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DECEMBER F E AT U R E S
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D E PA RT M E N T S
12 | Modeling Memories
4 | 6 |
A love of custom harvest crews led Eric Haselhorst to begin making hard-to-find model farm toys.
17 | Reader Contest
8 |
How well do you know the issues — Kansas Country Living issues, that is? Enter to win a 2019 Willie Wiredhand ornament.
20 | You Count!
10 |
E D I TO R’S L E T T E R
The census knows
A RO U N D K A N S A S
December holiday happenings CO M M E N TA RY
Moving forward, looking back E N E RGY W I S E
Bright ideas
Invest in smart home lighting for features.
Equitable local and state funding and congressional representation depend on everyone completing the 2020 census.
22 | Real Tree Safety
18 |
YO U R P L AC E I N T H E G A R D E N
Frost and freeze damage
Damage may not be visible until spring.
24 |
CO O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E
Kid in a candy store
Cinnamon confection made with potent oil.
You can’t beat real trees for decking the halls and these pointers will keep your holiday decor “evergreen.”
26 |
12
28 |
M A R K E T P L AC E
Barns, buildings, chicks and trees SAFETY
Avoid decorating injuries, fires
Don’t be one of 18,400 injured decorating.
29 |
M O N T H LY R E C I P E S
Festive food ideas
Tasty treats to share with others.
G E T T Y I M AG E S /J B RYS O N
ON THE COVER Eric Haselhorst of Dodge City puts together a farm scene using harvesting models he made for his business Rockin H Farm Toys. See story on Page 12.
20
PHOTO PROVIDED BY E R I C H A S E L H O R ST
DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
3
E D I TO R’S L E T T E R
How Do We Know That? The Census Tells Us
(ISSN 0091-9586) DECEMBER 2019 VOL. 69, NO. 12 ©KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2019 WWW.KEC.COOP
Bruce Graham
Chief Executive Officer
Vicki Estes
Director of Communications, Editor
Carrie Kimberlin
Manager of Creative Solutions
Shaylee Arpin WE’RE IN THE HOMESTRETCH
of the “holiday season” where Halloween marked the beginning of Christmas advertising (unfortunately) and Thanksgiving got lost in the shuffle of pre-Black Friday sales and Cyber Monday deals. Now, finally, we can focus on one holiday at a time. So, let’s get a little holly jolly with it, shall we? Did you know more than a dozen U.S. places have Holly in their names, including Mount Holly, North Carolina, population 16,135; and Holly Springs, Mississippi, population 7,652? There’s also Snowflake, Arizona, population 5,858, which averages 13 inches of snow a year. And the U.S. has three North Poles located in the states of Alaska, Colorado and New York. We know all of this because of the U.S. census, and these tidbits just may come in handy when playing trivia games with family during the holidays. The census provides a snapshot of the U.S. and helps businesses, researchers and communities make important decisions about roads, schools, health care and congressional representation. In preparation for the 2020 census, Pages 20-21 include what readers need
to know about the upcoming count that will begin in March with households receiving invitations in the mail to respond online, by phone or by mail. The census is also the reason we know that out of the 560 toy makers in the U.S., 93 are in California while Kansas has four toy companies that employ nearly 150 people. One of those companies, Rockin H Farm Toys, born from a love of custom harvest crews, is featured beginning on Page 12. We end 2019 with a reader contest that could earn you a 2019 Willie Wiredhand ornament. Contest details are on Page 17. The staff at Kansas Country Living wishes you and yours holiday blessings! KCL
VICKI ESTES, EDITOR
SHARE WITH US! ff events@kansascountryliving.com ff letters@kansascountryliving.com ff photos@kansascountryliving.com ff editor@kansascountryliving.com ff recipes@kansascountryliving.com
Multimedia Communications Specialist Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.
Keith McNickle President
Terry Hobbs
Vice President
Craig Kostman
Secretary
Teresa Miller Treasurer
You receive Kansas C ountry Living as a service of the following electric co-ops as a cost-effective way to share important information about services, energy savings, electric safety, director elections, meetings and management decisions. It also contains legal notices that otherwise would be published in other media at greater cost: Alfalfa, Cherokee, OK Bluestem, Wamego Brown-Atchison, Horton Butler, El Dorado CMS, Meade Caney Valley, Cedar Vale Doniphan, Troy DS&O, Solomon Flint Hills, Council Grove FreeState, McLouth & Topeka Lane-Scott, Dighton Lyon-Coffey, Lebo Ninnescah, Pratt Pioneer, Ulysses Prairie Land, Norton Radiant, Fredonia Rolling Hills, Beloit Sedgwick County, Cheney Sumner-Cowley, Wellington Tri-County, Hooker, OK Twin Valley, Altamont Victory, Dodge City Western, WaKeeney Wheatland, Scott City Your co-op’s board of directors authorizes a subscription to Kansas Country Living on behalf of the membership at a cost of $5.58 per year. Individual non-member subscriptions are $10 per year (tax included).
Co-op Members: Please report address changes to your local electric co-op. Postmaster: Send returns to Kansas Country Living, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267. Kansas Country Living is published monthly by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS, and additional entry offices. Editorial offices: P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267; 785-478-4554. Advertising: Kansas Country Living is a member of American MainStreet Publications (www.amp.coop), collectively reaching an audited circulation of 9,378,177 monthly. Advertisers call 512-441-5200. Acceptance of advertising by Kansas Country Living does not imply endorsement by the publisher or Kansas’ electric cooperatives.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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THROUGH FEB. 2 The Farmin Artist, Logan.
DEC. 5, 12 & 19 A Patsy Cline Christmas,
orks of USA National Landscape Photographer W of the Year finalist Thomas Zimmerman will be on view at The Dane G. Hansen Museum. 110 W. Main, 785-689-4846, hansenmuseum.org.
Benton. K im Coslett and the Patsy Cline Tribute Band will present the Christmas sounds of Country Music Hall of Famer Patsy Cline. Gates open at 5 p.m. Come early and take a horsedrawn wagon ride, watch a classic Christmas movie, or shop in the mercantile. Following the all-you-can-eat chuckwagon supper, sit back and enjoy the music. Prairie Rose Ranch, 15231 S.W. Parallel Road, 316-778-2121, info@prairierosechuckwagon.com, prairierosechuckwagon.com.
DEC. 2 Campus of Light, Haviland. B arclay
College lights up campus at 7 p.m. with a narrative and music program on its nine major buildings. DEC. 2 Christmas Lighting, Ellsworth. E njoy the city’s Christmas lights and visit Ellsworth Area Art Center from 5-8 p.m. to meet Mrs. Claus and enjoy the Winter Wonderland Christmas trees. 223 N. Douglas Ave. DEC. 3 Preschools in the Flint Hills: Pajamarama, Manhattan. F rom 10:30-11:30 a.m., children ages 3-5 are welcome to discover where they live. Each session includes a story, snack and craft or activity. Pre-registration required. Flint Hills Discovery Center, 785-5872726, flinthillsdiscovery.org/547/Preschoolers-inthe-Flint-Hills. DEC. 4-14 Christmas Angels and Nativity
Exhibit, Fredonia. O pen Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Stone House Gallery, 620-378-2052, 320 N. Seventh St., www. fredoniaartscouncil.com. DEC. 6 Holiday Choral Music, Dodge City. E njoy festival holiday choral music performed by the Dodge City Community College Concert Choir and Choral Union. 7 p.m. First United Methodist Church. DEC. 6 Hometown Holiday, Junction City. B usinesses and groups join together to host the third annual hometown holiday celebration. Music, carriage rides, hot cocoa and more. Begins at 5:30 p.m. C .L. Hoover Opera House and Downtown Junction City, 135 W. Seventh St., 785-238-3906, jcoperahouse.org. DEC. 6 Letters to Santa, Garden City.
rite, stamp and mail letters to Santa with fun W holiday activities for the kids at participating downtown merchants from 5-7 p.m. Garden City Downtown Vision, 620-276-0891.
6
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
DEC. 6 My Home for the Holidays, Parsons. A signature community holiday celebration hosted by the SKIL Resource Center. Hot dinner, speakers, a band, dance and SKIL’s annual board meeting. 6-10:30 p.m. 105 Main St., 800-688-5616. DEC. 6 Tallgrass Tales: The Quilt Story by Tony Johnston, Manhattan. Y outh ages 2-6 are welcome to enjoy a story and complete an activity to connect with the story’s themes. Held from 10:30-11 a.m. Flint Hills Discovery Center, 785-587-2726, flinthillsdiscovery.org/174/ Tallgrass-Tales. DEC. 6 Winter Soulstice Concert, Alma.
DEC. 7 & 14 Breakfast with Santa,
Manhattan. S anta’s coming to visit the Flint Hills Discovery Center! Enjoy hot breakfast and sweet treats with holiday stories, cookie decorating and photos with Santa. Held from 9 a.m.-noon. Must purchase tickets prior. Flint Hills Discovery Center, 785-587-2726, flinthillsdiscovery.org/354/Breakfast-with-Santa. DEC. 7 Christmas Celebration, Fredonia.
R etail open houses, Santa’s gift shop and Christmas parade, plus a children’s movie while parents shop. DEC. 7 Christmas Parade and Business
K elley Hunt and friends present Winter Soulstice at The Volland Store at 7 p.m. A special program for the season. 24098 Volland Road.
Open House, Fredonia. O pen house includes Christmas angels, nativity exhibit and pictures with Santa, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. fredoniakschamber.org.
DEC. 7 Flinthills Booster Club Craft Fair,
DEC. 7 Christmas with Grandma,
DEC. 7 Chocolate Festival, Alton. F estival from 3-5 p.m., cookie contest from 2-2:45 p.m., and Christmas in Alton with soup supper, lighting of the lights and Santa begins at 5 p.m. 785-9842341, dcarswell@ruraltel.net.
DEC. 7 JCMS Snowman Shuffle, Pancake
Rosalia. F rom 8 a.m.-2 p.m. at Flinthills High School. 806 S.E. Rosalia Rd., 620-476-2215, ext. 1043, jwillhite@usd492.org.
DEC. 7 Artists’ Studio Christmas
Open House, Lindsborg. E njoy the rare opportunity to see local artists working in their private studios. Start at the Red Barn Studio and pick up a map to serve as your guide. 888-2272227, www.visitlindsborg.com.
DECEMBER 2019
Concordia. J oin the Manna House for simple Christmas activities grandmas and grandchildren can enjoy together. Not a grandma? Aunts and moms invited too! Event is from 9 a.m-1 p.m. and includes lunch. Register by email or phone. 323 E. Fifth St., 785-243-4428, retreatcenter@ mannahouse.org. Feed & Vendor Fair, Junction City. E njoy breakfast, then shop with a full tummy! Booths filled with an assortment of products. Put on your festive holiday gear before running in the Snowman Shuffle 5K or 1-mile fun run. Pancake Feed 7-11 a.m., vendor fair 8 a.m.-1 p.m., snowman shuffle 5K and 1-mile run at 9 a.m. 700 Wildcat Lane, 785-717-4400.
DEC. 7 Old Fashioned Christmas Parade,
Lawrence. B egins at 11 a.m. in downtown. lawrencechristmasparade.org. DEC. 7 Six Appeal Vocal Band & Ugly
Sweater Party, Junction City. S ix Appeal Vocal Band brings its high-octane ugly sweater party to C.L. Hoover Opera House featuring a cappella arrangements of traditional and original holiday music. Begins at 7 p.m. 135 W. Seventh St., 785-238-3906, jcoperahouse.org. DEC. 7 Snowflake Parade, Lindsborg.
on’t just come and watch, plan to be part D of the fun. All snowflakes, Christmas bells, snowmen, reindeer and ugly sweater wearers welcome! 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com. DEC. 7-8 Children’s Small Mall, Leavenworth. K ids ages 3-13 can shop with elves for holiday gifts, take free rides on the 1913 carousel, make ornaments and watch movies at the S.W. Parker Carousel Museum, 320 S. Esplanade. Visit Dec. 7 from 9 a.m.5 p.m. or Dec. 8 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. www. cwparkercarouselmuseum.org or cyndi1536@ yahoo.com.
DEC. 8 Christmas Open House, Concordia. B ring the kids for cookies and to see Santa and Mrs. Claus. 1300 Washington. DEC. 8 Christmas Parade, Garden City.
owntown Garden City’s only nighttime parade. D Held on Main Street beginning at 6 p.m. Garden City Downtown Vision at 620-276-0891. DEC. 8 Holiday Choral Music, Windhorst. E njoy festival holiday choral music performed by the Dodge City Community College Concert Choir and Choral Union. 3 p.m. Immaculate Heart of Mary.
DEC. 14 Country Christmas Play, Grainfield. A live stage play at the Grainfield Opera House. Play begin at 7:30 p.m. 296 Main St., 785-938-4416.
DEC. 8 Sounds of Christmas, Fredonia. B eginning at 3 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 402 N. Eighth St.
DEC. 14 Historic Tour of Homes, Fort Riley. T ransports yourself to days gone by as you tour some of Fort Riley’s historic homes. Tour from 4-8 p.m. 24A Sheridan Ave., Custer House, 785-239-2737, fortrileyhistoricalsociety.org.
DEC. 13-15 1st Infantry Division Band
Holiday Concert, Junction City. T he 1st Infantry Division Band will captivate you while performing a full holiday concert. at 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. on Sunday. 135 W. Seventh St., 785-238-3906, jcoperahouse.org.
DEC. 14 Holiday Open House, Garden City. S top by the Finney County Historical Museum from 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and purchase
DEC. 13 Bonding through Board Games,
Wichita. S trengthening bonds and creating Continued on page 16
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DEC. 7-8 Festival of Nativities, Denmark.
S ee Christmas in historic Denmark Community Hall. Nearly 250 nativities will be on display Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday 1-5 p.m., Each adult visitor will receive a chance to win a nativity. Seven miles west of Lincoln on KS Highway 18 and three miles north on 120th Rd., 785-658-5908.
memories with Santa. 6:30-9 p.m. Hosted by Sedgwick County Extension. 7001 W. 21st St. N.
DEC. 8 Jultide at Bethany, Lindsborg. T he Bethany College Choir and the Handbell Ensemble come together for a memorable evening of music. You are invited to Bethany College’s Presser Hall for this event. 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com.
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DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
7
C O M M E N TA RY
A Look Back Before Moving Forward with Fond Farewell BY B R U C E G R A H A M
Bruce Graham
My generation trudged through copywriting using an IBM Selectric typewriter but the introduction of word processing changed our lives.
THIS IS THE TIME OF YEAR when holidays inspire us to give thanks and a month later, share our blessings with others. Then as the calendar changes to 2020, we are urged to set goals for a new year. For me, 2020 is guaranteed to be significant. It will bring to a close my 40-year career in association and utility work. I’m not sure what lies ahead but I know there is much to be grateful for and no duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks. I started my career after graduating from Kansas State University with a journalism degree and began working for the Kansas Motor Carriers Association in Topeka as communications director. My first professional mentor was Mary Turkington, executive director of KMCA. She taught me how to be a better communicator, an effective lobbyist, and the value of exceeding expectations. I am also grateful for the advice of my parents to polish my shoes before the interview. Turns out, Mary told me that shine was the deciding factor in giving me a chance. During that time, I gained a growing appreciation for technology. My generation trudged through copywriting using an IBM Selectric typewriter but the introduction of word processing changed our lives. Then came the internet for research along with desktop publishing and we tossed the pica poles, proportion wheels, headline counting — and got so much more efficient. I transitioned to an electric cooperative career in 1987 as the communicator and lobbyist for the Kansas Electric Power Cooperative in Topeka. KEPCo is a generation and transmission cooperative that serves the power supply needs for 19 electric cooperatives in Kansas. KEPCo is a member of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. and I always looked at this CEO position as my dream job. Dreams can come true. Before getting this opportunity, I had the good fortune to be named CEO of the Indiana Electric Cooperative Association in 2006, which delivered perspective on how a sister association runs and the opportunity to
BRUCE GRAHAM is CEO of Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.
in Topeka.
C O M M E N TA RY
C O M M E N TA RY
Lessons in Politics and Irony from Ike
BY B R U C E G R A H A M
BY B R U C E G R A H A M
C O M M E N TA RY
of April, I will have attended If Sub. SB 69 and the $1 million-plus project is eight electric cooperative annual meetings so far approved, I truly hope it uncovers opportunities in 2019. Over my career, I’ve probably been to for utilities and consumers to manage electricity more than 150 of these member events—and they costs in the future. There remains risk though that Y BRU C E Gresult RAHA are all very different. Some are quick with light some of the studyBtopics could inMsignificant refreshments served during a business session. restructuring of the utility industry as well as the Others feature a full meal, entertainment, kids’ cooperative business model. C O M M E N TA RY activities and, of course, door prizes. If the study consultants chosen by the Kansas LEGISLATION WITH AN $867 BILLION price tag covers a to seek inputand from Kansas agriculture The annual meetings all have one thing in Legislature are objective thorough, there may stakeholdlot of ground recently opporapproved Farm ers throughout this entire process, and then to truly common though. They areand thethe members’ beBill some beneficial recommendations. If not, their Bruce Graham has seeded rows ofDirector important programs for rural consider inputand in the tunity to exercise ownership. election conclusions could be that harmful maydevelopment not be a of the Farm America, including electric cooperatives. Bill,” said Kansas Department of Agriculture Secresults are announced. Cooperative leaders report good fit in Kansas. B Y “Congratulations BRUCE GRAHAM “We started this journey nearly McClaskey. on major accomplishments, challenges, and thetwo years ago. One studyretary topicJackie will investigate if the ratemaking on a job Since then, the Senate Agriculture Committee has well done. ” financial health of the utility. It is also a common process for electric cooperatives is in the public held dozens of hearings, listened to more than 90 I’m notThe Senate approved FarmasBill compromise occurrence when members say thanks for restoring interest. concerned about thisthe review witnesses, received thousands of public cooperative comlanguage on Dec. 11, 2018.their The House rallied the a recentand storm, applaud the coopmembers currently entrust elected It’s a positive service during safety contact with the electrical current. Do not get near EACH ISSUE OF THIS MAGAZINE includes ments,” said Kansasleadership Senator Pat Roberts. “Asboard prom- directors next day to pass the legislation. erative’s sponsorship of articles youth programs after deliberative that educate our readers about of the poten- to setarates vehicle inacontact with high-voltage wires until principle ised, this Bill provides much needed certainty “We did it. We finally did it. Iproper wish you could Bruce Graham and scholarships, andFarm recognize theofcooperative’s process a cost-of-service study, tial dangers electricity, from “look upthat and includes live the power is turned off. Call 911 and the utility to predictability for all producers—of all crops me;ofI member am prettymeetings. much all smiles,” said Kansas local communities, health fairs, with notice andnear a see series messages” when working equipment have them come and de-energize the lines. And if that we investment inand —across regions across the country. thank The my Congressman Roger Marshall. farmers the drives and otherallcharitable programs such as I below” alternative regulation by “It thegives power lines to “know what’s by calling 811 would youbeare in a vehicle that is in contact with those need to food counterparts in the Senate and House for coming opportunity for five years of certainty. Agriculture Operation RoundUp. before starting any digging project. Kansas Corporation Commission If polilines, unless(KCC). there’s fire or imminent risk of fire, to—and stayingMany table messages to reach aare bipartisan, got 99itpercent of whatthe they wanted. Rural One of the other things Iat—the enjoy coopcymakers believe is in the public interest tountil of about these created through stay inside vehicle helpAmerica arrives. If leaving communicate bicameral agreement for rural America. ” Electric greatly. This legislation willthere help keep rural that annual meetings are the presentations by returnCooperato thebenefits days when electric cooperative collaboration between Kansas theanvehicle is necessary, are videos to legislators erative As Chairthe of Electric the Senate Agriculture CommitAmerica alive for another five years. ” for students who attended Cooperative had to pay toexplain process a KCC rate case, I jumping clear. tives Inc., your local electric cooperative and$250,000 a the safest method tee, Sen. Roberts brought one of the first Farm Bill U.S. Rep. Marshall was a member of the Youth Tour to Washington, D.C., and Cooperative will be shocked. program called Safe Electricity. These valuable One of those stories is told byFarm four Indiana and other Bruce Graham field hearings Manhattan on Feb. 2017.supporting Kathy Bill conference committee and, as an theaccident languagewith was a power Youth Leadership Campeducation intoColorado. These are23,with Another materitopic of concern is a who call to investigate resources, along teenagers were in BY THE FIRST WEEK
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explore another part of the country. It also provided my wife, Kathy, and I with a greater appreciation for Kansas. Don’t get me wrong; we are huge fans of Indiana and especially Indianapolis. If you are ever looking for a great place to spend a few days, Indy has a dynamic downtown with constant entertainment, professional sports, regular Final Four events and, of course the Indianapolis 500. But the Sunflower State is home for us both and I was eager to come back in 2012 and be an advocate for electric cooperatives and their members. I have written about the cooperative difference and many other topics in Kansas Country Living and have authored around 90 of these columns, with a couple left to pen. I appreciated the ideas that came from Kathy, from our readers, and even the subconsciously generated notions that were deadline-inspired and woke me at 4 a.m. The cooperatives have been my career passion and I had the privilege of working with some of the industry pioneers early in my tenure — and the twilight of theirs. Today there are few who remember the day the lights came on and few that really care. But evidence points to a renewed enthusiasm for the cooperative model. It’s not that young adults don’t like history but they are more interested in what we are doing for them now and how we are preparing for the future. Then we can talk about our roots and how we are democratic, memberowned and not-for-profit. Our future leaders get excited by the idea of causes and community service, and that has been a core strength of the cooperative model. This is a group that appreciates local and grassroots, after all that’s the idea behind farm-to-table dining. Well, we are farmto-table electricity. I predict a bright future for electric cooperatives and wish my cooperative family all the best. Farewell! KCL
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STARTING WATTS 2000 Ultra-Lightweight EARTH AUGER FLASHLIGHT Composite Plastic 1600 RUNNING WATTS 1600 Base & 360° Swivel here’s some help. tures, made of• Magnetic Kansas limestone, which house and President Eisenhower B Y B R U C Esupported G R A H A the M Rural Elec61 dB NOISE LEVEL 59 dB Hook for Hands-Free Operation ENGINE SIZE 52 CC 43 CC • 9 LED 48 LBS. WEIGHT 45.6 LBS. • 3- AAA Batteries (included) and artifacts that About one• Compact, in 10 Americans receives their power protect a collection of stories trification Administration and Tennessee Valley EARTHQUAKE • 144 Lumens TANK SIZE .95 1.2 320 RPM DRILLING SPEED 250 RPM Customer Rating Lightweight E43 AND EA6F 3 OUTLETS 3 the way you do, from an electric co-op. An electric praise our nativeALL son’s leadership and courage. Authority programs in his two campaigns but in ANY IN A SINGLE YES OVERLOAD PROTECTION YES TORQUE SINGLE 45 FT. LBS 47 FT. LBS COMPARE TO ITEM*ABOUT YOUR COMMUNITY. SUPER POWERFUL LIGHT a quote from Presico-op belongs to RY the people it serves—that would As you enter the museum, 1959, he had concludedSINGLE the work of the REA was YOUR CO-OP CARES 79.7 cc ENGINE SIZE 98.5 cc RY TA N E M M O C ITEM* C O M M E N TA RAYOVAC WEIGHT 20 LBS. 22 LBS. SAVE YES LOW OIL ALERT YES COMPARE TO SESSION of the Kansas Legislature has done. HeThe firstthat thing you will seebefore in the visitor THE 2019 $ 50 neighbors—and were first orgaITEM 63878/63991 $ *EARTHQUAKE be you and your dentE43Eisenhower proclaims: proudest thing I almost made proclamation The priority provide to its $ “The 52 *24342511 *is toacross 3 REGULAR READERS OF Kansas Country Living and/co-op’s colleagues thepower nation. 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W2364 TOOLI am from shown 63601/ nized in theor 1930s because city autilities, owned by meeting can claim is that ” It’s67227 a state7,261 participants at a national electric cooperamembers andcontingent empower the each electric coopthose attending cooperative annual willfuture. be partBecause of a collective Bruce$ Graham Bruce Graham NOW NOW *24335657 * SAVE 999 99 $499 99 PRICE in Topeka ishumble comparatively quiet. the On the last day basement—is marble floorD.C. map In of an the state of 82442723 * 2 4 3a3 5 657 99 investors wanting to make profit, ment that seems far*too after viewing tive association meeting inaWashington, belongs to the people whoyouth live there, $ are keenly aware of ourignored supportrural for youth incooperative rural erative network of 1,800 together for educa82442723 549 *HONDA EU2000i stated specs *82432095 * of thetosession though,and the historic Legislative 105 counties. find Kansas ITEM 56257 *24334711 * 82432095 **PRICE INCLUDES MODEL #E43 America. So,Kansas. the unserved saw the vision of FDR’s museum’s tribute his incredible life.Coordinateight-minuteKansas speech,and theall president calledYou’ll for policy the co-op listens to events the community. ITEM 62523 24334711 Practically every month, you can learn tional that week.Whether 63022 shown AND MODEL #EA6F ingstarts Council made upasoftheseven the limestone corridors Rural Electrification Act and banded together to The exhibit with(LCC), his childhood thirdkey elected changes thattreasures many feltinwould spell demise it’s working with the efficiency SUPER COUPON HAM Aincluding SUPER COUPON C E G Rof BRU B Y the SUPER COUPON SUPER about scholarships, school safety programs, art con- SUPER It’s to hear parents of trip parSUPER COUPON B YCOUPON B not R latest U Cuncommon E energy GRAHA M COUPON leaders, met to begin aIke study processatthat could a page from the government original Kansas Constitution, Customer Rating 6 GALLON, 1.5 HP, 150 PSI Customer Rating bring light and a better life to farms and rural comof six sons where he picked up the nickname this successful and essential program. technologies or keeping the electric grid safe and ® tests and more in these pages. This month, one of ticipants report that we brought home a different 20 VOLT LITHIUM CORDLESS POWDER-FREE RAPID PUMP 3 TON STEEL 2000 WATT SUPER QUIET have a significant impact on the state’s utility PROFESSIONAL OIL-FREE 29 PIECE which banned that belonged NITRILE HEAVY DUTY LOW PROFILE munities across EXTREME TORQUE theGLOVES country. an early age. Between the fascinating artifacts, you20 GALLON OIL-LUBE The electric co-ops wereslavery, forced and into aa sword legislative secure,inyour student electric co-op cantook. offer They solutions that INVERTER GENERATOR the most impactful youth events for cooperatives than we often note their child’s AIR COMPRESSOR 21 GALLON OIL-LUBE TITANIUM PACK OF 100 FLOOR JACK 1/2" IMPACT WRENCH KIT industry. Earlier this year, themarriage legislature approved toanotorious Johna Brown. AIR COMPRESSOR • 12 hour runwhen time he AIR COMPRESSOR •of Air delivery:make the most sense locally. October• is National the time learn met Mamie and how their battle against president abolitionist who had spent life- The visitor DRILL BIT SET 5 mil thickness Kansas, andCo-op acrossMonth, the country, is about to@happen. desire to be involved in the community or take on • Weighs 73 lbs. • 4.0 amp hour battery 125 135 2.5 CFM 90 PSI 125 PSI PSI but consumers electricity, a bill in that for of a comprehensive study 135 oftime 30 winning center alsoThe has halls with photographs of famous would need deliver toU.S. the Kansas that mentioned Iincludcolumn, JULY IN MY Customer Rating PSI PSI 3.4April CFM @ to 40 PSI NOW Customer Kansas visit with our town in America to receive IRating CRISSCROSSED year when co-ops celebrate the many ways theyinare was a foundation hiscalls career milestones battles. House and Senate Cooperatives generate jobs, SAVECalled the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, newalso responsibilities atkeep homeprofits and work.polio vaccines. Due to STANDARD LIFE 2X LIFE NOW 99 utility-related Customer Rating SAVE Rating Customer Rating plans and topics toSTANDARD, be completed ancalling inde- for Customer Kansans andlegislation other history of note,rate including a carefully select different evaluate to compreaby NOW abybill approved 99 had Legislature 59% Bruce Graham $ members at electric cooperative annual meetings. Protection’s fitting name, the city saw the launch unique. This year, we’re focusing on ties to the local ing service as a U.S. Army general, supreme comresponded approving supporting the local and pay state and local taxes to help support 90 dBA 25% QUIETER NOW 70 99 the weeklong opportunity of a lifetime runs June I’ve listened to dozens of the speeches by Youth Bruce Graham COMPARE TO 99Your the kilowatt-hours pendent The original bill was authored tribute electrification reaching secureKansas. tovetoed, another to to rural topics utility-related 29TIME ofRUN hensive STANDARD 27% MORE RUN TIME co-op SAVE $470 NOW COMPARE TO These greatschool clearly demonstrate imporin 1957 the national to promote the community.VENOM Your co-op wasNOW built the commumander of the Allied consultant. Forces, andstudy president ofelectric the electric program, which thecompany president services. co-op partners with local organiza-campaign 13-20. It brings high juniors seniors tothe Tour participants atoftheir sponsoring coopera$ and 99 99 99byevents TEQ STANDARD SUPERIOR CONSTRUCTION COMPARE TO by the state chamber of an commerce and other bigCongress Both Gov.overrode. Laura Kelly andtheir Gov. on. Rogers lightsLynn toItkeep needed The Legislaconsultant. independent be done by $ 99 SAVE 14 97VEN4145 $ 99 OIL-LUBE MOTOR COMPARE TO tant difference ofwill our co-op business and Salk vaccine. nity, for the$MODEL: community, so let’s take this a look atbe what United and ultimately was aLt. promitions on community events, fundraisers $ $ States from 1953 to 1961. OIL-LUBE MOTOR SNAP-ON Washington, D.C., and the 59th yearmodel tive itannual meetings. Theyand useyouth the platform to 14999 $ 99 $ 99 559 businesses that DEWALT COMPARE TO $169 99 MODEL: T830018Z $ 85 want to cut electric rates in nent Kansas. also have their offices inco-ops the Statehouse. Over the tout the Texas proponents hear We regularly seven ofthe made (LCC), Council Coordinating tive ITEM 97581, 97582, 97583, $ upin 99 $ 99 $ 99 $ 99 $ that means for you, the members of the co-op. Ike called his governing philosophy the “Middle battle history of electric and programs. We’re your friends and neighbors. By 710 is a privilege to attend. Kansas has produced several famous astro$ 14 SAVE ITEM 5889 DWFP55126 SAVE say 199 Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. DEWALT and itsMODEL: member 70 thanks to the members for the life-changing 179 169 159 ITEM 61454 56241 COMPARE TO $ ITEM 64264/64266/64879/64881 37050, 37051, 37052, 64417, 64418, MODEL: CT8850PDB, 68 $ 99 Customer Rating 1,009a balance CTB8185, CTC720 Certainly, weleaders all want less for Senate things and we Housegood course ofITEM the next couple though, you approved retail that have states the and, ofmonths model Repre69091/62803/63635 of 64857 shown Kansas from ITEM 63537/64195/63852 shown 61282/68049/62326/61253 shown 61363, 68497, 68496 ITEM 68149/62380/62511/62894 /67696 shown region, your $ to pay $ 99 of political extremes, public lesson for modern-day politics. investing in fire, the electric co-opMiss supports YOUR CO-OP IS 61360, HERE61359, TO STAY . Ashown co-op belongs MODEL: EU2000i I 68498, also saw incredible sunsets, prairies on nauts—including Able. Miss Able was born on MODEL: DW1369 85% 62281/61637 shown 239and ITEM 62523 HONDA Way”— SAVE 79 the SAVE $80provides $a249 67847 shown cooperatives have organized the leadership trip and relive their highlights. Gaining a new *24352376 * *24359238 *the members * 24363569 * to move *24364618 * need every day, butspending, I worry that big business wants might more likely and toitfind Lt. Gov.the Rogers rural and could mostinactive probably isinvolved. wheeling, consultant. the selecting with was*tasked sentatives, *82432241 * private investment and security message is to be stay economic development andIsland prosperity. to it serves it’s aWithout huge equipment auction, and Monkey at thean Ralph Mitchell *82433026 * power, 24352376 24359238 2 4so 363 5 6 farm 9not going 2 4sampled 364618 *82433812 *That 82435133 * informed adventure. a doubt, it is one of ourlocal most perspective on politics is often outcome andZoo I in Mont82432241 82433026 8 2 4would 3 3 8 1 2 only shift costs to the other 8 2 4 3 5 1 Kansas. 3 a break which and staff members from state govthose Unfortunately, lessons. goodon some provide it3 was in May, LCC’s first meeting During the and liberty. Often this was achieved by balancing Political leaders needRogers to hear your opinions YOUR COOPERATIVE HAS PRINCIPLES. out of the country, or even acrosstacos the state. amazing whileSure, traversing 38 Kansas counties. County. 1959,toMiss Able and her fellow rewarding programs. think that’sgomery important as weInCo-ops work mend today’s SUPER COUPON SUPER COUPON SUPER COUPON Customer customers ofprojected theSUPER state’sthat utilities. That price suspicion ernment agencies areinclude conducting a ruralinprosperity SUPER 2011, 2014 and 2015. lessons from range could tag SUPER COUPON among study’s theRating SUPER COUPON resources competing interests, he said. issues whether you agree or disagree. It isbrownouts important follow cooperative principles, which combine there have beenStudents a few electric cooperative consoliI often don’t notice when crossing aseven county line. and astro-monkey, Missenvironment. Baker, became the first AmeriCOUPON COUPON are selected for Youth Tour by their divided cynical political Customer Rating 4" x 36" BELT/ UNLIMITED 200™ PROFESSIONAL 46" MOBILE STORAGE CABINET 7 FT. 4"dations x 9 FT. 6" is validated by fact that bigmillion—with business wasn’t listening tour willlawmakers hear are from folks surrounding with higher prices often Brownouts Kansas $10 to million $1 the Graham Bruce The “Middle produced some remarkable tomembers vote butof between elections, our willcoupled to help buildhas trust between members in Kansas over the past and Butcooperative it is6"few easy to recognize that each county its can animals toits travel into spaceand and return alive. RAPID PUMP® 3 TON STEEL • Weighs MECHANIC'S 72" x 80"that Bruce Graham DISCdecades SANDER 2500Way” LB. ELECTRIC WINCH WITH local electric and the process often “Getting to the talkco-op, to the representatives MULTI-PROCESS WELDER WITH SOLID WOOD TOP ALL PURPOSE/WEATHER 73 lbs. willing to fund the study—instead forcing theofcusKansas communities. MOVING and clearly a market price doesn’t mean a lower The that fee.12 30% co-ops paying about electric GLOVES
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BY PAT K E E G A N A N D B R A D T H I E S S E N
AMAZON
a lot about smart lighting for the home. What is it, and will it save energy? – Julian D E AR J U LIAN : It seems like every device is getting smarter these days. Since smart-home lighting is Smart lighting so new, many of us could use a little systems that run introduction. through a hub, At its heart, smart lighting covers like the Philips Hue shown here, a range of bulbs, controls and lightcan control all the ing systems that are programmable lighting inside and through an app on a mobile device, outside your home. computer or smart speaker. Smart lighting can do more than just turn on and off at the right time. Some smart the evening. You may even be able to play music lighting systems can dim at various times. Some directly from the bulb! can be connected to a sensor or motion detector In most cases, you control smart lighting so that a light goes on when a door is opened, through your home Wi-Fi. You can communicate or someone enters a room. Some smart lightto individual smart bulbs or to a hub that, in turn, ing systems can change color so you can set up controls individual bulbs. In some cases, you can a holiday light show indoors or outdoors. It can use Bluetooth® on your phone to control smart also be practical, providing lighting that matches lighting, but you’ll need to be within range of the sunlight during the day and is more relaxing in bulb or hub. Smart lighting can also be used outdoors, but the range of your control device could limit this approach. If the smart bulbs are the type that connect through a hub or connect directly to your Wi-Fi network, you should be able to control them via smart speakers like Google Home, Amazon Echo or Apple HomePod, and remotely through the internet or smartphone. While a hub-based system is more expensive, it allows lights to be grouped by floor or room, and also uses less bandwidth on your network than running many separate bulbs. Some hub kits also allow you to use regular bulbs instead of requiring more expensive smart bulbs, which could save you money. Will smart lighting save energy? That depends on how you light your home and control your lighting now, and on how you would control the Many smart lighting systems can be controlled through smart speakers like the Amazon Echo shown here.
10
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
DECEMBER 2019
PHILIPS
D E AR PAT AN D B R AD : I’ve heard
smart lighting you install in the future. If you use smart lighting to turn lights off when they aren’t needed, like when rooms are empty or no one’s home, or to reduce the wattage, you will save energy. How much energy can you save? Lighting accounts for about 6% of electricity use in the average home, which means your total cost for all the lighting in your home might only be $100 per year. If you have some high wattage bulbs that are on for long periods of time every day, your lighting use could be significantly higher Wall-mounted smart tile lights, like the ones from Lifx shown here, can add mood than average. lighting to your room. Investments in smart lighting are not likely to pay back as quickly as some energy efficiency features that come with smart lighting. measures that control heating or air conditionAnother strategy for smart lighting that has ing. Smart bulbs are more expensive than typical been around for a long time and is reasonLED bulbs, ranging from $15 to $80, and a hub ably priced is to use occupancy sensors, motion can cost up to $125, so it could take a long time sensors or timers as control devices. to make your money back. Chances are, you’re The wide number of options and costs makes better off investing in smart lighting for the feait difficult to select the best smart lighting for tures than the energy savings. your situation. We suggest you do the research One alternative to smart lighting is smart wall to make sure it’s worth your time and money to outlets or wall switches. For example, you can make the change. KCL plug a lamp with a standard bulb into a smart wall This column was co-written by PAT KEEGAN and outlet, or you can have several lights wired to one BRAD THIESSEN of Collaborative Efficiency. For more smart switch. The downside to smart switches and information on energy efficient gifts, please visit outlets is that installation could be more challengwww.collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips. ing, and you may not have as many options and
DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
LIFX
Investments in smart lighting are not likely to pay back as quickly as some energy efficiency measures that control heating or air conditioning.
11
Eric Haselhorst, member of Victory Electric Cooperative and owner of Rockin H Farm Toys, turned his hobby and love of wheat harvest into a business dedicated to preserving memories.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
DECEMBER 2019
M
aking odels & emories BY D I A N A W E S T
ERIC HASELHORST recalls watching the caravan of custom harvesting crews moving south through Kansas every May signaling that harvest was about a month away. “I’ve always had a fascination with custom harvesting crews.” His fascination with the crews who traveled from Texas to Canada harvesting wheat for area farmers sprouted from the summer days he spent on his grandparents’ farm. Each June he would help his granddad with the harvest. “I rode for hours on the armrest of his M2 Gleaner, made many trips to the co-op with a load on the ’71 GMC, ate meals out of the trunk of grandma’s car, and, at the end of the day, washed off the dirt and dust, and started over the next day.”
He enjoyed making the double combine trailer so much that he started making single combine trailers. That was followed by tandem-axle end dump trucks. And when demand from other collectors looking for impossible-to-find farm toys increased, he launched Rockin H Farm Toys in 2012, creating farm model toys to customers’ customized specifications.
Making Models
Fast forward 11 years to Haselhorst’s job change and move from Great Bend to Dodge City where a practical decision led a hobby to flourish into a business. At his new residence, Haselhorst didn’t have space to display his collection of 1/32”-scale fourwheel drive vehicles. He decided to sell most of them and traded the rest at a toy show for a collection of semis, combines, grain trailers and dollies. Haselhorst wanted to complete his new set, with a double combine trailer, a specialty trailer used during harvest, but couldn’t find one. So, he decided to make it himself. “I got some measurements from Johnson Harvesting, a custom cutter in Minnesota, and made one out of brass. People said they’d love to have one so I started making them,” he said.
Eric Haselhorst specializes in making high end 1/64th scale models using original and off-the-shelf products. DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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At first, he never said no to anything anyone wanted him to build, but he soon realized that took the fun out of creating the models. That’s when he decided to focus on wheat harvest vehicles only. “What is nice about being specialized is all pressure is off ... staying true to what I absolutely love doing is the best part,” he says. He readily refers customers to other builders who specialize in items that he doesn’t design. Haselhorst describes himself as a teacher at heart — he is a former National FFA Organization adviser and ag teacher — selling his kits with instructions for customers to learn how to assemble the replica model through step-by-step videos and photos at rockinhfarmtoys.com. “From the website, customers can see how the models are made and what goes into it,” Haselhorst said. “I post progress pics of pieces so they can follow along as it is built. I strive to get as close as possible to the real thing down to the logos on the door.” Working part-time, he says it takes one to two months to complete a piece, depending on the complexity. All pieces are 1/64”-scale.
Making Memories
Haselhorst produces a lot of models for people who have been on the harvest trail, including the entire fleet of Kathie and Mike Keimig’s business, Keimig Harvesting & Trucking, who harvest a variety of crops from Texas to the Canadian border. Their collection comprises 10 trucks, eight combine trailers, two tractor and grain cart trailers, four double header trailers, and a service truck that took Haselhorst about a year to complete. Fond connections to harvest, past and present, inspire custom harvesting businesses to have their equipment replicated for display — or play!
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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Haselhorst uses photos of the original equipment to replicate the smallest of details on these custom models, which can take months to complete.
“I was so impressed when Eric brought the whole collection to us.” Kathie said. “You can see he put extra attention into every detail.” Mike and Kathie have recommended Haselhorst to others who have admired the collection that’s displayed in their office in Sterling. “It’s amazing that he just took pictures of our equipment and reproduced them in models that look exactly like what we own,” Mike said. Whether your story includes a summer working on a custom cutter harvesting crew, or like Haselhorst, you’re simply attached to the land and machines that symbolize farm life, Rockin H endeavors to keep those connections and memories alive. For Haselhorst, it’s not about making models, but rather recreating memories. “When you look at a Rockin H model on your desk or shelf, I want you to smell the dirt, dust
“When you look at a Rockin H model on your desk or shelf, I want you to smell the dirt, dust and diesel.” and diesel. I want you to hear the combine in the distance at evening. I want you to smile when you remember the truck that everyone knew by name. When you tell your friends about your models, it’s no longer generic toys. You share your story about their meaning to you.” KCL Rockin H plans a model workshop in February 2020. Visit www.rockinhfarmtoys.com for information.
DECEMBER 2019
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Continued from page 7
tickets to win a hand-pieced, Christmas-themed quilt. 403 S. Fourth Street, 620-272-3664. DEC. 14 Old Fashioned Christmas, Lindsborg. E njoy shepherds sharing the traditional Christmas story in the stable, a guided tour of the historic Smoky Valley Roller Mills, Santa Claus, children’s crafts and cookies for decorating. Follow the glowing lanterns from activity to activity from 5:30-8 p.m. Old Mill Museum, 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com. DEC. 14 St. Lucia Festival, Lindsborg. A favorite Swedish holiday tradition celebrating the figure of light on a long winter day. The day begins at 10 a.m. with live holiday music. 888227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com.
Would You Like to Reach
131,000
Homes & Businesses? Call 785-478-4554 to discuss advertising options in Kansas Country Living magazine! Find out more at https://www.kec.coop/kcl
DEC. 15 The Bucky Fowler Family Country Christmas, Benton. T he Prairie Rose Ranch invites you to enjoy a country Christmas at 6:30 p.m. 15232 S.W. Parallel Road, prairierosechuckwagon.com. DEC. 15 Wichita Grand Opera Concert, McPherson. W ichita Grand Opera presents “All is Calm” in a musical tribute to World War II. 620-241-1952, mcphersonoperahouse.org. DEC. 17 Preschools in the Flint Hills: A Long Drive, Manhattan. B ring children ages 3-5 to learn about the world they live in. Includes a story, snack and themed craft. Pre-registration is required. 785-587-2726, flinthillsdiscovery. org/547/Preschoolers-in-the-Flint-Hills. DEC. 17 Sandi Patty Concert, McPherson. T he most awarded female vocalist in contemporary Christian music performs at 7:30 p.m. 620-241-1952, mcphersonoperahouse.org. DEC. 19 Community Holiday Pageant,
Fredonia 7 :30 p.m. Bateman Gym.
DEC. 19 Lightwire Theatre, McPherson.
L ightwire Theatre’s electroluminescent artistry combines theater and technology to bring a magical and captivating tale of family, friendship and hope to timeless holiday hits. 620-241-1952, mcphersonoperahouse.org. DEC. 21 Christmas Extravaganza, Johnson.
E xtravaganza at The Old Store on Main Street. Featuring candy, cakes, pies and cookies. Fundraiser for the Stanton County Hospital Auxiliary. 620-492-6630.
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DEC. 21 Concert, Ottawa. T he Grand O’ Opry
presents Duke Mason, Ginelle Espry and Halie Bagwell beginning at 7 p.m., preshow at 6:30 p.m. 3 01 S. Hickory, 785-214-0013, grandoopry@ gmail.com. DEC. 25 Julotta, Lindsborg. T he traditional Swedish Christmas Lutheran Church service begins at 6 a.m. Come early to start your day with the beautiful sounds of a brass ensemble sending the call to workshop at 5:45 a.m. from the bell tower at Bethany Lutheran Church. 888227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com. DEC. 26 Annandag Jul, Lindsborg.
A nnandag Jul means “another day of Christmas,” an official part of the Christmas holiday season in Sweden. Experience a traditional Lutheran Church service in Swedish. Service begins at 10 a.m. B ethany Lutheran Church, 888-227-2227, www.visitlindsborg.com. DEC. 31 Family New Year’s Event-Mad
Science, Manhattan. R ing in the new year with games, science experiments, music, food, dancing and more. Kids can play scientist, see live animals and launch rockets! Balloon drop at “kids midnight,” 8:30 p.m. Must purchase tickets prior. 785-587-2726, flinthillsdiscovery.org/394/FamilyNew-Years-Eve. JAN. 15-19 Winter Quilting Marathon, Concordia. J oin us for an extended quilting retreat. Begins at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday and concludes at 1 p.m. on Sunday. Manna House of Prayer, 323 E. Fifth St. JAN. 22-23 Mid-American Workforce
Summit, Topeka. T his annual forum discusses realities facing the workforce and economic development issues in Kansas. Limited to 300 participants. Capitol Plaza Hotel, Maner Conference Center, 620-227-8082, MidAmericaWorkforceSummit.com. JAN. 25 Knights of Columbus Toy Show
and Sale, Dodge City. F rom 9 a.m.-3 p.m. 800 W. Frontview, Kenny Schinstock 620-4304727, kjschinstock@cox.net. JAN. 29 Kansas Day Celebration, Topeka. C elebrate the state’s 159th birthday at the Kansas Museum of History! Enjoy STEM activities, craft demonstrations, live performances and more. 6425 S.W. 6th Ave. KCL
GETTYIMAGES/LUMIKK555
Reader Contest! Entries Due by 5 p.m. on Dec. 16
You could win a 2019 Willie Wiredhand Christmas ornament by correctly answering all 12 questions below that correspond to each of the 2019 Kansas Country Living issues. Correct entries will be entered into a drawing for one of 15 collector’s ornaments, shipped to you in time to place on this year’s Christmas tree. Follow us on Facebook/KansasCountryLiving and look for another chance to win a Willie Wiredhand ornament. Good luck!
Enter one of two ways:
1
Mail this page (or a copy) with your answers circled and contact information to: Kansas Country Living Reader Contest P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267
2
Go to www.kec.coop/KCLContest to complete your entry online.
Kansas Country Living sponsors this organization’s photo contest. a. Rural Health Education Services at the University of Kansas Medical Center b. Safe Electricity c. Touchstone Energy
1. JANUARY –
Rebecca Howard featured this chewy or gooey chocolate treat in her Cooking My Way Home column? a. Cupcakes b. Brownies c. Toffee
2. FEBRUARY –
The fourth leaf of a clover is the result of _______ creating a lucky charm. a. A genetic mutation b. A leprechaun c. A rainbow
3. MARCH –
What Kansas town has the governor officially recognized as the “Storytelling Capital of Kansas?” a. Hooterville b. Mayberry c. Downs 4. APRIL –
The oldest continuously operated dirt track in the U.S. is in what Kansas town? a. Belleville b. Barnes c. Baileyville 5. MAY –
6. JUNE – At what annual event do Youth Tour and Camp participants share their experiences and thank their electric co-op for their life-changing trip? a. Co-op’s annual meeting b. Kansas State Fair c. Super Bowl
Which company known for their bib overalls got its start in Fort Scott? a. Key b. Dickies c. Liberty
7. JULY –
8. AUGUST – What Kansas State Fair program includes Dr. Goddard’s Lab, a High Voltage Safety Demo and Moo U among others? a. Kansas’ Biggest Classroom b. Kansas’ Largest Classroom c. Kansas’ Humongous Classroom
Establishing a ________ garden is a low-cost solution to several gardening challenges. a. Raised b. Indoor c. Bag
9. SEPTEMBER –
10. OCTOBER – What flowering plant is crucial to the survival of Monarch butterflies? a. Roses b. Milkweed c. Marigolds
What Kansas museum recently reimagined 25,000 square foot of exhibit space? a. Evel Knievel Museum b. Eisenhower Presidential Museum c. Combat Air Museum
11. NOVEMBER –
Why should everyone be counted in the 2020 Census? a. Fair representation in the U.S. House of Representatives b. Redistricting of congressional and state legislative districts c. Distribution of federal funds vital to schools, hospitals, roads, etc. d. All of the above
12. DECEMBER –
Name: _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name of Electric Co-op: _________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone and email to contact you: __________________________________________________________________________________ DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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YO U R P L A C E I N T H E G A R D E N
Frost, Freeze Damage Not Immediately Apparent
Cynthia Domenghini, Ph.D.
A plant that has damage to the buds may not exhibit injury until the next bloom when the buds appear and then fall off before opening.
BY C Y N T H I A D O M E N G H I N I , P H . D .
FROST DATES ARE A GUIDELINE for gardeners to Winter can sometimes surprise us with spurts of know the expected growing season for sensispring-like weather. If warmer temperatures arrive tive plants. While these dates can’t be guaranteed, prior to the minimum number of chilling hours, they are determined based on the average dates the plants will remain dormant. However, if the in history when the first and last frost occurred. plants have reached the chilling requirement and Plants exposed to the elements when frost strikes warmer temperatures arrive, there is a risk the risk injury and death. Here is an explanation of plant will come out of dormancy. Any freeze that how frost and freezing temperatures affect plants. occurs after this could hinder the growing season When temperatures suddenly drop below of the affected plants. To find out the number of freezing (32 F) water stored within the plant cells chilling hours your region has had thus far in the freezes forming ice crystals. As the ice crystals season you can visit: https://getchill.azurewebsites. expand inside the plant cells, the cell walls rupture. net. This resource can help you be prepared to When the temperature rises again and the ice protect plants as necessary. melts, the cell walls are no longer able to hold If you discover your region is facing a warming water inside for the plant. The water drains out trend this winter you can provide your plants of the plant and the stems and leaves are left limp some protection with frost blankets. Research has and brownish in color. shown that watering prior to a frost can raise the Not all plants will exhibit cold weather damage air temperature above the wet soil up to 5 degrees immediately or in the same way. A plant that has warmer than the air above dry soil. It is typically damage to the buds may not exhibit injury until best to wait to prune plants that show symptoms the next bloom when the buds appear and then of frost damage until spring. This will give the fall off before opening. Other delayed damage may gardener a better idea of which plants will recover include cracks that develop along plant stems or while also avoiding putting the plant at greater tree trunks. Fortunately, many plants have ways to risk of damage from open wounds during freezing adapt and prepare for winter weather. temperatures. KCL A plant’s cold hardiness is determined in part by its genetics. Though ice crystals forming CYNTHIA DOMENGHINI is an instructor and coordinator for K-State’s horticultural therapy within a cell can be detrimental, freezing between online certificate program. cells is OK. Plants that are more tolerant of the cold have adaptations that enable them to reduce the water content within cells as freezing temperatures approach. Some plants also have the ability to lower the freezing point of the water remaining inside the cells making the plant more tolerant of the cold weather. Many perennials are suited for freezing temperatures because they have entered dormancy prompted first by the shortened days and next by the colder weather. During this time, plant growth stops. After a time frame known as the “chilling period,” above ground growth will resume. Certain plants require a number of chilling hours before the plant will be able to resume growing. Ice crystals formed during the first freeze of the fall causing the
stems of this Salvia spp. to split.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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Be Counted:
CENSUS 2020 THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU is the federal government’s largest statistical agency dedicated to providing current facts and figures about America’s people, places and economy. The U.S. Constitution requires each decade a count — or a census — of America’s population be taken. The census provides vital information for you and your community:
� It determines how many representatives each
state gets in Congress and is used to redraw district boundaries. Redistricting counts are sent to the states by March 31, 2021.
� Communities rely on census statistics to plan
for a variety of resident needs including new roads, schools and emergency services.
� Businesses use census data to determine where
to open places to shop or eat.
Each year, the federal government distributes more than $675 billion to states and communities based on Census Bureau data.
In 2020, new technology will make it easier than ever to respond to the census. For the first time, you will be able to respond online, by phone, or by mail. Federal law protects the confidentiality of all individual responses the Census Bureau collects.
U.S. Census Bureau Recruiting Temps
Census takers will be hired to work in their communities and go door to door to collect responses from those who do not respond to the 2020 census online, by phone or by mail. In certain remote areas, census takers are the only way people can respond to the 2020 census. These positions offer competitive pay, flexible hours, paid training and weekly paychecks. The selection process for census taker positions begins in January 2020, with paid training occurring in March and April. Actual counts of non-responding households throughout the nation begins in May and will continue through early July. Check out the 2020 census website, https://2020census. gov/en/jobs, for listings of available census taker and other jobs. KCL
GOVERNOR APPOINTS KEC’S LESLIE KAUFMAN TO CENSUS COMMITTEE vice president of government relations and legal counsel for Kansas Electric Cooperatives Inc., was appointed by Gov. Laura Kelly to the Kansas Complete Count Committee created through executive order to assist the U.S. Census Bureau in promoting participation in the 2020 census. The 50-member committee will help with promotional efforts to bring awareness to the 2020 census and the importance of everyone’s participation. Committee members will coordinate responses to questions about the census, provide available resources on hard-to-count populations,
LESLIE KAUFMAN,
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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and help ensure the highest participation rate possible. “Electric co-ops can play a key role in encouraging Kansans to participate in the 2020 census,” Kaufman said. “The census is an important aspect to ensuring rural Kansas is adequately represented in elected offices at the local, state and federal levels.” “Many areas in Kansas have and are experiencing significant out-migration. That makes it even more critical to ensure every individual living in Kansas is counted,” Kaufman said. KCL
DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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Safety Tips Inspect lights:
Carefully inspect all electrical decorations before you use them. Cracked or damaged sockets and/or loose or exposed wires can cause serious shock or start a fire.
with
these
Make sure your tree is at least three feet away from any heat source, like an air duct, fireplace or space heater.
Examine extension cords and lights for signs of damage. Frayed electric cords should be discarded.
Trim the stump:
Keep it watered:
Fill the water reservoir daily and check the condition of the trunk bark and branches for moisture. Shedding or dry needles could mean the tree is drying out, increasing overall fire risks.
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
Hap Ensu
Keep away from heat:
Examine cords:
22
tree with the following tips.
DECEMBER 2019
Trim the tree’s stump by at least two inches on freshly cut trees. Allow it to absorb water for 24 hours before bringing it inside.
Source: National Fire Protection Association
py Holiday
re a
Tree Safety Tips
B Y D E R R I L L H O L LY
American households will display at least one Christmas tree this holiday season, and 81% of those trees will be artificial. But a real tree you cut from a field or buy from a store or lot was farm grown and harvested eight to 10 years after it was first cultivated from seed. Whether you prefer firs, spruces, pines, cedars or cypresses, it’s more likely than not the tree has spent years being sheered, shaped and refined before it was cut this autumn and displayed for sale. “If you’ve got a local tree farm in your area, cutting your own is the best way to make sure your tree is fresh,” said Jami Warner, executive director of the American Christmas Tree Association. “If you buy your tree from a local retailer, there’s a good chance the trees on the lot were cut at least a month ago.” Dryness and electrical malfunctions with lights and trees located too close to heating sources can make for a deadly combination. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fires involving Christmas trees cause an estimated $13 million annually in property damage. “Always make sure when you buy a live Christmas tree, it is fresh cut,” said Susan McKelvey, communications manager of the NFPA. “Grab a branch, run your hand along it and see if any needles fall. If you have a lot of needles in your hand, it means the tree is already drying out.” Tree retailers should be willing to cut a few inches of the stump exposing moist wood, capable of absorbing water through the trunk and circulating it to
ABOUT 95 MILLION
the tree’s branches, said McKelvey. “When you get it home, set it in a large container of water and let it absorb as much as it can for at least a day before you bring it inside.” Consumers need to remember that Christmas trees are flammable, so the longer they are inside, the more likely they are to dry out, and that’s when they pose an increased fire hazard, said McKelvey. The NFPA also recommends that the trees be set up at least 3 feet away from any heat source, like a fireplace, heating duct or portable space heater. With five weeks between Thanksgiving and New Years’ Day, this holiday season, keeping trees adequately moist to reduce fire hazards could take regular watering, proper placement and a bit of luck. “There are only about 500 Christmas tree fires that occur each year,” said McKelvey. Christmas tree fires are blamed for about four deaths and 15 injuries a year. “While the number of Christmas tree fires is relatively low, trees located too close to a heat source are a factor in one of every four such fires,” said McKelvey. “When you refill the water reservoir each day, check the tree for needle loss or other signs of dryness that may indicate it’s time to take it down.” KCL
writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56% of the nation’s landscape.
DERRILL HOLLY
DECEMBER 2019
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C O O K I N G M Y WAY H O M E
Keeping the Kid in the ‘Candy Store’ Every Christmas BY R E B E C C A H O WA R D
in a candy store. A real candy store that didn’t exist when I was a child, but was kept alive in my imagination by my dad, who had experienced the place and rendered it vividly from memory. This magical candy confectionary/concession was connected to the Kaw Theatre on Washington Street in Junction City, where two generations of the Heyl family (namely Andrew and his son, Keith, and daughter-in-law, LaVerne) ran the
theater from the late 1930s through the early 1970s. During much of that time, they crafted all sorts of candies by hand, including chocolates, peanut brittle and an array of hard “rock” candy in a range of flavors (lemon, licorice, horehound and the most-popular, cinnamon), that was cooked up in a large copper kettle and poured out on a marble slab to be cut by a rolling pin device with round blades that scored the candy into even squares. The candies were sold in small brown sacks (six pieces Rebecca Howard for a nickel) to moviegoers, who, according to my father, even got to watch the candy-making process. For a child so in love with candy (and soon, candy making), this was fodder to fire the imagination. Then, and now, I asked, why does such an idyllic place no longer exist? Something stirred in me so much that I wanted to make The cinnamon candy recipe I share here that I have adapted and use differs those candies myself. slightly in proportions from that of the original one from the Heyl family Our cousin, Janice, was already (which was shared by Nellie Heyl and printed in the Junction City Daily making them. At Christmas, she Union in 2008), but the same cooking method of minimal stirring and would give us beautiful tins full of reaching the optimal temperature is employed. Make sure you carefully stir in the potent oil, and do not allow the candy to cool completely if you wish perfect squares of green (wintergreento score it into squares. flavored) and red (cinnamon) jewels. This nudge in hard candy making was ff 12 cups granulated sugar flavor of choice (peppermint, clove, furthered when my sister — ahead lemon; LorAnn brand recommended) ff 2/3 cup light corn syrup of me by five years — brought home ff Red food coloring (liquid) pages of recipes from her home ec ff 3/4 cup water class. A session in candy making ff Powdered sugar (optional) ff 1 to 1-1/2 tsp. cinnamon oil or other yielded a hard candy recipe! I was a member of the cinnamon Line with heavy foil and lightly coat with cooking spray an 8-inch by 8-inch metal pan. If using generation (who loved the flavor with molds, lightly spray cavities of clean, dry candy molds with cooking spray. seemingly equal fiery passion as the In a heavy bottom 2-quart kettle or large saucepan, mix together sugar, corn syrup and patrons of the Kaw Theatre). When I say water. Stir over medium heat until sugar dissolves (mixture will become clear). Insert candy cinnamon, I mean mouth-burning HOT, thermometer, if using, making certain it does not touch the bottom of the pan. Bring mixture in the form of cinnamon oil, nearly to a boil without stirring. If any sugar crystals form on the sides of the pan, you can brush prescription strength and so dangerthem down with a wet pastry brush. Continue to cook the syrup, without stirring, until the temperature reaches 260 F; add drops of coloring until desired color is achieved. Do not stir; ous (to eyes and mucous membranes) boiling action will incorporate color into syrup. that it often had to be purchased at the drugstore. We used it to saturate toothRemove from heat precisely at 300 F, or until drops of syrup form hard, brittle threads in picks we chewed and burned our gums cold water (hard crack stage). After boiling action has slowed, add flavor and stir carefully, on during after-school hours (permeatusing caution as the mixture will create hot steam. Carefully pour syrup into prepared molds or pan. As the sugar mixture begins to set up, score with a large knife to mark ing the air on the school bus with the squares. Do not refrigerate. tear-inducing stuff). We loved any commercial version of the heat, too, namely Cool completely. Break sheet candy into pieces and dust with powdered sugar, if desired. in Jolly Rancher “Fire Sticks” that we Store in airtight containers between waxed paper at room temperature (no refrigeration). devoured in large, flat versions the size of candy bars. I WAS ONCE LIKE A KID
Cinnamon Candy
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
DECEMBER 2019
So, there was no doubt the flavor I would make my candy. My mother purchased the potent oil from an area pharmacy. I readied myself, a sixthgrader, with pot and spoon and corn syrup and sugar, and a cup of cold water to gauge my candy’s “hard crack” stage of creating brittle threads (we did not have a candy thermometer). It was an evening that induced both a lifelong fascination and an anxiety with the chemistry of candy making. The oil, poured into the molten syrup along with the food coloring at the last, created a cloud of fiery cinnamon gas that caused chokes, coughs, tears and laughter of the entire household. The red food coloring and remainder sugary icicles that dangled from the pot made the kitchen resemble a crime scene. A love affair — as well as a Christmas tradition — was born. The cinnamon candy making was not without its additional issues. One had to start marking the candy in its pan at the perfect point of cooling, when it was still soft enough to adhere, but cooled enough that the grid marks held. If you didn’t get proper squares marked, you were left to tap and crack the candy into irregular (and often jagged) pieces with the handle of a knife or a small hammer that would send candy shrapnel to the far ends of the kitchen. Occasionally, depending on humidity or the moisture from the butter used to grease the pan (the Heyls used oil), the candy developed a crystallized cloudiness that was disappointing, but not the end of the world — the candy was always bright red and always tasted good. Over the years, I took the cinnamon candy to high school chums and brought it back to my dorm at Kansas State. I shared small jars with friends and family. And I’ve continued to make it and mail it back from my California kitchen, the cinnamon permeating beyond the contents of the boxes to intrigue (or perhaps “aromacize”) the postal carrier’s vehicle. The flavoring oil is now more readily available at kitchen supply stores and through mail order. The candy process, too, is less stressful, as I’ve employed a candy thermometer (though I still do the water test to be sure) and use a cooking method that involves minimal stirring. The squares, though, remain in my signature irregularity (more like candy trapezoids). During each candy making session, I think of the marble slab, copper kettle and rolling cutter of the Heyls — long retired before I ever entered the picture (and the latter two of which are housed in the Geary County Historical Society Museum). In a cinnamon-induced fog, I can continue to dream. KCL Thanks to researchers at the Geary County Historical Society for providing information for this column. grew up in Kansas and has written for the Los Angeles Daily News, the Los Angeles Times and LA Parent Magazine, and currently writes the food blog, “A Woman Sconed.”
REBECCA HOWARD
DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
25
Baby Chicks for Sale! Free catalog at
www.cacklehatchery.com Hatching & shipping in Lebanon, Missouri, since 1936
MOOOVING? Report your new address to your local electric cooperative.
Fighting the CHILLY AIR with your space heater? Electric space heaters can quickly warm up a room, but can be as dangerous and costly as they are convenient if used improperly.
S U B S C R I B E TO
Check for certification by UL, CSA or ETL to verify your heater has been tested for safety before using it inside your home. Learn more about space heater safety and efficient operation from your local electric cooperative.
Only $10 a year. Clip this form and mail with your check or money order payable to: Kansas Electric Cooperatives, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604
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Brought to you by the electric cooperatives of Kansas.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
Source: Safe Electricity
DECEMBER 2019
Kansas Nov Dec 2019.qxp_Advanced Tree 9/18/1
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DECEMBER 2019
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SAFETY
Electrical Issues Cause 1 out of 4 Christmas Tree Fires BY D E R R I L L H O L LY
offers great moments for building memories, but when it comes to decorating, it’s also the perfect time to think about safety. “There are about 200 decorating-related injuries each day during the busy holiday season,” said Ann Marie Buerkle, acting chairman of the Consumer Product Safety Commission. “Make safety a part of your family’s holiday decorating this year.” Between November 2016 and January 2017, holiday decorating injuries resulted in 18,400 emergency room visits, nationwide. Local fire departments look to the holiday season as a time of increased vigilance, often tied to many of the activities that have become family traditions. “It’s important to use common sense when you’re dealing with holiday decorating, particularly with lighting, candles and electrical wiring,” said Bruce Bouch, a U.S. Fire Administration fire program specialist. “Holiday decorations are designed for temporary use, and that means they are essentially disposable.” According to the National Fire Protection Association, the top three days of the year for candle fires in the U.S. are Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. NFPA statistics also indicate that one of four Christmas tree fires are caused by electrical problems. The global safety certification company, United Laboratories, classifies holiday lighting as a seasonal product designed for no more than 90 days
FEMA
THE HOLIDAY SEASON
According to the National Fire Prevention Association, burning candles start two out of five home fires every year. Consider battery-operated LED candles as safer alternatives.
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KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
DECEMBER 2019
of use. While the actual holiday season is about six weeks, weather and busy schedules mean outdoor lighting displays are put up early and taken down late, exposed to the elements the entire time. “It’s always important to inspect holiday lights each year before you put them up,” said Bouch. “You may find that there are pinches or torn areas on the insulation.” Open, exposed wiring or any signs of fraying or pinching are indications of weakened wiring. Those flaws are prone to breakage and may raise the potential for heat buildup, which can cause a fire. Bouch recommends a thorough inspection of your holiday lights to identify potential hotspots and damage to the strings. “When you’re checking everything on the wiring and fixtures, make sure you check for chewing damage from wild animals or your own pets,” adds Bouch. “Also look for signs that the insulation itself is wearing thin enough to expose wiring.” The U.S. Fire Administration, the CPSC and safety organizations also focus on reminding consumers that indoor and outdoor extension cords are also designed for temporary use. “Your household wiring is a solid metal wire,” said Bouch. “Extension cords are strands of your thin wires that are twisted together. That pliability can allow them to break over time, increasing the chance that they could fail within so many years.” Experts also warn that candle use increases the risk of accidental fires, and suggests that consumers consider battery-operated LED candles as safer alternatives. According to NFPA, candles start two out of every five home fires each year, and about 100 Christmas tree fires occur each holiday season, causing about $12 million in damage annually. You can reduce the risks by placing your Christmas tree away from heat sources, like vents or space heaters, and topping off the water reservoir daily. Kansas’ electric cooperatives join local firefighters, the NFPA and the CPSC in urging you to consider safety as you decorate and enjoy the holiday season with family and friends. KCL DERRILL HOLLY writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.
DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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Chocolate Popcorn Reindeer
Quiche Cups in Muffin Tins
KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, DECEMBER 2019
Forget holiday cookies, spread holiday cheer with these festive popcorn balls.
KANS AS COUNTRY LIVING, DECEMBER 2019
Bake your quiche inside ham for a speedy dish sure to please the breakfast crowd.
KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, D E CE M B E R 201 9
delectable, cream cheese filled pies.
KAN S AS COU N T RY L IVIN G, D E CE M B E R 201 9
Nothing says “the holidays” quite like a whole roasted turkey.
Whoopie Pies Transform boxed spice cake into
Pomegranate Maple Glazed Turkey
ff 1 cup pomegranate juice ff 1/4 cup maple syrup
Pomegranate Maple Glazed Turkey ff 1 whole turkey ff 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter ff 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
Preheat oven to 325 F. Locate and set aside neck and giblets package from inside the turkey cavity. Unwrap the turkey in the sink and pat dry with paper towels. Coat the outside of the turkey with butter, sprinkle with salt and pepper, place on a rack in a large roasting pan and roast for 1 hour. Combine the chicken broth, pomegranate juice and maple syrup in a nonstick skillet and bring to a simmer over low heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until reduced to about 1/3 cup, about 30 minutes. After 1 hour of roasting, begin basting with the glaze. If the bird gets too dark, cover loosely with foil. Continue roasting until a thermometer inserted into the breast reaches 170 F.
ff 4 Tbs. butter
COURTESY HONEYSUCKLE WHITE
Transfer the turkey to a platter, tent with foil and let rest 30 minutes before slicing.
Whoopie Pies ff 1 box spice cake mix
ff 2 Tbs. milk
ff 3 cups powdered sugar
ff 1/2 cup canola oil
ff 1 tsp. vanilla
ff 1 1/2 cups apple butter ff 2 eggs ff 8 ounces cream cheese
Heat oven to 350 F. Line baking sheet with parchment paper. In large bowl, whisk spice cake mix, apple butter, oil and eggs. With ice cream scoop or large tablespoon, spoon batter into rounded heaps, about 2-3 inches in diameter, onto parchment paper. Space spooned batter 2 inches apart. Bake 14 minutes. Let cool. In large bowl, beat cream cheese, butter and powdered sugar until smooth. Add milk and vanilla; beat until blended. Frost flat sides of pie halves and place halves together. Refrigerate and store in sealed container.
COURTESY CULINARY.NET
Quiche Cups in Muffin Tins
ff 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
ff 1/4 tsp. salt
ff 5 eggs
ff 1/8 tsp. pepper
ff 1 cup skim milk
ff 18 thin slices deli ham
ff 1 1/2 cups shredded Swiss cheese ff 1/4 cup chopped green onion
Heat oven to 350 F.
In bowl, whisk eggs. Add milk, cheese, onion, thyme, salt and pepper; stir to combine.
Spray muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray. Place one slice of ham in each chamber. Spoon about 3 Tbs. egg mixture into each chamber so each is three-fourths full.
Bake about 25 minutes, or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean and tops begin to brown. Remove from oven and cool about 10 minutes.
COURTESY ECK RIC H.COM /FAM ILY FE ATURES
Chocolate Popcorn Reindeer
ff 1/4 tsp. salt
ff 8 red candy-coated chocolate candies
your own with icing
ff 16 pretzel sticks
ff 8 cups unsalted, unbuttered
ff 16 eyeball candies or make
popped popcorn
ff 2 1/2 cups mini marshmallows
or dark chocolate chips
ff 1/2 cup chopped dark chocolate ff 2 Tbs. butter or light olive oil
Place popcorn in large mixing bowl.
In saucepan set over medium heat, heat marshmallows, chocolate, butter and salt, stirring often, until smooth. Toss marshmallow mixture with popcorn until well combined.
Scoop 3/4 cup popcorn mixture into ball. Repeat with remaining mixture to make 8 balls. Place each ball in paper muffin cup liner.
Insert pretzel stick on each side of ball to resemble antlers, stick two eyeball candies on for “eyes” and red candy for “nose.” Let cool completely. red-nosed sleigh-pulling team!
NOTE: These festive holiday popcorn balls are a great project for kids as they create their own
COURTESY P OP CO RN.ORG
DECEMBER 2019
KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING
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ADVERTISEMENT
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FIX YOUR GUT & FIGHT INFLAMMATION
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Since hitting the market, sales for AloeCure have taken off and there are some very good reasons why. To start, the clinical studies have been impressive. Virtually all participants taking it reported stunning improvement in digestive symptoms including bouts of heartburn. Users can also experience higher energy levels and endurance, relief from chronic discomfort and better sleep, healthier looking skin, hair, and nails.
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THE SCIENCE BEHIND ALOECURE
ing gut health is the key to revitalizing your entire body. When your digestive system isn’t healthy, it causes unwanted stress on your immune system, which results in inflammation in the rest of the body. The recommended daily allowance of acemannan in AloeCure has been proven to support digestive health and manage painful inflammation through immune system adjustments without side effects or drugs. This would explain why so many users are experiencing impressive results so quickly.
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