Issuu

E D I TO R’S L E T T E R

Small Business Saturday: Shop with the Locals Nestled between the madness of Black

your appreciation for the Friday and digital deals of Cyber Monday is opportunity to Small Business Saturday. This annual celebration observed the Saturday after Thanksgiving encour- purchase goods and services locally. ages consumers to shop local retailers and merSmall business owners will chants as they kick off their holiday shopping. thank you. The goal of Small Business Saturday when November is the month we recognize first celebrated in 2010 was to encourage more and give thanks to those who have served our shoppers to buy goods and services from local country in the United States military. Again, it’s brick-and-mortar retail businesses during the not something to engage in just one day a year year-end holiday season. This day has quickly on Veterans Day. In this issue, we highlight two become a leading shopping day of the year, recently completed veteran memorials that will comparable to Black Friday and Cyber Monday. continually honor those who have bravely served In 2015, more than 95 million customour country. The article begins on Page 10. ers shopped small U.S. businesses-retailers and Continuing our theme of gratitude, I’d like restaurants on Small Business Saturday, an 8 percent increase from the year before. Let’s keep to thank our readers who have answered the call for photo submissions. On Page 20, we highlight the momentum going—and not just on Satura sampling of the photos we’ve received; others day, Nov. 25. Small businesses depend on our support year-round, and our rural communities will be posted on our Facebook page or in future issues. I truly cherish the interaction and depend on prosperous small businesses. Show encourage you to keep the photos, emails, letters and SHARE WITH US! phone calls coming. Have an event you would like to run in Around Kansas? A story idea or Have a blessed comments you want to share with the editor? A recipe and photo for us to Thanksgiving! KCL

consider publishing? Let us know: ffevents@kansascountryliving.com ffletters@kansascountryliving.com ffphotos@kansascountryliving.com

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

ffeditor@kansascountryliving.com ffrecipes@kansascountryliving.com VICKI ESTES, EDITOR

(ISSN 0091-9586) NOVEMBER 2017 VOL. 67, NO. 11 © KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2017 WWW.KEC.COOP

Bruce Graham

Chief Executive Officer

Doug Shepherd

Vice President, Management Consulting

Shana Read

Director of Communications

Vicki Estes Editor

Carrie Kimberlin

Manager of Creative Solutions

NOVEMBER

Jackie Kamphaus

Communications Specialist Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.

Kathleen O’Brien President

Keith McNickle Vice President

Terry Hobbs Secretary

Craig Kostman 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 FreeState, McLouth & Topeka Lane-Scott, Dighton Lyon-Coffey, Burlington Ninnescah, Pratt Pioneer, Ulysses Prairie Land, Norton Radiant, Fredonia Rolling Hills, Beloit Sedgwick County, Cheney Sumner-Cowley, Wellington Tri-County, Hooker, OK Twin Valley, Altamont Victory, Dodge City Western, WaKeeney Wheatland, Scott City Why do you receive Kansas Country Living? Your electric cooperative sends you this magazine as a cost-effective way to share important information about services, energy savings, electric safety, director elections, meetings and management decisions. It also contains legal notices that otherwise would be published in other media at greater cost. Your co-op’s board of directors authorizes a subscription to Kansas Country Living on behalf of the membership at a cost of $5.88 per year. Individual subscriptions are $10 per year (tax included). Kansas Country Living is published monthly by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS, and additional entry offices. Editorial offices: P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267; 785-478-4554. Co-op Member Address Changes: Please report address changes to your local electric co-op. Postmaster: Send address changes to Kansas Country Living, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267. Advertising: Kansas Country Living is a member of American MainStreet Publications (www.amp.coop), collectively reaching more than 27 million readers each month. Advertisers call 512-4415200. Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives of the product or services advertised.

10| Honoring Veterans

“LIKE” Kansas Country Living on Facebook.

Two small towns unveil veteran memorials made possible by community members and businesses.

D E PA RT M E N T S

14| 10 Ways to Save

Kansas 4| Around Holiday season activities

Save energy this winter with these 10 tips.

6| Commentary Retail wheeling's real costs

20| Reader Photos

Your Utility Bills 8| Cut Proper use of space heaters

Readers share their favorite Kansas photos.

Place in the Garden 18| Your Growing green, growing clean

22| High-Energy Jobs

My Way Home 24| Cooking The alchemy that is gravy

Cutting edge co-op jobs power the economy.

26| Marketplace Find products, services you need

28| Safety Thanksgiving cooking safety Recipes 29| Monthly Apples, cranberries and maple ON THE COVER The Wamego Area Veterans Memorial includes a sculpture of a 1st Infantry Division soldier kneeling at a battlefield cross.

NOVEMBER 2017

P H OTO BY LIVY SEIRER, IMAGEMAKERS

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

T H I N G S TO D O

NOV. 10 V eterans Salute, Natoma. American Legion

Auxiliary Unit 109 and Natoma USD 399 will host this event beginning at 8:30 a.m. at the Natoma Elementary gymnasium. The event will feature “Every Hero Has a Story” veterans’ panel discussion and a musical program with special guests. Open to all veterans, families and the general public. In addition, the Green Light Initiative continues throughout the year, lighting each porch with a green light for veterans. 785-885-4116.

THROUGH NOV. 5 Creating M&M’s

Caramel, Topeka. See the world’s largest M&M mural, Creating M&M’s Caramel, on display at the Kansas Museum of History. 6425 SW 6th Ave., 785-272-8681. THROUGH DEC. 1 Christmas in

Lecompton, Lecompton. More than 120 Christmas trees decorated in antique and vintage ornaments. The largest indoor exhibit in the Midwest of Christmas trees! Territorial Capital Museum, 640 E. Woodson, 785-8876148, www.lecomptonkansas.com. THROUGH DECEMBER P.F.C John L.

Meyer Jr., My Road to Nuremberg, Topeka. Phillipsburg native John L. Meyer Jr., was drafted into the army in 1943. He saw frontline action in Germany as an infantryman in the “Fighting First” and was awarded the Purple Heart. He was discharged in 1946. Before returning to Kansas, he was selected to build the model of the courtroom for the Nuremberg trials. Kansas Historical Society Research Room. 6425 SW 6th Ave., 785-272-8681.

duet team performs classical, original and some contemporary music. Dodge City Civic Center at 7 p.m. For tickets visit dodgecityconcerts.com or call 620-225-4404.

NOV. 4 Holiday Craft Fair, Lincoln.

NOV. 11 Fall Bake Sale, Denmark.

Lincoln Business Women’s Club will hold this annual event at Lincoln Grade School from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 785-524-4075 or 785-531-2157. NOV. 4 The Authentic Illusionist , Dodge City. Jay Owenhouse, a legendary escape artist and one of the most awarded illusionists in history, returns for a 7:30 p.m. one-night-only show “Family Magic,” an intimate evening of Grand Illusions. www. unitedwirelessarena.com. NOV. 4 Rephotography Workshop,

NOV. 3 Anderson and Roe Piano

NOV. 4 City Market, St. Mary’s. Shop

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

NOV. 5 A Cellar Tour for

Vendors will sell jams, honey, homemade items, antler knives, wreaths, clothing, jewelry and other products. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Community Building. 421 Main St., 785669-2425.

Alma. Re-photography is the act of repeat photography of the same site with the idea of producing a “then and now” view of a particular location. Learn and practice re-photography techniques. 785-499-3616, thevollandstore.com.

Duet, Dodge City. This dynamic piano

Armory, 110 S. 5th St. Facebook at facebook. com/groups/stmaryscitymarket. Photographers, Alma. Tour has limited availability and will visit very few cellars, allowing photographers time to set up and photograph the cellars in their natural wonder. Tours start at 1 p.m. Register at https:// squareup.com/store/the-volland-store/item/ photographers-cellar-tour, 785-499-3616.

NOV. 4 Fall Vendor Fair, Almena.

Exhibit, Ellsworth. View the nature and wildlife photography of Jim Glynn and “Birds From the Linden Tree” wood carvings by Robert Buttons. Ellsworth Area Art Center. 223 N. Douglas Ave.

THROUGH NOV. 15 Wildlife and Nature

The 2016 “Every Hero Has a Story” veterans panel discussion included three World War II veterans, from left: Harold Dennett, 94, Paul Hofstetter, 93, and Richard Scott, 101.

locally and support the community from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. George J. Perry Memorial

The Denmark Dames Service Club hosts this popular annual fall bake sale from at 9 a.m. until sold out featuring pies, cakes, cookies, peppernuts and breads. Proceeds benefit various Lincoln County organizations. Denmark Hall, seven miles west of Lincoln on KS Highway 18 and three miles north on 120th Road, 785 524-5352. NOV. 11 Homemade Holidays Craft

Show, Ottawa. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Ottawa Middle School, shop 125 booths offering a variety of goods. 13th and Ash streets, 785-228-8030. NOV. 11 Jingle Bell Shop & Sell,

Ellsworth. The Ellsworth County Medical Center Auxiliary sponsors this event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop homemade crafts, raffles, Grandma’s General Store (treasured new and used items), custom jewelry and other goods. Proceeds benefit Ellsworth County Medical

Center. ECMC Administrative Building, 1706 Aylward Ave., 785-472-3111 ext. 328. NOV. 11 One Stop Christmas Shop,

Benton. The Benton Church will host vendors—crafters, artisans, vintage goodies and direct sales—from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Earn tickets to vendor raffle by visiting the booths, or purchase tickets to benefit the AWANA Clubs at TBC children’s ministry. 14300 S.W. 20th St., bentononestopchristmasshop@ gmail.com, 316-882-8126. NOV. 11 Pheasant Day Soup Luncheon,

Denmark. Enjoy chicken noodle soup, chili, ham sandwiches, pimento cheese sandwiches, pie and drink from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. sponsored by the Denmark Hall Association. Proceeds used to maintain the hall which was built in 1911. Seven miles west of Lincoln on Kansas Highway 18 and three miles north on 120th Road, 785 524-5352.

7 a.m. to 11 a.m. and then shop for holiday gifts. Booths with antiques, florals, baked goods, baskets, candles and so much more from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Junction City Middle School, 700 Wildcat Lane, 785-224-5260. NOV. 18 Hometown Fallfest, Phillipsburg. Enjoy cider and refreshments from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. while you shop with your friends. Huck Boyd Community Center. NOV. 18 See ‘N Sell Craft Show, Salina.

Tony’s Pizza Event Center, 800 The Midway, 785-826-7200, bicentennialcenter.com.

NOV. 21 C omparisons between Finney

County and Historic Rulers, Garden City. Debra J. Bolton, Ph.D., and Conny Bogaard, Ph.D., will draw connections between Finney County in the 21st Century and the times of Alfonso X, the Christian king of

Spain during the 13th Century. Finney County Museum, 430 S. Fourth, 620-272-3664. NOV. 23 Memory Lane Christmas Experience, Rantoul. Explore the magic of the holiday as you enjoy the lights, sights and sounds of Peckham’s Christmas tree farm. 2710 Vermont, www.pleasantridge.com. NOV. 24 Celebration of Lights,

Phillipsburg. Supper with Santa at 5 p.m. Courthouse lighting at 6 p.m. Hay rack rides all evening. Phillips County Courthouse Square, www.phillipsburgchambermainstreet.com. NOV. 24-25 C hristmas in the Country, Oxford. Enjoy home tours, antique and vintage market, food, wagon rides and shopping. 620-455-3636, visit us on Facebook. Continued on page 16 

NOV. 11 V eterans Day Parade, Norton.

P ride shines brightly for the Veterans Day Parade honoring those who have served. After the parade, visit Veteran Memorial Park on Highway 36 where a brick walkway of county veteran’s names and memorial honors men and women in all branches of the service. NOV. 11 Veterans Day Parade,

Ottawa. Held downtown, this year’s theme is “Honoring Women in the Military.” blueangelsks47@yahoo.com.

NOV. 15 Lighted Horse Parade & Soup

Supper, Barnes. Soup supper begins at 5 p.m. and horse parade at 7 p.m. Singles, teams, saddle Clubs—any horse-drawn conveyance is welcome. 785-763-4310, www.barnesks.net. NOV. 15-JAN. 5 Filley Festival of Trees,

Wreaths and Decorations, Pratt. Reception and drawing Friday Dec. 15. Free admission. Vernon Filley Art Museum, 421 S. Jackson St. NOV. 18 H oliday Market and Pancake Feed, Junction City. Have breakfast from NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

C O M M E N TA RY

Retail Wheeling Gambles with Rate Stability BY B R U C E G R A H A M

Bruce Graham

Retail wheeling boosters will be back in 2018 with rosy claims that consumers can save money, even though a comprehensive study completed by Christensen Associates Energy Consulting says otherwise.

ing the retail wheeling experiment in Texas and about possible legislation in Kansas that could headlines like the following are far too common: fundamentally change the utility business in “Texas’ electricity marketplace riddled with Kansas—and not for the better. The concept, deceivers, manipulators and violators.” called retail wheeling, would require customers Another thing we have learned is that a to choose their provider of electricity. market price doesn't mean a lower price. It Most likely, your current electric provider does mean being subject to the fluctuations of would still be responsible for maintaining the a volatile energy market—a market that may be poles and wires to deliver electricity, but every attractive today but could be wildly different in consumer would be forced to evaluate different the future. rate plans and carefully select another company In the cooperative world, we are not just to secure the kilowatts needed to keep their your electricity provider, we are community. lights on. We are neighbors serving neighbors. You likely As expected, those legislative proposals were know your cooperative employees, you know introduced by a Nebraska organization boldly where to call when you have an outage, and you titled Americans for Electricity Choice (AEC). know who to call when the community is in Retail wheeling advocates like AEC are usually need. The electric cooperatives in Kansas have bankrolled by a few large commercial or indusbeen your trusted and reliable electric service for trial customers that might be able to aggregate more than 75 years. It sure beats worrying about power purchases and reduce their energy bills. “a market riddled with deceivers, manipulators Residential and small commercial customers and violators.” won’t have the same clout. KEC and your cooperative will be engaged So the electric cooperatives in Kansas spoke in this debate to protect the interests of our in opposition because we strongly believe that full cooperative membership. When the issue unless all customer classes can benefit, retail becomes serious, we will let you know and hope choice should not be considered in Kansas. you will let your opinion be heard. KCL Retail wheeling boosters will be back in 2018 with rosy claims that consumers can save BRUCE GRAHAM is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. in Topeka. money, even though a comprehensive study completed by Christensen Associates Energy Consulting says otherwise. After reviewing the status of retail choice for the past 20 years, the authors found little evidence that this restructuring has yielded any significant benefits. That conclusion is pretty mild. We have Market price doesn't always mean a lower price. Restructuring the utility business in been watchKansas would subject members to fluctuations of a volatile energy market.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

GETTYIMAGES/BIGTUNAONLINE

In my February column, I was concerned

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

How to Select an Electric Space Heater for Various Uses

BY J I M D U L L E Y

L ASKO PRODUCTS

Dear Jim: I have seen ads claiming their

space heaters to keep just one or two rooms toasty warm. electric space heaters will cut my electric The actual efficiency (Btu of heat per wattbills. Is this true, and which types of space hours of electricity used) of all electric space heater are best for various uses and rooms? heaters is the same. This is true for the inexpenVicki G. sive $20 ribbon heaters and the very expensive Dear Vicki: Running an electric space so-called “furnaces.” All of the electricity used heater to selectively heat a room or two may save becomes heat, so all models are effectively 100 some energy, even if you have an efficient heat percent efficient as compared to a gas or oil pump. The keyword here is “selectively.” Some heating appliance where some heat is lost out the ads exaggerate the savings by giving the impresflue pipe. sion their expensive space heater can heat your The type and design of electric space heater entire house, which is not accurate. Most people does impact your savings and comfort. The use space heaters in addition to their central size of the room, number of people and speheating, which can actually increase electric bills. cific activities determine which type is your best The only way to save overall with a space choice. For example, are you looking for quiet heater is if you set the central heat pump therheat in a bedroom at night, heat for just one mostat several degrees lower. Why? Standard person watching TV in an easy chair, for a group 110-volt space heaters can produce maximum of people in a large room, etc.? heat of about 5,100 Btu/hour. A heat pump proYour basic choices are direct radiant and conduces three times as much heat as a space heater vection (air circulation) space heaters with each per dollar on your electric bill. having its advantages. Within each group, there Depending upon your climate, you can are many comfort features and options that may expect to save about 2 to 3 percent of your impact your decision. If you have young children, heating bills for each degree you lower the there may also be extra safety considerations. thermostat setting. That savings will offset the Radiant style units produce quick heat. electricity used by the resistance heating of the These use a red-hot ribbon, quartz or carbon tubes to produce infrared heat similar to the sun’s rays. They are designed to warm people directly in front of them. Carbon tubes produce far-infrared heat, which penetrates objects and skin slightly below the surface. This makes it very comfortable, effective heat. Radiant heaters are quiet and are ideal for heating a specific spot. One should be no more than 8 feet away and in a range of 20 degrees from direct center for the best comfort. To heat a slightly larger area, select a model that automatiThis oscillating heater is small enough to be used on the floor or a tabletop for very cally oscillates. directed heating.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

Convection heaters heat the room air, so it takes longer to feel the effect. Most models use a built-in fan to circulate room air over the heating elements so they make some noise. Oil-filled, radiator-style heaters use natural air circulation (hot air rises) to move the room air gently over the heat source. A horizontal model along a wall by the bed is ideal for bedrooms. For a living room, which is often the largest room in the house, consider a convection-style heater. This will heat the entire room more effectively. If you typically sit in one chair, a mirrored or decorative radiant wall panel is effective and quiet, but it cannot easily be moved. When choosing a convection heater, select one with a three-speed fan and a thermostat for comfort. Pay attention to the thermostat type. A “programmable” thermostat usually means you can select a temperature setting and it will cycle on and off to maintain it. An “adjustable” thermostat means it can maintain a heat output level, but not a particular desired room temperature. A ceramic convection heater uses small heating discs that never get extremely hot. If it gets knocked over or the air flow gets blocked,

L ASKO PRODUCTS

The only way to save overall with a space heater is if you set the central heat pump thermostat several degrees lower.

This convection heater has electronic controls with digital readout and two heat settings plus automatic thermostatic control.

the heating output automatically drops making it safer around children. Using an electric space heater may increase your comfort during cold winter months, but you must set your thermostat several degrees lower to avoid surprises on your electric bill. KCL Send inquiries to James Dulley, Kansas Country Living, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.

THE FOLLOWING COMPANIES OFFER ELECTRIC SPACE HEATERS: � DELONGHI, 800-322-3848, www.delonghi.com � HOLMES PRODUCTS, 800-546-5637, www.holmesproducts.com � KAZ/HONEYWELL, 800-477-0457, www.kaz.com � LASKO, 800-233-0268, www.laskoproducts.com � WARMLY YOURS, 800-875-5285, www.warmlyyours.com

NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

After three and a half years of fundraising and construction, the Wamego Veterans Memorial was unveiled in November 2016.

small towns,

BIG

1 ST I N FA N T RY D I V I S I O N

memorials

A look at two new veterans memorials BY M E L I N D A S C H N Y D E R

Two months ago, the unveiling of a new veterans memorial in Chetopa drew 400 to Veterans Park in the southeast Kansas town of 1,100 residents. Not far into the scripted program, Ron Wood, the town’s former mayor and the lead organizer of the project, invited any of the 150 veterans in attendance to come up and assist with the big reveal. 10

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

“What we thought would take two or three minutes, well, once it was revealed some hung around for 15 minutes or more,” Wood said. “We finally just went ahead with the program and told them to stay up there as long as they wanted.” For some of the veterans, having their name engraved on the wall was a surprise. Others knew about it and even contributed names, but they were mesmerized by the sight of the gleaming granite and their emotions. Most wanted to find their name, and those of family members and friends. “Each one of you want to look at it a little bit, walk by, touch it. It’s yours. This is your memorial,” Wood told them. For the audience, it was breathtaking to see the veterans finding their names and shedding tears. It was an especially moving experience for Eldon Perkins, a 92-yearold World War II veteran who had tried for years to get a memorial built in Labette County, where his family goes back five generations. “I think he believed it was a dream of his that wouldn’t happen during his lifetime,” said Debbie Yost, president of Chetopa State Bank, which supported the project in several ways, including processing applications for names to be included in the memorial. “We started on the project earlier this year and we didn’t waste any time because our committee really wanted to get this done for Eldon. The biggest holdup was that it took the granite four months to get here from China on a boat.” Perkins and his wife Etsuko originally donated $100,000

C O U R T E S Y C H E T O PA S TAT E B A N K

for a memorial in the county several years ago but plans never materialized until Wood took on the challenge of making it happen in Chetopa. Wood and Perkins had met in 1985 when Wood became postmaster and they bonded over being veterans. Wood served in the Marine Corps from 19741976; Perkins served in the Army for four years during World War II and then ran post exchanges on military bases for 30 years. Upon retirement, he returned to southeast Kansas where he owns farmland and wetlands. He now splits time between Kansas and California. Perkins donated additional funds during the course of construction this year, as did other community members and businesses. The $180,000 memorial consists of five granite tablets forming a wall. On each side, the center of the wall is a mural and the tablets immediately to the side of the center are filled with 460 names of veterans. On the ground are 1,000 granite pavers with more veterans names or messages of support. Organizers do not put geographic restrictions on the names and they also accept Reserve and National Guard veterans. Donors can use the name of anyone who wore a uniform when purchasing a spot on the wall or a paver. Requests continue to come in and organizers plan to engrave the next round of names on a third tablet in time for Veterans Day, Saturday, Nov. 11. Also on the memorial’s plaza are seven benches, life-size steel military silhouettes, a 50-foot flag pole with an American flag and smaller flags for each of the five armed services branches. The memorial is well-lit at night. “It’s well worth the effort to drive and see it,” said David Hubbell, a Chetopa resident and

Eldon Perkins, a World War II veteran, and his wife, Etsuko, are major donors and supporters of the new veterans memorial in Chetopa that was unveiled in September 2017.

For the audience, it was breathtaking to see the veterans finding their names and shedding tears. member of the Twin Valley Electric Cooperative board of directors. “It’s a spectacular memorial for a small town of 1,100 people. It’s good for the town and the region, and it’s extremely good for all veterans.” Hubbell, who served in the U.S. Air Force from 1971-1974, was not involved in the planning of the memorial but his family supported the project by paying to have names of family members engraved on the wall and on pavers, including grandfathers, uncles, cousins and nephews. “We started with me and my brother, and we could have easily added another 10 to 15 names,” Hubbell said. “We have a long list of family who have served our country. We go clear back to the Civil War and up to the middle 2000s. My great nephew just got out of the Marines two or three years ago. We’re thankful they’ve created this memorial for all veterans.”

Wamego Area Veterans Memorial

The northeast Kansas town of Wamego unveiled its new veterans memorial in November 2016 after three and a half years of fundraising and construction. Much like Chetopa’s memorial, the key to completing Wamego’s was having a driving force pushing the project forward and securing financial support. Gary and Bunny McCloud estimate they spent 9,000 hours during that timeframe, marketing the project to secure donations, designing the memorial, overseeing the logistics of construction and anything else needed. Gary was the American Legion Post 172 commander when he and fellow Legion Riders decided Wamego needed a veterans memorial. The husband-and-wife team had recently retired and this became their project. The $500,000 memorial is in Wamego City Park. The McClouds are proud to say that 98 percent of the money raised came from Wamego, a town of about 5,000 residents known for their volunteerism and community pride. A little more than $300,000 cash was raised from individuals and businesses—including Bluestem Electric Cooperative—and the remainder was in-kind donations of building materials and services. NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

N O RTO N E N T E R P R I S ES

McCloud designed the memorial with a wagon wheel layout. On one edge of a concrete circle sits a 15-foot-wide by 8-foot-tall black granite wall on top of a 9-inch-tall base. The wall features the seals of the armed services branches and artwork sandblasted into the granite, and 92 names are listed representing fallen local soldiers from World War I to current. Three flag poles stand behind the wall and a large bronze sculpture of a kneeling World War II solider sits in front of the wall. Walkways—the spokes of the wheel—are lined by 750 engraved dedication bricks, with more planned. Flowerbeds are planted between the walkways and granite benches provide seating. Though McCloud spent the majority of his career in heavy road construction, he leaned on engineering and architecture studies in college and four years in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam War when he came up with the concept for the memorial. He also had a clear vision for the bronze sculpture when he reached out to Leoti-based sculptor Charlie Norton, known for combining history with art. A long-time sculptor, Norton is most recognized for his larger-than-life bronze sculpture “The Birthplace of the Legend” near Oakley. The piece shows an armed William Cody—Buffalo Bill—on horseback taking down a bison in one of the infamous hunting contests of the 1860s. McCloud asked for a 1st Infantry Division soldier kneeling at a battlefield cross, the fallen soldier’s rifle stuck into the ground with his helmet on top. The 1st Infantry Division is known as “The Big Red One” and is based at nearby Fort Riley. From there, Charlie and his son Carson interpreted the story of the solider through details, from texture to choosing what elements to show in the sculpture. Charlie, 74, is an Army veteran and Carson, 34, inherited his parents’ love of art and history. He earned a master’s degree in history at Fort Hays State University and is especially interested in military history. The setting they envisioned for the work they titled “Duty Called” is a sergeant taking a moment to mourn the loss of one of his men. As the fatherly figure of the unit, he feels responsible for his men and a wedding ring on his hand signifies he wants to get home safely to his family. At the base of the sculpture are shell casings:

Leoti-based sculptor Charlie Norton, right, and his son, Carson, created the acclaimed bronze sculpture “Duty Called.”

loaded rounds show they are German ammunition while the empties are U.S. casings. “We wanted to show that we had the Germans on the run, they were dropping and running,” Carson said. Other equipment helps place the timeframe for the scene somewhere between the invasion of Normandy, France, on June 6, 1944, and the Battle of the Bulge in late 1944. The level of contextual detail is amazing, from the clip that is specific to the rifle the solider is holding to the bayonet in his pack that is a shortened version due to the metal rations during the war. And, the realness of the texture and emotion was more than he thought possible, McCloud said. “We’ve been told by someone at the Pentagon that our bronze is the most detailed bronze in the world,” McCloud said. “You can see the nails in the soles of his hobnailed boots. The strings in his leggings actually look like strings. Many people have said the rifles look like you could pick them up and shoot them. I’ve seen people try to pick the netting off his helmet thinking it was added later, but it was poured into the detail. I’ve never seen a sculptor do eyes like this; he’s got pupils that you can see. It’s so realistic that it’s like he’s sitting there looking at you.” KCL

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Ways to SAVE Energy This Winter

BY D E R R I L L H O L LY

Energy efficiency projects taken on to

reduce winter bills add up to good dollars and cents, and the payoffs continue throughout the year. We’ve got 10 tips to jumpstart the savings heading into the heating, holiday, hearth and hospitality season. BUTTON UP: Caulk, weather stripping, and wall and attic insulation help seal gaps, keeping conditioned air in. A radiant barrier under carpet padding or flooring felt puts comfort at your feet. SWITCH OFF: Power strips are ideal for those home spaces tied to occasional use. Electronics in workshops, craft nooks, game rooms, home offices and guestrooms are great for one-touch switch off. CHECK THE OVER/UNDER: One of your best bets for saving is adding a full ductwork inspection under floors and over ceilings to your seasonal heating system checkup. Collapsed connections, tears, animal damage and register gaps can all leak conditioned air into unused spaces. LEAD WITH LEDS: The more use a kitchen gets, the greater the potential savings with LEDs. Replacing every bulb with new generation LEDs is a bright idea for winter that will help keep your cooking space cooler in summer.

2 3

LEGACY LOSERS: The

more than 60 million refrigerators in the U.S. that are at least 10

years old cost consumers over $4 billion a year in energy. Replacing that old family-sized extra fridge with a smaller Energy Star model will save money for years to come. CUT CONGESTION: Busy days mean crunch time for electric cooperatives as schools, offices and other businesses push peak demand. Shifting laundry, cooking and other high-energy activities to off hours can spread your savings. COUNTERTOP CONSERVATION: The small appliances available today not only add convenience options for meal preparation, they also consume far less energy than the range top or oven. Consider slow cookers, microwaves, convection ovens, rotisseries, induction cooktops and other devices as alternatives. BULLDOGGING BTUs: Air comfort level during heating season is a personal preference. Find comfortable settings for both that fit your family’s needs, set them and hold tight. Each reduction by one degree can cut heating costs by as much as 5 percent. WARMING WATER: Heating water accounts for 12 percent of the average home’s energy use. Set your water heater’s thermostat to 120 degrees or lower—that’s usually sufficient for a household’s hot water needs. Consider replacing water heaters more than 12 years old with a more energy-efficient unit. SEEING SAVINGS: Home entertainment equipment like televisions, cable and satellite boxes, game systems and media drives last years, but newer models generally use less energy. Consider replacing and discarding older units. KCL

6 7

8 9

writes on cooperative issues for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Virginia-based service arm of the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, not-forprofit electric co-ops.

G E T T Y I M A G E S /A L E X R AT H S

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T H I N G S TO D O

Continued from page 5 

NOV. 24-DEC. 31 Rocky Pond Christmas

Lights, Belleville. Christmas lights will be illuminated each evening from 6 to 9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. 785-527-5524, mainstreet@nckcn.com, Facebook/Rocky Pond Christmas Lights. NOV. 25 C ookie Contest, Great Bend.

S ample cookies from 16 participating business locations and vote for the best. 620-793-4111, greatbendks.net. NOV. 25 Holiday Gift Fair, Downs. Shop from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Lakeside gym and auditorium will be filled with hand crafted and direct sales booths. Just south of Highway 24, 785-454-3569. NOV. 25 H ome for the Holiday’s

Parade and Festivities, Great Bend. Parade begins at 5:30 p.m. followed by living nativity portraits, Santas Around the World, ice skating, Santa, free horse wagon rides, train rides, and free hot dogs and funnel cakes. 5:30 to 8 p.m. 1400 Main St., 620-793-4111. NOV. 25-JAN. 1, 2018 T rail of Lights, Great Bend. T he animated lights wind through the community starting at Brit Spaugh Park, then to Veterans Memorial Park for the 12 Days of Christmas. See the Christmas nativity at K-96 & 10th Street, then head south to the Historical Village lights (85 S. Highway 281). 2123 Main St., 620-793-4111. NOV. 25-DEC. 22 S antas Around the World Exhibit, Great Bend. View 23 life-sized Santas on display, each showcasing Christmas stories and traditions from around the world. Santa Claus himself will be available to meet with children. Thursdays and Fridays: 4 to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays: 1 to 6 p.m. 1223 Main St., 620-796-2242. NOV. 25 Small Business Saturday,

Downs. Shop small and enjoy the wonderful hospitality of Downs. www.downschamber. com, visit us on Facebook.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOV. 25 S mall Business Saturday,

Great Bend. Visit retailers to participate in unique activities and register to win a $1,000 shopping spree. Participating retail stores, 620-793-4111, greatbendks.net. NOV. 25 Small Business Saturday,

Phillipsburg. Come support the small businesses in Phillipsburg for all your holiday shopping. When you support a small business, you support a dream. www. phillipsburgchambermainstreet.com. NOV. 27 Chili Cookoff and Christmas

Parade, Dodge City. Festivities begin at 5 p.m. at Boot Hill Museum. 620-227-8188. FIRST FOUR FRIDAYS IN DECEMBER Music at the Museum, Pratt. Take the rush out of the holidays, bring your own lunch and listen to holiday music from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. DEC. 1 Suzuki Strings Holiday

Concert, Ottawa. Usher in the holiday season with this annual Ribbons and Bows Christmas Concert held at the Ottawa Memorial Auditorium at 7 p.m. 301 S. Hickory, suzukistrings@sbcglobal.net. DEC. 1 T aste of Christmas, Salina.

S ample the tastes of the holidays with cookies and confections of all kinds, a soup supper and Holiday Market, with linens and many other gift ideas. Children can decorate cookies while parents shop; have family photos taken. First United Methodist Church, 122 N. 8th. DEC. 1-24 H ometown Rewards

Promotion, Great Bend. Earn money while supporting local stores. 620-793-4111, greatbendks.net. DEC. 2 Chocolate Festival, Alton. Held downtown from 1 to 3 p.m., the festival commemorates the 1888 birth of native son Russell Stover. Youth and adult chocolate baking contests with $300 in cash prizes, plus bake sale and cake walk. 785-984-2341, facebook.com/altonkspride.

NOVEMBER 2017

DEC. 2 Ellis Polar Express, Ellis. Bring the

entire family and bundle up for a ride on the Polar Express. Enjoy lighted displays all along the miniature train tracks, a visit with Santa, and goodies with Mrs. Claus and the elves. 785-726-2660, facebook.com/getellis. DEC. 2 Follow the Star Craft Fair, Ellis.

Begin and end your Christmas shopping at the Ellis Chamber of Commerce’s annual Christmas shopping event. Old high school gym, 10th & Cottonwood, 785-726-2660, facebook.com/ getellis. DEC. 2 H oliday Open House, Great

Bend. Kids decorate gingerbread houses and make bird feeders while adults peruse specials in the gift shop. Kansas Wetlands Education Center, 592 N.E. K-156 Highway, 877-243-9268, wetlands.fhsu.edu. DEC. 2 Gamma Beta Annual Christmas Craft Fair, Pratt. The area’s largest craft show with an array of products for all ages. Shop from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Municipal Building, 117 W. 3rd. DEC. 2 Madrigal Feast, Luray. The Luray Historical Society presents a madrigal feast in the Stone Church at 6 p.m. with a four-course banquet served by lads and lasses in period costume and accompanied by singers and players. A performance by a select choir from Kansas Wesleyan University caps the evening’s entertainment. Limited seating. 785-698-2459. DEC. 2-3 C.W. Parker Carousel

Museum’s Annual Children’s Small Mall, Leavenworth. Elves help children ages 3-13 do their own shopping. Free carousel ride for shoppers from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Dec. 2, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 3. 320 S. Esplanade, cyndi1536@yahoo.com. DEC. 2-3 Festival of the Nativities,

Denmark. Get in the spirit of the season with nearly 250 nativities on display from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday at Denmark Community Hall. Seven miles west

of Lincoln on KS Highway 18 and three miles north on 120th Road, 785 524-5352. DEC. 2-16 Holiday Shopping and

Giveaways, Downs. There will be two chances to win $500, movie with Santa and other Christmas promotions. www. downschamber.com, visit us on Facebook. DEC. 3 BPW Holiday Boutique at the

Kirk House, Garnett. Enjoy browsing and shopping throughout the home from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. The Kirk House, 145 W. 4th Ave., 785-448-6767. DEC. 3 Holiday Homes Tour, Garnett.

Presented by the Friends of the Library from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Three homes, a church with program and the library with entertainment and refreshments. 785-4483388, simplygarnett.com DEC. 3 Jingle Bell Run, Manhattan.

First Presbyterian Church of Manhattan hosts

this 5K Race and 1.5 mile Fun/Run Walk at 4 p.m. The timed race will award medals in age divisions and celebrate after with a full taco bar. Race begins at First Presbyterian, 801 Leavenworth St., 785-537-0518, www. firstpresmanhattan.com. DEC. 9 Breakfast with Santa and

Christmas Parade, Ottawa. Share a doughnut and juice with Santa at the Plaza Cinema followed by a hometown Christmas parade at 11 a.m. downtown. 209 S. Main, 785242-2085, ottawastreet.org. DEC. 9 The Nutcracker, Ottawa. The

holiday classic begins at 6 p.m. at Ottawa Memorial Auditorium; matinee Dec. 10 at 1 p.m. mallorysda@gmail.com. DEC. 9 Westphalia Christmas

Celebration, Westphalia. Parade on Main Street, soup supper and horse-drawn wagon rides beginning at 4 p.m. Downtown.

DEC. 9-10 Journey to Bethlehem,

Jetmore. Experience the very first Christmas on a journey through first century Bethlehem. Meet the Wiseman, census taker, tax collector, inn keepers, elders, shepherds and angels. Jetmore United Methodist Church, 205 E. Highway St., 620-357-6237. DEC. 9-10 City Market Winter

Wonderland, St. Mary’s. Shop locally from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. George J. Perry Memorial Armory, 110 S. 5th St., Facebook. com/groups/stmaryscitymarket. KCL Send your event information by the fifth of the month prior to publication to events@ kansascountryliving.com. Please include a contact phone number. We publish events free as space allows. To guarantee publication of your event in the magazine, contact ad sales at 785-478-4554 or advertising@kansascountryliving.com.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT & CIRCULATION 2017 1. Publication Title, Kansas Country Living. 2. Publication No. 290-440. 3. Filing Date, 10-1-17. 4. Issue Frequency, monthly. 5. No. of Issues Published Annually, 12. 6. Annual Subscription Price, $10.00. 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication, P.O. Box 4267, 7332 SW 21st St., Topeka, KS 66604. 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Offices of Publisher, same as above. 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor. Publisher, Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604. Editor, Vicki Estes, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604. Managing Editor, same as above. 10. Owner, Kansas Electric Cooperatives, P.O. Box 4267, 7332 SW 21st St., Topeka, KS 66604. 11. Known Bondholders, None. 12. The purpose, function and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for Federal income tax purposes has not changed during preceding 12 months. 13. Publication title, Kansas Country Living. 14. Issue date for circulation data below, September 2017. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation. Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months, (No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date). A. Total No. Copies, 128,759 (128,269); B. Paid Circulation (by mail and outside the mail). 1.

Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541, 127,171 (126,772); 2. Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541, none (none); 3. Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS, none (none); 4. Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS, none (none).C. Total Paid Distribution, 127,171 (126,772); D. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution. 1. Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541, 397 (403); 2. Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541, none (none); 3. Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS, none (none); 4. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail, 676 (676). E. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution, 1,073 (1,079). F. Total Distribution, 128,244 (127,851). G. Copies Not Distributed, 515 (418). H. Total, 128,759 (128,269). I. Percent Paid, 99.16% (99.16%); 16. No electronic copies; 0. This Statement of Ownership will be printed in the November 2017 issue of this publication. 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner. /s/ Vicki Estes, Editor. Date, 10-1-17. NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

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

Cynthia Domenghini, Ph.D.

NASA released a study stating that some indoor plants can reduce certain pollutants from the air.

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

Rumor has it, plants grown indoors can help clean the air. As it turns out, NASA has shown this to be more than just a rumor. Partner that with the benefit of enhanced well-being that comes with exposure to nearby nature and you may be persuaded to redecorate your home to make room for more houseplants! Undoubtedly, humans have a connection with plants that began as humans relied on plants for survival. This relationship has developed with the understanding of the role plants play in our well-being with studies showing the positive effects plants can have just by being in viewing range of humans. Conclusively, although plants can survive without humans, the alternative is not true. As time progresses, the power of plants in our lives is revealed more fully through research. In an effort for increased energy efficiency, homes and buildings are built more air-tight today than in the past. While the reduction in air flow into and out of buildings helps lower heating and cooling costs, the air pollutants remain trapped inside consequently. NASA released a study stating that some indoor plants can reduce certain pollutants from the air. As water vapor is released from plant leaves, a circular, pump-like system is created pulling air from the room through the soil in which the plant is growing. Microorganisms living in the soil break down the pollutants from the air. Containerized plants with greater amounts of exposed soil more effectively removed air toxins. The addition of a carbon filter actively pulling air through the soil further increased toxin removal. Common houseplants shown to reduce certain pollutants include, but are not limited to, English ivy (Hedera helix), mother-in-law’s tongue (Sansevieria laurentii), peace lily (Spathiphyllum “Mauna Loa”), Chinese evergreen (Aglaonema “Silver Queen”), Marginata (Dracaena marginata) and Janet Craig (Dracaena deremensis “Janet Craig”). These hardy plants can grow in sub-optimal conditions making them suitable for busy homeowners. Houseplants typically prefer temperatures between 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and bright

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

indirect light. Durable houseplants such as those listed above can tolerate less light and some temperature variation but extremes could reduce the plants’ efficiency to remove air pollutants and overall health. Begin your houseplant stock by purchasing healthy plants. Examine the stems and leaves for diseases and pests. Look at the soil and roots to determine if the plant is root-bound. Roots growing through drainage holes or in a circle around the inside of the container are indicators the plant has out-grown its container. These plants will require transplanting into a larger container and may need root-pruning to prevent injury to the plant. Watch your plants for signs of stress that are common with an environmental change and be prepared to relocate them as needed. Realistically, adding houseplants to your home or office is not the single solution to purifying the air. The number of houseplants required would significantly reduce the amount of space you would have to live or work. Furthermore, we don’t use carbon filters in our planting systems so the efficiency they provide is not of practical use. However, NASA’s study does give evidence of plant benefits to our physical health making a case for adding at least a few to your indoor space. If nothing else, they can bring aesthetic value and an opportunity for improved well-being. KCL CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI is an instructor and coordinator for K-State’s horticultural therapy online certificate program.

GETTYIMAGES/LIGHTKEEPER

Growing Green, Growing Clean

Though some debate exists over the extent of the air cleaning capabilities of houseplants, the nature connection they can bring to people who spend much time indoors makes them worthy of inclusion in the interiorscape.

A DV E RT I S E M E N T

Drug Companies Fear Release of the New AloeCure Big Pharma stands to lose billions as doctors’ recommend drug-free “health cocktail” that adjusts and corrects your body’s health conditions.

Drug company execs are nervous. That’s because the greatest health advance in decades has hit the streets. And analysts expect it to put a huge crimp in “Big Pharma” profits. So what’s all the fuss about? It’s about a new ingredient that’s changing the lives of people who use it. Some call it “the greatest discovery since penicillin”! The name of the product is the AloeCure. It’s not a drug. It’s something completely different. And the product is available to anyone who wants it, at a reasonable price. But demands may force future prices to rise. TOP DOC WARNS: DIGESTION DRUGS CAN CRIPPLE YOU! Company spokesperson, Dr. Liza Leal; a leading integrative health specialist recommends AloeCure before she decides to prescribe any digestion drug. Especially after the FDA’s stern warning about long-term use of drugs classified as proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec®, Nexium®, and Prevacid®. In a nutshell, the FDA statement warned people should avoid taking these digestion drugs for longer than three 14-day treatment periods because there is an increased risk of bone fractures. Many people take them daily and for decades. Dr. Leal should know. Many patients come to her with bone and joint complaints and she does everything she can to help them. One way for digestion sufferers to help avoid possible risk of tragic joint and bone problems caused by overuse of digestion drugs is to take the AloeCure.

Acemannan has many of other health benefits?... HELPS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM TO CALM INFLAMMATION According to a leading aloe research, when correctly processed for digesting, the Aloe plant has a powerful component for regulating your immune system called Acemannan. So whether it’s damage that is physical, bacterial, chemical or autoimmune; the natural plant helps the body stay healthy. RAPID ACID AND HEARTBURN NEUTRALIZER Aloe has proved to have an astonishing effect on users who suffer with digestion problems like bouts of acid reflux, heartburn, cramping, gas and constipation because it acts as a natural acid buffer and soothes the digestive system. But new studies prove it does a whole lot more. SIDE-STEP HEART CONCERNS So you’ve been taking proton pump inhibitors (PPI’s) for years and you feel just fine. In June of 2015 a major study shows that chronic PPI use increases the risk of heart attack in general population. UNLEASH YOUR MEMORY Studies show that your brain needs the healthy bacteria from your gut in order function at its best. Both low and high dosages of digestion drugs are proven to destroy that healthy bacteria and get in the way of brain function. So you’re left with a sluggish, slow-to-react brain without a lot of room to store information. The acemannan used in AloeCure actually makes your gut healthier, so healthy bacteria flows freely to your brain so you think better, faster and with a larger capacity for memory.

Analysts expect the AloeCure to put a huge crimp in “Big Pharma” profits.

Doctors call it “The greatest health discovery in decades!”

The secret to AloeCure’s “health adjusting” formula is scientifically tested Acemannan, a polysaccharide extracted from Aloe Vera. But not the same aloe vera that mom used to apply to your cuts, scrapes and burns. This is a perfect strain of aloe that is organically grown under very strict conditions. AloeCure is so powerful it begins to benefit your health the instant you take it. It soothes intestinal discomfort and you can avoid the possibility of bone and health damage caused by overuse of digestion drugs. We all know how well aloe works externally on cuts, scrapes and burns. But did you know

SLEEP LIKE A BABY A night without sleep really damages your body. And continued lost sleep can lead to all sorts of health problems. But what you may not realize is the reason why you’re not sleeping. Some call it “Ghost Reflux”. A lowintensity form of acid reflux discomfort that quietly keeps you awake in the background. AloeCure helps digestion so you may find yourself sleeping through the night. CELEBRITY HAIR, SKIN & NAILS Certain antacids may greatly reduce your

by David Waxman Seattle Washington:

body’s ability to break down and absorb calcium. Aloe delivers calcium as it aids in balancing your stomach acidity. The result? Thicker, healthier looking hair…more youthful looking skin… And nails so strong they may never break again. SAVE YOUR KIDNEY National and local news outlets are reporting Kidney Failure linked to PPI’s. Your Kidney extracts waste from blood, balance body fluids, form urine, and aid in other important functions of the body. Without it your body would be overrun by deadly toxins. Aloe helps your kidney function properly. Studies suggest, if you started taking aloe today; you’d see a big difference in the way you feel. GUARANTEED RESULTS OR DOUBLE YOUR MONEY BACK Due to the incredible results people are reporting, AloeCure is being sold with an equally incredible guarantee. “We can only offer this incredible guarantee because we are 100% certain this product will work for those who use it,” Says Dr. Leal. Here’s how it works: Take the pill exactly as directed. You must see and feel remarkable improvements in your digestive health, your mental health, in your physical appearance, the amount inflammation you have throughout your body – even in your ability to fall asleep at night! Otherwise, simply return the empty bottles with a short note about how you took the pills and followed the simple instructions and the company will send you...Double your money back! HOW TO GET ALOECURE This is the official nationwide release of the new AloeCure pill in the United States. And so, the company is offering our readers up to 3 FREE bottles with their order. This special give-away is available for readers of this publication only. All you have to do is call TOLL-FREE 1-800-443-6858 1-800-746-2899 and provide the operator with the Free Bottle Approval Code: JC025. The company will do the rest. Important: Due to AloeCure’s recent media exposure, phone lines are often busy. If you call and do not immediately get through, please be patient and call back.

THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.

Sunset at Council Grove Lake BILL WESSEL , COUNCIL GROVE

Thankful for

Readers

our

Our readers responded enthusiastically when we asked for photos of harvest, sunsets and interesting scenery that caught your eye in the Sunflower State. Here we share a few of the photos readers have submitted since August. Look for additional photos in future issues and on our Facebook page/Kansas Country Living. Now, your next assignment: Share your favorite holiday photos with us at photos@kansascountryliving.com. Attach photos as highresolution .jpg or .jpeg files (at least 1800×1200 pixels or 1-2 MB file size). Please provide caption information, such as names, places, and why this photo is special to you. Be sure to include your name and the name of your electric co-op. KCL

Sunset

RO B I N H O D G E S , N O RT H O F S A L I N A

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

Jewel State Fishing Lake J I M B O LT O N

Lebanon Sunset

BARB BEARDSLEE, LEBANON

Barn with a “Kansas Country Living” feel M E L I S S A B O O H E R , L AW R E N C E

Sunset

Harvest 2017

# # # - # # # - 3 2 4 2 @ M M S . AT T. N E T

Kansas Sunset KEN SEAL

KARISSA ARNOLD

Sunset in Elk County

L I N DA M A R S H A L L , H OWA R D NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

GETTYIMAGES/BULENTBARIS

High-Energy

JOBS

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

Cutting-edge careers at electric co-ops power the economy. If you want to work where the action is, how about a job in the fastest-growing occupation in America? As a wind-turbine technician you could make about $50,000 a year and know that your career is expected to grow 108 percent in the next seven years, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. And you’d be part of the cutting-edge essence of the American economy, according to a report on electric utility jobs. “Electricity is the backbone of our economy and is crucial to our national security,” concludes a recent report by M.J. Bradley and Associates, LLC, titled “Powering America: The Economic Workforce Contributions of the U.S. Electric Power Industry.” The report says, “Our high-tech society demands electricity to power or charge nearly every new product or technology that comes to market.” The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) sponsored that study, along with two other national utility groups, to show how electric utilities power the economy as a result of lighting our homes and businesses. $100 Million a Year on Infrastructure

Powering America cites the utility industry as the most capital-intensive economic sector, investing more than $100 million a year on the nation’s electricity infrastructure with advances in technology, environmental protections and other improvements. And that’s in addition to money spent on regular operations and maintenance.

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

All that adds up to supporting more than 7 million jobs. More than 2.6 million of those jobs result from direct employment, like utility employees and contractors. As all those people go to work and live their lives, they create another 4.4 million “induced jobs”—teachers, doctors, real estate agents and service workers. The report calculates the economic impact of the electric power industry at $880 billion—about 5 percent of the nation’s $18 trillion Gross Domestic Product. The U.S. Department of Energy slices and dices those numbers a different way, shedding a little more light on wind-turbine technicians and other renewable energy jobs. DOE’s second annual United States Energy and Employment Report released in January views energy jobs more broadly than just electric utilities. It includes careers in energy efficiency, mining and transportation, and concludes: “Rebuilding our energy infrastructure and modernizing the grid, diversifying our energy mix, and reducing our energy consumption in both our built environment and motor vehicles, America’s labor markets are being revitalized by our new energy and transportation technologies.” Wind power jobs may be growing rapidly, but the DOE report lists solar energy jobs as the largest share of people working on all types of electricity generation. Almost 374,000 people are working in solar power—43 percent of the electricity generation workforce. Wind employs about 100,000 people.

Co-ops Hire Veterans

Those renewable energy jobs are in addition to a raft of other careers in energy, from mining, to energy efficiency, power plant operators, and social media and cyber security specialists. Jobs at electric co-ops especially offer openings in cutting-edge careers, says Michelle Rostom, director of workforce development for NRECA. “There are a lot of great opportunities at co-ops,” says Rostom, noting that electric co-ops expect to hire as many as 25,000 new employees in the next five years. “Electric co-ops are doing a lot of research on integrating solar power and wind with coal and other cutting-edge solutions. There are opportunities to be part of the next generation of the energy industry.” Part of the reason those jobs will be available is that the large Baby Boom Generation is retiring—Rostom says 6,000 co-op employees retired last year. Other parts of the energy industry went through that wave of retirements several years ago, but Rostom says it’s just catching up with electric co-ops. “People stay at the co-op for so long because they’re great jobs, with interesting work, a chance to grow professionally in a lot of different areas and they have a strong connection with their local communities,” says Rostom. Electric co-ops formally addressed that need to hire more talent when NRECA set its six strategic objectives, one of which is to develop the “Next Generation Workforce.” In 2006, NRECA joined with other national groups to form the Center for Energy Workforce Development as a way of making sure jobs get filled with highquality workers. NRECA sees military veterans as part of the solution: Another part of Rostom’s job is coordinator of NRECA’s Serve Our Co-ops; Serve Our Country veterans hiring initiative. “Veterans have always been a core part of our co-op workforce, and this program creates additional intent to hire more veterans,” she says.

“Veterans are mission oriented, disciplined and safety-focused … They show strong leadership capabilities and they work well under pressure.” Rostom adds that the experience veterans bring to their jobs matches the culture of the local, member-owned electric co-ops: “There are a lot of parallels between the military and cooperative principles, like teamwork, autonomy, independence and community.” KCL Paul Wesslund writes on cooperative issues for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

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

Giving Thanks for the Alchemy that is Gravy

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

My Grandpa Howard made gravy appear

was the pure, aromatic juice from roasted pork or beef in which potatoes and carrots swam. It was out of thin air, or so it seemed. hamburger and onions fried and thickened with This whole event has become legendary in at a flour roux, then swathed in milk and seasoned least our branch of the family. One Fourth of July, with salt and pepper, to be spread over buttered as we downed potluck fare in my grandparents’ biscuits for breakfast. Gravy was the best for last, backyard, he pronounced to no one but himself landing on the table at mealtime as the finale. —but pronounced loudly, as his hearing aid aided Gravy filled the skillets and perfumed the atmohim only enough that his conversations were sphere—and gravy was good. yelling on his end of them—that he wanted some Rebecca Howard But I don’t kid myself, I know gravy is not gravy. He headed for the kitchen. We all chuckgood for you. It’s meant to be enjoyed as a rich led. Grandma, ever mocking, decried that no pan rarity. Fat, after all, is its foundation. I define drippings existed in the house and there was cergravy as fat-based and fluid, but that broad tainly no gravy mix. Still, in less than 15 minutes description could cover everything from cheese he came out of the house with a bowl of gravy to sauce to salad dressings. Just what is gravy? an audience of stunned and slack-jawed relatives. Simply a sauce? Are any brown sauces gravy? It seemed it would have been easier to have pulled Gravies are “the quick and lively descendants a rabbit out of a hat (actually, it would have), and of ancestral brown sauces,” according to “Joy of he never gave up how he did it. He ate his gravy. Cooking,” (Simon & Schuster; 1931), which says And didn’t share. they “are made with the pan drippings of meat Gravy can inspire that kind of passion. To or poultry that has been roasted or sautéed … most of us who know, love and desire it, gravy is magic, and it should be shared. traditional gravy is thickened with flour, a pan I come from a long line of gravy makers. The sauce is not.” Gravy made at home is the best. I’ve had practice has been passed down through instinct some good restaurant gravies—traveling far and and reverence. There was a rare inflection in my parents’ voices when they softly uttered the words, wide for those hot turkey sandwiches that are essentially drowned in the stuff—but many bad “natural pan gravy.” The gravy at our table came ones (including a see-through breakfast gravy in many forms. It was the thickened, flavorful studded with sausage). You can dress up gravies elixir coaxed from a holiday turkey or ham. It made from jars or packages, but they’re not the same, either. To witness the alchemy of gravy, you have to make it. Recipes for gravy exist, but it’s more what feels right, a free-style balancing act of timing and proportions. I once watched a high school chum This recipe provides some basic proportions (fat, flour, fluid) for turkey gravy. You can of mine (yes, high school girls from tailor your turkey gravy as you like with seasonings and add-ins. Kansas make gravy—we just do) enter ff 1/4 cup fat (pan drippings ff 2 cups liquid (turkey or chicken stock) into an endless tag team of flour-ballfrom turkey) ff salt and pepper to taste to-milk ratio until she, giggling all the ff 1/4 cup flour way, finally found the right consistency Measure turkey drippings from roast turkey and place in a large saucepan (if there are and heat enough to whisk and cook not enough drippings you can add butter). Cook on medium heat, whisking in flour. the dough dumplings out of her milk Continue to cook and whisk for one minute. Stir in liquid. Heat to boiling, continuing gravy. Too little fat means lumpy gravy; to stir so gravy will have a smooth consistency. Boil for one minute. Season with salt too little flour means greasy gravy. and pepper. Knowing when to add that flour to the Makes about 2 cups. hot fat/pan drippings, how much flour to add and when the roux is ready to

GET T Y IMAGES/BHOFACK2

Basic Turkey Gravy

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

Knowing when to add that flour to the hot fat/pan drippings, how much flour to add and when the roux is ready to take on the liquid all come from patience and practice. take on the liquid all come from patience and practice. I try to practice my gravy when I can. Such a simple thing to make me feel like a wizard at the stove. Every Thanksgiving for certain, and often on Christmas and Easter (ham gravy is a favorite), I set aside my time and focus during meal preparation solely for the ritual of gravy, never an afterthought. It is a meditative and anticipatory process, lengthy but well worth it. As the turkey roasts, I make stock from the giblets, neck and aromatic veggies (onion, carrots, celery), plus I keep additional chicken stock nearby. I chop shallots or onion and garlic finely, and sauté them in butter. My holy grail of roast turkey drippings, dark and herb-y, are whisked in, then flour is added to make a roux. I strain in the turkey stock and add more as needed until the gravy is a proper consistency, bubbling and golden. All other aspects of the meal are neglected— momentarily—as I am lost, staring into the swirling richness in the pan. Worrying only if I made enough to bathe turkey, stuffing, potatoes and sandwiches the next day—and maybe beyond. The only “gravy fail” is not making any. KCL

TIPS FOR GRAVY FLAVOR BOO(S)T CAMP Here are some of the things I’ve found that will lend a flavorful boost to holiday turkey or ham gravy: ffA tablespoonful of Dijon

mustard

ffWhite wine (added with stock) ffFresh or dried herbs

ffMushrooms ffApple cider, honey or jam

(particularly sage and thyme for turkey gravy) ffRed pepper flakes (for ham gravy) ffRed or white wine vinegars ffCooked, crumbled bacon Be inventive and think what tastes you like—search your refrigerator and cupboards—to take your divine sauce just a note further in flavor. NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

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NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

SAFETY

Please Pass the Safety this Thanksgiving For most, the kitchen is the heart of the

home, especially during the holidays. From testing family recipes to decorating cakes and cookies, everyone enjoys being part of the preparations. So keeping fire safety top of mind in the kitchen during this joyous but hectic time is important, especially when there’s a lot of activity and people at home. As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large family feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safe from fire.

Thanksgiving by the numbers

Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, followed closely by Christmas Day and Christmas Eve. In 2014, nearly four times as many home cooking fires occurred on Thanksgiving as on a typical day. That same year, U.S. fire departments responded to an estimated 1,730 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving.

6% Failure to Clean

33%

Unattended Equipment

Left Cooking Equipment On

Product Misuse

10%

Heat Source Too Close To Flammable Materials

G E T T Y I M A G E S /A L E X E Y B O R O D I N

24% Other

11%

Abandonded Material

Unattended cooking is by far the leading contributing factor in cooking fires and fire deaths. Cooking equipment was involved in almost half (48 percent) of all reported home fires and tied with heating equipment for the second leading cause of home fire deaths. The National Fire Protection Association offers these safety tips for holiday cooking: ffStay in the kitchen when you are cooking

on the stovetop so you can keep an eye on the food.

ffStay in the home when cooking your turkey

and check on it frequently.

ffKeep children away from the stove. The stove

will be hot and kids should stay 3 feet away.

ffMake sure kids stay away from hot food and

liquids. The steam or splash from vegetables, gravy or coffee could cause serious burns.

ffKeep the floor clear so you don’t trip over

Top Causes of Home Cooking Fires from 2010-2014

Fires beginning with cooking oil, grease or fat acccounted for half of all home cooking fires. SOURCE: NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

NOVEMBER 2017

kids, toys, pocketbooks or bags. ffKeep knives out of the reach of children.

ffBe sure electric cords from an electric knife, coffee maker, plate warmer or mixer are not dangling off the counter within easy reach of a child. ffKeep matches and utility lighters out of the reach of children—up high in a locked cabinet. ffNever leave children alone in room with a lit candle. ffMake sure your smoke alarms are working. Test them by pushing the test button. Source: NFPA’s Fire Analysis & Research Division

NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING

Easy Apple Pie Bars

Maple Banana Bread Pancakes

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, NOVEMBER 2017

Short on time? Use frozen pie crusts to make this “apple pie” for Thanksgiving.

KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, NOVEMBER 2017

Real maple syrup is the perfect complement to these sweet banana pancakes.

Mini Pumpkin Parfait with Cranberry Caramel

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, N OVE M B E R 201 7

Think outside of the pie crust yet still enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving.

KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, N OVE M B E R 201 7

bacon dip adds a tasty twist to this hot dish.

Maple Bacon Dip A drizzle of maple syrup on this cheddar

Maple Bacon Dip cheese, softened

ff 1 package (8 ounces) cream

ff 1 package country gravy mix

cheddar cheese, divided

ff 1-1/2 cups shredded sharp ff 1/3 cup chopped red apple

ff 1/2 cup mayonnaise ff 1/2 cup milk

ff 2 Tbs. packed brown sugar

ff 2 eggs

ff 2 large ripe bananas

ff 2 tsp. baking powder

ff 3/4 cup flour

ff 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

ff 2 tsp. vanilla extract

Maple Banana Bread Pancakes

ff 2 Tbs. melted butter ff 1 Tbs. maple extract

Heat lightly greased griddle or skillet to medium heat.

ff 2 Tbs. maple syrup

Heat oven to 350 F.

In large bowl, use potato masher to mash bananas. Add eggs, brown sugar, butter, maple extract, vanilla and cinnamon; mix well. Add flour and baking powder; mix until well blended.

ff 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

In large bowl, mix cream cheese, mayonnaise, milk, bacon, gravy mix and 1 cup cheese until well blended.

COURTESY M CCORM ICK

Pour 1/4 cup of batter per pancake onto griddle or skillet. Cook 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown, turning when pancakes begin to bubble. Serves 3.

Easy Apple Pie Bars

ff 1 egg white

ff 2 Tbs. sugar

ff 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon

ff 1 cup powdered sugar

nonstick cooking spray

ff 2 Tbs. milk

COURTESY MUSSELMA N’S APP LE B UT TER

To make glaze: In small bowl, combine powdered sugar, milk and remaining vanilla, and whisk until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bars. Serves 20.

To make topping: In small bowl, whisk egg white until foamy and brush over crust. In another bowl, combine sugar and cinnamon, and sprinkle evenly over crust. Bake 50-60 minutes until crust is golden brown. Remove from oven and cool slightly before cutting.

Heat oven to 350 F. Grease 9-by-13-inch pan with nonstick cooking spray. Place diced apples in large mixing bowl. Add apple butter, 1 teaspoon vanilla and brown sugar. Mix until apples are evenly coated. Place one pie crust in bottom of greased pan. Slowly stretch out crust to cover pan’s bottom. Cut some edges off, if necessary. Spread apple filling evenly over crust. With rolling pin, roll second crust to make it same size as pan. Place second crust on top of apple pie filling and tuck down edges to cover.

ff 2 frozen pie crusts, defrosted

ff 1/2 cup brown sugar

ff 1-1/2 tsp. vanilla extract, divided

ff 1 cup apple butter

peeled, cored and diced

ff 7 cups Granny Smith apples,

Spray 9-inch glass pie plate with nonstick cooking spray. Spread mixture in plate and top with apple and remaining cheese. Bake 25 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted. Drizzle with syrup. Serves 16.

COURTESY MCCORMICK

ff 8 ounces whipped topping, divided

ff 1 cup pure canned pumpkin

ff 1/4 cup powdered sugar

ff 8 ounces pumpkin spice cream cheese spread, softened

Mini Pumpkin Parfait with Cranberry Caramel ff 1 package spiced cookies ff 1/2 cup unsalted butter, divided ff 1/2 cup packed brown sugar ff 1/4 cup water ff 1 cup whole cranberry sauce

Place cookies in food processor and pulse to form fine crumbs. In medium saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter. Add cookie crumbs and stir over medium heat 5 minutes, or until toasted. Remove from heat. To make caramel: Bring brown sugar and water to simmer. Cook about 10 minutes or until color changes to dark amber. Do not stir, but watch closely. Stir in cranberry sauce and remaining butter. Return to simmer and continue stirring until well combined and thickened slightly, 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.

COU RTESY CHEF AUDREY, ALDI TEST KITCHEN

Press warm cookie crumbs in bottom of small serving glasses, such as clear shot glasses, espresso cups, small bowls or parfait glasses. Set aside. In medium bowl, beat cream cheese and powdered sugar until light and fluffy. Add pumpkin and continue mixing to combine. Gently fold in 6 ounces whipped topping. To complete assembly, top crumbs with layers of cranberry caramel and pumpkin cream. Repeat layers, including crumbs, 2-3 times depending on glass size. Top each parfait with dollop of remaining whipped topping. Serve immediately or refrigerate up to 8 hours. Serves 5.

NOVEMBER 2017

KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING