Issuu

E D I TO R’S L E T T E R

‘Daycations’ relaxing, educational and easy on pocketbook In February we couldn’t wait for spring. In May we anticipated summer vaca-

tion. In August we were ready for fall and cooler weather. I would imagine I’m one of very few who will greet the end of fall with a joyous welcome of winter in hopes of snow for a truly magical Christmas season. In the event I don’t get my wish for a blanketing of snowfall this year, the Discover Kansas listings beginning on page 14 include plenty of seasonal events throughout the state to brighten my holiday spirits. If you are looking for ways to celebrate the upcoming fall and holiday season, peruse this month’s travel section for possible weekend trips or “daycations” with the family. Trips closer to home most often are less stressful, less expensive and less time intensive when it comes to planning. And, you rarely feel the need for a vacation after this type of vacation. For those seeking to rediscover their roots or simply indulge the curious child within, consider events and destinations centered around agriculture or nature. The feature on page 10 highlights a cross section of businesses that have diversified their farming, ranching or naturerelated businesses into agritourism/agritainment destinations. Their original goal may have been

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

Lilly enjoys the attention showered upon her by owner, Cheryl Glidewell, of 2L Farms.

to supplement the family’s income or find a longterm sustainable revenue stream, but they’ve discovered benefits beyond the bottom line. I would love to publish photos of your fall Kansas travels in Kansas Country Living or post to our Facebook page, especially if they are from an event listed in this issue. Send them to photos@kansascountryliving.com. KCL

VICKI ESTES, EDITOR

(ISSN 0091-9586) SEPTEMBER 2016 VOL. 66, NO. 9 © KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2016 WWW.KEC.COOP

Bruce Graham

Chief Executive Officer

Doug Shepherd

Vice President, Management Consulting

Shana Read

Director of Communications

Vicki Estes Editor

SEPTEMBER

Carrie Kimberlin

Manager of Creative Solutions

Jackie Moore

Communications Specialist

Whitney Turek Intern

Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.

Kathleen O’Brien President

Keith McNickle Vice President

Patrick Riley Secretary

Terry Hobbs Treasurer

Cooperatives You receive Kansas C ountry Living as a communications service of these electric cooperatives: Alfalfa, Cherokee, OK Bluestem, Wamego Brown-Atchison, Horton Butler, El Dorado CMS, Meade Caney Valley, Cedar Vale DS&O, Solomon Flint Hills, Council Grove Kaw Valley, Topeka Lane-Scott, Dighton LJEC, McLouth Lyon-Coffey, Burlington Ninnescah, Pratt Pioneer, Ulysses Prairie Land, Norton Radiant, Fredonia Rolling Hills, Mankato Sedgwick County, Cheney Sumner-Cowley, Wellington Tri-County, Hooker, OK Twin Valley, Altamont Victory, Dodge City Western, WaKeeney Wheatland, Scott City Kansas Country Living (ISSN 0091-9586) is published monthly for $10 per year (tax included) by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS and additional entry offices. For members of Kansas rural electric systems, subscription cost is $5.88 per year. This cost is part of your electric service billing. Editorial offices: P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267. Phone 785-478-4554. Fax 785-478-4852.

10| That’s Agritainment Industry merges nature, farm life with tourism

“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook.

D E PA RT M E N T S

13| Co-op Kid

Lessons learned through co-op youth programs

14| Discover Kansas

Place in the Garden 20| Your Welcome garden travelers

22| Safety Dorm room reminders

Cooking My Way Home 24| Get a lift from biscuit making

26| Marketplace 29| Monthly Recipes

Postmaster Send address changes to Kansas Country Living, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267.

Kansas Country Living assumes no responsibility for unsolicited material. Submissions must be accompanied by self-addressed envelopes with sufficient postage to be returned. The publication does not guarantee publication of material received and reserves the right to edit any material published.

Talk 6| Guest Cruise Kansas Byways Your Utility Bills 8| Cut Converting, insulating spaces

A guide to fall events around Kansas

Address Changes Please report any change in address to your local electric cooperative.

Advertisers Contact National Country Market: 512-441-5200, or see www. nationalcountrymarket.com. Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives of the product or services advertised.

4| Commentary Foundation supports rural areas

SEPTEMBER 2016

ON THE COVER Jackie Moore discovers the panoramic view while zip lining at Wildwood Outdoor Adventure Park.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

C O M M E N TA RY

Foundation Established to Support Vitality of Rural Kansas BY B R U C E G R A H A M

Bruce Graham

That partnership between the electric cooperatives and the State of Kansas was recently recognized with a special proclamation by Gov. Sam Brownback.

My column in the August issue of values, commitment to community, and dedication Kansas Country Living paid tribute to the seven to serving Kansans with safe and reliable elecindividuals who chartered Kansas Electric Coop- tric service for homes and businesses,” said Gov. eratives, Inc. (KEC) on Aug. 18, 1941. Their Brownback. “It is my pleasure to recognize August vision was to pool resources in order to tackle the 18, 2016, as Kansas Electric Cooperatives Day.” many organizational and operational challenges For almost 30 years of my career, I’ve been common across a fledgling electric cooperative part of the electric cooperative family and can industry. assure you our purpose is as strong today as it ever Seventy-five years later, the KEC memberhas been. While our challenges may be different ship and others are celebrating the foresight of the than when our founders began to electrify homes leaders who created, and those who have since and farms, we share the same passion to improve constructed, an association that has grown in the quality of life and the economy of rural Kansas. purpose and influence. A video produced by our staff captures the The first electric cooperative to energize in history and accomplishments of this association Kansas was the Brown-Atchison Electric Coopera- and its members. It can be viewed at www.kec. tive Association in Horton on April 1, 1938. Since coop. that date, the electric cooperative network has And while the electric cooperatives have developed to include 29 distribution systems and much to be proud of over the past 75 years, we two additional cooperatives that provide wholesale want to look ahead as well. At a recent membergeneration and transmission services. ship meeting, I stated that we are part of someThe mission of KEC, thing special—the family I from the beginning, has been referred to earlier —that knits anchored in assuring legislatogether thousands of past tive and regulatory certainty and current employees like and enhancing communicame who have invested their tion for our members. Over careers with electric cooperathe years, KEC has expanded tives. The family is boosted by Learn more at www.kec.coop. its menu options to include the dedicated leaders, elected safety training for employees and the public, conby their fellow consumer/members, to serve on tinuing education, and consulting services such as electric cooperative Boards and related organizarate design. We also hatched an Apparatus Testing tions. And the family is crowned by the consumer/ Department that has matured from just one members of each electric co-op who we serve employee checking meters to an 11-person team every day. who overhaul an array of electric equipment for In recognition of the incredible passion utilities in several states. for the electric cooperatives in Kansas, we have The services provided by KEC enable our established the KEC Foundation to collect and member cooperatives to focus on delivering distribute donations and gifts from individuals affordable and reliable electricity, building and who desire to express appreciation to the Kansas maintaining their infrastructure, engaging in rural electric cooperative program. You can learn more development initiatives, and continuing their about the KEC Foundation at www.kec.coop. I am history of being great community partners. proud to be a Founding Partner in the KEC FounThat partnership between the electric coopdation, and my sincere hope is that many will join eratives and the State of Kansas was recently recme in building this resource to support the vitality ognized with a special proclamation by Gov. Sam of rural Kansas for generations to come. KCL Brownback. BRUCE GRAHAM is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas “I commend the membership of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. in Topeka. Electric Cooperatives for their dedication to rural

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G U E S T TA L K

Travels Along Kansas Byways A Must this Fall BY S U E S T R I N G E R

With fall approaching, make plans to enjoy the

Kansas Byways, those rural drives off the beaten path. Take a day or a weekend and stay overnight in Sue Stringer one of the many historic hotels or bed-and-breakfasts located along a byway. For fall foliage enjoyment, the Glacial Hills Scenic Byway in Leavenworth, Atchison and Doniphan counties has rolling hills blanketed with trees. From the White Cloud overlook, you can see the winding Missouri River and portions of Missouri, Nebraska and Iowa. Drive the “Mother Road” on Kansas Historic Route 66 Byway through Baxter Springs, Riverton and Galena. Tour museums and visit Tow Tater, the inspiration for Tow Mater in the movie, “Cars.” Be sure to stop by the Southeast Kansas Nature Center in Schermerhorn Park. The Frontier Military Historic Byway travels between Fort Blair, Fort Scott and Fort Leavenworth. Stops include Marais Des

Cygne Wildlife Area, Somerset Wine Trail, Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop, Kaw Point and the Leavenworth Riverwalk. The Western Vistas Historic Byway includes museums filled with locally excavated fossils, Native American and Wild West history and artifacts, Monument Rocks, a Buffalo Bill sculpture and Lake Scott. As the Native Stone Scenic Byway winds through communities in Shawnee, Wabaunsee, Riley and Geary counties, you will find stacked stone fences and limestone structures, utilizing the bounty of stone available. Linger a bit in Cassoday, Matfield Green, Cottonwood Falls, Strong City and Council Grove along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway. Both Flint Hills byways are great motorcycle routes! Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway between Medicine Lodge and Coldwater is an unexpected drive through red hills, buttes and canyons. Enjoy a rodeo, overnight at a local ranch or horseback a trail through the hills. Fall is a perfect time to travel the Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway. Watch millions of birds migrate through Cheyenne Bottoms and Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in Barton and Stafford Counties, a top

birding destination in the United States. Follow the stone post fences of the Post Rock Scenic Byway to Wilson Lake, minutes north of I-70. Lucas, the Grass Roots Capital of Kansas, boasts the Garden of Eden and Bowl Plaza. In Wilson, find the World’s Largest Czech Egg, dine locally and spend the night in the historic Midland Railroad Hotel. The Christmas City of the High Plains, WaKeeney, is the anchor of the Smoky Valley Scenic Byway. The huge vistas have a hazy look, hence the name. Cedar Bluffs Reservoir, with steep cliffs and caverns offered refuge for wagon trains from the dangers of that era. McPherson and Ellsworth counties host the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway that includes Kanopolis and Mushroom State parks, Maxwell Wildlife Refuge with bison and elk herds, the Marquette Motorcycle Museum, Lindsborg, Coronado Heights and Ellsworth. The Land and Sky Scenic Byway, which highlights the importance of Kansas agriculture, begins in Sharon Springs, goes north through Goodland and beyond. While traversing the byway, plan stops at Mt. Sunflower and community historical museums. St. Francis has a motorcycle museum and is the gateway to the wild ruggedness of the Arikaree Breaks. For information to help plan your trip along the Kansas Byways, visit KSByways.com, or follow Kansas Byways on Facebook. KCL is manager of Kansas Byways and Agritourism for the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism.

SUE STRINGER

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

Twelve Kansas byways offer beautiful drives and activities for all ages.

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C U T YO U R U T I L I T Y B I L L S

Converting & Insulating Spaces into Efficient Living Areas Dear Jim: We need more living space. I plan to convert our attached garage into a bedroom and build a carport. What is the most efficient way to insulate the masonry garage walls and convert it?—Monica H.

The pressed fiberglass wall panels are installed between the mounting tracks. Fabriccovered retaining strips are barely noticeable when installed. CHAMPION

Dear Monica: Converting an existing space in your house into living space is far less expensive per square foot than constructing a room addition. Since you are not starting from scratch, it takes more planning to make it energy efficient and comfortable for all types of weather. Whether you are converting a garage or a basement, which also is a common project, the wall insulation techniques are similar. Since the underground temperature stays more constant than the outdoor air temperature, you may need less insulation thickness for a basement-to-bedroom conversion. The major difference when insulating is the flow of water vapor through the insulation. In all but the most humid climates, vapor flows from indoors to outdoors for above-ground walls and from outdoors to indoors for a basement. This impacts which side of the insulation should have the vapor barrier. The vapor barrier should be toward the more humid side to keep it from absorbing moisture. Before you begin your project, get quotes from a few contractors about making the conversion for you. Many companies have predesigned insulated wall and ceiling systems specifically made for this purpose. This option may not cost as much as you might think when compared to

buying all the materials individually. Plan to add a window or replace an existing garage window. Installing a block window will work best for privacy and security. In order to get ventilation, Hy-Lite makes replacement windows with two-inch thick wavy plastic blocks. These look identical to privacy glass blocks, but are lighter, simple to install and block the UV (ultraviolet) WHERE TO SHOP fading rays. The casement The following companies offer insulation materials, wall systems and block windows: design cranks out easily to � Certainteed, 800-782-8777, www.certainteed.com catch even slight breezes � Champion, 877-424-2674, www.acousticwallsolutions.com for natural ventilation. � Dow Chemical, 800-441-4369, www.dow.com Conversion systems � Hy-Lite Block Windows, 888-256-2599, www.hy-lite.com � Owens Corning, 800-438-7465, www.owenscorning.com

Continued on page 28 

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

Shown smaller than actual impressive size of approx. 14.5” W x 6” D x 5.5” H.

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The First Ever FARMALL AUTUMN’S BOUNTY MASTERPIECE inspired by the tractor America’s farmers relied on ... Farmall. Red Power!

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Above: Gessica and Ryan Tastove enjoy Renyer’s Pumpkin Farm on their wedding day. Center: Guests of the Moore Ranch experience a day in the life of working cowboys and cowgirls. Below: The Volland Store hosted the 2015 Cowboy Poetry contest, one of the many unique events scheduled.

In 1998, Nancy and Joe Moore sold their farm machinery, quit farming and returned to fulltime ranching. Where crop land once grew, 300 Texas Longhorn cattle now graze. The Moore’s decision came after Nancy says the family experienced “an awakening,” a realization that farming was taking its toll on them, their finances and their land. “It was not a sad day at our farm sale,” Nancy said. “It ranks right up there with my wedding day.” An inventory of their remaining assets led to the decision that their land and cattle—and their lifestyle—were marketable assets. The Moore’s story is similar to other Kansas businesses that have turned to nature-based or agriculture-based tourism to diversify and add income to their operations while providing visitors with unique and educational experiences tailored to all ages, budgets and schedules. To complement this September travel issue, we’ve highlighted a few of the unique agritourism businesses offering Kansas travelers one-of-akind adventures.

A REAL CATTLE RANCH EXPERIENCE Moore Ranch, Bucklin

620-826-3649, WWW.MOORELONGHORNRANCH.COM

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

W R E N N PA C H E C O

The Moore Ranch is not a dude ranch but rather a working ranch, where folks experience a day in the life of working cowboys and cowgirls. Guests can participate at any level they choose from moving cattle on horseback, fixing fences and monitoring wildlife, to helping brand, vaccinate and rope a calf. This year, about 70 percent of the ranch guests have been international visitors. “They have all done Disney

TAINMENT! World and Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon, but they are interested in seeing the real culture of the heart of the U.S.,” Nancy said. Previously not able to envision a future for their family in agriculture, the Moore’s have discovered a way to get paid for what they love to do. “With a new outlook, I now see that we do have hopes of not only sustaining our business and ranch but also making it healthy enough to pass down to the next generation,” Nancy said.

dering around the farm acquainting themselves with the resident goats, Lilly the potbellied pig, and walking among the property’s pear trees and landmarks. Guests complete the entrée just before sunset and conclude the evening with dessert by candlelight. Cheryl says a lot of her guests grew up in metropolitan areas, and like her, “They’re tired of the ‘rush, rush, rush’ of life.”

STORE TURNED ART GALLERY, EVENT SPACE

FARM TO TABLE DINNERS, The Volland Store, Alma PRIVATE EVENTS 620-271-2953, WWW.THEVOLLANDSTORE.COM 2L Farms, Leavenworth

816-210-8021, WWW.2LFARMS.COM

Cheryl Glidewell says when her house in the city had become more about the perfectly placed pictures on the wall rather than real life itself, it was time for a change. When her daughters graduated high school, she and her husband, Tom, returned to her farming roots. A year after settling south of Leavenworth on a 51-acre farm, Cheryl first opened their home and property for hayrack rides and bonfire fun. 2L Farms now hosts four-course dinners from June through September, as well as private parties, where guests dine at the source. Menus are prepared using locally grown, harvested and produced ingredients including grassfed Limousin cattle the Glidewells raise on the farm. Dinners last about three hours and start at varying times to take advantage of the sunset view. The evening begins with guests mean-

Long an empty shell of its former life, The Volland Store now hosts an eclectic mix of events that incorporate the surrounding majestic ranching landscape. In 2013, Jerry and Patty Reece purchased the building that formerly housed Kratzer Brothers Mercantile in the early 1900s but sat vacant for more than 30 years. The Reece’s renovated the property returning it to its original role as the center of community life along Mill Creek Valley. It now serves as a gallery, event space and headquarters for area tours and special events. Overnight accommodations overlook the gallery below and offer a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. Patty said it wasn’t difficult to imagine an art gallery in the space; “The variety of art exhibits and visiting artists introduce interesting ideas and personalities to the rural community and serve as the basis for educational programs and conversations for both rural and urban audiences.”

The Volland Store attracts those who seek the diverse activities offered throughout the year including underground cellar tours, wildflower tours and creek walks, guest chef dinners and art workshops. “We have found that our patrons appreciate the merging of urban and rural, between the setting of the store and the exhibits inside,” Patty said.

FARM ADVENTURES, SCHOOL TOURS & EVENTS Renyer’s Pumpkin Farm 5 miles north of Wetmore

785-866-5712, WWW.RENYERSPUMPKINFARM.COM

Doug Renyer grew up on a dairy farm, and his wife, Brenda, who learned crafting from her mom, always wanted a home-based business. Their first fall open house on their Wetmore farm was designed to showcase Brenda’s handmade crafts and help supplement the family’s income. It since has blossomed into a destination for families, schools, wedding parties and those seeking a quiet country setting to hold a special event. Although they offer the traditional trimmings of fall fun on the farm and the chance to pluck your own pumpkin right from the vine, the Renyer’s keep their farm adventures “fresh” always adding new activities for families to experience. An enormous outdoor jumping pillow, a human foosball game, family dodgeball, pumpkin slingshot, corn canon and an adult trike race are a few of the activities scattered among the 75-acre working farm in southeast Nemaha County. Satisfaction for the Renyers comes SEPTEMBER 2016

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

in knowing their hard work results in families spending the day enjoying their farm. “We received a wonderful note from a family that had experienced a family tragedy,” Doug said. “They shared with us that their visit here was the first time they had laughed together in a long time.”

lies. One particular family has trekked there every year, with new family members in tow as the clan expands from year to year. “From great-grandmother to new babies, and all ages in between,” Celia said. “Last year there were over 30 family members having a great time.”

CHRISTMAS EXPERIENCE

Pine Lake Christmas Tree Farm, Derby

Wildwood Outdoor Adventure Park Manhattan

316-258-0088, WWW.PINELAKECHRISTMASTREES.COM

785-477-9543, WWW.WILDWOODOUTDOORADVENTUREPARK.COM

The love of Colorado and New Mexico pine forests inspired Glen and Celia Goering to plant their own pines on country acreage too small for traditional Kansas crops. Within a few years, 7,500 pine trees filled the available acreage, and families in search of a Christmas tree found much more than the perfect conifer on which to hang tinsel. The farm’s setting among rolling hills and naturally wooded areas provides a holiday experience of yesteryear. After choosing the “perfect” Christmas tree, guests can embark on a hayrack ride, anticipate a visit from Santa or simply gather around the wood burning stove sipping hot chocolate and basking in the warmth of family. Three generations of the Goering family help deliver the holiday experience for visitors to the farm. “Our adult children, their spouses and our grandchildren come from three states for Thanksgiving, and many of us work together on the Christmas tree farm the following day,” Celia said. “We then gather to recap the day and reminisce over dinner.” Visiting the farm during the holiday season has become a tradition for many area fami-

ZIP LINE, NATURE EXPERIENCES Plans to build houses on the property Dan and Steve Springer purchased north of the Konza Prairie came to a halt when they discovered they would be required to remove many majestic trees gracing the 80 acres, something they simply didn’t want to do. A subsequent family zip lining adventure sparked an idea, resulting in the Springers building a zip line course instead of homes on the property. The Springers designed the course to start out “low and slow” and gradually increase in height, helping to build the rider’s confidence with each of the seven zip lines on the course. Zip line No. 6—the highest, fastest and longest zip line on the course—offers a view of 18 water towers from above the tree canopy while reaching speeds of 50 mph. “The course is designed to bring you out of your comfort zone a little bit at a time,” Steve said, emphasizing they practice “zip by choice” and never persuade guests if they are uncomfortable. “This gives kids a chance to come out of their comfort zone and realize they can do more than they think they can.” Zip lining, the Springers say, is an activity that three generations can truly enjoy together. “It’s great to see kids and grandparents doing this. It really is a pretty magical thing,” Steve said. “It’s truly been a blessing, where we’re helping people and encouraging them. That’s what we are about—getting families out in nature together and helping people overcome their fear so they feel good about themselves. That’s very rewarding.” KCL

Below Right: Farm to table dinners at 2L Farms are planned around the timing of the sunset.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

MIKE VEREL

Above: Certified guides assist zip line riders and share historical information about the property.

I am a

Co-op Kid BY W H I T N E Y T U R E K

As I enter into my senior year at Oklahoma State

University and my summer internship with Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., (KEC) comes to an end, I’m reflecting on the person I have become. During my exit interview, I was asked the most valuable lesson this internship taught me. While you would think my answer would be “design skills” or “increased experience in writing,” the first thing that came to mind was rediscovering my passion for co-ops and my career choice of communications. You see, I never really knew what it meant to be a “co-op kid,” or even what a co-op was for that matter, until Coni Adams from Sumner-Cowley Electric Cooperative encouraged me to apply for the Washington, D.C., Youth Tour in 2012. When I won the trip, I really became interested in this thing called a “cooperative” and why they were willing to send a small-town Kansas girl on an all-expense-paid trip to the nation’s capital. Fast forward four years to my last day at KEC and I finally understand. My former, red hair and straight-across bangs self finally got the answer as to why months of hard work made the youth programs so worth sponsoring as I witnessed the growth and inspiration of each delegate on the trip—the same inspiration I felt in myself, only now as the outsider looking in. That trip gave them a spark of desire for success. I finally got the meaning of a co-op as I learned professional skills from a staff who took the time to teach me vital communications skills. The understanding of why Coni put so much dedication into encouraging me to apply for this position finally dawned on me. Electric co-ops are not just businesses that provide rural communities with electricity, they are a family. Co-ops care about their members’ needs and educating youth about more than just who they are. Kansas co-ops see the big picture and have the desire

to inspire our future generations. Scholarships, youth programs, communication, and interactive meetings are only the surface of how cooperatives show the dedication they have for their members. As a co-op kid, Youth Tour alumna and now KEC intern, I have been encouraged by my co-op family. Coni pushed me to apply for Youth Tour and KEC’s internship, my co-workers pushed me to go outside my comfort zone, From top: and the Board members Whitney Turek takes a selfie with pushed me to challenge the 2016 youth tour delegates. Rep. myself every day. Mike Pompeo poses with youth tour delegates Rose Dollarhide and Turek in Co-ops have helped 2012. Turek partakes in a photo shoot confirm my decision to during her KEC Internship. pursue a career in communications and set a standard of hard-work and dedication. Nobody can say co-ops do not uphold their promise of commitment to community or that a rural kid cannot use her agriculture background as an upper hand rather than a detriment. My 17-year-old delegate self may have been proud for winning the Youth Tour trip in 2012, but my 21-year-old intern self is proud of the co-op community and the values they represent. Although this chapter in my life has come to an end, I look forward to seeing where my future takes me and the ways this small town girl can put a co-op background to use. After all, I am a co-op kid. KCL

Cooperatives show commitment to youth through leadership programs For more than 50 years, Kansas electric co-ops have invested in the development of youth through two programs—the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., and the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs, Colo. Youth Tour allows students to explore

our nation’s capital, learn about the effect of legislation on electric cooperatives and how the collective co-op voice can impact the legislative process. At CYLC, the students learn about the cooperative business model and create and run a candy co-op. From paying dues to han-

dling co-op business, the youth learn what it means to be part of the co-op community. This summer, Kansas co-ops sponsored 72 high school students on these educational trips. Through their sponsorships, co-ops help youth discover new opportunities and help them reach their potential. KCL

SEPTEMBER 2016

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Discover Kansas

Glacial Hills Scenic Byway

T R AV E L K A N S A S

YOUR GUIDE TO FALL 2016

THROUGH SEPT. 11 A mazing Dinosaurs, Manhattan. T ouch dinosaur teeth. Feel dinosaur bones. 315 S 3rd, 785-587-2726, www.flinthillsdiscovery.org. THROUGH SEPT. 18 “ Gems of the Muchnic,” Atchison. Muchnic Art Gallery, 704 N. 4th St., 913-3674278, http://atchison-art.org. THROUGH SEPT. 24 W alnut Valley Farmer’s Market,

Winfield. Open Saturday mornings, June-Sept. Island Park, 300 Main St., 620-221-4507, http://wvfmarket.com.

THROUGH SEPT. 24 I t’s Political. Politics In

Southeast Kansas, Franklin. Examine artifacts and draw conclusions regarding the interplay of politics and S.E. Kansas. 701 S. Broadway, 620-347-4220, www. minershallmuseum.com.

OCT. 3-MID-NOV. A rt Exhibit, Ellsworth. The Ellsworth Area Art Center will host a variety of art by Virginia Holecek of Ellsworth. 223 N. Douglas, 785-472-5658. THROUGH OCT. 1 S team Engine Running, Abilene.

A ll trips are narrated and last approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad, 200 S.E. Fifth St., 785-263-1077, www.asvrr.org.

THROUGH OCT. 6 F armers Market, Garnett. Held

each Thursday from 4:30 to 7 p.m. Enjoy special “Chef Challenge” market events. Downtown, 100 E 4th Ave., 785-448-5496, www.experiencegarnettks.com.

THROUGH OCT. 8 H istoric Home and Barn Tour,

Abilene. R ide the regular excursion train to Enterprise then transfer to an air conditioned bus for tours and a picnic lunch; return to Abilene by bus. 200 SE 5th, 785263-1077, www.asvrr.org.

THROUGH OCT. 9 Q uilt National: Collection

B, Montezuma. A biennial juried competition and exhibit of quilts from all over the world and Kansas. 111 N. Aztec St., 620-846-2527, http:// stauthmemorialmuseum.org.

THROUGH OCT. 29 F armers Market, Pittsburg.

pen Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. until noon, O rain or shine. 114 E. 11th St., 417-437-3564, www. pittsburgfarmersmarket.org.

THROUGH OCT. 29 R eno County Farmers Market,

Hutchinson. O pen 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays. Farmer’s Market Pavilion, Corner of 2nd & Washington, 620-6949100, www.renocountyfarmersmarket.com.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

THROUGH OCT. 29 F armers Market, Leavenworth.

pen every Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon. Haymarket O Square, 7th & Cherokee St., 913-773-0157, www. leavenworthfarmersmarket.com.

THROUGH OCT. 29 F armers Market, Atchison.

Open 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays; 2:30-5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays. 5th & Main St., 913-709-5050, http:// atchisonfarmersmarket.com.

THROUGH OCT. 30 T able to Farm Dinners,

Leavenworth. C hef Robyn Sumner, with Missie Darnley of First Taste Café, hosts dinners at Lamborn Farm the last Sunday of every month. 25761 151st St., 913-744-5138, www.firsttasteoliveoil.com.

SEPT. 4-26 S undays at the Site, Emporia. These free events start at 2 p.m. and include The Unstoppable Pandemic of 1918 - Spanish Influenza, Lyon County Latino Heritage, Prince Hall Masonic Lodge History, and Poetry on the Porch X read by local poets. Red Rocks State Historic Site, 927 Exchange St., 800-279-3730. SEPT. 8-10 F all Retail Open House, Atchison. A tchison businesses roll out the red carpet with plenty of deals, contests, prizes and everything you need to get ready for fall and winter. Commercial Street Mall, 800-234-1854, http://VisitAtchison.com. SEPT. 9-10 K an-Okla 100-Mile Sale, Kansas & Oklahoma. D rive southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma for great deals with hundreds of yards sales, city-wide sales and flea markets. Visit kanoklahighwaysale.com. SEPT. 9-10 G reeley Smokeoff, Greeley. This is a barbecue competition, and bragging rights are a badge of honor. Grab a plate, make a donation and dig in. Musical entertainment plus kids games, vendors and coed softball tournament. Greeley City Park, 100 W. Brown St., 785-448-4304, www.greeleysmokeoff.com. SEPT. 9-11 P ower of the Past Antique Engine and Tractor Show, Ottawa E xperience the good old days with demonstrations of threshing, rock crushing, horse drawn feed grinding; auction and straw for sale. 785-241-0834, www.powerofthepast.net. SEPT. 9-15 S ymbols of Sacrifice, Fort Scott.

early 7,000 U.S. flags fly on the Fort Scott National N Historic Site Parade Ground honoring service men and women lost in theater in Iraq and Afghanistan. Old Fort Blvd., 620-223-0310, www.nps.gov/fosc.

SEPTEMBER 2016

SEPT. 9-18 K ansas State Fair, Hutchinson. A

showcase of Kansas agriculture, industry and commerce, with a wide variety of entertainment and exhibits. Kansas State Fairgrounds, 2000 N. Poplar, 620-6693600, www.kansasstatefair.com.

SEPT. 10- H eritage Festival, Hope. This year’s theme is “Hope, Hope, Hooray” and will include a variety of events from a car show and pinup contest, valve cover races, hog and turkey roast, craft show, games and more. 785-366-7225, www.hopehf.com SEPT. 10 A merican Bass Anglers, El Dorado. This

is a draw style tournament. If you don’t have a boat, you will be paired with a boater. Bluestem Point Ramp #1, 618 NE Bluestem Rd., 316-214-8968, www.kdwpt.state. ks.us/news/State-Parks/Locations/El-Dorado.

SEPT. 10 F all Apple Day Festival, Fort Riley. istorical re-enactors and the Commanding General’s H Mounted Color Guard provide a look into the past. Buy one of the famous handmade apple pies made from Libby Custer’s own recipe, wife of General George Custer. Fort Riley, 785-239-4983, riley.armymwr.com. SEPT. 10 P erry Fall Festival and Route 24 Car & Bike Show, Perry. S pend a day at our festival’s car show. Enjoy a variety of events from a garden tractor pull, food and craft vendors, bounce house, and train and pony rides. Downtown, 785-218-7328, perrypride-exec@perrykansas.us, www.perrypride.org. SEPT. 10 P rairie Wildflower Day, Strong City. E njoy exhibits, wildflower plant hikes, education programs, prairie bus tours, and yarn dyeing demos using plants. Activities run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. 2480 B Kansas Hwy 177, 620-273-6034, www.nps.gov/tapr. SEPT. 10 S unflower Piecemakers Quilt Show, Ottawa. M ore than 200 quilts will be on display from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a live auction of miniature quilts at 3:30 p.m. There will be a drawing for a queensized appliquéd and paper-pieced quilt. 785-566-8811, pgsteacher48@gmail.com. SEPT. 10 V intage on the Bricks, Ellis. Awesome day of vintage finds, deals and steals from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. in downtown. 785-726-2660. SEPT. 11 K iwanis Fall Flea Market, Atchison. Three

blocks of merchandise for sale or trade. It’s the perfect time to hunt for fantastic finds. 5th & Main Streets, 913-367-5222.

Sept. 24 SEPT. 11 T he Harlem Ambassadors, Scott City.

T he Harlem Ambassadors play against a team of local celebrities in a comedic basketball game. An affordable event for families. Scott Community High School, 712 Main St., 620-872-3525, www.scottcityks.org/chamberof-commerce/chamber-events.

SEPT. 11-OCT. 16 S usan White: Landscape/

Skyscape-Meditations in Thorn Works and Burn Drawings, Alma. W orking with thorns from the honey locust tree, artist Susan White creates wall installations and sculptures. She also creates pyrographs, drawings made with the use of a burning tool. 24098 Volland Rd. 620-271-2953. http://thevollandstore.com. SEPT. 14- S hawnee Swingers Square-Dance Club, Topeka. Learn to square dance. Mention this listing and your first session is free. Fall session is 15-20 weeks on Wednesdays 7 to 9 p.m. Croco Square, Tecumseh, 6115 SE 40 Hwy, 785-286-0105, topekasquares.com/shawnee-swingers1. SEPT. 15-16 P urple Power Play, Manhattan. C ommunity-wide kick off football season and spike fans into volleyball with dancing, music, parade, fireworks and family entertainment. 1101 Fremont St., 785-7768829, www.purplepowerplay.com. SEPT. 17 G alesburg Days Celebration,

SEPT. 17 A rt in the Park and Craft Show, Marion. Annual event in shady, relaxed park atmosphere. Central Park, 501 E. Main, 620-382-3425, www.marionks.com. SEPT. 17 C ity-Wide Fall Garage Sale, Lincoln.

Visit the city of Lincoln for garage sales. 785-524-4934.

SEPT. 17 L ower Fox Creek School Box Lunch

Program, Strong City. Learn about one-room school pie suppers and box socials. Bring a picnic lunch to be auctioned. Program at 11:30 a.m. at the school with wagon rides. Lunch items should be non-perishable items—no eggs, mayonnaise, or meringue. 2480 B Kansas Hwy 177, 620-273-6034, www.nps.gov/tapr. SEPT. 17 R ide for the Dogs, Newton. A poker run and party that begins at 8:30 a.m. and includes lunch, prizes and a raffle for an original painting by Micky Maddux and a Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag shotgun. Caring Hands Humane Society, 1400 S.E. Third St., 316-283-0839, http://rideforthedogs.org. SEPT. 17 V eight and V-Twin Rod and Custom

Car Motorcycle and Bike Show, Lincoln. Registration at 8 a.m., awards at 4:30 p.m. Plaque awards to top 40 entrants Participant voting, 50/50 Jackpot, Go and Woe Contest. Lincoln City Park, 785-826-7566.

Galesburg. Horseshoe pitch tournaments, corn hole tournament, silent auction, car show, kids games, parade, hog roast, street dance and fireworks. 620-8203821, Galesburg Days Facebook page.

SEPT. 17 V intage & Experimental Aircraft Fly-In, Atchison. Enjoy a showcase of vintage and experimental aircrafts. Amelia Earhart Airport, 16701 286th Rd., 314-616-6412, http://VisitAtchison.com.

SEPT. 17 A rt Gone Wild, Salina. Artists are invited to capture the diverse beauty found at the zoo. Rolling Hills Zoo, 625 N. Hedville Rd., 785-827-9488, www. rollinghillszoo.org.

SEPT. 17-18 C atfish Tournament, Scott City.

C ompete in a catfish tournament at Lake Scott. Registration takes place at the Beach House. Scott State Park, 101 West Scott Lake Dr., 620-872-3525, http:// kdwpt.state.ks.us/news/State-Parks/Locations/Scott.

FUNDRAISERS SEPT. 9-10 O utdoor Appreciation and Conservation Days, Emporia. Conservation groups (Ducks Unlimited, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation), the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and Tourism will be on hand and the Kansas Bowhunters will have an archery air rifle ranges. Shooting areas manned by hunter education instructors. Bluestem Farm and Ranch Supply, 620-342-5502. SEPT. 10 B everly-Westfall Firefighters Antique Tractor Pull, Beverly. For pre1960 era tractors in stock condition. Weigh from 2-3 p.m.; tractor pull; hamburgers and hotdogs. Proceeds benefit the Beverly-Westfall Fire Dept. South end of town at Crop Service Center; 785488-6770 or 785-658-7923. SEPT. 10 R hino Rumble Poker Run, Salina. B egin your day with breakfast and poker card pick up. Then its kickstands up for a beautiful ride through central Kansas, enjoying stops with tons of fun at each. Return to the zoo by 2 p.m., finish your poker hand and see if you’re a big winner. Rolling Hills Zoo, 625 N. Hedville Rd., 785-827-9488, www.rollinghillszoo.org. SEPT. 16 R ABC Pink Out Color Walk, Topeka. A n optional dousing with bright pink powder paint adds to the fun of raising money to provide no-cost mammograms. 785-271-1500, rabctopeka.org/5K-event. SEPT. 17 R ABC 5k Run/Walk, Topeka. C ompetitive runners and casual walkers alike will enjoy this USA Track & Field Association certified course. Proceeds help provide no-cost mammograms. 785-271-1500, rabctopeka.org/5Kevent. SEPT. 18 G CHS Fall Fair and Ice Cream Social, Junction City. Geary County Historical Society brings you entertainment, vendors, pie sales and more from 3 to 6 p.m. at the Geary County Historical Museum. 785-238-1666, gchsweb.org. SEPT. 24 P ASTA 58 Benefit Ride, Junction City. A fun and challenging 58-mile ride. A pasta meal provided followed by a raffle. Tandems welcome; helmets highly recommended. Depart at 8:10 a.m. from 12th Street Community Center. 785238-7529, bikereg.com. OCT. 1 F all Soup Dinner, Junction City. The

little country church, St. Paul’s Lutheran, hosts this fundraiser from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. that offers soups, bake sale and a craft sale. 9719 Clarks Creek Rd., 785-482-3213.

NOV. 5 B loomfield Chili & Vegetable Soup

Supper & Bazaar, Meriden. Food, shopping and don’t forget a piece of homemade pie, and quilt raffle. Raffle proceeds go toward restoration of the Bloomfield Church. 8275 K-4 Hwy, 785-484-3713, http://meridenthreshers.org.

SEPTEMBER 2016

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

G E A RY CO U N T Y C V B

Pasta 58 Benefit Ride in Junction City

SEPT. 18 K ansas Bass Nation, El Dorado. Black Bass Tournament Shady Creek Marina, 618 NE Bluestem Rd., 620-433-0121, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us/news/StateParks/Locations/El-Dorado. SEPT. 18 K onquer the Konza, Manhattan.

demonstrations of antique farm equipment and domestic methods. Highlighted tractor is the Minneapolis Moline. Rollin “Red” Vandever Memorial Park. 10392 Jade Rd. near intersection of Hwy 400 and Hwy 47, 620-378-3307, www.oldironclub.org.

C ompete in the race at the beautiful Konza Prairie. Race participants capped at first 300 registrants (25K, 150; 10K, 150). Konza Prairie hiking trails, 100 Konza Prairie Lane, 785-320-6363, http://manhattanrunningco.com/ konquer-the-konza-25k-2.

SEPT. 23-24 K ansas Championship Ranch Rodeo,

SEPT. 20 G rant County Home Products Dinner, Ulysses. Attend one of the original farm-to-table events at the Grant County Civic Center. Purchase commemorative buttons at the door. Mark Mayfield is the featured entertainment. festivalnet.com/state/ kansas/Ulysses_KS.html.

SEPT. 23-25 B ikes & Bricks Motorcycle Show,

SEPT. 22 T aste of Atchison, Atchison. Area cuisine,

Street transforms into an eight-block festival with food, product and service booths. Downtown, Main St., 785890-5336, www.flatlanderfestival.com.

items from our shops, and a photo contest. Commercial Street Mall, 800-234-1854, http://VisitAtchison.com. SEPT. 22-24 F ree Fair, Kincaid. Small hometown fun, parade and carnival make this a must-see experience. Then there’s the small town stuff, like the turtle races, cash grab and buffalo chip toss. Kincaid City Park and Commercial St., 100 N. Commercial St., 785-204-1545, www.kincaidfair.com. SEPT. 22-24 R endezvous 2016, Larned. Sponsored

by the Santa Fe Trail Association, Fort Larned National Historic Site and the Santa Fe Trail Center Museum. The program begins Thursday evening and runs through Saturday at different locations around Larned. 1349 K-156 Hwy., 620-285-2054, www.santafetrailcenter.org.

SEPT. 22. 25 W ilson County Old Iron Days

Show, Fredonia. M ore than 30 working

Medicine Lodge. Events include ranch bronc riding, stray gathering, team penning, wild cow milking and branding. Medicine Lodge Pageant Arena, 103 E. Washington, 620-886-5293, www.peacetreaty.org.

Goodland. Party on the prairie with a unique familyoriented motorcycle show that includes 20 classes of motorcycles. Downtown, Main St., 785-899-5454, www. bikesandbricks.com.

SEPT. 23-25 F latlander Festival, Goodland. Main

SEPT. 23-25 F all Festival, Conway Springs. T ropical Days is the theme. Enjoy a free barbecue, fireworks, carnival and parade. 620-456-2345, www. conwayspringsks.com, cscity@havilandtelco.com. SEPT. 23-25 P eace Treaty Indian Summer Days,

Medicine Lodge. Bring your family to experience several signature Peace Treaty events and Pow Wow. 620-886-9815, peacetreaty.org, facebook.com/pages Medicine-Lodge-Peace-Treaty-Association. SEPT. 24 C ar Show, Clay Center. See cars, trucks,

and motorcycles in a variety of classes, stock, and modifications. Registration is 7:30 to 10 a.m. Dexter Park, 6th and Grant Streets, 785-313-6471.

SEPT. 24 F all Festival, Concordia. Concordia Fall Fest in downtown Concordia and MusicFest at Concordia’s new Broadway Plaza. Downtown, Broadway Plaza, 785-243-4290, concordiakansaschamber.com. SEPT. 24 O ld Settler’s Day, Marion. Parade at 11 a.m., followed by food and games. Central Park, 501 E Main Central Park, 620-382-2106, www.marionks.com. SEPT. 24 O utdoors Kansas for Kids Day, El Dorado. Event includes trap shooting, archery, building a bird house, EMS demonstrations and fishing derby. 618 NE Bluestem Rd., 316-321-7180, www.kdwpt.state.ks.us/ news/State-Parks/Locations/El-Dorado. SEPT. 24 R ace the Chase, Strong City. A race through the Tallgrass National Preserve in Chase County offering an endurance running experience like no other. 2480 B Kansas Hwy 177, 620-273-6034, www.runreg.com. SEPT. 24 V esper Vintage, Vesper. A juried event offering items in the categories of repurposed, vintage, rescued, rustic, primitive, antique, salvaged, junque, recycled or handmade items from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Vesper Community Center, 1247 N. 120th Rd., Facebook/vesper vintage, 785-822-7512. SEPT. 24 W himmydidle Arts & Craft Fair, Scott City. More than 200 U.S. exhibitors of original art, metal working, pottery and crafts in wood, fabric, jewelry, silk and dried flowers. City Park, 12th & Main St., 620-214-3295, http://whimmydiddle.org. SEPT. 24-25 F all Festival and Swap Meet,

Meriden. Experience sorghum, apple butter and cider making, sawmilling, flea market, stock garden tractor pull. Live music Saturday night. 8275 K-4 Hwy, 785-6339706, www.meridenthreshers.org. Continued on page 17 

YOUNIQUE

“A North American Agri-Business Tradition”

t trac Con ODAY! T e c Spa

You think? Zoo & Water Park Public Art & Museums Art Center & Cinema Theatre & Festivals

Irrigation

Implements

Industry

October 13, 14, 15, 2016 Thursday - Saturday DODGE CITY, KANSAS

Western State Bank Expo ~ 11333 U.S. Hwy. 283

Free Admission Free Parking Cattle Handling ~ Farm Machinery & Equipment Congressional Forums ~ Consumer Products Dixie Chopper Race Track ~ Health Programs High School Ag Career Day Trucks & Truck Equipment ~ Vintage Saturday and MUCH MORE! Sponsored by:

Western Kansas Manufacturers Association

1700 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd. PO Box 1382 Dodge City, KS 67801

877. 425. 4625

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

620-227-8082 877-405-2883 info@3iShow.com www.3iShow.com

Oct. 8

Continued from page 16  SEPT. 24-25 F estival of Cultures, McPherson.

OCT. 1 O ZtoberFest, Wamego. Activities include OZ costume contest, car show, Munchkinland, OZ Market, beer garden, entertainment, food, and children’s activities. 430 Lincoln Ave., 785-456-7849, www. OZtoberFest.com.

SEPT. 27-OCT. 2 5 -Star AntiqueFest, Abilene. Event

OCT. 1 P ioneer Bluffs Fall Festival and Hog Roast, Matfield Green. Car show, arts and crafts fair, historic demonstrations, games, live music, and a hog roast. Pioneer Bluffs, 695 Kansas Hwy 177, 620-7533484, www.pioneerbluffs.org.

SEPT. 29-OCT. 2 G reater Andover Days, Andover.

OCT. 2 T he Willis Clan, Dodge City. They have performed at the Grand Ole Opry, Silver Dollar City, America’s Got Talent and had a series on TLC. See them at 7 p.m. at the Dodge City Civic Center. 2110 1st Ave., 620-225-4404, www.dodgecityconcerts.com.

E vent celebrates the diverse ethnic heritage of McPherson with live music, demonstrations, market booths and food vendors. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 620755-3408, www.macfestival.org. takes place inside of the nine air-conditioned and vastly stocked antique stores as well as the several specialty and gift shops. 201 N.W. Second, 785-263-2231, www. abilenekansas.org.

Festival includes a food court, carnival, KidFest, parade, fun run, fishing clinic, craft and business expo, ice cream social, fireworks show and live local entertainment. Andover Central Park, 1607 E. Central Ave., 316-733-1303, http://andoverks.com.

SEPT. 30-OCT. 2 R od Run, Hutchinson. Admire 400 beautiful classic and antique cars and trucks. Main St., 620-665-5591, http://downtownhutchrodrun.com. SEPT. 30 A uthors on the Porch, Emporia. B eginning at 5 p.m., 2016 William Allen White Children’s Book Award-winning authors will meet and visit with fans. Red Rocks State Historic Site, 927 Exchange St., 800-279-3730.

OCTOBER

OCT. 1 A rt in the Park, Winfield. A juried fine

arts and crafts show with booths of artwork, plus live entertainment, food vendors, and kids’ activities. 300 Main St., 620-221-2161, http://winfieldarts.org.

OCT. 1 F all Ride, Centerville. Explore the beautiful

prairie, native timber and rocky creek carved buffs of Eastern Kansas by horseback. Unplug and relax around the campfire with live music. Big Sugar Ranch, 12156 Ellis Rd., 620-704-4256, www.facebook.com/centerville.ks. OCT. 1 H and Corn Shucking Contest, Atchison. E vent begins at noon in the St. Louis Church area. 11321 Morton Rd., 913-367-3116, http://VisitAtchison.com. OCT. 1 F all Fest, Ulysses. Main Street in Ulysses will be buzzing with activities including Safety Fest sponsored by Pioneer Communications & Pioneer Electric, car show; crafts, food vendors welcome. Visit festivalnet.com/state/kansas/Ulysses_KS.html for more information. OCT. 1 F all Into the Holidaze Craft & Antique Show, Winfield. Featuring craft and antique vendors, prizes, activities and food in a festive holiday setting. Winfield Fairgrounds, 1105 W. 9th Ave., 620-218-2395. OCT. 1-2 K aw Valley Farm Tour, Northeast

Kansas. G ather your friends, fill up a car and pick your route for guided tours. Bring a cooler in case you purchase products for sale. Tour hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.kawvalleyfarmtour.org., 785-843-7058, ext. 105. OCT. 1 O ktoberfest, Atchison. More than 100 arts

and crafts vendors, plus German foods and music. Commercial Street Mall, 609 Commercial, 800-234-1854, http://VisitAtchison.com.

OCT. 1 O swegofest and Alumni Banquet, Oswego. Festival, alumni reunions and banquet. Oswego Historic Riverside Park, N. Oregon St., 620-7954433, www.oswegokansas.com.

OCT. 7-8 F all Festival, Haven. Events include food,

crafts, parade, bike tour, alumni reception, contests, barbecue cook-off, street dance, and fireworks. Downtown, 620-465-3618, www.havenchamber.com.

OCT. 7-9 G rand Prix Revival, Garnett. Event includes two full days of activities, such as laps around a historic race track, a car show, and autocross event and much more. Lake Garnett Road Course, 600 N. Lake Rd., 785-448-5534, www.lggpr.org. OCT. 8 F estival & Car Show, Little River. Event features a steak cookoff, fair style food court, car show, kids carnival games and craft fair. Main St., 620-664-1470, http://littleriverks.com/event/fall-festival. OCT. 8 H arvest Festival, Junction City. Enjoy

lunch, live music, farm tours, hay rack rides, play area, Kansas product sampling and demonstrations. Hildebrand Farms Dairy, 5210 W. Rucker Rd., 785-2388029, www.hildebrandfarmsdairy.com.

AUTUMN FUN THROUGH OCT. 28 H istoric Trolley Tours, Atchison. Take a one-hour historic tour to see unique architecture and learn legendary stories. Atchison Trolley, 200 S. 10th St., 800-234-1854, http:// VisitAtchison.com. SEPT. 24-OCT. 31 A pplejack Pumpkin Patch Fall Festival, Augusta. Beautiful Kansas prairie setting and fun places to explore. Concessions and covered areas, and lots of pumpkins. 10007 S.W. Indianola Rd., 316-733-8909, www. applejackpumpkinpatch. SEPT. 24-25, OCT. 1-2 C iderfest and Craft Fair,

Louisburg. Watch apples pressed into cider, enjoy the pumpkin patch, corn maze, apple cider donuts, arts and craft vendors and musicians. Louisburg Cider Mill, 14730 K-68 Hwy, 913-837-5202, www. louisburgcidermill.com.

SEPT. 24-OCT. 29 K ansas Maze 2016, Buhler. B eautifully designed 4-1/2 acre corn maze. MartiskoGaddaert Farm, 13209 E. 82nd Ave (2 1/2 mi E. of Buhler), 620-543-3073, www.kansasmaze.com.

OCT. 8 P rairie Arts Invitational Art Exhibition, Garnett. More than 30 pieces from various artists/ members of the Heartland Art Guild. Walker Art Gallery, 125 W. 4th Ave., 785-448-3388, www. experiencegarnettks.com.

OCT. 1-30 M r. Gourdman’s Pumpkin Patch, Derby. Open weekends in October; corn maze, live music, boat rides, fishing, unique playground, produce, gifts and pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colors. Four miles east of McConnell Air Force Base. 3750 S. Dusty Rd., 316-733-1887, www. wichitaspumpkinpatch.com.

OCT. 8-9 C olumbus Day Festival, Columbus. eld in conjunction with the Hot Air Balloon Regatta. H Includes children’s corner, petting zoo, car show, craft fair, food and entertainment. Downtown, 100 E. Maple, 620-429-1492, www.columbusofcolumbus.com.

OCT. 8 P umpkin PaZOOla, Salina. Live music, climbing rock wall, bounce house and slide, food vendors, games and nature playground, face painting and keeper encounters. Rolling Hills Zoo, 625 N. Hedville Rd., 785-827-9488, www.rollinghillszoo.org.

OCT. 8-9 T ired Iron Show, Larned. Blacksmithing,

OCT. 15 P rairie Harvest Festival, Strong

sawmilling, tractor pull, wheat threshing, anvil shoots, antique tractors and automobiles, kids activities, food vendors and entertainment. 1349 K-156 Highway, 620285-2054, www.santafetrailcenter.org.

OCT. 12-14 F all Cattle Drive, Bucklin. The Moore’s

will be trailing some of their longhorn cows from their ranch near Bucklin to winter pasture. Included in the cost is a horse, tack, equipment, all meals and lodging. 2933 CR E. Moore Ranch, 620-826-3649, www. moorelonghornranch.com.

OCT. 13-15 3 i Show, Dodge City Irrigation, implement and industry exhibitors from across the U.S. and Canada will display equipment and services, and assist visitors with irrigation, implement and industry buying decisions. GPS and tractor demonstrations, high school ag career day and health screenings. Western State Bank Expo Center, Intersection of U.S. 283 and U.S. 56/400, 877-405-2883 or 620-227-8082, www.3ishow.com. OCT. 15 I nternational Lineman’s Rodeo, Bonner

Springs. Join nearly 5,000 spectators to watch linemen

For more travel events, visit travelks.com. Please contact events directly for more information and for schedule changes.

City. Living history characters prepare for winter by preserving food, making cider, and more. Hear live music, take a wagon ride, and kids may carve a pumpkin. 2480 B Kansas Hwy 177, 620-273-6034, www.nps.gov/tapr.

OCT. 15 T alking Tombstones, Hutchinson.

A ctors portray residents of Hutchinson who have passed away. Performances at 5:30 p.m. in Eastside Cemetery’s mausoleum and a walking tour at 7:30 p.m. to hear the stories of the denizens of the cemetery in their final resting place. Eastside Cemetery (Across from Hutchinson Correctional Facility on Severance St), 500 S. Cleveland, 316-3507529, www.stage9hutch.com.

OCT. 20 W itches Night Out, Atchison. Dress in your “witchiest costume” and ride your broom from store to store downtown for special sales, refreshments and tastings plus contests and prizes. Grab your girl friends and join us for a “witchy” time. Commercial Street Mall, 800-234-1854, http:// VisitAtchison.com. OCT. 22 B oo at the Zoo, Hutchinson. Come dressed in costume and trick or treat in a safe environment. Hutchinson Zoo, 6 Emerson Loop E., 620-694-2693, www.hugchgov.com/zoo.

SEPTEMBER 2016

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

ROLLING HILLS ZOO

Pumpkin PaZOOla in Salina

Dec. 17-18

VISIT SALINA

Christmas Festival in Salina

from all over the world compete. National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame, 630 N. 126th St., 913-721-1075, www.aghalloffame.com.

MUSIC

SEPT. 11 P eterson Farm Brothers Concert, Waterville. T he

YouTube-famous Peterson Farm Brothers perform their parodies live. Enjoy a hotdog BBQ, with donation. 785-363-2515.

SEPT. 13 M ini Music Fest, Winfield. Continuous Bluegrass music all day. Free to the public. 700 Gary St., 620-221-2161, www. winfieldarts.com. SEPT. 14-18 W alnut Valley Festival, Winfield. Enjoy the music and join the campground jam sessions or acoustic instrument contests. Winfield Fairgrounds, 1105 W. 9th Ave., 620-221-3250, www.wvfest.com. SEPT. 17 B lues Festival, Paxico. Big city blues, dancing, local food,

antique dealers, live music. Paxico, Main St., 785-636-5520, www. paxicobluesfest.com.

SEPT. 23 B roadway Plaza Grand Opening, Concordia. A n

outdoor event center featuring a 20 x 10 foot LED screen, stage, splash pad and concession stand. Ribbon cutting at 4 p.m. followed by music from NCK Community Band, Heartland Auto Club cruise-in, and a movie. 785-243-2010, broadwayplazaconcordia@gmail.com.

OCT. 16-NOV. 28 C hristmas Traditions,

Montezuma. This is a fun way to enjoy Christmas, get decorating ideas and share in the joy that is the season. 111 N. Aztec St., 620-846-2527, http:// stauthmemorialmuseum.org. OCT. 22 D ogtober, Atchison. Dress up your pooch for

the costume contest and you could win prizes. Parade at 10:30 a.m. Commercial Street Mall, 7th & Commercial St., 800-234-1854, http://VisitAtchison.com.

NOVEMBER

NOV. 5 C andlelight Charm, Council Grove. Visit

unique shops nestled in the festive atmosphere, plus drawings, giveaways, and refreshments. Downtown, 207 W. Main St., 620-767-5413, www.councilgrove.com/#. events/h0azp.

NOV. 5 L adies Night Out & Dueling Pianos,

SEPT. 23-25 J ammin’ in JC Blues & BBQ Festival, Junction City. Local, regional and nationally known blues artists. 6th and Washington Streets, 785-238-8069, www.jammininjc.com.

Seneca. Shop from 4 to 8 p.m. Enjoy dining and retail specials; dueling pianos at 8:30 p.m. Knights of Columbus, 523 Main St., 785-336-1313, http:// senecaladiesnight.brownpapertickets.com.

SEPT. 24 C ornstock Music Festival, Garnett. Featuring

NOV. 10-12 H oliday Retail Open House,

SEPT. 24 M usic Fest, Concordia. 80s rock band Paramount

NOV. 19 C hristmas Parade, Hutchinson. Annual

Montgomery Gentry, Red Dirt Country’s Whiskey Myers, and Little Texas. North Lake Park (Lake Garnett), North Lake Rd., 785-448-6767, www.accornfest.com.

Atchison. Join us for a fun day of shopping. Local businesses will have treats and specials. Commercial Street Mall, 800-234-1854, http://VisitAtchison.com.

will perform from 8 to 11 p.m. Gate opens at 7 p.m. 785-243-2010, broadwayplazaconcordia@gmail.com.

Christmas parade. Downtown, Main St., Ave B to 11th, 620-665-5758.

SEPT. 24 O ktoberfest, Dodge City. D oors open at 11 a.m. with

NOV. 20-DEC. 30 I sle of Lights, Winfield. C hristmas lights display. Island Park, 300 Main St., 620229-3955, www.isleoflights.org.

The Blue Notes and Wes Windholz playing polka music from noon to 8 p.m. Buckner Creek closes. Play area for the kids. Knights of Columbus, 800 W. Frontview, Hwy 50 Bypass in Dodge City, 620255-5834.

NOV. 25 A n Old Fashioned Christmas, La

Homecoming, Hays. Polka music, dancing, and more than 80 booths providing German food, drinks and crafts. Hays-Frontier Park, 1st & Main, 785-628-8202, http://goforthaysstate.com.

Crosse. Turn-of-the-century themed event with live music and holiday readings in historic one-room school. Crafts, roasted marshmallows, popcorn, refreshments and trolley rides. Rush County Historical Museum, 202 W. 1st St., 785-222-2808, www.rushcounty.org/RCHS.

OCT. 2 A ll Things Romantic, Salina. T he Symphony performs

NOV. 25-26 C hase County Country Christmas,

SEPT. 30-OCT. 2 V olga German Society Oktoberfest/FHSU

Ravel’s astonishing Piano Concerto for the Left Hand, with awardwinning pianist Tatiana Tessman. Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe, 785-827-1998, www.salinasymphony.org.

NOV. 13 T he Best of Broadway, Salina. B roadway-credited actors perform numbers by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Stephen Sondheim, and Rodgers and Hammerstein. Stiefel Theatre, 151 S Santa Fe, 785-827-1998, www.salinasymphony.org. NOV. 26 O ld-Fashioned Christmas at the Ranch, Strong

City. Sing along to holiday music in the parlor. Make snowflakes and ornaments and listen as Santa’s cowboy helper recounts stumbling across Santa Claus as he was fixing a fence. 2480 B Kansas Hwy 177, 620-273-6034, www.nps.gov/tapr.

DEC. 3 M usic at the Muchnic, Atchison. An evening of holiday music and art at the beautiful 1885 Muchnic Victorian Mansion. Muchnic Art Gallery, 704 N. 4th St., 913-367-4278, www.atchison-art. org. DEC. 3 & 10 O ld Fashioned Christmas, Lindsborg. Concerts

of seasonal music. Children can make crafts while Santa strolls the grounds. McPherson County Old Mill Museum Complex, 120 E. Mill St., 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com. DEC. 17-18 C hristmas Festival, Salina. Celebrate with festive

song and dance from the Symphony, Iron Street Dance Company, Tamara Howe School of Dance, Salina Chorale, Kansas Wesleyan University Chorale and Salina Youth Choir. Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe, 785-827-1998, www.salinasymphony.org.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Cottonwood Falls. Get in the spirit of the season with the lighting of the Strong City Caboose and the Chase County Courthouse on Saturday. Throughout Chase County, 220 Broadway, 620-273-8469, http:// chasecountychamber.org.

NOV. 26 E vening of Lights Parade, Garnett.

I lluminated floats, marching bands and Santa headline the event that offers chili and soup supper. Town Square, 4th Ave. and Oak St. Town Square, 785-4486767, www.garnettchamber.org.

DECEMBER

DEC. 2-3 C andlelight Tour, Fort Scott. Tour the town by the soft glow of hundreds of candle lanterns with stops at living history scenes. Tours begin every 15 minutes. Tickets on sale Nov. 1. Old Fort Blvd., 620-2230310, www.nps.gov/fosc. DEC. 2-4 H omes for the Holidays Tour, Abilene.

E ach charming home is decorated delightfully for the holiday. Abilene Historic Trolley Tours Various Homes, 201 NW Second, 785-263-2231, www.abilenekansas.org. DEC. 3 C hildrens Small Mall, Leavenworth.

C .W. Parker Carousel Museum hosts this event from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Elves help children ages 3 to 13 shop and wrap gifts. Free

SEPTEMBER 2016

carousel rides for shoppers. 2320 S. Esplanade, www. firstcitymuseums.org, cyndi1536@yahoo.com. DEC. 3 A rtists’ Studio Christmas Open House,

Lindsborg. Experience first-hand local artists in their working studios and visit local art galleries and museums. 212 South Main, 785-227-2217, www. visitlindsborg.com.

DEC. 3 S ights and Sounds of Christmas,

Atchison. Featuring rides on Cinderella’s carriage and horse-drawn sleighs, face painting, Santa’s workshop, story time and puppet shows; parade at 5:30 p.m. Commercial Street Mall, 5th & Commercial St., 800-2341854, http://VisitAtchison.com.

DEC. 3 S pring Hill Ranch Candlelight Tours,

Strong City. Step back in time to the 1880s with ghosted scenes and vignettes telling the story of ranch life. Living history characters perform ranch chores and family life through first-person presentations. 2480 B Kansas Hwy 177, 620-273-6034, www.nps.gov/tapr.

DEC. 3-4, 10-11 S anta Express, Bonner Springs. Join

Santa Claus in the train depot to ride the Union Pacific train and view Christmas decorations on the farm. National Agricultural Center and Hall of Fame, 630 N. 126th St., 913-721-1075, www.aghalloffame.com.

DEC. 4 B PW Holiday Boutique, Garnett. Unwind, mingle, sample food items and enjoy social time. Prairie Belle’s Kitchen & Catering, 130 E. 5th Ave., 785-448-6767, www.garnettbpw.com. DEC. 4 H oliday Homes Tour, Garnett. T our begins with a Christmas program and features three festively decorated homes, as well as the public library and Walker Art Gallery. Garnett Public Library, 125 W. 4th Ave., 785-448-3388, www.experiencegarnettks.com. DEC. 7-JAN. 22 I nfamy: Dec. 7, 1941, Montezuma.

In remembrance of the 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor, see a photographic exhibit that illustrates the deadly attack. 111 N. Aztec St., 620-846-2527, http:// stauthmemorialmuseum.org.

DEC. 8 L adies Night Out, Atchison. O ne-night-only

specials, samples, tastings and giveaways just in time for the holiday season; ugly sweater contest and holiday games. Commercial Street Mall, 5th & Commercial St., 800-234-1854, http://VisitAtchison.com.

DEC. 9-18 “ G.I. Holiday Jukebox”, Abilene. Songs and stars of the 1940s come to life in G.I. Holiday Jukebox with great old standard Christmas songs and comedy. Great Plains Theatre, 401 Cottage St., 785-2634574, www.greatplainstheatre.com. DEC. 10 G ingerbread House Decorating,

Hutchinson. B ring the little ones to decorate a gingerbread house. Downtown, Memorial Hall, 101 S. Walnut, 620-663-6179, www.hutchrec.com.

DEC. 10 L ucia Day, Lindsborg. Legend says “Lucia”

came to Scandinavia in a boat carrying food when Sweden was in the midst of a famine. Lindsborg honors Lucia’s gift with live holiday music followed by Swedish folk dancing and the crowning of a local Lucia. 104 E. Lincoln St., 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com.

DEC. 23 H yde Park Luminaries, Hutchinson.

utchinson’s Hyde Park neighborhood will be aglow H with 17,000 Christmas luminaries, hay rack rides, Santa and carolers. Hyde Park, Main to Monroe and 18th to 23rd, 620-694-9310.

DEC. 26 A nnandag Jul, Lindsborg. “Annandag Jul”

means “another day of Christmas.” Experience a Lutheran Church service in Swedish. Bethany Lutheran Church, 320 N. Main, 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com.

VISIT VOTE.COOP TO LEARN HOW TO BECOME A CO-OP VOTER.

Delivering Energy for Life

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

A Warm Welcome for Garden Travelers

Cynthia Domenghini, Ph.D.

It’s easy to think of how the garden can serve the desires of the gardener, but why not provide for the needs of the garden travelers simultaneously?

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

This summer we grew a sunflower house in our front yard. Based on the children’s book, “Sunflower House” by Eve Bunting, the concept is a circular planting of sunflowers intended for creative play using this natural playhouse. As the sunflowers progressed through their growing cycle I started removing stems with spent blooms from the ring of flowers. My 9-year-old son stopped me to suggest we wait to remove any stems until the flowers have had a chance to produce mature seeds. Following his recommendation has brought numerous garden travelers to our suburban yard including squirrels and many varieties of birds and has opened my eyes to other areas in the yard where I can garden differently to promote ecological diversity and interest. Before throwing out your next broken flower pot consider repurposing it to create a toad house. Toads make a fantastic garden visitor because they can eat thousands of unwanted pests, including slugs. In a cool, shady part of the garden, dig a hole just large enough to fit your flower pot on its side. Once you’ve placed the sideways container into the hole, cover the bottom half of it with soil to allow a place for the toads to burrow. Be sure to leave a saucer with water or some other water source nearby. Bats are another garden traveler that can be a helpful guest. According to Kansas State University Agriculture Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, the bat species found in Kansas all feed on insects. One individual brown bat can eat hundreds of mosquitos in an hour. Some homeowners are cautious of welcoming bats onto their property because of the potential for disease, not to mention the mess they can make. Providing a bat box in your yard can allow a safe location away from your home where bats can take up residence. Bat boxes can be purchased pre-made or you can search online for plans to make your own. To find this next garden traveler you’ll have to look underground. Earthworms can serve as an indicator of how healthy your soil is. Earthworms aide in the decomposition of organic matter in the soil making the nutrients available for plants. The waste, or castings, from worms

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

is rich in nutrients making them an excellent natural fertilizer. Earthworms can also improve soil aeration through the burrowing they do in the soil. One way to encourage earthworms to visit your garden is to avoid tilling the soil. Tilling the soil can cause physical harm to the earthworms, change the soil temperature and expose the worms to predators. It’s easy to think of how the garden can serve the desires of the gardener, but why not provide for the needs of the garden travelers simultaneously? Gardening with these and other travelers in mind can offer a fresh perspective that can serve many needs. There can be a greater application of this lesson to life in general helping us each find our place and ways we can contribute to our society. KCL is an instructor and coordinator for K-State’s horticultural therapy online certificate program. Cynthia believes that everyone—regardless of age and ability—can enjoy the many benefits of gardening.

CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI

Look closely to see if you can spot one of our smallest garden visitors on this double sunflower head.

SAFETY

College Dorm Room Essential: Safety Furnishing a college dorm room comes

with a lot of options for personalization—from bedding and décor to kitchen supplies and electronics. One essential for the college residence is safety. College students tend to want to bring everything they own. The limited number of electric outlets in student rooms can tempt many to use multiple extension cords and power strips, which can cause cords to overheat, creating shock and fire hazards. Many colleges ban cooking appliances—hot plates, coffee makers, microwave ovens—from on-campus housing so be sure to check before packing. Safe Electricity offers the following safety tips for college students to help reduce the risk of electrical fires in their student housing: ffOnly purchase and use electrical products tested for safety. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) publishes a list of approved testing laboratories. Some common approved safety labels include: UL, CSA, and MET.

ffDon’t overloading extension cords, power

strips or outlets.

ffUse power strips with an over-current protec-

tor that will shut off power automatically if too much current is being drawn. ffIf use of an appliance frequently causes power to trip off, or if its power cord or the outlet feels hot, the appliance should be disconnected immediately and the condition reported to the landlord or campus housing staff. ffNever tack or nail an electrical cord to any surface or run cords across traffic paths or under rugs where they can be trampled or damaged. ffUse the correct wattage light bulbs for lamps and fixtures. If no indication is on the product, do not use a bulb with more than 60 watts. Use cooler, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) or LEDs. ffKeep all electrical appliances and cords safely away from bedding, curtains, papers and other flammable material. ffMake sure outlets around sinks are equipped with ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) before use. If they are not, contact the resident assistant, campus housing staff, or landlord. ffUnplug small appliances when not in use and all electronics when away for extended periods. ffAlways use microwave-safe containers. Metal and aluminum foil can damage the microwave or start a fire. If the microwave is damaged in any way, do not use it. ffSmoke detectors should never be disabled, and fire alarms should never be ignored or taken casually—even in a fire drill. Every time a fire alarm sounds, residents should calmly and quickly follow practiced procedures and immediately exit the building. KCL

Students certainly want all the comforts of home when heading off to college. The limited number of electrical outlets available in a dorm room may require students to prioritize their gadgets when deciding what to take with them.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

For more electrical safety information, visit SafeElectricity.org.

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Getting a Lift from Biscuit Making I don’t know what it says about me

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

all-shortening versions and settled on somewhere in between. As far as biscuit styles, I’ve that some of my happiest moments have come both dropped and rolled and even beaten my pre-dawn, my hands in a bowl, working bits of biscuits (an experiment), using simple white ice-cold butter into flour, kicking up white dust flour, but also whole wheat. I’ve infused them and kicking off a round of biscuit-making. with herbs and bacon and cheese and sweet It doesn’t have to be light out, and I don’t potato. I’ve made mini biscuits and those as even have to be awake. large as cats’ heads (depending on the cat; The joy exists in the tactile process of see recipe I’ve included below). I’ve slathered coating myself in flour in the easy, yet deliberate them in jam, honey and gravy. I’ve turned steps toward creating biscuits. And even more Rebecca Howard biscuits into shortcakes and cobblers and top bliss comes from the final product—a hot pillow crusts for chicken stew. And on my website of tender flesh and golden crust, dripping with “A Woman Sconed” (www.womansconed. butter. com), I’ve honored my theme with the biscuit’s My first biscuits were formed early—tiny, cousin, the scone, making dozens of flavorful salty coins the size of 50-cent pieces that I variations, from chocolate to blueberry to my made from a mix accompanying my toy oven. favorite—orange-almond. For many, that first brush with biscuits has us The biscuit is truly an American bread (as hooked. we know, the “biscuit” in Europe is a cookie), but I dare not count the hundreds of biscuits— its origination was far different from its current and their kin—that I’ve made since, from those form. “Ship’s biscuits” carried over as sustegetting their lift from baking powder to those raised by sourdough. I’ve tried all-butter and nance from the Old World, were flat and hard like dense crackers, and early “skonz” were even leaden. The advent of leavenings, such as baking powder and yeast, gave the biscuits height; and lard, butter or shortening provided their tender crumb. And while Southerners lay claim to being Adapted from Cook’s Country magazine the rightful home of our modern bisff 1-½ cups all-purpose flour ff 8 Tbs. (1 stick) unsalted butter, cut cuits (I can attest to their reverence. ff 1-½ cups cake flour into ½-inch pieces and softened During a visit to the South, so-oft ff 1 Tbs. sugar ff 4 Tbs. vegetable shortenwere served biscuits, you half expected ff 1 Tbs. baking powder ing, cut into ½-inch pieces them to be the mint on your hotel ff ½ tsp. baking soda ff 1-¼ cups buttermilk ff 1 tsp. salt pillow), they have served their purpose on the pioneer trail, as a staple in Adjust oven rack to upper-middle position and heat oven to 425 degrees. Grease 9-inch chuck wagons, where biscuits were cake pan. Combine flours, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in large bowl. Rub cooked over open fires in dutch ovens butter and shortening into flour mixture until mixture resembles coarse meal. Stir in butor cast iron skillets. termilk until combined. Bisquick® and the canned biscuit (really more bread-like in texture), Use greased 1/2-cup measure or large spring-loaded ice cream scoop to transfer 6 heaping portions of dough into prepared pan, placing 5 around pan’s perimeter and 1 in center. Bake made biscuits accessible to everyone. until puffed and golden brown, 20 to 25 minutes. Cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer But biscuits are really almost as simple to wire rack. Serve. Makes 6 to 8 biscuit. (Biscuits can be stored in airtight container at to make as adding milk to a mix or room temperature for 2 days.) banging a can against the counter. Yet

Cat Head Biscuits

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SEPTEMBER 2016

... biscuit are really almost as simple to make as adding milk to a mix or banging a can against the counter. most people I know who have never tried or had limited experience making biscuits are afraid. Though seemingly easy, The Joy of Cooking concurred on this bread’s mystique: “How easy can it be to attain biscuits that are tender, flaky and light?” But since September is National Biscuit Month, why not break out that mixing bowl and the few ingredients required for a batch of biscuits? Before you begin, here are some thoughts: “SLIGHT” OF HAND. I think one of the biggest less-than-satisfactory results in biscuit making is that they turn out too tough. When mixing biscuits, you DO NOT want to over-mix. Just bring those dry and wet ingredients together, but not beyond. If some recipes call for kneading (and some do), the dough should just be given a few quick, gentle turns. As with pie dough, too much mixing forms the tough glutenous proteins that give too chewy a texture. NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT. The chemical components in baking powder and buttermilk need to activate immediately, so mixing up a dough (and there might be a few recipe exceptions) far in advance will diminish the rising capacity of a good biscuit. Best to make your dough and bake straight away. NO BUTTERMILK, NO SWEAT. Unless you have a family member (like my dad) who is fond of drinking buttermilk, there is no need to go out and buy it specifically for biscuits. One of my favorite kitchen magic tricks is adding lemon juice or white vinegar (about one tablespoon per cup of milk) to plain milk and within 10 to 20 minutes it is curdled and cultured into buttermilk. DON’T DO THE TWIST. When making rolled biscuits, do not twist the cutter (or glass or whatever you are cutting biscuits out with). This forms a seal on the dough’s edges and dissuades that layered lift we so love in a rolled biscuit. SERVE ‘EM HOT. A hot fresh biscuit is the best biscuit. They are at their true zenith of crunchy crust and fatty flavor. But I do not agree with what I’ve read that they cannot be reheated. Most cold and even—dare I say it —day-old biscuits can be placed in a

warm (300- to 350-degree) oven for 10 to 15 minutes and brought back to life. The recipe here for Cat Head Biscuits I’ve adapted from Cook’s Country magazine is one of my favorites, a giant dropped biscuit (formed with an ice cream scoop), you can stir up and serve in less than an hour. Coming out of the oven, a golden cluster in a round pan, the fine cake flour used makes these so light and tasty, somewhat like a dinner roll, but they still have all the buttermilk tanginess and buttery satisfaction in the best of any biscuit, any size. KCL

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C U T YO U R U T I L I T Y B I L L S

Continued from page 8 

OWENS CORNING

with insulated fabric-covered panels are ideal for a bedroom or home theater where sound is a concern. Those with a snap-in vinyl attachment system are good for moisture resistance. Also, the panels can be This lightweight plastic block replacement window opens snapped out at any time to gain casement style to direct breezes indoors for natural ventilation. access to the block or brick walls. Notice the variable-speed mini-split heat pump condenser unit The easiest way to insulate the mounted high on the garage wall, the subject of last month’s walls yourself is to build 2x4 studded column. wall framing on 24-inch centers and insert fiberglass batt insulation. For your garage, insulate with rigid foam insulation. It has higher R-value per inch thickness. Rigid foam insulastaple the vapor barrier to the studs. The only tion panels are available and are designed to fit drawback to this method, particularly if your over the strips. When using rigid foam insulagarage is small, is you lose floor space. Be sure tion, it must be covered with drywall, not just to use pressure-treated lumber where it touches paneling, for fire safety. the concrete floor. Although walls are an important area to A good option for saving floor space is to insulate, as is the attic, don’t forget the floor. attach thinner furring strips to the wall and A chilly concrete floor can make the entire room feel cold, and adding carpeting may not be enough. Install breathable-type resilient panels on the top of the concrete before the carpeting. If low ceiling height will be a problem, insulate around the outside of the garage concrete slab. Dig down several feet and place rigid extruded polystyrene insulation panels against the sides of the slab. Make sure to use extruded—not expanded—foam panels for below-ground applications. KCL

This previously unused space with masonry wall was finished with a professional wall system comprising pressed fiberglass panels covered with fabric.

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SEPTEMBER 2016

Send inquiries to JAMES DULLEY, Kansas Country Living, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.

H Y- L I T E W I N D OWS

The vapor barrier should be toward the more humid side to keep it from absorbing moisture.

SEPTEMBER 2016

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Strawberry Banana Smoothie Ice Pops

Pepper and Herb Crusted Flank Steak

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, SEPTEMBER 2016

Make your own popsicles with good-foryou ingredients like fruit and yogurt.

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, SEPTEMBER 2016

The secret to a great steak? A super-hot grill and a little attention to technique.

OldFashioned Upside Down Cake

Sloppy O Joes

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, S E PT E M B E R 201 6

Use a cast iron skillet to bake this in your oven or try it over a campfire.

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, S E PT E M B E R 201 6

By changing up a few ingredients, this sandwich becomes less nutritionally sloppy.

Sloppy O Joes ff 9 ounces lean ground turkey ff 1/2 large minced onion ff 1 small red bell pepper, minced ff 1 tsp. cumin seed, ground ff 1 tsp. coriander seed, ground

ff 1 cup orange juice ff 1 cup tomato juice ff 1 large sweet potato, baked and diced ff 4 whole wheat dinner rolls

In medium sauté pan, sauté ground turkey over medium heat until cooked thoroughly. Remove turkey; reserve. Sauté onion until translucent. Add red pepper, cumin and coriander; sauté for 1 minute then add orange juice. Cook until orange juice is reduced by two-thirds; add tomato juice and cooked turkey. Cook until tomato juice has reduced by two-thirds then add diced baked sweet potato and stir until combined. Split dinner rolls in half; spoon turkey mixture in center. Serve immediately. . COURTESY FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF CITRUS

ff 1 tsp. lemon juice ff 1 tsp. vanilla extract ff 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour ff 1-3/4 tsp. baking powder ff 1/4 tsp. salt ff 1/2 cup sour cream

Old-Fashioned Upside Down Cake ff 2/3 cup margarine, divided ff 2/3 cup packed brown sugar, divided ff 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices ff 10 maraschino cherries ff 3/4 cup granulated sugar, divided ff 2 eggs, separated ff 1 tsp. grated lemon peel

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In 10-inch cast-iron skillet, melt 1/3 cup margarine. Remove from heat. Add brown sugar and stir until blended. Drain pineapple slices; reserve 2 tablespoons syrup. Arrange pineapple slices in sugar mixture. Place cherry in center of each slice. Beat remaining 1/3 cup margarine with 1/2 cup granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in egg yolks, lemon peel, lemon juice and vanilla. Combine flour, baking powder and salt. Blend into creamed mixture alternately with sour cream and reserved pineapple syrup. Beat egg whites to soft peaks. Gradually beat in remaining 1/4 cup granulated sugar to make stiff meringue. Fold into batter. Pour over pineapple in skillet. Bake 35 minutes, or until toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let stand 10 minutes then invert onto serving plate. Serve warm or cold. Reheat in microwave for a quick on-the-go breakfast. Serves 12. COURTESY DOLE

Pepper and Herb Crusted Flank Steak

ff 2 flank steaks (2 pounds each) ff 2 tsp. salt ff 1/4 cup thyme, freshly minced ff 2 tsp. brown sugar ff 2 Tbs. tarragon, freshly minced ff 2 tsp. extra-virgin olive oil ff 2 Tbs. black pepper, coarsely ground ff 2 tsp. soy sauce ff 1 Tbs. rosemary, freshly minced ff 1 tsp. crushed red pepper ff 4 cloves garlic, finely minced In small bowl, combine all ingredients and mix, forming coarse paste. Spread paste over both sides of each steak. Wrap each steak individually with plastic wrap and refrigerate 2-12 hours. Grill steaks directly over coals, approximately 450-500 degrees, 5 minutes on each side. Internal temperature of steak should reach 130-135 degrees for medium rare to medium doneness. For optimum tenderness, cut flank steaks across the grain into 1/4-inch slices and serve. Tips:

COURTESY KI NGSFORD

•For steaks, you want the heat as high as possible. •Before grilling, allow steaks to sit 30 minutes at room temperature. Trim excess fat. Liberally apply salt and pepper. •Place steaks on hottest part of the grill, directly above coals and sear 2-5 minutes per side, depending on thickness. •After searing, move steak to warm side of the grate, close lid and cook until desired doneness. Steak will continue to cook after it’s removed from the grill. Let it rest 5 minutes before serving.

ff 1 apple, peeled, cored, sliced and frozen ff 6 ounces vanilla yogurt ff 1 tsp. vanilla

Strawberry Banana Smoothie Ice Pops sliced and frozen

ff 1 cup apple juice ff 1 pint strawberries, hulled, ff 1 banana, sliced and frozen

Put all ingredients in a blender and process until smooth. Pour into ice pop forms or paper cups. Place ice pop sticks in center and freeze, inverted, for 3 hours or until solid. Keep frozen until ready to serve. Servings varies on size of ice pop forms.

COURTESY TR EE TOP

SEPTEMBER 2016

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

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