Issuu

E D I TO R’S L E T T E R

Thankful for veterans and community volunteers Although Christmas decorations already hang in some stores—and did well

before Halloween—we observe Veterans Day and Thanksgiving this month. If you are a veteran or currently serving in the military, thank you for your service to our country. Because of your sacrifice Southern Pioneer Electric employees and their families participate in the and desire to protect the Peace Treaty Pageant at Medicine Lodge. American way of life, we all surrounding communities dedicate time and rest easier in a world often talent to ensure a first-rate experience for the filled with chaos and uncertainty. thousands of visitors who flock to the town for In honor of Veterans Day, we share with the event. On page 12, we introduce you to a few our readers the story of the Norton County of the Southern Pioneer Electric employees who Honor Hunt, established in 2014 to help Kansas work to ensure the tradition continues. veterans realize their dream of a classic whiteIn response to our most recent reader tail deer hunt. Barry Madden, Member Services survey, we will introduce more outdoor and Director for Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, gardening-related articles in the coming months. organized the hunt with the help of his sons, the Norton Chamber of Commerce, and a myriad of In this issue, we include the Kansas hunting volunteers, donors and businesses eager to lend a calendar and the hunting outlook for deer, fall turkey, upland game and migratory birds. hand. Their story begins on page 14. Happy Thanksgiving! KCL Volunteers make things happen, and as they do in Norton County, they also do in Barber County, where the Peace Treaty Pageant at Medicine Lodge takes place every three to five years. Generations of families in and around the VICKI ESTES, EDITOR

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

(ISSN 0091-9586) NOVEMBER 2015 VOL. 65, NO. 11 © KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2015 WWW.KEC.COOP

Bruce Graham

Chief Executive Officer

Doug Shepherd

Vice President, Management Consulting

Shana Read

Director of Communications

Vicki Estes Editor

Bob Jennings

Manager of Publishing Services

NOVEMBER

Carrie Kimberlin

Communications Specialist

Blake Miller Intern

Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.

Ralph Phillips President

Kathleen O’Brien Vice President

Keith McNickle Secretary

Patrick Riley Treasurer

“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook to view monthly extras and submit your story ideas.

12| Peace Treaty Carrying on the tradition

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.

14| Honor Hunt Helping those who sacrificed

20| In Season

D E PA RT M E N T S

4 | Around Kansas

Hunting outlook bright in Kansas

Holiday events are here!

22| Outhouse Capital Elk Falls makes a stink

8 | Guest Talk

10 | Cut Your Utility Bills

Insulated window shades save

28 | Cook’s Library

Recipes to Remember

ON THE COVER Easton Broxterman sounds the bugle during a scene in the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant.

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.

Fork in the Road Understanding the EPA plan

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.

6 | Commentary

P H O T O BY V I C K I EST ES

NOVEMBER 2015

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

THINGS TO DO

THRU MID-NOVEMBER. P aintings and

Photography on Exhibit, Ellsworth. Exhibition at the Ellsworth Area Art Center featuring paintings by Craig and Mary Ann Stertz, Lincoln, photography by Mary Schmidt of Ellsworth, oil paintings by Virginia Holecek and her mother, Bea Judy, paintings by Charles Rogers of Ellsworth and blown glass by Vernon Brejcha of Ellsworth. Call Sharon Haverkamp at 785-472-5682. NOV. 4 F all Bake Sale, Lincoln. The

Denmark Dames Service Club holds this annual event at Denmark Hall that features pies, cakes, cookies, peppernuts and breads. Proceeds benefit various Lincoln County organizations. Seven miles west of Lincoln on Highway 18 and three miles north on 120th Road, 785-524-5352. NOV. 6,7, 13, 14 T he Balcony Scene, Winfield. W infield Community Theatre presents this play by Will Calhoun that follows the friendship of Alvin and Karen who meet on their adjoining balconies at a Chicago high-rise apartment building. 1500 E. 8th, 620-221-6270, 620-221-2420, www. winfieldcommtheatre.com. NOV. 6-7 M any Minis Quilt Shop Hop,

Various locations. The Great Plains Sew Down Shop Hop hosts this event from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day. Visit participating shops in Winchester, Bonner Springs, Kansas City, Spring Hill, Overland Park and Leavenworth, and receive a free miniature quilt pattern and chance to win a sewing machine. 208 Winchester St., Winchester, 913-774-7455. NOV. 7 L ab Health Fair, Wilson. The

Ellsworth County Medical Center hosts this health fair at the Wilson Senior Center from 7 to 10 a.m. 511 25th St., www.ewmed.com. NOV. 7 P heasant Mentor Youth Hunt,

Lincoln. Begins at 8 a.m. Sponsored by the Pheasant Forever Ringnecks Chapter #635. 785452-5313, or visit the Facebook page. NOV. 7 H oliday Craft Fair, Lincoln.

T akes place from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lincoln High School and is sponsored by the Lincoln Business Women. 785-524-3221.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

NOV. 27-28 C hristmas in the Country, Oxford. Take the holiday homes tours and visit Little Town Square Market featuring local artists, handmade goods, plus shopping at boutiques and stores. Enjoy homecooked meals at the local church and Old Oxford Mill. 620-455-3636, www. christmasinthecountry.vpweb.com, like our Facebook page at Christmas in the Country. NOV. 9 G eary County Historical Society Annual Meeting, Junction City. Spend an evening enjoying a delicious pork loin dinner with scrumptious sides prepared by the local Pilots Club. Jane Rhodes with the Kansas Humanities Council will present, “Bronco Bustin’ Showmen and their Spectacular Wild West Shows.” Call 785-238-1666 for more information and to RSVP by Nov. 3. NOV. 11 V eterans Day in Downtown,

Belleville. The day’s events include a parade at 2 p.m. to honor our veterans, a flag raising of 150 flags and a hamburger feed. 785-527-5524, www.bellevilleks.org, mainstreet@nckcn.com. NOV. 12-14 2 015 Buster Shootout, Garden City. Check out this men’s and women’s collegiate invitational basketball tournament. Call Ryan Ruda at 620-276-9595, ryan.ruda@gcccks.edu. NOV. 12-15 T urkey Shootout, Garden City. Part of the International Racquetball Tour, the tournament starts at noon Thursday and runs through Sunday. Call Steve Lynch at 620-275-1199, email gckymca.fitness@gmail.com. NOV. 13 P heasant Forever Banquet, Lincoln. Funds go to youth programs and conservation in Lincoln County. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.; dinner at 7 p.m.; auction at 8 p.m. at Vesper Community Building. 785-452-5313 or visit the Facebook page.

NOV. 14-15 R ecreation Commission

Futsal Tournament, Garden City. This indoor soccer tournament at Garden City Recreation Commission is double elimination. Contact Jared Rutti at 620-276-1200, email jared.rutti@gardencityks.us. NOV. 14 J ingle Bell Shop & Sell, Wilson. T he Ellsworth County Medical Center Auxiliary will host this arts and crafts fair from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. 1706 Aylward Ave., (north of hospital complex), www.ewmed.com. NOV. 14 P heasant Day Soup Luncheon, Lincoln. Enjoy chicken noodle soup, chili, ham sandwiches, pimento cheese sandwiches, pie and drinks at historic Denmark Community Hall. Proceeds fund maintenance of the hall, which was built in 1911. Seven miles west of Lincoln on Highway 18 and three miles north on 120th Road, 785-524-5352. NOV. 14 T rap Shoot and Cards, Danville. St. John of Arc Knights of Columbus hosts this 58th annual event beginning at 11:30 a.m. 620-962-5251. NOV. 15-DEC. 29. I sle of Lights,

Winfield. E njoy this mile-long drive through hundreds of lights with the backdrops of Toyland, Zooland, Reindeer Road, Oz and the Nativity. Island Park on North Main St., 620221-2418, www.isleoflights.org. NOV. 15 Z eta Mu Christmas, Russell.

T his vintage craft sale runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Russell County 4-H Building. 702 Fairway Dr., 785-445-2703.

NOV. 15 D r. Allen Kanavel: Sedgwick

Son to Surgical Pioneer, Sedgwick. This 2 p.m. program at the Senior Center will highlight the gifted surgeon, educator and founder of hand surgery. Presented by the Harvey County Historical Museum, the Sedgwick Historical Society and the Sedgwick Senior Center. 107 W. 5th, 316-283-2221, Debra Hiebert at info@hchm.org. NOV. 18 M axwell Wildlife Refuge

Buffalo Auction, Canton. The Friends of Maxwell invite the public to this auction and lunch served at the tour center. 2565 Pueblo Rd., 620-628-4455, www. maxwellwildliferefuge.com. NOV. 19 A Visit to Blue Earth Village, Manhattan. This Go See It! lecture series runs from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Flint Hills Discovery Center. www.flinthillsdiscovery.org. NOV. 21-22 M odel Train Show, Dodge

City. The Boot Hill Model Railroad Club invites you to Western State Bank Expo Center for this annual event from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Call Claude Zachman at 620-253-1372.

Guild hosts this annual dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the school complete with all the trimmings. Dine in or carry out. 116 Ashman, 620-962-5251. NOV. 27-DEC. 31 R ocky Pond Christmas Lights Park, Belleville. Each evening the Rocky Pond Christmas lights will be illuminated. Visit Rocky Pond Christmas Lights on Facebook. 785-527-5524, email mainstreet@ nckcn.com. NOV. 27 C hristmas on the Square,

Belleville. T he lighted parade begins at 6 p.m., and Santa will make an appearance. The shops will be open late with games and refreshments. www.bellevilleks.org, 785-5275524, mainstreet@nckcn.com.

NOV. 28 L ighted Horse Parade,

Barnes. This annual downtown event welcomes participants, including saddle clubs, individuals, and horse drawn conveyance. Call 785-763-4310, www.barnesks.net.

DEC. 4-5 C ountry Christmas, Deep

Creek. This 11th annual event will take place from 2 to 6 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Deep Creek Community Center, 10 miles southeast of Manhattan. Find handmade wearable and decorating items plus homemade treats. Call Judy Kimball at 785-539-1369. DEC. 5-6 C hildren’s Small Mall, Leavenworth. C .W. Parker Carousel Museum hosts this annual fundraiser to support the museum. Children 3-13 can do their own holiday shopping with elves guiding them in gift selection. Free carousel rides. 320 S. Esplanade, www.firstcitymuseums.org, 913-231-4262. DEC. 5-6 F estival of the Nativities, Lincoln. Approximately 250 nativities will be on display at the Denmark Community Hall. Each adult will be entered into a drawing for a nativity. Saturday 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sunday 1-5

Continued on page 25 

NOV. 21 P ancake Feed, Junction City.

E njoy breakfast then shop for your holiday gift giving at the many booths filled with antiques, florals, baked goods, baskets, candles and more. Junction City Middle School hosts this event from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. 700 Wildcat Lane, 785-224-5260. NOV. 21 A ll the Pretty Tables, Dodge

City. The Depot Theater Guild hosts this annual event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Historic Santa Fe Depot with more than 25 tables decorated with festive holiday settings. Shop the boutique for homemade goodies and the attic sale for used holiday decorations. 620-225-1001, straight4@cox.net. NOV. 21 F antasy Tree Festival, Garden

City. This event benefits the Russell Child Development Center. Call Amy McGrath at 620-275-0291, email amcgrath@rcdc4kids.org. NOV. 22 T hanksgiving Dinner, Danville. The Immaculate Conception Altar NOVEMBER 2015

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

C O M M E N TA RY

We’ve Come to a Fork in the Road

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

Lawrence Peter “Yogi” Berra passed

Bruce Graham

While we currently have adequate resources, we need to be breaking ground on power plants and transmission lines.

away on Sept. 22, 2015, at the age of 90. You probably saw some of the tributes to the former N.Y. Yankee catcher, coach and manager—along with reprints of his countless expressions that made little sense. Yogi-isms such as: ffIt ain’t the heat, it’s the humility. ffNo one goes there anymore, it’s too crowded. ffWe made too many wrong mistakes. ffEven Napoleon had his Watergate. ffHe hit from both sides of the plate; he’s amphibious. ffYou wouldn’t have won if we had beaten you. ffBaseball is 90 percent mental and the other half physical. ffAnd probably his most famous: When you come to a fork in the road, take it! Well we in the utility industry are at a fork in the road. If today was like most days, your electric cooperative quietly and effectively delivered reliable and affordable electricity to homes and businesses across Kansas. We did that yesterday and we will do that tomorrow. In fact, for more than 75 years, hundreds of individual utility industry entities have built a generation, transmission and distribution network that works together to keep things ticking. While we currently have adequate resources, we need to be breaking ground on a new generation of power plants and transmission lines. Yes, there is lots of wind and solar going up, but they can’t replace the capacity and reliability of baseload generation. Yet the Obama Administration’s new Clean Power Plan (CPP) has not only put a fork in our road but erected a “Berra-cade.” The CPP has never been approved by Congress yet it moves forward as a mandate that vilifies coal and, according to outside experts, will affect rates and quite possibly the reliability of our electric system. Those experts include Fitch Ratings, which recently released a report warning that utilities across the country will struggle to comply with the CPP. It goes on to warn that utilities in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Tennessee and West Virginia face major challenges to meet the new carbon dioxide restrictions. The report predicts

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

that for these states in particular, meeting the goals and recovering related costs will likely require sizable rate increases on end users. Fitch noted that the actual cost of complying with the EPA plan remains elusive and the rating agency has been “aggressive” in its assumptions on energy efficiency gains, renewable energy development and costs. “Should these assumptions, together with the economics of gas-fired generation, prove overly optimistic, compliance costs could soar,” Fitch said Clean and efficient utility operation is a priority for the industry and tremendous strides have already been made toward that goal. But there is skepticism about the actual impact this mandate will have on climate change. There is also concern that another layer of government regulation could someday devolve our electric grid to something like the United Kingdom system now strained by simple demands for refreshment. The British phenomenon, called TV Pickup, has system operators scrambling to provide fans of football (otherwise known as soccer) with enough electricity to brew a kettle of tea at halftime. It is such a worry that France is on standby for grid support in case the U.K. system can’t cope. We shouldn’t tolerate the risk of an electric system that unstable here in the United States, and we shouldn’t have to worry that our football (otherwise known as football) parties will be serving warm beer and cold queso. Yet continued government intervention and restrictions threaten the industry’s ability to plan a generation, transmission and distribution system that has adequate baseload generation to meet the needs of comfort and commerce. Upcoming presidential and congressional elections along with pending legal challenges all could moderate—or accelerate—the challenges we face from regulatory overreach. If this issue matters to you, please pay attention and get active in the political discussion affecting your electric bill. As Yogi said: It ain’t over till it’s over. KCL BRUCE GRAHAM is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas Electric Cooperatives Inc., Topeka.

G U E S T TA L K

Three Keys to Understanding the EPA Plan on Climate Change

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

The U.S. is in the process of taking a giant step in the noisy process of changing

Paul Wesslund

Any increase in the cost of electricity most dramatically impacts those who can least afford it.

how we generate and use electricity now that the Environmental Protection Agency has released the final version of its Clean Power Plan. That contentious process will continue for years, or even decades, as advocates warn of nothing less than destruction of the economy on the one side and the destruction of the planet on the other. This current energy focus is the result of President Obama’s Aug. 3 announcement of what he called, “A plan two years in the making, and the single most important step America has ever taken in the fight against global climate change.” Two days after that announcement, 16 states asked the EPA to put a hold on the plan, calling it illegal and saying it would raise utility bills. The plan would reduce the burning of coal to produce electricity, which now generates more than one-third of our electric power, and increase the use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind. The huge effects of those changes, and the complex and controversial ways they would happen, guarantee that the Clean Power Plan will be setting the nation’s energy discussion for the foreseeable future. Here are the key things to know about the EPA Clean Power Plan:

Over the next 15 years, the plan would change the U.S. energy economy.

The Clean Power Plan targets the 1,000 fossil fuel-burning electric power plants in the U.S., aiming to cut carbon dioxide emissions by one-third. The Plan also sets out a way for that to happen. It calls for states to work with the power industry and submit a carbon dioxide emission reduction plan to the federal government by September 2016. A two-year extension can be requested. Reductions would begin in 2022 and would be completed by 2030. To replace fossil fuels, the Clean Power Plan encourages renewable energy.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

Opposition could delay the plan.

The 16-state request for a delay actually seeks to kill the Clean Power Plan. The request, in the form of an Aug. 5 letter to the EPA, says that the agency should hold off on implementing the plan because of the states’ intention to sue the EPA. The planned lawsuit would claim that the law the EPA is using as a basis for the Clean Power Plan, the Clean Air Act, does not allow the EPA to require states to make such large-scale changes to their energy economies. The EPA says the Clean Power Plan has been carefully written to comply with the law. The Aug. 5 letter cites other objections to the Clean Power Plan, including that it would “coerce states to expend enormous public resources and to … prepare State Plans of unprecedented scope and complexity. In addition, the State’s citizens will be forced to pay higher energy bills as power plants shut down.” Additional lawsuits are expected from other opponents. There is also strong political opposition. Elected officials in Congress as well as state governments have called on states to refuse to submit carbon reduction plans.

Electric co-ops say plan would raise electric bills, hurt rural economy.

Electric co-ops cite special concerns about the effects of the Clean Power Plan because of their higher share of low-income members and often already-fragile rural economies. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association warned of the expected increase in electric bills as a result of power-plant closures. “Any increase in the cost of electricity most dramatically impacts those who can least afford it,” said NRECA. “The fallout from EPA’s rule will cascade across the nation for years to come.” KCL writes on cooperative issues for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Va.-based service arm of the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives.

PAUL WESSLUND

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Insulated Window Shades Save Energy, Increase Comfort BY J A M E S D U L L E Y

Dear Cara: If you feel chilly sitting near a window, you’re likely losing energy, which drives up your utility bills. This is also true during the summer when heat transfers in and forces your air conditioner to run longer. If replacement windows will exceed your budget, window shades The shades in this bedroom are double-cell light-blocking cellular shades. They slide in tracks on the sides to reduce air flow and drafts from the cold window glass. are a reasonably priced option that will help. in my home office. This increased the overall Remember to caulk and weather strip your R-value from R-2 to R-8 and improved comfort. windows before making any other window effiWhen selecting insulated window shades, ciency improvements. To find air leaks, move a there are important factors to consider such as stick of lighted incense near all gaps and watch the R-value, how well they seal when closed, ease the trail of the smoke. Do this during windy of operation and appearance. Before you make a weather, or briefly switch on an exhaust fan to purchase, try to operate a sample insulated shade draw outdoor air in through the gaps. that’s similar in size to your needs. If the shade is Installing insulated window shades will provide the most improved comfort and energy difficult to open and close, you are less likely to use it as often as you should. savings year-round. Several years ago, I installed Almost all commercially available window window shades with an R-6 insulation value shades list the R-value on the packaging. They typically include some type of air barrier film QUICK TIP sewn inside the shade to block air flow through it. An aluminized or other type of low-emissive When caulking windows, remove the old caulk and dirt film is best to help block the radiant heat transfer with a caulk-removing tool or wire brush for concrete through the shade material. or masonry uses. Wipe clean. There should be deep vertical tracks, which mount on the sides of the window opening, for Choose a clear silicone caulk instead of white if you’re the edges of the shade material. Deeper tracks not going to be painting the window trim or casing. create a longer path for air leakage to travel, so Colored caulking is available to match many typical they provide a better seal. Adhesive-backed vinyl window frame colors. tracks are often included with the shades. Also, look for brush or foam weather stripping on the 10

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

W W W.C E L L U L A RW I N D O W S H A D E S .CO M

Dear Jim: When it’s cold outside, my home feels very chilly, especially near the windows. I can’t afford energy-efficient replacement windows right now, so can you offer alternative options? –Cara M.

WHERE TO SHOP

The following companies offer insulating shades: � Country Curtains, 800-937-1237, www.countrycurtains.com � Cozy Curtains, 800-342-9955, www.cozycurtains.com � Smith and Noble, 888-214-2134, www.smithandnoble.com � Symphony Shades, 877-966-3678, www.cellularwindowshades.com � Warm Company, 800-234-9276, www.warmcompany.com.

bottom edge where it rests on the windowsill when closed. If you buy insulated shades that do not have vertical tracks, it is possible to make your own. Buy long pieces of aluminum U-channel. Most home center stores carry them in the hardware aisle. Stick them to the wall with a strong double-sided tape, or drill small holes and mount them with screws. Aluminum is easy to saw to length and easy to drill. Cellular shades are a less expensive option and are best to use where you want some natural light to filter through. The double-cell shades create an additional air gap for better insulation. Since their width grows as they are pulled up and collapsed, side channels are not very effective with this option. The most common type of do-it-yourself window shade is a Roman shade design. The key to efficiency is to make them as thick as possible, while still being able to fold them up when opened. Include a reflective air barrier between the center layers. Reflective Mylar film works well for this and is very flexible. If you do not want to install or make insulated shades, try closing the drapes at night. Some drapes, which are opaque and have a silvery backing, offer more efficiency improvement than plain fabric drapes. KCL

This is a corner section of material from an insulated Roman shade kit. Notice the reflective film in the center between the thick insulating layers.

W A R M C O M PA N Y

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

This is a completed insulated Roman shade made from a kit. You add your own cover fabric to match your decor. A magnetic seal is sewn into the edge of the insulating shade material. NOVEMBER 2015

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Peace Treaty Unites

Generations In the place where the Medicine River and

Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant brings families together to celebrate Kansas’ history.

Elm Creek converge in the Red Hills, as many as 15,000 Plains Indians from five tribes—the Arapaho, the Cheyenne, the Comanche, the Kiowa, and the Prairie-Apache (also known as the Kiowa-Apache)—gathered in 1867 with a seven-member peace commission escorted by U.S. soldiers. The American Indian nations selected this site for one of the country’s largest peace councils. This historical event, along with 300 years of Great Plains history, has been commemorated with re-enactments since the year 1927. In September of this year, dedicated volunteers presented the 25th performance of the Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant. Staged in a natural amphitheater near the actual site of the council, the cast of characters are portrayed by residents of Medicine Lodge and the surrounding area—and from out of state—as has been the case for the pageant’s 88-year history. Employees of Southern Pioneer Electric, which is wholly-owned by Pioneer Electric Cooperative, and their families carry on the rich tradition within their ancestry of volun-

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

teering their time and talents to this extraordinary event as well as to the additional festivities offered during the three-day commemoration. Their desire to maintain family traditions melded with a commitment to their community exemplifies the principles of the thousands of electric cooperative employees across the nation. As a child, Kyle Thomas, Substation Tech, remembers spending many hours alongside his father preparing wagon teams for the Peace Treaty Pageant and now passes on that legacy to his children. “This year I got to watch my children drive my father’s horse on a buggy and build new memories along with them,” he shared. His wife, Shannon, daughters MeCate and Rietta, and son, Tell, all participate in the pageant, as does his aunt and numerous other family members. Six generations of the Thomas family have partaken in the pageant activities since the first re-enactment, and Thomas recalls his initial role. “I began my pageant career as a child in the covered wagon scene riding along with my grandparents,” he said. He also serves on the

Traditions ... must be preserved for small Kansas towns to survive. first. “When I asked her if she wanted to be a cancan girl and dance in front of hundreds of people, she was very hesitant, and by hesitant I mean she said, ‘absolutely not!’” Somehow Fischer convinced her to give it a try. “Now I couldn’t get her to quit the show if I tried!” he added. In addition to Fischer’s wife Billie Jo, his daughter Rachel, son Cole, and a niece and two nephews also play roles in the pageant. The Fischers are active community volunteers in their town of Sharon, 10 miles east of Medicine Lodge, helping with youth-oriented events. “I am teaching my kids to volunteer in many activities, like the Peace Treaty, to improve the community we live in,” he said. Fischer said his employer makes it easy for him and his co-workers to commit time to the pageant and supports its employees in other community events. “Southern Pioneer strongly encourages us to participate and will support us in any way possible to help us better the communities we serve and live in,” Fischer said. Thomas agreed. “My Continued on page 16 

Jerry Perdasofpy, of Ochelata, OK, portrays an Indian Chief during the 2015 re-enactment of the Peace Treaty.

E LY S E M O L S TA D

Peace Treaty Board of Directors. Thomas has played various roles throughout the years, and in 2011, after his father passed, he took over the lines of his dad’s wagon and team and entered into the wagon train. Along the way, he has volunteered for other duties that require unique skill sets. “I inherited the duties of setting up teepees for the pageant from a longtime family friend, Gordon Gray, who took great pride in learning this from local Indian Chief Charlie Little Coyote,” Thomas said. Thomas also maintains all of the horse drawn equipment used in the pageant and carries on the pioneer trade of wheelrighting, a skill that requires the talents of both a blacksmith and a carpenter. “It’s truly a lost art but with the help of Dave Scripsick, whom along with my father took great pride in learning this lost skill, we’re able to keep these wagons rolling.” Participating in the pageant and in the night show, which re-enacts the Medicine Valley Bank robbery of 1884, involves more than acting, as Joe Leibham, Operations Supervisor, explained. Volunteers share both their handyman skills and spare time freely. “I also help with the stage for the night show, with all of the trailers and backdrops,” Leibham said. “We had practice for the night show two or three times a week starting in June and we also went to different parades to help advertise the Indian Peace Treaty, about two a month starting in June.” Leibham says the most satisfying aspect about participating in the Peace Treaty Pageant is being able to help with a community event. “It’s good for the community and for the kids as far as the history that the Peace Treaty covers,” he said. “It takes all ages to put the pageant on.” His sons have also devoted their time and talent for the events, something Leibham expects they will carry on. “I think Nathan and Marty will continue to participate in the pageant for many years to come as long as they live close enough to Medicine Lodge to help out.” It was Leibham who convinced his coworker, Rodney Fischer, Engineering Tech, to help out when the night show was short a couple for its performance. Fischer said he was on board but his wife, who isn’t from the area, wasn’t at

NOVEMBER 2015

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Guiding those who Served P H OTO S P RO V I D E D BY T H E N O RTO N CO U N T Y H O N O R H U N T

Barry Madden received the 2014 Kansas Touchstone Energy Power and Hope award for establishing the 2014 Norton County Honor Hunt with his sons, Casey and Clay, to honor disabled Kansas veterans. With this program, veterans apply for an opportunity to experience an all-expense paid rifle or muzzleloader deer hunt throughout Norton County.

S H Y L O PA X T O N , N O R T O N T E L E G R A M

Time spent behind the wheel driving between destinations often leads to inspired ideas. Barry Madden, Member Services Director for Prairie Land Electric Cooperative, says it was during those times he began formulating a plan to assist disabled veterans in hunting for deer. Madden had helped guide pheasant hunters in the 2013 Kansas Governors’ Ringneck

Classic and was impressed by the event’s positive impact on his community. Then, after watching a TV show in which disabled hunters were assisted in hunting wild turkeys, Madden said he began percolating the idea of offering a similar experience for disabled Kansas veterans. “I was riding around thinking about it and thought maybe we could do that here,” Madden explained. “I visited with the boys (his sons Clay and Casey), and asked what they thought and if they would be willing to give up their opening days of deer season,” he added. “They both said they’d love it.” With the support of the Norton Chamber of Commerce, Madden’s initial intent of guiding two veterans expanded to include close to 20. “Tara Vance (Director of the Chamber) worked super hard with us to make it happen,” he said. Madden set out in search of volunteers— hunting guides, skinners, butchers and those who could package the venison—and for sponsors to ensure all expenses would be paid for the deer hunts. Neither was a hard sell. “I just went to the golf course and mentioned it to a couple of people while we were golfing and I had people calling Event coordinator Barry Madden, left, with his guest hunter, Stormy Brandt, at the 2014 Norton County Honor Hunt. me up and writing me $1,000 checks,” Madden

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

described, noting that 100 percent of the donations go to the costs of the hunts. “It’s all expenses paid once they get here,” he explained. “Hotels, meals—even if they need a rifle and ammo—it’s all furnished.” As for the volunteers, “They are coming out of the woodwork to help,” Madden laughed. “This year, I’ve had to turn some down because I don’t have anything for them to do.” The 2014 inaugural Norton County Honor Hunt paired 17 hunters A group of the 2014 Norton County Honor hunt participants and volunteers pose for this with local guides, who Madden calls photo at Norton’s Veterans Memorial Park. top-notch. “I have the best guides—and best land owners—because nearly everybody got Volunteers from Norton’s local American a deer last year. They worked hard to get deer for Legion, including one who is a Purple Heart these hunters.” recipient, along with fellow hunters and Chamber The Norton community welcomed the veterleaders, serve on the executive committee and ans with open arms. One landowner who hosted assist with the selection process. “I’ve had some hunters on his property posted a “Welcome Veter- tears come out reading through the applications,” ans” banner on his lodge that ended up being the Madden shared. favorite spot for photos when the hunters would Veterans from all military operations since get their prized deer. “It’s really been a community Korea have or will have participated in the hunt, effort,” Madden said. this year scheduled for Dec. 2-4. Although each Kansas Veterans who are considered 30 war was waged for different reasons, on diverse percent or more disabled from military service terrain with varying tactics, those who apply for are eligible for one of the 20 spots available in the the hunt share parallel experiences. “It’s not until Honor Hunt. Educating veterans about the hunt you review the applications that you understand and how to apply for the opportunity was a chalwhat a lot of these people went through,” Madden lenge at first because of the HIPAA Privacy Rule said. that protects patient health information. Madden The three-day event begins with a meet sought advice from Robin Jennison, Kansas Secand greet on Dec. 2 that serves as a way for the retary of Wildlife and Parks, and officials at the hunters to get to know their guides and the volunRobert J. Dole VA Medical Center in Wichita on teers who will be assisting. The hunters will tour ways to get the word out to hunters who might Veterans Memorial Park in Norton and then work be eligible. Madden estimated the 2014 hunt drew with their guides at the shooting range to ensure approximately 160 applications, and this year’s firearms are sighted-in and ready for the next two hunt attracted a similar number. days of deer hunting. A celebratory banquet the As one might imagine, winnowing that list evening of the final day honors the veterans for to 20 veterans—all deserving—for each hunt is their military service. Madden said anyone who extremely difficult. Applicants are asked to provide purchases a ticket for the dinner is welcome to a short narrative about their time in the military join in the celebration but advised, “The armory and describe their desire to hunt deer in Norton holds about 400, and we will sell out.” County. Madden explained that, at first, the partici“One of the hardest things about organizing pants last year kept their military experiences the event, really, is when the executive committee to themselves, but after a while some described has to go through and pick out the ones we are encounters no Hollywood movie could accurately going to take hunting,” Madden explained. “We depict. “Just listening to their stories, about having ask them to tell us a little about themselves. Some of their stories are horrifying.” Continued on page 18 

As for the volunteers, they are coming out of the woodwork to help.

NOVEMBER 2015

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Peace Treaty Unites

Generations Continued from page 13 

Our small towns and local events are lost treasures.

fellow workers have graciously helped in every imaginable way. We are lucky enough to have a specialized skill set along with access from our company to great equipment to help others, from setting poles to adjusting lights or taking tickets,” Thomas said. Southern Pioneer employees Joe Leibham, Kyle Thomas, Shane Doman and Rodney Determined Fischer participate in the 2015 Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant. to not let the pageant end with his generation, Shane Doman, prepare the community for the thousands of visijourneyman lineman, plays the role of a mountors who flock to the area for the pageant. tain man/trapper in addition to setting up the Thomas believes traditions like those he has stage and seating for the night show. “I volunexperienced—learning to ride bareback, driving teer for the pageant because it’s a local tradition. teams alongside his father and “talking about life If nobody volunteers the pageant will slowly and learning funny poems and songs”—must be die off,” he said. Doman has participated in the preserved for small Kansas towns to thrive. pageant since his youth, as did his father, and is “Our small towns and local events are lost passing on the tradition. “My oldest daughter is treasures,” he said. “Without the help of our local already involved at the age of three,” he shared. governments, citizens and local businesses who Anita Bedwell, meter technician, who first are willing to invest time, money and resources volunteered for the pageant when she was a high to these events, our heritage will be lost. I just school senior, also emphasized the dedication hope my children, along with others can see the of others in successfully staging the pageant and great importance of keeping our small towns and related events. “It really does take a village to put events alive.” KCL this on,” she said. The Peace Treaty Pageant is held every three to five years, Bedwell explained how the schools allow the children to perform community service by however, a powwow and other activities take place annuhelping beautify the town, and the role of city ally the last week of September. Visit www.peacetreaty.org workers, local residents and businesses who all for more information. Participants in the 2015 Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty acknowledge the crowd after dress rehearsal.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

Guiding those who Served Continued from page 15 

to be tunnel rats …” Madden’s voice trailed off. “We were setting up in the armory and listening to one guy who was helping, who is a vet, and he told us how he somehow made it back to his vehicle and got out of ‘there’ when the rest of his column got blown up,” Madden recalled. “You read those kinds of stories on the applications, too.” The Kansas veterans served through this event depart Norton thankful for the chance to experience a classic deer hunt and for the efforts of the dedicated volunteers who warmly welcome them. “One of our hunters gave his Purple Heart to his guide in his thank you note,” Madden said, a stark contrast to the experience of another hunter who served in the Vietnam War. “He said he was hit in the head with a beer bottle and booed when he returned home from war,” Madden recounted. “That was his thank you.” For at least one hunter, the Honor Hunt was a treasured memory. “One of our guys was a double

Vietnam Veteran Ernie Stohr shot this buck with the help of guide Curtis Eveleigh during the 2014 Norton County Honor Hunt. Ernie died in March and, according to his wife, the hunt was all he talked about after participating.

amputee and we worked really hard to get his deer last year. He passed away in March and his wife said the hunt was all he talked about,” Madden shared. “It’s really heartwarming to be able to do this for these guys.” KCL Veterans interested in applying for the 2016 Norton County Honor Hunt, may complete an application at www. nortoncountyhonorhunt.com.

ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IS NEVER IN SEASON Your Kansas electric cooperatives encourage hunters to be aware of electrical equipment while enjoying the great outdoors. Repairs can be costly in both equipment and outages to co-op members. Consider this recent Kansas electric cooperative scenario: In July, an electrical outage was reported. A crew was dispatched immediately to the area while additional calls about the outage were recorded and shared with the crew to help find the probable trouble location. Linemen discovered one of three conductors on a pole had been severed and was lying on the ground. Before the oil circuit recloser had time to interrupt the flow of electricity and deenergize the line, which is what normally happens to prevent outages, a fire had started. Fortunately, the fire self-extinguished in a short time, but the damage was done. As crews worked to fix the damage and restore power, they discovered the initial separation of the conductor appeared to be from the discharge of a firearm. Even though the electrical outage was restored within an hour, it resulted in considerable expense to both the electric co-op and its members. Some tips: ffFamiliarize yourself with the location of power lines and equipment on land where you shoot. ffBe especially careful in wooded areas where power lines may not be as visible.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

ffTake notice of warning signs and keep

clear of electrical equipment. ffDo not place deer stands on utility poles or climb poles. Energized lines and equipment on the poles can conduct electricity to anyone who comes in contact with them, causing shock or electrocution. ffDo not shoot at, or near, birds perching on utility lines. ffDo not place decoys on power lines or other utility equipment. Anything attached to a pole besides utility equipment can pose an obstruction—and a serious hazard—to electric cooperative employees as they perform utility operations. ffAvoid the use of lofting poles near overhead power lines. Remember, electricity can jump across a considerable distance. We encourage experienced hunters who are familiar with the area in which they are hunting to identify the locations of utility properties and equipment to young or new hunters in their group and remind them to avoid shooting toward these facilities. Enjoy the great outdoors in Kansas. Just be sure to hunt only what’s in season. KCL

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Hunting 2015

Outlook

Fall Turkey

� ARCHERY/SHOTGUN: Oct. 1–Dec. 1 and Dec.

14–Jan. 31, 2016

Deer � ARCHERY: Sept. 14–Dec. 31 � REGULAR FIREARM: Dec. 2–Dec. 13 � FIREARMS WHITETAIL ANTLERLESS-ONLY:

Jan. 1–3, 2016, Units 6, 8, 9, 10, 16 and 17; Jan. 1–10, 2016, Units 1-5, 7, and 11-14; Jan. 1–17, 2016, Units 15, 10A and 19 � ARCHERY WHITETAIL ANTLERLESS-ONLY:

Jan. 18–31, 2016, Unit DMU 19 ONLY

Upland Game Bird � PHEASANT & QUAIL, Regular: Nov. 14–Jan.

31, 2016; Youth: Nov. 7–8 � GREATER PRAIRIE CHICKEN, Regular:

Nov. 21–Jan. 31, 2016 (permit required, Greater Prairie Chicken Unit)

Migratory Birds � SNIPE: Sept. 1–Dec. 16 � DUCKS: High Plains Unit (see map at ksoutdoors. com): Oct. 10–Jan. 4, 2016 and

Jan. 23–31, 2016; Low Plains Early Zone: Oct. 10–Dec. 6 and Dec. 19–Jan. 3, 2016; Low Plains Late Zone: Oct. 31–Jan. 3, 2016 and Jan. 23–31, 2016; Low Plains Southeast Zone: Nov. 14–Jan. 3, 2016 and Jan. 9–31, 2016 � YOUTH WATERFOWL: Nov. 7–8 (Southeast Zone)

� CANADA GEESE: Nov. 4–Feb. 14, 2016 � WHITE-FRONTED GEESE: Oct. 31–Jan. 3,

2016 and Jan. 23–Feb. 14, 2016 � LIGHT GEESE: Nov. 4–Feb. 14, 2016

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Hunting in Kansas contributes well over $400 million to the state’s economy every year according to Mike Miller, Chief of Information Production for Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks. In fact, the first two weeks in November influence the financial outlook for businesses such as motels, restaurants and gas stations in some areas of the state. “In the western part of the state it can be critical to some of the smaller communities,” Miller explained. “I grew up in Greensburg and the only weekend I ever saw our motels all full was opening weekend of pheasant season,” Miller recalled. “It can be a really big economic boost for our smaller communities out west. It’s an important economic force in the state.” Upland game bird populations have improved significantly this year and Miller said the harvest will be much better than it has been. After coming off one of the best hunting seasons in 20 years in 2010, drought conditions negatively impacted upland game bird populations—pheasant, quail and prairie chicken—which in turn resulted in fewer hunters flocking to Kansas the last few years. “During the drought, which was about the most severe drought we’ve had since the 1950s as far as our bird populations go, our annual harvest of pheasants dropped to maybe as low as we’ve had on record,” Miller shared. “We saw minor improvements two years ago, and last year was much better than it had been. This year we are looking dramatically improved over what we’ve seen the last three years,” he added. Quail and greater prairie chicken

NOVEMBER 2015

are in even better shape. “We saw really good improvements in quail numbers last year and we saw even better improvements in quail numbers this year,” Miller said. Kansas is one of the strongholds for greater prairie chicken, according to Miller. “Kansas has good populations of greater prairie chicken, probably as good as anywhere throughout the Central Grasslands and in the Great Plains.” The waterfowl season forecast looks favorable this year for all species of ducks and geese. “We had very good numbers of ducks and geese and it will just depend on the weather front and the water conditions we have here,” Miller explained. “Where we are located in the Central Flyway sometimes the numbers for geese can build up into the hundreds of thousands to more than a million.” Deer and turkey populations remain stable. “With deer, our numbers don’t fluctuate a lot,” Miller noted. “Turkey populations don’t fluctuate very dramatically unless we have a really cold, wet spring. The severe drought in the western and northwestern part of the state hurt our turkey production but overall turkey numbers are in good shape.” Miller noted that the best hunting in Kansas happens in November. “That’s when the deer rut kicks in so the archery deer season is the best and the pheasant and quail season is open. A lot of times that’s when the big push of ducks and geese come down through in November,” he said. “We like to joke that November is really too short of a month because that’s when everything happens. It is the best hunting we have.” KCL

NE W

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Makes Quite a Elk

FallsSTINK In the spirit of the cooperative principle, “Concern for Community,” in which members work for the sustainable development of their communities, the Friends of Elk Falls added to its annual open house an Outhouse Tour and Contest 20 years ago that continues to attract visitors from across the country.

Visitors pick the best two outhouses in the Elk Falls Outhouse Tour and Contest, mark their ballot, and deposit it in the slotted toilet seat inside Outhouse Tour Headquarters.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

The tiny town of Elk Falls has been making quite a stink in southeast Kansas for going on two decades. And just what would you expect from the Outhouse Capital of the state? The town celebrates that distinction by hosting the 20th Outhouse Tour and Contest on Friday and Saturday, Nov. 20 and 21, 2015. Steve Fry, President of Friends of Elk Falls, explained that the idea for the outrageous event occurred when the group was discussing what the town had to attract visitors. They all agreed it had gone to pot. “Someone jokingly suggested that we have a lot of outhouses. ‘Why not have an outhouse tour?’ We laughed about it and decided to try it.” And the town went all out. The first event held in 1996 was a thundering success! In the past 19 years, people from all over the United States and many foreign countries have taken the self-guided tour. Approximately 1,500 to 1,800 attend the two-day event each year. Dorothy Tiffany directs tourists while handing out maps, information and ballots at the Outhouse Headquarters downtown, just as she has done since the event’s inception. “People come back year after year,” she said. Members of the Wichita Model A Club have driven down for the past 14 or 15 years, Judy Hill, a member of the group, shared. “I like going around seeing the outhouses and people’s reaction to them. It’s a lot of fun.” May White and Jonna Bruce, Whippoorwill Point, OK, make it a yearly outing. And a group from Christian Chapel Church, Wichita, has been coming for 10 years.

But new faces are always welcome. First timers Kurte and Brenda Peters, Newkirk, OK, saw an article about the event in an area newspaper last year and decided to spend their 28th wedding anniversary at the Outhouse Tour. “It looked like a fun thing to check out,” Kurte noted. Those who buy a $1 commemorative button receive a ballot in which they can choose their top two outhouses. Completed ballots are then dumped into the slotted toilet seat lid at the Outhouse Headquarters. Some mark their ballot as they go while others wait until they’re finished to do the paperwork. About a dozen or so outhouses in various décor vie for the Outhouse Throne Award, a traveling trophy, which is actually a stone chamber pot on a pedestal. Last year’s First Place winner was “What Happens in the Elk Falls Outhouse, Stays in the Outhouse,” which had a Las Vegas theme. Dubbed “Downwind Casino,” the entry by Southern Kansas Telephone Co. had a slot machine, an Elvis mannequin, Elvis’ songs playing, and VIP seating. Pat Cunningham, of Elk Falls, hit the jackpot at the crap table while sitting on the toilet seat. Second Place winner was “Pretty Privy,” by Ruth Gordon and Marjean Jacobs, which is the only working outhouse on the tour. Used by the Elk Falls Post Office, visitors are urged to knock before entering. The pink with yellow trim struc-

Elvis is in the outhouse dubbed “Downwind Casino,” a Las Vegas-themed outhouse, which won First Place in Elk Falls’ 2014 Outhouse Tour and Contest.

“Quack Pot” is a Duck Dynasty-themed outhouse, which received Third Place in last year’s voting in the Elk Falls Outhouse Tour and Contest.

ture had a zebra print throw over the seated area, a leg lamp with a zebra print lampshade on a side table and a chandelier light overhead. This year, Gordon plans to enter a wedding-themed outhouse called “Get me to the Church on Time.” This will be Gordon’s third year to enter the contest, and her reason for participating is twofold. “It’s a fun thing to do, especially the puns,” Gordon shared. “That’s half the fun of it.” Third Place last year went to “Quack Pot” designed by Steve Fry and fashioned from the Duck Dynasty television show. Outside a sign reads “Quack Commander, Crap Commander.” Uncle Si, dressed in camouflage, sits inside. In a recorded message he says, “When you’re through gawking, shut the door. A man’s got to have some peace and quiet.” Some of the entries already announced for this year include “Cat House” by Boyd Koehn and “The Pointer and the Setter” by Doug Dowell, which will be a pair of outhouses, one for men and one for women. There are other outhouses not on the official tour throughout town, one dating back to the 1930s, which was built by the Work Projects Administration. It was called an “Eleanor” after Eleanor Roosevelt, wife of then-President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who promoted commissioned outhouses in rural areas for better sanitation. Former mayor Boyd Koehn, who has the only other working outhouse in town, said, “The contest is a diversion. It keeps us from taking ourselves too seriously. It’s a fun couple of days for everyone.” Steve Fry agrees. He added, “If you’ve never gone, then you gotta go!” And he encourages everyone to come back when they feel the urge. KCL NOVEMBER 2015

It’s a fun thing to do, especially the puns. That’s half the fun of it.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Playing Games Input from others completes the puzzle BY J E A N E T T E S I E M E N S

Some might say I spend too much time playing word games but I say it’s

Jeanette Siemens

Without others’ input, we could easily overlook something so very obvious.

good for my brain. I particularly love Words with Friends and the newspaper puzzle, surprisingly called Word Game, where you make as many words as you can from the one word given. For instance the word “cordial” can yield an additional 35 words out of its seven letters. First, I look at the puzzle and pull out those other obvious words, i.e., cord, dial, card, etc. Then, I begin rearranging the letters, moving the first letter to the back and so on, again allowing me to see the word from another angle, and usually opening a window to see words I hadn’t noticed before. Combinations of vowels help put words together and looking at the words rearranged is very helpful. Soon I get down to needing just one or two more words to complete the game but often I struggle to see those last word options clearly. After some more looking and rearranging one will finally emerge! Sometimes the word I struggled over is so obvious that it’s embarrassing to admit I hadn’t seen it before. This strategy is often a logical approach to take when working in communities or with groups and organizations. When we have challenges facing us we need to look at all the “letters” (factions) involved. We get so used to seeing and doing the same things (words) we miss what “might be.” If we see things through another’s eyes or vantage point, the picture will look different. If we rearrange things, there most likely will be different, and many times better, outcomes. Without others’ input, we could easily overlook something so very obvious. Sometimes the word that is seldom used or spoken is the final one to complete the puzzle, just as the voice

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

that isn’t often heard can be a major part of the answer. I once worked with a group attempting to reach a consensus and finally, the quietest person in the group came forward with another viewpoint. Having been silent but thoughtful throughout the larger discussion, when she finally contributed to the dialogue, her comments changed the whole outcome of the discussion. Had she not been encouraged to express her ideas or had her thoughts listened to with an open mind, a different, much less effective decision would have been made. The Public Square process is very intentional about involving all four sectors of a community in conversation. Those sectors of Education, Business, Human Services and Government do a great job of working within their own boundaries, but decisions made in each sector have implications for all four thus highlighting the importance of including everyone in the conversation regarding public challenges. Remember to include all the letters, (voices) even the ones you don’t use often make a huge difference. Whether it is in our organization, business or community, rearranging the letters can sometimes yield a lot of fruit that makes our answers stronger and diverse. There is nothing more exhilarating than when that new idea or word pops up and completes the puzzle. And there is nothing more exhilarating than when a community, group or organization comes together discovering new strengths and growth they just had not been able to see before. KCL is Director of Operations at Public Square Communities.

JEANETTE SIEMENS, ACC, CCLC,

Around Kansas

Continued from page 5 

p.m. Seven miles west of Lincoln on Highway 18 and three miles north on 120th Road, 785524-5352. DEC. 5-6 C elebrate Christmas Tablescapes Display, Protection. Protection Township Library presents this event from 4 to 8 p.m. on Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. For more information or for tickets call 620-622-4886. DEC. 5 B reakfast with Santa, Manhattan. The entire family will enjoy a morning of food, fun and photos. Every child will decorate a holiday picture frame to hold their family photo taken with Santa! www.flinthillsdiscovery.org, facebook.com/ flinthillsdiscovery, twitter.com/discoverFHDC. DEC. 5 F ive Places of Christmas, Newton. Five Newton-area museums welcome the public from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 5 for a holiday open house. Each venue will offer its own theme and activities. 316-284-3642, mspurney@ newtonkansas.com. DEC. 5 W interfest Bazaar and Craft Fair, Derby. Visit more than 100 craft booths and check out the Snowflake Café, silent auction and bake sale at Woodlawn United Methodist Church from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 431 S. Woodlawn, 316-788-1507. DEC. 5. G ifts and Goodies Craft Show,

Washington. Modern Pioneers Study Club will host the show from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Washington East Elementary School Gym. A 6’x8’ exhibit is $20 and exhibitor must provide their own table and chairs. Call 785-325-2181.

DEC. 6 H oliday Home Tours, Lincoln.

T our Lincoln County-area homes. Purchase tickets in advance of the event. 785-524-5383 or 785-524-4934. Send items for your free listing in Around Kansas to Kansas Country Living, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604 by the fifth of the month prior to publication. Or email events@kansascountryliving.com. Please include a contact phone number. NOVEMBER 2015

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WHERE

TO SHOP

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

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

NOVEMBER R 2015

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

C O O K ’ S L I B R A RY

Orphan Trains Pioneered Modern Form of Adoption Families today take many different forms. It may seem that’s a recent phenom-

BY PAT SY T E R R E L L

plenty of stories of good families being built from the Orphan Trains. Brace expected families to provide for these children the same as they enon but it has deep roots in history. Adoption would their own biological children. His agents has been around for hundreds of years, but the did make follow-up visits and would sometimes modern form of adoption was pioneered in the remove children and find them a new home. U.S. by the Orphan Trains. Between 1853 and Many of the Orphan Train riders found 1929, trains moved homeless and orphaned families in Kansas and surrounding states. children from Eastern cities to homes mostly Their stories are all unique and were almost in the Midwest. About 200,000 children found lost. This was not something often discussed in new lives. polite company and the history began to fade. Charles Loring Brace spearheaded the idea Patsy Terrell In 1987 The Orphan Train Heritage Society of of finding homes for orphaned and deserted America was formed by Mary Ellen Johnson. children. In addition to the Orphan Trains, he They have since documented the stories of tried free kindergartens and dental clinics, job hundreds of riders and have a database of more training and lodging houses. But he believed the than 7,000 riders. best option was to find homes for these chilConcordia is home to the National Orphan dren—that the love of a strong family, work and Train Complex, opened in 2007, which provides education, would help them grow into producan archive of stories, houses a research facility, tive citizens. and has a museum that includes photos, artifacts As the Orphan Trains began rolling west, and memorabilia of riders. It is located in the different methods of placing the children Union Pacific Railroad Depot, which is listed were tried. Sometimes couples applied for a on the National Register of Historic Places. If child, sometimes a local committee looked for you haven’t yet visited, I highly recommend appropriate families, and other times families it. You will find yourself transported into this just chose children from the train platform or era and feel an emotional tug on your heart other viewing location. While there were some for these children and what they faced. Read horror stories of families treating these children stories from riders on their website at www. as little more than free labor, there were also orphantraindepot.org. Our cookbook this month is “Recipes to Remember,” which was published by the Orphan Train Heritage Society. Each recipe is from an Orphan Train rider or their family members. Just flipping through, you can see people now live coast to ff 2 medium sized acorn squash ff 1/2 c. apple jelly coast, but they all share a background ff 2 red tart apples, diced ff 1/4 c. butter or margarine, softened few of us can comprehend. This was ff 1/2 c. chopped nuts an incredible time in history and the cookbook is a great way to recogCut squash in halves lengthwise; scoop out centers. Place in baking pan. Pour nize it. Pick up a copy at the National a small amount of boiling water in pan around squash. Fill squash with mixture Orphan Train Complex in Concordia of apples, nuts, jelly and butter. Cover pan with foil. Bake at 400 degrees for for $10, or order one from them at 45 to 60 minutes or until fork tender. Remove foil during last five minutes of baking. P.O. Box 322, Concordia, KS, 66901. Include an extra $5 for shipping and THIS RECIPE BY ELE ANOR SCHIPPERS , VICTORIA , KS , IS INCLUDED IN THE COOKBOOK , “RECIPES handling if you order. KCL TO REMEMBER .” HER FATHER , FRANK SCHIPPERS , RODE AN ORPHAN TRAIN TO KANSAS IN 1901.

Baked Squash

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2015

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Bourbon Fig Pecan Pie

Vegetarian Three Bean Chili

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, NOVEMBER 2015

Figs are a delightful and nutrient rich addition to the traditional pecan pie.

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, NOVEMBER 2015

This chili makes it easy to get a wholesome, homemade meal on your table.

Savory Mini Cheese Balls

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, N OVE M B E R 201 5

Simple can be special with these quick to make yet flavorful appetizers.

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, N OVE M B E R 201 5

Make this nutritious comfort dish with ingredients on hand this holiday season.

Pumpkin Mac and Cheese ff 8 ounces rotini or medium shell pasta ff 5 tbs. butter, divided ff 1/4 cup all-purpose flour ff 1 can (12 ounces) evaporated fat free milk ff 1 cup milk ff 1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree

Cook pasta as package directs. Drain. Set aside.

ff 1 -1/2 tsp. salt ff 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper ff 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg ff 2 cups shredded Swiss or Gruyere cheese ff 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese ff Bread crumbs

Vegetarian Three Bean Chili

drained and rinsed

ff 2 tbs. vegetable oil ff 1 large onion, diced ff 1 large green pepper, seeded and diced ff 2 large garlic cloves, minced ff 1 tbs. chili powder ff 1 tsp. ground cumin ff 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes ff 1 can (16 ounces) diced tomatoes ff 1 can (15.5 ounces) pinto beans,

beans, drained and rinsed

ff 1 can (15.5 ounces) white kidney

beans, drained and rinsed

ff 1 can (15.5 ounces) red kidney

green chilies, drained

ff 1 can (4 ounces) chopped

ff 1/2 tsp. salt ff 1/4 tsp. chipotle pepper sauce ff chopped parsley (optional) ff shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

In large saucepan over medium heat, in hot oil, cook onion, pepper and garlic until softened, about 5 minutes. Add chili powder and cumin, cook 1 minute.

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Grease a 1-1/2 quart baking dish. In 4-quart saucepan over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons butter. Stir in flour; cook 1 minute. Gradually stir in evaporated milk and milk, cook until mixture is thickened and smooth. Stir in pumpkin, salt, pepper and nutmeg. Remove from heat; whisk in Swiss and cheddar cheese until smooth. Stir in cooked pasta; toss to mix well. Spoon into baking dish.

COURTESY CM I

Melt remaining 2 tablespoons butter; stir in bread crumbs to coat well. Sprinkle on top of casserole. Bake 30 minutes or until sauce is bubbly and mixture is golden. Serves 4.

COURTESY CMI

Bourbon Fig Pecan Pie

Add crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, pinto beans, white beans, red beans, green chilies, salt and pepper sauce. Over high heat, bring to boil; reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 15 minutes to blend flavors, stirring occasionally. If desired, sprinkle with parsley and cheddar. Makes 6 servings.

Savory Mini Cheese Balls

ff 1 refrigerated pie crust ff 1 cup stemmed, chopped figs ff 1 cup packed light brown sugar ff 3 tbs. unsalted butter ff 2 tbs. bourbon

COURTESY VALLEY FI G GROWER S

Note: Pie can be made up to one day ahead and kept refrigerated. (Reheat at 300 degrees for 10-15 minutes.)

Bake 35-45 minutes or until center is set, shielding crust edge with foil after 30 minutes. Cool. Chill until serving. Serve with whipped cream. Makes 8 servings.

In medium saucepan, combine figs, brown sugar, butter and bourbon. Stir over medium heat until butter and sugar melt. In medium bowl, whisk eggs and salt until well blended. Whisk in corn syrup and orange zest. Stir in fig mixture. Sprinkle nuts evenly over bottom of crust. Pour fig mixture over nuts.

ff 3 large eggs ff 1/2 tsp. salt ff 3/4 cup light corn syrup ff 1-1/2 tsp. finely grated orange zest ff 1-1/2 cups chopped pecans, toasted

ff 1-1/2 packages (12 ounces) cream cheese ff 2 tbs. toasted sesame seeds ff 1 tsp. poppy seeds ff 2 cloves garlic, minced, divided ff 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley

Adjust oven rack to middle position. Heat oven to 375 degrees. Coat 9-inch glass pie plate with vegetable oil spray. Fit pie crust into plate, flute edge. Chill until ready to bake.

ff 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves ff 1 tsp. finely chopped fresh rosemary ff 1/4 cup finely chopped dried cranberries ff 2 tbs. finely chopped pecans

Cut cream cheese into 6 pieces; roll each into a ball. Combine sesame seeds, poppy seeds and half the garlic in small bowl. Mix herbs and remaining garlic in separate small bowl. Combine cranberries and nuts in third bowl. Roll 2 cheese balls in sesame seed mixture, 2 cheese balls in herb mixture and remaining cheese balls in nut mixture. Cut each cheese ball in half and serve with crackers. Serves 12, two tablespoons each.

COURTESY PHIL ADELPHIA CRE AM CHEESE

NOVEMBER 2015

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

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