy free breakfast at 7:30 a.m. while listening to the Beef Producers Seminar; 6 p.m. ranch feed followed by ranch rodeo. Saturday begins with a ranch horse competition

and Gamblers Race, Great Bend. S RCA drag strip event. NHRA Summit Points Race #6 on Saturday. Details at www.srcadragstrip.com.

at 8 a.m. followed by junior ranch rodeo, ag Olympics, free hamburgers, steak dinner and entertainment. Sunday ends with golf tournament. 620-528-3444, www.beeffest.com. Continued on page 23 

AUGUST 2018

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

C O M M E N TA RY

Part 3: The Who, What, Where and Why of Your Power Supply BY B R U C E G R A H A M

this column to explain the mission of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., the statewide association for electric cooperatives. That was part one of my series called “The Who, What, Where and Why of Your Power Supply.” Part two, printed last month, detailed how cooperatives in Kansas pooled their resources to create, own and govern two generation and transmission (G&T) cooperatives. Sunflower Electric Power Corporation is one of those G&Ts delivering electricity to substations for six cooperatives in western Kansas. Kansas Electric Power Cooperative serves the same primary purpose for 19 other cooperatives in the state. This column explores the creation and evolution of the most visible part of your power supply—the distribution cooperative. These co-ops deliver your electricity, maintain poles and wires, are your customer service resource and receive your payment for this network of services. Across the United States, there are approximately 950 electric co-ops, most of which were formed in the 1930s and 1940s. While urban areas had electricity decades earlier, more sparsely populated areas were ignored by large, investor-owned power companies because of the high cost to serve. It took President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s signing of the Rural Electrification Act on May 21, 1936, to start the wheels of progress turning. The Act provided loans for the construction and operation of electrification facilities across rural America. In Kansas, the initial electric loan was made to the Cooperative Electric Power & Light Company of Iola. The first co-op to energize in the state was the Brown-Atchison Electric Cooperative in Horton on April 1, 1938. By 1948, 39 electric co-ops had been formed in Kansas. The promise of illumination inspired farm families to recruit friends and neighbors to organize and build a cooperative. Productivity and convenience were also strong motivators. In fact, after the lightbulb, an electric clothes iron was the second most pressing purchase. By 1958, 82 percent of the rural homes in Kansas had an electric refrigerator but 66 percent of our neighbors still washed their clothes without electric assistance. Clothes hung on the line behind 90 percent of the rural homes and air conditioners were just as rare as the clothes dryer. Sixty years later, it’s hard to think of things we

IN JUNE, I USED

Bruce Graham

In a national survey, 8 out of 10 members strongly agree that their cooperative’s dedication of financial and human resources is truly a difference maker.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST 2018

don’t plug in! Today, there are 28 distribution co-ops in Kansas, a sum that has been influenced by cooperative consolidations. While the number of cooperatives has changed over the years, our mission remains the same—to provide a reliable and affordable power supply. And we maintain our original and often under-appreciated business model. Cooperatives are owned by the consumers they serve. Consumers are members and each has responsibility for the co-op’s success or failure. Members can engage in co-op governance through their co-op’s annual meeting, take part in other member events and elect a board of directors from fellow co-op members. Our business model set us apart from the beginning and is in our favor for the future. Cooperatives in the early years were actively engaged in the promotion of labor saving electricity around the farm and home, not just to build load but to improve the quality and length of life for rural Kansans. Today, cooperatives promote safe and efficient energy use and remain focused on quality of life. In a national survey, 8 out of 10 members strongly agree that their cooperative’s dedication of financial and human resources is truly a difference maker. Looking ahead, there are potential pitfalls if we can’t overcome regulatory hurdles and a transmission hierarchy that is inefficient, unfair and driving rates higher for cooperative members. Cybersecurity is a challenge for every business. We also see a very real risk to stable electric cooperative rates if the Kansas Legislature considers a concept called retail wheeling next session. There are exciting and innovative times ahead as well. We are looking at opportunities to encourage electric vehicles, explore the benefits of battery storage, improve remote metering, deploy drones to monitor the power delivery system and more. Your cooperative network will not rest on its laurels. We pledge to maintain our position as strategic leaders in the energy industry and, most importantly, deliver a future that is better and brighter because we all work together as part of your electric cooperative. KCL BRUCE GRAHAM is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas

Electric Cooperatives, Inc. in Topeka.

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Portable Air Conditioners Offer Better Comfort, Lower Cooling Costs D E AR J I M : We have central air-conditioning. It seems wasteful to cool the entire house when just two of us are home. Is using a portable air conditioner in various rooms more efficient overall? – Sean K. D E AR S E AN : Using a portable air conditioner (or heat pump) is a good idea especially when you are going to be in the same room for an extended time. This also is effective with central air-conditioning. Even though the SEER efficiency of a newer central air conditioner is generally higher than the efficiency of a portable model, using one can save money overall. Run the portable conditioner to cool just a frequently used room or two to the comfortable temperature you desire. When using a portable air conditioner be sure to raise the temperature setting on the wall thermostat for the central air conditioner four or five degrees higher than normal. This can provide a 10 to 15 percent electricity savings without a major sacrifice in comfort. During moderate temperature weather, turn your central air conditioner off completely and use just the portable unit. A sizing rule-of-thumb is that an 8,000 Btuh model should comfortably cool rooms up to 350 square feet and a 12,000 Btuh model should cool a 550-square-foot area. Both plug into a standard 120-volt outlet. Portable air conditioners are particularly convenient because you can roll one from room to room. With this feature, one portable air conditioner can be used to keep different rooms cool depending upon which room you are using. It is best to have one for each floor of a two-story house. Portable air conditioners operate similar to a typical window unit. The internal rotary compressor, evaporator and condenser function in the same way. The primary difference between the two is that a portable air conditioner is on coasters and rests on the floor versus being installed in a window. The sound level is also comparable to a typical window air conditioner, so they work well in bedrooms. There are two basic designs of portable units. One design uses a single duct to the window adapter. This is the simplest system and it works well, but it does draw some cooled or heated room

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST 2018

SUNPENTOWN

BY J A M E S D U L L E Y

This 12,000 Btuh portable air conditioner uses evaporative technology so there is no condensation tank to empty.

air to the outdoors. I use a remote-controlled one-duct model in my second-floor bedroom to precool the room at night. Then I set its thermostat higher so it doesn’t run much overnight. The other design uses two ducts which is more efficient. All of the air flowing through the condenser (which carries the heat away) is drawn from outdoors and exhausted back outdoors. With two ducts, no already-conditioned indoor air is exhausted outdoors. This is more energy efficient, especially when operating a heat pump model in the heating mode during winter. Before purchasing a portable air conditioner, consider how the condensed water is handled in the cooling mode. Evaporative models mix the water with the air exhausted outdoors so there is nothing to empty. Other models, which also function well as dehumidifiers without cooling much on the “dehumidify” setting, capture the water in a small tank which you must empty. This is basically distilled water in the tank which can be recycled to Continued on page 16 

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EVERYTHING OLD

is NEW Again BY M E L I N D A S C H N Y D E R P H OTO S CO U RT E SY M C P H E R S O N CO L L E G E

Next generation of auto restorers learns old-school techniques at McPherson College

AMANDA GUTIERREZ gets phone calls every week from prospective employers around the world looking to hire graduates from McPherson College, a private liberal arts college in the central Kansas community of McPherson. Gutierrez is the vice president of the college’s Automotive Restoration program, where about 150 of McPherson’s 700 students are studying. The college offers the only four-year bachelor’s degree in automotive restoration technology, making its graduates highly sought-after in an industry where many long-timers are aging out. “We are the definitive degree in automotive restoration,” Gutierrez said. “Our graduates are very

valuable to our communities in a lot of ways.” The program is well-respected throughout the automotive industry but is still unknown to many Kansas residents who might not realize they too can tap into the expertise surrounding this unique program, even if they aren’t planning to earn a degree. Faculty offer workshops each summer for car hobbyists and professionals, and students enrolled in the program organize an annual car show that draws entries from private collectors around the country. While there are hours of made-for-TV car build shows that don’t realistically capture the process of real-life restoration, these programs have helped renew an interest in hands-on skills. McPherson sees the impact in increased applications and summer workshop enrollment. “We see a lot of appreciation for those skills being highlighted again, especially through shows on Velocity and Discovery Channel,” Gutierrez said. “I think there’s been a generation or two where we were pushing young people away from working with their hands. Skilled trades are coming back. We offer an option for those students who love to build, create and solve with their hands but also want a college degree.”

Working in the metal lab helps students understand the importance of documenting work and time in a shop setting. Advanced students get an opportunity to take part in independent studies like Dalton Whitfield, who is refabricating an MGB hood to resemble an Aston Martin Zagato.

The Liberal Arts Difference

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST 2018

While there are shop-centered associates degrees available at other schools, McPherson is the only college to pair English courses with engine rebuilding. Students take a liberal arts general

A team of students work on the Mercedes-Benz 300 S, a project that will be completely restored by students with the intent of competing at the Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance.

core curriculum along with shop courses inside Templeton Hall, the campus home of the program. “We think liberal arts and restoration make perfect sense because the technology side of it teaches you how to do the restoration and the liberal arts piece teaches you how to approach that restoration,” Gutierrez said. “Our students are more well-rounded, they have more diverse career opportunities and it often feeds into their entrepreneurial spirit of what they can do with a degree from McPherson College.” McPherson College launched the program as a two-year degree in 1976 after local entrepreneur Gaines H. “Smokey” Billue gifted the college 125 classic and antique cars and the initial funds to get started. He also established a trust that continues to benefit the program. It kept a low profile until 1997, when talk show host and classic car enthusiast Jay Leno learned about McPherson College. While he has yet to visit the campus, he has invited students to work on his cars in California and he established two endowed scholarships and an annual scholarship at the college. The most impact, though, came when Leno mentioned the auto restoration program at a large industry event. That international publicity opened doors for the college to establish

relationships throughout the industry, which led to donations, increased involvement on the program’s national advisory board and high-profile learning experiences outside of the classroom. The degree program expanded to four years in 2003.

A Historical Focus on Restoration

Another unique aspect of McPherson’s auto restoration program is that it focuses on the history of the automobile and the history of the processes used to build it. Rather than plugging a car into a computer to find out what’s wrong with it, students work on cars from the beginning of the automobile to the early 1970s as they learn to assess, diagnose and figure out their approach. “We think it’s really important to understand why cars were created the way that they were,” Gutierrez said. “Whether or not they work on cars from the 1920s when they graduate, it’s important for them to have that comprehensive understanding.” The program attracts traditional first-time freshmen who love cars and want to grow their passion by broadening their knowledge. Many come to the program having never worked with a car from the

AUGUST 2018

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

EVERYTHING OLD

is NEW Again

teens, 20s or 30s. When they graduate, 96 percent will already have a job in the field. Depending on what they decide to concentrate on during the program (technology, design, management, communications, history), graduates could go to work at restoration shops, museums, private car collections, auction houses, insurance firms or for industry events. Some go into business for themselves right away, like Dalton Whitfield. Originally from Cleveland, Georgia, he graduated in May and decided to open his own shop in McPherson.

Creating a Car Culture

Half of the students come from the Midwest, the other half are split between the East and West coasts. Few come from towns as small as McPherson, which has about 13,000 residents and is 60 miles north of Wichita. A strong sense of community in McPherson and on campus, as well as an enthusiast car culture has been key to overcoming the initial shock some students have to their new home, Gutierrez said. “While they might not find as many things to do in McPherson as Los Angeles, they are spending the weekend working on their cars, touring around Kansas in their cars and doing activities with fellow students,” she said. The eight auto restoration faculty members drive their old cars to class and many students bring their own car projects to McPherson and work on

More than 400 cars from across the country entered this year’s McPherson College Car & Motorcycle Show. The student-led event takes place each year on the first Saturday in May.

them at storage units directly across from campus. The C.A.R.S. Club is one of the school’s most active student-led clubs. It is open to any McPherson student interested in antique and collector cars, and each year it organizes the C.A.R.S. Club Car and Motorcycle Show. The 2018 car show was the biggest so far, attracting more than 400 entrants from across the country. Next year will be the 20th year for the event, held the first Saturday in May. It is open to the public and includes several other events: a cruise-in on Friday night as well as a fundraiser dinner. This year, the dinner speaker was Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of BarrettJackson Auction Company. McPherson can offer this unique education for the next generation of auto restorers because of support from organizations, business leaders and collector car enthusiasts, Gutierrez said. One example is the college’s relationship with the Mercedes-Benz Classic Center. The center is serving as an adviser on a restoration project that

When they graduate, 96 percent will already have a job in the field. 14

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST 2018

started in 2016 with the goal of competing to win at Pebble Beach Concours d’ Elegance in 2023. Pebble Beach is considered the Super Bowl of cars. A donation was used to purchase a 1953 Mercedes-Benz 300 S. The goal is to enter a car in the show that will highlight both the technical and liberal arts components McPherson teaches. “We could have bought a car that was pretty close to perfect, cleaned it up and took it to Pebble Beach,” Gutierrez said. “But this is a great learning opportunity so we wanted a complete restoration on a car that would be worthy of winning.” Every student coming through the program over the next few years will have a hand in the project, from shop work like metal work, paint, chassis, drive train, engine, wood and trim to historical research, assessment and documentation, project management, communication and presentation skills, and professionalism and accountability. “It’s not about getting there quickly, it’s about doing great work,” Gutierrez said. KCL

WANT TO TAKE A CLASS IN AUTO RESTORATION? The auto restoration faculty at McPherson College hosts a Summer Institute each June for hobbyist and beginners of all ages and interests. They’ve seen father-daughters, three generation family groups as well as professionals wanting to concentrate on a specific skill. Each workshop lasts five days and there are three weeks offered. Each week has about eight course offerings, from automotive woodworking to engine rebuilding to paint. Class sizes are small so you get one-on-one instruction, which starts with brief histories and fundamentals of the knowledge needed then quickly moves into labs. The 2018 cost was $750 for tuition and lunches per week-long class; there is an option to stay on campus. KCL

Eddie Casas, third from left, and his three sons work in the paint lab along with Professor Chris Clark, far right, during this year’s Summer Institute program. The Casas family traveled from Texas to participate in the Summer Institute. This year 130 participants enrolled in institute from 30 different states. Summer Institute courses are offered over a three-week period each year in June.

AUGUST 2018

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

E N E R GY W I S E Continued from page 10 

During moderate temperature weather, turn your central air conditioner off completely and use just the portable unit.

JAMES DULLE Y

water houseplants. I use a portable Select a model with several heat pump model blower speeds and adjustable in my own home/ directional louvers. When office for year-round cooling, adjust the louvers savings. Portable heat to direct the cooled air up at pumps, which look about a 30-degree angle. The identical and operate cooled air blowing out is denser similarly to a porso this keeps it from settling at table air conditioner, the floor level. also provide heating A flat adapter panel connects during cold weather. the portable air conditioner or This efficient heating heat pump to a window with source can produce up one or two five-inch-diameter to 12,000 Btuh from flexible and collapsible ducts. a 120-volt electrical This is where the heat, which outlet. Most electric is pulled from the room air, is space heaters produce exhausted outdoors. The window only 5,100 Btuh. adapter and ducts, which must The thermostat is be moved along with the porbuilt into the handheld table air conditioner, fit most remote control so it easily in single- or double-hung senses the temperature or slider windows and sliding where you are located. glass doors. This is an advantage Use one-by-one-inch because you need to have foam weatherstripping to it comfortably cool preJim Dulley uses this single-duct Northstar portable seal the window edge against cisely where you are in a air-conditioner in his bedroom. The the panel. Hollow round room. With sun shining in condensation water tank is shown open. foam pipe insulation also windows on a hot afterworks well. Use tape or glue noon, the temperature can to secure the foam to the panel to simplify moving vary significantly throughout a large room. KCL among windows. To use with a casement window, Send inquiries to JAMES DULLEY, Kansas Country Living, 6906 you must make a triangular top and bottom end Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com. caps to seal in the window opening.

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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, straining while in the bathroom, heartburn, and nausea. Now, backed with new clinical studies, AloeCure is being recommended to help improve digestion, modulate the immune system for inflammation management on places including around the joints, and even reduce the appearance of wrinkles – helping patients to look and feel decades younger.

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.

the rest of the body. The recommended daily allowance of acemannan in AloeCure has been proven to support digestive health, and modulate the immune system to help manage 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 much better 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 appearEXCITING RESULTS FROM ance of winkles and help restore hair and PATIENTS nails … manage cholesterol and oxidative To date over 5 million bottles of AloeCure stress… and improve sleep and brain funchave been sold, and the community seeking tion… without side effects or expense. non-pharma therapy for their GI health conUP TO 125% MONEY BACK tinues to grow. GUARANTEE According to Dr. Leal, her patients are abReaders can now reclaim their energy, visolutely thrilled with their results and are tality, and youth regardless of age and comoften shocked by how fast it works. pletley risk free. “For the first time in years, they are free In fact, if AloeCure fails to deliver on its from concerns about their digestion and promises, we will refund you 100% of your almost every other aspect of their health,” purchase price and pay an additional $50 says Dr. Leal, “and I recommend it to every- just for trying. one who wants to improve GI health.” All we ask is you take it exactly as di“I was always in ‘indigestion hell.’ Doc- rected. tors put me on all sorts of antacid remedies. “As a spokesperson and MD I see how efNothing worked. Dr. Leal recommended I try AloeCure. And something remarkable fective it is with my patients. I know it will happened… Not only were all the issues do the same for consumers. I’m excited. We I had with my stomach gone - completely want people to experience a lifestyle change gone – I was able to actually sleep through is this is a great opportunity for everyone.” explains Dr. Liza Leal when asked about the night.” this amazing promotion. With so much positive feedback, it’s easy HOW TO CLAIM RISK FREE to see why the community of believers is SUPPLY growing and sales for the new pill are soaring. Due to the enormous interest consumers have shown in AloeCure, in addition to THE SCIENCE great return promotion, the company has BEHIND ALOECURE decided to extend their nationwide savings The pill is small. Easy to swallow. There event for a little while longer. Here’s how are no harmful side effects and it does not it works... require a prescription. Call the AloeCure number and speak to a FIX YOUR GUT & FIGHT The active ingredient is a rare Aloe Vera live person in the US. Callers will be greeted INFLAMMATION compound known as acemannan. by knowledgeable and friendly person Since hitting the market, sales for AloeMade from Aloe Vera, AloeCure uses a approved to offer up to 3 FREE bottles of Cure have taken off and there are some very proprietary process that results in the high- AloeCure with your order. good reasons why. est quality, most bio-available levels of aceAloeCure’s Toll-Free number is 1-800818-1003. Only a limited discounted supply To start, the clinical studies have been mannan known to exist. impressive. Virtually everyone taking the According to Dr. Leal and peer reviewed of AloeCure is currently available. active ingredient in AloeCure saw improve- studies on aloe vera, improving the pH Consumers who miss out on the ment in digestive symptoms, which in- balance of your stomach and restoring gut current product inventory will have to cludes fast and lasting relief from reflux. health is the key to revitalizing your entire wait until more becomes available and that could take weeks. They will also not Users also experienced relief from chron- body. ic discomfort and better sleep. Some even When your digestive system isn’t healthy, be guaranteed any additional savings. reported healthier looking skin, hair, and it causes unwanted stress on your immune The company advises not to wait. Call system, which results in inflammation in 1-800-818-1003 today. nails. 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.

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

Low-Maintenance Lenten Rose a Perennial Favorite

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

(Helleborus x hybridus) has long been present in Midwestern gardens, it is a more recent addition to my own yard. In the short time I’ve been growing Lenten rose, however, this low-maintenance perennial has surfaced as a favorite. Lenten rose is appealing for many reasons, but one unique feature is the winter bloom season. During the coldest months of the year, the blooms appear bringing color to an otherwise bleak garden. Blooms can last for weeks and even months with a thick, almost rubbery texture. Approximately 2 inches across, blooms develop interesting seed pods continuing the appeal of the plant through spring. Blooms range in color including varieties in white to much darker purple and plenty of colors in between such as pink, yellow and red. Some varieties have two-tone blooms and can be single or double with flat or ruffled petals. The flowers may stand erect or turned downward. Best suited for U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9, Lenten rose plants grow in a clumping habit that multiplies in size each year and increases in bloom count as well. Some varieties may have more than 50 blooms in a clump after years of growth. The clumps can be divided if desired, but can be left in a large clump as well. The leaves of the Lenten rose are palmate with serrated edges and a leathery texture. As an evergreen, the dark green leaves ensure year-round appeal even when the plant is not in bloom. A mature Lenten rose plant can reach 18-24 inches tall and 24-30 inches in spread making it a popular option for use as a ground cover in woodland gardens. Lenten rose is a great companion for hostas (Hosta sp.) as they both prefer shady gardens with moist conditions. Well-drained soil is important to prevent root rot. Once established, drier conditions are tolerable. Self-seeding of the Lenten rose can be a benefit if you plan the placement wisely and have space for new plants to sprout. Regardless, the Lenten rose is not overbearing and can be confined to a single area with minimal effort if desired. Resistance to diseases and pests is one of the THOUGH THE LENTEN ROSE

Cynthia Domenghini, Ph.D.

As an evergreen, the dark green leaves ensure year-round appeal even when the plant is not in bloom.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST 2018

many positive attributes of the Lenten rose. Deer are not attracted to it, likely because many parts of the plant are poisonous. Some gardeners may experience a minor rash if their skin is in contact with the plant for an extended period of time. Wearing gloves and long sleeves can prevent the risk of skin irritation. The plant should not be ingested, though it is only said to be harmful if large quantities are consumed. Most gardeners welcome new plants if it means the garden view will be enhanced and the work will not. Plant a Lenten rose in your garden this season and reap the rewards when the brave, hardy blooms peek up through the winter snow next winter. KCL CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI is an instructor and coordinator for K-State’s horticultural therapy online certificate program.

The blooms of this Lenten rose appeared initially in shades of dark purple but have progressed to green with purple accents on the undersides by late spring. Notice the serration on the leaf edges.

#connecting

kansas KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES IS ASKING

electric co-op members to partner with Kansas Farm Bureau to identify areas in the state lacking cellphone broadband coverage. KFB was recently granted a waiver from the Federal Communications Commission to challenge the legitimacy of coverage maps from various major cellular carriers in Kansas. “Coverage maps of Kansas indicate there is virtually full coverage by at least one cellphone carrier in the state,” says Rich Felts, Kansas Farm Bureau president. “But we know this isn’t the case from our experience with dropped calls and slow downloading and uploading speeds in rural areas of our state.” The FCC is providing $4.53 billion in support over 10 years to primarily rural areas that lack unsubsidized 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) service, according to the FCC website. Because the coverage maps of Kansas indicate

there is service available from one carrier or another, KFB is seeking help from Kansans to show the lack of reliable cellphone coverage exists. Speed tests throughout the state will be required to show the FCC data necessary to revise the map. Electric co-op members can help. “These speed tests are an integral part of being considered for the grant dollars provided by the FCC,” Felt says. “To show our need for reliable cell phone coverage, we need to prove it’s an issue.” Speed tests can be run by downloading the FCC Speed Test App in the Google Play store or the Apple App store. Install the app on your phone, then turn off Wi-Fi and enable GPS or Location Services. Run the test between 6 a.m. and midnight, and you must be outside. You can find detailed instructions below and at www.kfb.org/connectingkansas. KCL

Help improve cellphone coverage in rural Kansas

HOW TO RUN THE SPEED TEST ffGo to the App Store on your iPhone, or the Google Play Store on your Android device. ffSearch for “FCC Speed Test” (The correct app has this icon :

ffInstall the app. ffOpen the app and agree to the Privacy Terms of Use. ffClick “Run Now.” ffIf you receive a pop-up that says, “Data Cap Exceeded” select “OK.” ffIf you receive a pop-up asking you to enable location services, select “Allow.” ffSelect “All” when asked what type of test you want to run. ffThe test is complete when the spinning icon on the right disappears. On iPhone press

SPEED TEST REQUIREMENTS

“Done.” On Android press the “back” arrow.

ffRun the test between

SEND THE RESULTS TO KANSAS FARM BUREAU ffRun as many tests during the day as you want in as many locations as possible and send

them all together in the evening. ffOn the main screen, click on the icon on the top right (iPhone: gear; Android: three dots) ffSelect “Export Results” and hit “OK” when asked to confirm that you want to export archived results. ffSend the file to SPEED TEST@KFB.ORG . AUGUST 2018

6 a.m. and midnight. ffTurn off Wi-Fi. ffMake sure you are outside and away from a building or vehicle. ffEnable GPS or Location Services. KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Electric Vehicle IS AN

R I G H T F O R YO U BY PA U L W E S S L U N D

The economics of electric vehicles are affected by geography, climate and how your electricity is generated.

SHOULD YOUR NEXT CAR be an electric vehicle? The answer could depend on where you live. Electric vehicles account for just 1.2 percent of the U.S. vehicle market, but sales are booming, growing 25 percent last year. And they’re getting better and cheaper as researchers improve the batteries that power them. Here’s a guide to help you decide if an electric car is for you—or if you just want to be smarter about one of the next big things in energy. The first thing to realize about electric cars is they can drive more than enough miles for you on a single charge, even if you live out in the wideopen countryside.

Location Issue #1: The Distance Myth

Try keeping track of your actual daily use, advises Brian Sloboda, a program and product manager at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. “If you’re an insurance salesman, you’re logging a lot of miles, so an electric car’s not going to be for you,” he says, noting that a typical range for an electric car today is over 100 miles, and ranges of 150 to 250 miles are becoming common. “But if you look at how many miles you drive in a day, for most people in the United States, even in rural areas, that number is under 40 miles per day. So if your car has a range of 120 miles, that’s a lot of wiggle room.” According to the Federal Highway Administration, the average American drives 25 miles a day, and for rural areas, that average is 34 miles a day. Sloboda says another reason it’s worth think-

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST 2018

ing realistically about how electric cars are charged in relation to your daily mileage: you might find that an electric car could easily fit your daily needs. When you are done driving for the day, you can plug your electric car in to recharge overnight. Essentially, you’re topping off the gas tank while you sleep, giving you a fullycharged battery every morning.

There are three ways to charge an electric car

simplest charging techLEVEL 1 The nique is to plug the car into a

standard home outlet. That will charge the battery at a rate that will add from two to five miles to its range each hour. That’s pretty slow, but Sloboda notes the battery might start the charging session already partly charged, depending on how far it’s driven that day. Faster charging will require a professional installer to upgrade the home’s voltage for a unit that will add between 10 and 25 miles of range for each hour of charging—a rate that would fully charge the battery overnight. Sloboda says installing a Level 2 charger in a house or garage would run $500 to $800 for the equipment, plus at least that much for the labor. Timers can also be used to charge the vehicle in the middle of the night when electric consumption is typically lower.

LEVEL 2

fast charge requires LEVEL 3DC specialized equipment more

suited to public charging stations, and will bring a car battery up to 80 percent of capacity in 30 minutes. Sloboda warns this high-speed technique should only be used for special long-distance driving, since it can de-grade the battery over time. That’s also why DC chargers shouldn’t be used to bring the battery up to 100 percent.

Location Issue #2: Off-Peak Electric Rates

What you pay to charge your electric car could also depend on where you live, says Sloboda. He advises checking to see whether your local electric co-op offers a lower rate to charge an electric vehicle overnight, when the utility has a lower demand for electricity. “It’s different depending on where you are in the country,” says Sloboda. Some local co-ops have fairly stable electric demand throughout a typical day, so they may not offer a special electric vehicle rate. He adds, “There are areas of the country where the on-peak, off-peak difference in price is extreme,” so that it might make financial sense for the utility to offer an overnight charging rate. Another factor affecting the economics of an electric car is, of course, the cost of the vehicle. “These cars are really in the luxury and performance car categories,” says Sloboda. As electric cars improve, projections put their cost coming down to match conventional vehicles by about the

year 2025. But today, the average electric car costs close to $40,000, compared to a vehicle with an internal combustion engine for less than $30,000.

Location Issues #3 and #4: Environment and Geography

For many people, one of the biggest selling points for electric cars is their effect on the environment. This potential positive impact can depend on where you live, how your power is generated, the climate and the geography of the area. The sources of electricity for a local utility vary across the country—some areas depend heavily on coal-fired power plants, others use larger shares of solar or wind energy. One major environmental group analyzed all those local electric utility fuel mixes, and determined that for most of the country, electric vehicles have much less of an effect on the environment than conventional vehicles. That study by the Union of Concerned Scientists shows that in the middle part of the country, driving an electric vehicle has the equivalent environmental benefits of driving a gasolinepowered car that gets 41-50 miles per gallon. For much of the rest of the country, it’s like driving a car that gets well over 50 miles per gallon. “Seventy-five percent of people now live in places where driving on electricity is cleaner than a 50 MPG gasoline car,” says the report from the Union of Concerned Scientists. Other local factors that will affect an electric AUGUST 2018

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

“Within the next 24 months, I believe there will be a credible pickup truck on the market. It’s just a matter of time.” car’s performance include climate and geography, says Sloboda. The range of the vehicle will be affected by whether you regularly drive up and down mountains or use the heater or air conditioner a lot. Sloboda concedes that electric vehicles are not for everybody—yet. One limit to their growth is that no major carmaker offers an especially popular choice: a pickup truck. Sloboda says there’s no technological barrier to making an electric pickup. He even suggests possible advantages: a heavy battery in the bottom would lower the center of gravity for better handling, and at a remote work site the battery could run power tools. “Within the next 24 months, I believe there will be a credible pickup truck on the market,” says Sloboda. “It’s just a matter of time.” KCL PAUL WESSLUND writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

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AUGUST 2018

Easing Electric Vehicle Range Anxiety Range anxiety—fear of the battery running out before you’re able to recharge—is a roadblock to wider use of electric vehicles. But statistics show this fear is overblown, even if you live in a rural area. While extra planning may be needed for vacations or longer trips, nearly everyone’s daily driving needs can be met with one charge. And when you’re done driving your electric vehicle for the day, you can plug it in to recharge overnight, “topping off the tank” while you sleep!

AV E R AG E M I L E CO M PA R I S O N Miles

Average miles-per-charge for all electric vehicles in 2017 Average miles driven per day by Americans living in rural areas

100

120

114

35.7

Average miles driven per day by Americans

29.8 Sources: Dept. of Energy, Energy Information Administration, AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety.

Continued from page 7

AUG. 18 Antique Fest, Barnes. A ntiques,

collectibles, crafts and rusty stuff; 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Local specialty shops and food. Music in the IOOF Park & Band Shell. Vendors welcome; no space rent or admission fees. Located 45 miles north of Manhattan. www.barnesks.net, 785-747-8757, glorias@jbntelcom. AUG. 18 Dane G. Hansen Arts & Crafts

Fair, Logan. I f you enjoy arts and crafts, come and spend a fun Saturday. Live music, food, 5K and more all begins at 9 a.m. on the Hansen Plaza on Main Street. http://hansenmuseum. org/arts-crafts-fair. AUG. 18 Banner Art Walk, Garden

City. T he annual event is a temporary public art display featuring work by regional artists in Downtown Garden City. Stop in local businesses along Main Street from 4-6:30 p.m. to view artwork. End the evening with an artist’s reception at Garden City Arts. 120 E. Laurel, 620-276-0891, www.gcdowntown.com.

reservations required. Not suggested for children under 12. 620-628-4455.

V isit Facebook at Cedar Vale Labor Day Celebration, call/text 620-216-1234.

AUG. 25 Grand O’ Opry, Ottawa. G uests Bart O’Neal and Johnny Hudson. 6:30 p.m. pre-show; 7 p.m. showtime. Ottawa Memorial Auditorium, 301 S. Hickory, 785-214-0013.

SEPT. 2 Labor Day Celebration, Logan. A day of family fun with radio control fly-in, sand volleyball tournament, car show, inflatables, fantastic music and dynamite fireworks. Musical entertainment at 5:30 p.m. with Melinda Ferree, Patsy Cline impersonator, and at 7:30 p.m. “The Innocence” will take the stage. For the grand finale, fireworks will light up the sky. Logan Golf Course, 1 ¼ miles east of Logan on Highway 9, www.srcadragstrip.com.

AUG. 31-SEPT. 1 Test and Tune Friday

Night, Great Bend. S RCA drag strip event. NHRA Summit Points Race #7 and Jr. Dragster Challenge on Saturday. Details at www. srcadragstrip.com. AUG. 31-SEPT. 3 Labor Day Celebration,

Cedar Vale. A ctivities include a barbecue cook-off, softball tournament, sporting clay shoot, goat roping, dance, junior ranch rodeo, men’s ranch rodeo, 5K walk/run, parade, street games, egg toss, horseshoe pitching and shodeo. The main event is the PRCA rodeo Saturday at 8 p.m. followed by a free dance.

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. Include name and date(s) of the event, a brief description, city and address of the event, and additional contact information for readers, like a website address, Facebook page, phone number or email address. KCL

AUG. 24-26 Birthday Bash, Wakefield. ain events on the 25th with car show M from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., live bands from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., softball tournament, 3-on-3 basketball tournament, inflatables for the kids, raffle, food vendors, free hog roast at 6 p.m., parade at 10 a.m. 5k run at 7 a.m. Visit Facebook @Wakefield Birthday Bash; for car show information call Chris at 785-761-4554. AUG. 24-26 Tootlefest, Miltonvale. J oin us for our annual celebration with turtle races, parade, vendors, live entertainment, Fire/EMS barbecue, kids games, block races and street dance after dark. Saturday is the bike and car show in Tootleville Park. Follow us on facebook@ MiltonvaleKansasChamberOfCommerce, register for the care show on Facebook, Miltonvale Tootlefest Car Show. AUG. 25 Fall Wildflower Tours at Maxwell Wildlife Refuge, Canton. Board our trams for viewing and short distance walks to identify the prairie fall wildflowers and grasses. Tram time 9:30 a.m. Limited seating,

AUGUST 2018

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

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

Let Me Bake Cake: Birthday Tradition Founded on Fluffy Frosting

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

now, being long-distance, stands by helplessly knowing that in the days—even weeks—leading up to my late-August self-commemoration, I am shopping for ingredients (some of which must be ordered); researching the internet and cookbooks; fusing recipes; plotting the time frame of mixing, baking and chilling steps; photographing the process; weeping throughout, and in the final throes of this mayhem, impaling my creation with a candle—lit, wished-upon and blown out in Rebecca Howard one last exhale of cake-making exhaustion. If you think this sounds like too much fun, you’re right! It has been my kind of fun, every doggone, dog-day moment, from the three-day, three-layer coconut extravaganza I called my “muse” cake; to the Baked Alaska made after a toss out of bed at 3:15 a.m. due to the 6.0-magnitude Napa earthquake (I have since re-named my “birthquake”); to a St. Honoré cake, a concoction that would give even a pastry chef (which the dessert honors) pause—layers of puff pastry, pastry cream, whipped cream and a “crown” of cream-filled, caramel-dipped profiteroles (fancy talk for cream puffs). Having revealed all that, it seems maybe she’s right. Maybe it’s too much to make your own cake, even as I excuse it as a rightful tribute to not only myself, but my food blog, “A Woman Adapted from C&H Sugar Sconed,” which I started on my birthday in 2010. “Reading the recipe, it doesn’t sound like it would be good,” my mom says of this frosting recipe. She believes she first made it out As August arrives and I have of a need to use what she had on hand, or didn’t —powdered sugar. selected my latest pastry contender, The delicious results were made countless times from then on. one that likely is a new baking venture or, at the least includes some unprecff 1-1/2 Tbs. cornstarch ff 3/4 cup granulated sugar ff 3/4 cup shortening (part edented (for me) technique (like (superfine, such as C&H butter or margarine) ff Dash of salt Baker’s Sugar, works well) ff 1 tsp. vanilla baking ice cream), I should consider ff 3/4 cup milk the cakes—and the birthdays that went In a small saucepan, whisk together the cornstarch, salt and milk. Cook on medium-low with them—upon which I was founded. heat until smoothly thickened, stirring constantly. Cover and set aside to cool. In a medium There was always a big to-do over my mixing bowl with a hand mixer (or a stand mixer and whisk attachment), gradually beat sugar into shortening, creaming until very fluffy (3 to 4 minutes). Gradually add the cooled birthday (thus setting my tone) due to milk mixture, beating until well-blended. Beat in vanilla. Frosting can be chilled in the refrigthe fact, I think, that my first birthday erator if it seems too soft to spread. was a time of deep family grief, given Frosts two 8- or 9-inch layers or one 13-by-9-inch cake. that we lost my maternal grandmother to leukemia just two days prior. If there Tip: Make sure you don’t skimp on the whipping time for the shortening and sugar so that was fuss for my birthday from that year the sugar adequately dissolves in the creaming process. on to make up for it, it was not lost on me, then or now, and I will forever see, EVERY AUGUST,

I allow myself a little extra navalgazing (to which some might ask: how is this possible?). It’s my birthday month, and since no holidays rival the occasion, I feel I must give in to big birthday focus. Which mainly means one thing: cake. I’m not even a huge fan of cake. It’s not my favorite dessert. But it’s what a cake symbolizes— celebration—that makes it the birthday essential. As Julia Child said, “A party without cake is just a meeting.” A cake is baked in celebratory tribute of someone’s special day, even if you are the someone who is also doing the baking. I have for many years made my own birthday cake—now a tradition from which I do not stray—and the cakemaking itself has become something of an event. “A person shouldn’t make her own birthday cake,” my mother has often told me, as I plan and prep a knockout cake for my day (a feat of which the stakes keep rising annually in my attempt to outdo myself). She was my earliest birthday cake maker, and

G E T T Y I M A G E S / M A R I N A M A R I YA

Creamy Whipped Icing

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

AUGUST 2018

I’m not even a huge fan of cake. It’s not my favorite dessert. But it’s what a cake symbolizes—celebration—that makes it the birthday essential. perhaps more than many, the preciousness of life in the shadow of the loss around my birthday season. I got to celebrate big from age 2 forward, sometimes with two cakes (yes, I know!). I’d pick my favorites—a strawberry cake made with Jell-O and real strawberries, a darkly rich cocoa cake or a moist and spicy applesauce cake—my late grandmother’s recipe. All of them were made (for brevity in preparation and serving maximization) in 13-by-9-inch oblong pans (where they remained to be topped with candles and served), and most of them were covered in a cooked frosting (see accompanying recipe) I’ve never ran across again in all my years of recipetrawling. It was cut from the back of a C&H Sugar box, a formulation where milk, cornstarch and salt are cooked until thick, then cooled, then all is combined with creamed shortening and

sugar. Flavored simply with vanilla, this soft but thick, fluffy topping was somewhere between whipped cream and cream cheese frostings and could successfully crown any flavor of cake. It is the frosting upon which I was founded—fluffy yet sturdy, humble, old-fashioned and delicious. And as fancy and as far-flung as I may get— with my cakes or anything, really—underneath it all is the founding belief that one’s life should be reason enough to celebrate. 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.”

Rebecca Howard at age 2 with an early version of her late grandmother’s recipe for a moist and spicy applesauce cake. AUGUST 2018

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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

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AUGUST 2018

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Moving?

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SAFETY

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Perfect Picnic Popcorn Squares

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, AUGUST 2018

Serve a crowd and satisfy a sweet tooth with these easy popcorn bars.

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, AUGUST 2018

pack a ton of flavor and nutrients.

Five-Way Mini Meatloaves They may be mini, but these meatloaves

Fried Bologna Cups

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, AU GU ST 201 8

Beef products, like bologna, can be used to encourage consumption of vegetables.

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, AU GU ST 201 8

classic, kid-approved lunch—for breakfast.

Peanut Butter and Jelly Pancake Dippers Fuel your kid first thing with this twist on a

ff 1/4 tsp. salt

ff 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

ff 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour

ff 1/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

ff nonstick cooking spray

ff 1 cup fat-free milk

ff 4 Tbs. reduced-fat creamy peanut butter

ff 1 Tbs. vegetable oil

ff 1 large egg

Peanut Butter and Jelly Dippers

ff 2 tsp. brown sugar, packed ff 1/3 cup sugar-free raspberry

preserves, for dipping

ff 1 tsp. baking powder

In blender, combine oats and flours and pulse 3-4 times. Add salt, brown sugar, baking powder, egg, vegetable oil, peanut butter and milk. Pulse several times until combined and no lumps in batter. Heat nonstick skillet to medium-low heat and lightly grease with cooking spray. Pour 1/4 cup batter onto skillet, cook 1-2 minutes until bubbles appear around edges then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until golden. Immediately roll up pancake and secure with toothpick. Repeat process with remaining batter.

ff 1 tsp. plain, low-fat yogurt

ff 2 tsp. light mayonnaise

ff 1 tsp. golden raisins

ff 2 tsp. minced celery

ff 3 Tbs. chopped apple

Apple Salad Filling (enough for one bologna cup)

COURTESY OF MILKPEP

Serve with raspberry preserves for dipping. Serves 5 (two pancake dippers per serving).

Fried Bologna Cups ff vegetable oil spray ff 8 slices beef bologna Potato-Vegetable Filling (enough for one bologna cup) ff 1/4 cup mixed vegetables ff 1/4 cup mashed potatoes ff 1 Tbs. grated cheddar cheese

Spray large, nonstick skillet with vegetable oil spray. Set skillet over medium heat and lay bologna slices in pan, as many as will fit in one layer. Let bologna fry until it cups. Transfer cups to serving plate and fry remaining bologna in same fashion. To make potato-vegetable filling: In small, microwave-safe bowl, stir together vegetables and potatoes; microwave until hot. To make apple salad filling: In small bowl, stir apple, celery, raisins, mayonnaise and yogurt. Spoon desired filling into each cup. For cups with potato-vegetable filling, top with grated cheese. COURTESY OF THE BEEF CHECKOFF

Five-Way Mini Meatloaves

ff 1-1/2 pounds ground beef ff 1 egg, lightly beaten ff 1/3 cup saltine or butter cracker crumbs ff 1 clove garlic, minced ff 1/3 cup finely chopped onion ff 1/2 tsp. salt ff 1/3 cup 2% milk ff 1/4 tsp. pepper Heat oven to 350 F. Combine all ingredients in large bowl, mixing lightly but thoroughly. Shape beef mixture into 12 equal portions. Place into 12-cup standard muffin pan, lightly patting beef mixture to level top. Bake 19-20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 160 F. Remove from oven. Garnish with toppings, as desired. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. ITALIAN: Add 1/2 cup chopped mushrooms, 1/2 cup pasta sauce and 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil to base meatloaf ingredients. Bake 22-24 minutes. Top with shredded Parmesan cheese. Serve with additional pasta sauce and chopped basil, as desired. GREEK: Add 3 Tbs. chopped Kalamata olives and 1/2 tsp. dried oregano to base meatloaf ingredients. Bake 22-24 minutes. Top with crumbled feta cheese. Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Serve with prepared cucumber yogurt sauce. ASIAN: Add 1/4 cup chopped green onions and 1 tsp. minced fresh ginger to base meatloaf ingredients. Bake 22-24 minutes. Top with hoisin sauce or teriyaki glaze. Garnish with chopped peanuts, sliced green onions or chopped cilantro. SPANISH: Add 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper, 1/4 cup chopped Spanish olives and 1 tsp. smoked paprika to base meatloaf ingredients. Bake 22-24 minutes. Top with shredded manchego cheese. Garnish with sliced Spanish olives.. COURTESY B EEFI TSWHATSFOR DI NNER

ff 1/2 cup sugar

ff 1 cup light corn syrup

ff nonstick cooking spray

ff 8 cups air-popped popcorn

ff 3/4 cup raisins

Perfect Picnic Popcorn Squares ff 1/2 cup brown sugar ff 1 cup reduced-fat peanut butter

In large saucepan, combine corn syrup, sugar, brown sugar and peanut butter.

Bring to boil over low heat, stirring constantly; boil 2-3 minutes. Remove saucepan from heat.

In large bowl, combine raisins and popcorn; pour hot mixture over popcorn and toss carefully with wooden spoons until well-coated.

Spray 9-by-13-inch baking dish with cooking spray; press popcorn mixture into pan and cool completely. Cut into 12 squares and serve.

COURTESY MILKPEP

AUGUST 2018

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING