It is often said that youth are our future. What we sow today, we reap tomorrow. Youth are also our present. As parents, business owners, commu-nity leaders and concerned citizens, it’s our job to lead them toward leader-ship and learning opportunities and mentor them along the way.

In this issue, we focus on the importance of investing in our Kansas kids. An inspiring example of actively mentoring youth is Sharon Wagner, owner of The Linger Longer antique soda fountain in Bennington. She and her husband, Jay, opened the soda fountain as a gift to the community, specifically the youth in the area as a place to hang out. Besides learning how to make authentic green rivers (real acid phosphate) and the modern-day Dr. J malt (fan-tastic), Sharon teaches her youth workers nearly every aspect of running the business. Discover more about this nostalgic treasure that serves as a backdrop to mentoring contemporary youth on page 12.

Beginning on page 14, we highlight indi-viduals whose experiences in leadership pro-grams and student organizations motivated them to serve others through education, public service and outreach. Amber Kelly, who was the recipient of the Kansas 4-H Leadership Award

sponsored by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, rallied seamstresses–novices and experts alike–to create 451 dresses for the Little Dresses for Africa Campaign. This remarkable 17-year-old’s story begins on page 18.

After reading about only a few of our incredible Kansas youth, I think you might agree that the future of the Sunflower State is in able hands. KCL

V I C K I E ST E S , E D I TO R

Investing in Youth Generates Future Dividends

E D I TO R’ S L E T T E R

Connie Liggett, Lincoln, KS, and her granddaughter, Lauren Tucker, Little Rock, AR, enjoy a game of checkers at The Linger Longer. Connie worked as a soda jerk when she was a teenager.

2 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

Bruce GrahamChief Executive Officer

Doug ShepherdVice President, Management Consulting

Shana ReadDirector of Communications

Vicki EstesEditor

Bob JenningsManager of Publishing Services

Carrie KimberlinCommunications Specialist

Heidi TrautmanCommunications Intern

Officers Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc.

Ralph PhillipsPresident

Kathleen O’BrienVice President

Keith McNickleSecretary

Patrick RileyTreasurer

Cooperatives You receive Kansas Country Living as a communications service of these electric cooperatives:Alfalfa, Cherokee, OKBluestem, WamegoBrown-Atchison, HortonButler, El DoradoCMS, MeadeCaney Valley, Cedar ValeDS&O, SolomonFlint Hills, Council GroveKaw Valley, Topeka Lane-Scott, DightonLJEC, McLouthLyon-Coffey, BurlingtonNinnescah, PrattPioneer, UlyssesPrairie Land, NortonRadiant, FredoniaRolling Hills, MankatoSedgwick County, CheneySumner-Cowley, WellingtonTri-County, Hooker, OKTwin Valley, AltamontVictory, Dodge CityWestern, WaKeeneyWheatland, Scott City

Kansas Country Living (ISSN 0091-9586) is pub-lished monthly for $10 per year (tax included) by Kansas Electric Cooperatives, Inc., P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604. Periodicals postage paid at Topeka, KS and additional entry offices. For members of Kansas rural electric systems, subscription cost is $5.88 per year. This cost is part of your electric service billing. Editorial offices: P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604-0267. Phone 785-478-4554. Fax 785-478-4852.

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

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

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

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

(ISSN 0091-9586)AUGUST 2015 VOL. 65, NO. 8© KANSAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES, INC., 2015WWW.KEC.COOP

AUGUST

D E PA RT M E N T S

2 | Editor’s Letter Youth are the present

4 | Around Kansas August events heat up

6 | Commentary Developing future leaders

8 | Guest CommentaryNurture our entrepreneurs

10 | Cut Your Utility Bills White shingles most efficient

28 | Cook’s Library Cooking for others

O N T H E CO V E RSoda Jerk Abby Jurgensmeier serves up an authentic green river at The Linger Longer.P H O T O B Y H E I D I T R A U T M A N

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

12 | Fountain of Youth Business owner empowers young soda jerks

18| Pattern of Behavior 4-H project unifies sewers to create dresses for African girls

22| Kid Power Sedgwick pedal tractor pull a co-op family affair

22AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 3

12

T H I N G S TO D O

Root for the Home Team at Atchison Museum

THROUGH AUG. 9 | The Atchison County Historical Society Museum hosts “Hometown Teams” a TRAVELING EXHIBIT that explores the way sports become part of who we are and the role teams play in building and uniting communities. Visit www.atchisonhistory.org or call 913-367-6238.

Ellsworth Area Art Center Exhibits Kansas Photography THROUGH AUG. 15 | View CAPTIVATING PHOTOS of Kansas wildlife taken at Cheyenne Bottoms and other scenic sites throughout the state. A representative from Nicodemus will discuss photography of the Buffalo Soldiers on Aug. 15 as part of the Cow Town Days celebration. Contact Sharon Haverkamp at 785-472-5682.

Walnut Valley Farmers Market

THROUGH AUG. 29 | This weekly Saturday market has been the place to PURCHASE LOCALLY GROWN PRODUCE since 1995. Find them on Facebook, visit www.wvfmarket.com or call 620-221-4507.

Garden City to Host Southwest Kansas Pro-Am AUG. 5-9 | Garden City hosts Kansas’ longest running PROFESSIONAL GOLF TOURNAMENT. The event offers something for everyone with the main Pro-Am Tournament, the Ladies Pro-Am, a Corporate Shootout, a Junior Golf Clinic, Helicopter Ball Drop contest, and more. Contact Kenne Whitson at 620-272-2177 for more information.

Arkansas Trails Triathlon Final Leg in Triple Threat Series AUG. 8 | This INAUGURAL EVENT will include a lap swim around the perimeter of the Big Pool, creating an open-water-type event, cycling on

Old Highway 83 and a trail run along the Arkansas River bed. For more information, contact Meghan McFee at 620-277-7894 or email at Meghan.mcfee@gardencityks.us.

Barrel Race at the Finney County Fairgrounds AUG. 8-9 | The Southwest Barrel Racing Association will host BARREL RACING AND POLE BENDING jackpots. For more information contact Rylene Hessman at 620-255-6257.

Hullabaloo in Leonardville AUG. 8 | “Cruise into the Ville” for this annual FREE CAR SHOW that boasts door prizes and top 25 participants’ choice awards. Other events include a parade, rodeo, pancake feed, golf tournament, kid’s sanctioned tractor pull, garage sales, and an ice cream social. Call Bart Anstaett at 785-293-5601 or Vern Bulk at 785-485-2540.

Uncork the Music Concert with Jim Vegas Band AUG. 8 | Celebrate the beautiful scenery

with friends, MUSIC AND WINE at Wheat State Wine Co. This event starts at 8 p.m. and runs until 10 p.m. at 23622 Springhill Farm Drive, Winfield, 620-229-9463.

Rope and Ride at this Cowgirl-Only Getaway AUG. 13-14 | Gals head out to the ranch to learn cowgirl skills during this COWGIRL WEEKEND in Bucklin. Contact Moore Ranch at 620-826-3649 or visit www. longhorn-cattle.com.

Hog Roast Part of Lake Scott Rod Run and Car Show AUG. 14-16 | Join us for hot dogs at Antiques on East 96 Highway and a movie in the park Friday night. Registration for the ROD RUN AND CAR SHOW begins at 8 a.m. Saturday at Scott City Park, with games, a Lake Scott cruise and a hog roast part of the activities. Contact 620-877-1182 or Charlie at 620-872-5570.

NATOMA TO CELEBRATE PIONEER HERITAGESEPT. 5-7 | Cars, tractors and motorcycles will cruise into Natoma on Labor Day weekend for a grand celebration. The annual event on K-18 in Paradise Valley celebrates 127 years of Pioneer Heritage. Events include 5K Run/Walk, Heritage Seekers breakfast, Museum exhibits, American Legion Auxiliary silent auction and bake sale, Library Clothesline Art Show/children’s competition, Lion’s Club “Beef Bundle” and noon barbecue, Labor Day Parade, Hachmeister Exotic Zoo, children’s games and rides, music by regional artists, and a free evening barbecue by Southwind Bank of Natoma. For information about the event call Mayor Dale Eickhoff, City Hall, 785-885-4833 or call 785-346-8186 for information about the Car Show.

Natoma Lions Club members will provide a noon cookout during the Labor Day celebration. Since 1917, the club’s emphasis on vision has given sight to millions around the world.

4 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

Mulvane Old Settlers Celebrates Summer Fun AUG. 14-16 | A parade with marching bands, clowns and horses sets the tone for this CELEBRATION OF SUMMER. And don’t forget the fresh-squeezed lemonade and mouth-watering funnel cakes. For more information visit www.officialmulvaneoldsettlers.com.

Free Concert Just One Highlight of Sumner Co. Fair AUG. 14-16 | This COUNTY FAIR in Caldwell offers a free Saturday night concert by Six Appeal. Saturday is Ag Day with interactive events in the new Ag Building, plus livestock shows, a carnival and stage shows. Visit www.sumnercountyksfair.com.

Join the fun at the Barnes Antique and ‘Junque’ Festival AUG. 15 | Check out the SPECIALTY SHOPS, VENDORS, GARAGE SALES and fabulous food from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Vendors are welcome to set up. Call 785-763-4310 or email dcruising@hotmail.com.

Orphan Train Complex, Toy Barn Part of Tour AUG. 15 | The Kansas Chapter of Singles

in Agriculture plans TOURS OF CONCORDIA attractions including Brown Grand Theatre, Bob’s Toy Barn and the WWII POW Camp, plus dinner and dance. Contact Lila at 785-313-3308 or Ardyce at 785-320-6110.

Tumbleweed Festival Rolls into Lee Richardson Zoo AUG. 21-23 | Saturday and Sunday offer two stages of LIVE PERFORMANCES BY MUSICIANS from various musical genres. A children’s area includes performances and storytelling. Contact Kathy Friesen at 620-290-1011 for more information.

Breakfast Kicks Off Yoder Heritage Days AUG. 22 | The event begins at 6 a.m. with a breakfast of pancakes and sausage followed by a parade at 10:30 a.m. Enjoy horse events, an antique tractor pull and LIVE MUSIC ALL DAY before concluding with a fireworks show. Visit www.yoderkansas.com for more information.

Summer Jubilee in Alton Kicks Off with Parade AUG. 22-23 | The Alton PRIDE SUMMER

JUBILEE features a parade followed by food, contests, games, and an auction. An original “Bull City Opry” is performed Saturday evening with a street dance at 9 p.m. Call 785-984-2341 or email dcarswell@ruraltel.net.

Shop as part of St. Marys City Market Cider Day AUG. 29 | SHARE DELICIOUS CIDER and shop at St. Marys City Market Cider Day at George J. Perry Memorial Armory, 110 S. 5th St. If you would like to be a vendor visit www.facebook.com/groups/stmaryscitymarket.

Garden City Chamber Plans Wine Tasting AUG. 29 | The area’s premier WINE TASTING event offers more than 40 fine wines paired with savory hors d’oeuvres and delectable desserts. Tickets available online at www.gardencitychamber.net or call 620-276-3264.

Brave River Ranch to Host Side Saddle Clinic, Trail Ride AUG. 30 | The Brave River Ranch, located six miles south of Onaga, will host a SIDE SADDLE CLINIC and a trail ride

Continued on page 17

AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 5

Youth Outreach Efforts Develop Future Leaders B Y B R U C E G R A H A M

Bruce Graham

CO M M E N TA RY

These youth outreach efforts are among the best programs KEC and the electric co-ops provide.

“Electric Cooperatives are more than just poles and wires. They’re about people and communities. They recognize the need to invest in future generations. Co-ops give back to the communities they serve and their Youth Tour is proof of that.”

It’s a great quote–something you would expect to hear from an electric cooperative advocate like myself. It might surprise you to learn that those are the words of Kansas Senator Jerry Moran during an impassioned statement he made on the Senate floor in June.

Similar stories of our partnership with Kansas youth fill this month’s issue of Kansas Country Living. Cooperatives invest in the next generation through established programs such as 4-H and FFA. In addition, the electric coopera-tives in Kansas have been sponsoring our own leadership initiatives. This association has teamed with our members to organize the Electric Coop-erative Youth Tour to D.C. for 50-plus years. More than just a chance to travel, these programs introduce youth to their potential and to the opportunities ahead in rural Kansas. They have been effective in developing leaders with at least three current members of the Kansas Legislature who point directly to the Youth Tour as a catalyst for public service.

Representative Steven Johnson (District 108) grew up on a farm outside Salina and fondly recalls his days as a 1983 Youth Tour delegate sponsored by DS&O Electric Cooperative. “That first sparked my interest in government and the Legislature,” he said. “The Youth Tour was a really critical event for me in my life.”

Representative Johnson is joined under the Statehouse dome by Youth Tour grads Repre-sentative Kyle Hoffman (District 116), Repre-sentative Travis-Couture Lovelady (District 110), and Brant Laue, Chief Counsel for Governor Brownback.

It’s not just political careers that have been launched. We have teachers who credit their calling to the trip’s American history expo-sure. We have dedicated community volunteers

inspired to make a difference by this journey. And we know there will continue to be coopera-tive employees who discovered that their electric provider would also provide a great career.

KEC’s Youth Tour is followed by the Youth Leadership Camp in July. This full-week expe-dition to the Rocky Mountains brings Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma and Wyoming youth together to learn electric cooperative history, how cooperatives are managed, and how the legisla-tive process works. But that’s not all. They are provided lessons on electric safety, our efforts to be environmental stewards, the need for diver-sity in generation resources and, once again, the opportunities ahead for careers at an electric cooperative.

Hitting that cooperative career point may seem self-serving but we know that these highly educated and motivated youth can bring new perspectives and skills to the electric coopera-tives. And we will need the help. Within the next five years, 20 percent of America’s electric coop-erative employees will be eligible for retirement. We are looking to this generation to provide cre-ative thinking, to assist with technology and adapt to the changes that will come with new policy and new regulations in the environmental and security sectors. We need people who will help us do all that while ensuring we remain true to our mission–to provide safe, reliable and affordable electric service and make a positive difference in the community and the lives of others.

These youth outreach efforts are among the best programs KEC and the electric coopera-tives provide. Sure, each trip is a chance for rural Kansas youth to get out of town for a week and make dozens of new friends. Along the way, the adventure becomes an opportunity to learn about themselves, their interests, and for some, their future. Many inspirational stories result and a few of them can be found in the pages that follow. KCL

BRUCE GRAHAM is Chief Executive Officer of Kansas Electric Cooperatives (KEC), Inc., Topeka.

6 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

Nurturing Entrepreneurs B Y C L A R E G U S T I N

Clare Gustin

G U E ST TA L K

If we want entre-preneurs to explore their ideas and build a business in our comm-unity we must welcome them, encourage them, support them ...

If you look around your community, you see the entrepreneurs that provide the major-ity of jobs in your area. The news is full of stories about what is happening with the Dow, NASDAQ, or Fortune 500 companies, but the majority of U.S. companies–99 percent–are con-sidered small by the U.S. Small Business Admin-istration. Almost all of the remaining 1 percent of companies that employ more than 500 people started small with one or two employees. Busi-ness recruitment will always be a part of com-munity development strategies, but considering how to ‘grow your own’ business start-ups is a smart move.

So what is the key to encouraging and nur-turing the entrepreneurial spirit? First, under-stand, appreciate and respect the mindset of an entrepreneur. Second, start talking about entre-preneurship to students when they’re in elemen-tary or middle school.

Entrepreneurs need different kinds of support. The Small Business Development Center, local colleges and regional development organizations may offer technical or business support the individual needs while they are doing their planning. These technical resources are important for the entrepreneur to get an understanding of all aspects of business owner-ship. They may not plan to be the bookkeeper, but they still need to understand a financial state-ment. Knowing what resources are available is key for the local development professional. Your ability to link the entrepreneur with an expert might make a big difference in their success.

But supporting entrepreneurs takes more than knowing where to get technical advice. A community that fosters the entrepreneurial spirit goes the extra step to nurture network-ing among these budding business owners. The ability to talk about challenges–managing time with family, financing the business with uncon-ventional methods, building a customer base–to someone who has ‘been there’, is invaluable. As the management skills and experience of the owners grow, they learn from each other.

In a rural area the pool of entrepreneurs may be smaller, so you might need to start with

a larger geographic area to attract a group of 10- 15 entrepreneurs. The gatherings can be formal or not–perhaps sometimes offering a formal program and sometimes just allowing the group to talk and discuss their issues. Just encourag-ing entrepreneurs to engage with each other will provide a social and business venue for them to meet and learn from each other.

By starting young, I suggest you begin working with students in elementary or middle school and keep teaching about entrepreneurship all through high school. At a minimum, ask for time with students to talk about business owner-ship as a career opportunity. The possibilities are endless when you consider how to bring small business into the classroom–field trips, guest speakers, and business planning competition.

Whether a student is college bound or not, the chances that they end up owning a busi-ness some time in their lifetime is pretty good–remember 99 percent of our businesses are small. So why not educate them about being the boss as a career option? There are excellent pro-grams to support classroom education through Future Business Leaders of America, DECA, and Junior Achievement.

Rural leaders shouldn’t accept the premise that entrepreneurs won’t thrive outside of places like Silicon Valley. Rural America is full of plenty of examples of companies that made it big starting small in a rural place. Our agrar-ian-based communities have many examples of companies born out of farm machine shops where the farmer started making a gadget for his neighbor.

Communities need to recognize that the culture that nurtures entrepreneurs does so in good times and bad, and in up and down, markets. If we want these entrepreneurs to explore their ideas and build a business in our community, we must welcome them, encourage them, support them, and make sure we don’t get in their way as their business takes off! KCL

CLARE GUSTIN is Vice President, Member Services and External Affairs for Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, Hays.

8 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

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

Roofing Materials Impact Air Conditioning Costs

JAM

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The poly/felt underlayment sheet is installed with special plastic washers and stainless steel nails.

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

Dear Jim: My black asphalt shingle roof needs to be replaced. I want to install a new roof that will last longer and help keep my home cooler during hot summer afternoons. What type of roof do you recommend? - Sandi J.

Dear Sandi: From the standpoint of a long life and keeping your home cooler, a black asphalt shingle roof is probably the worst option. The dark color absorbs much of the sun’s heat, which not only makes your home hotter and drives up your air-conditioning costs, but hastens the degradation of the shingle material itself.

A black shingle can easily reach 150 degrees Fahrenheit in the hot afternoon sun. If you have ever tried to lift a square (100 sq. ft.) of shingles, you know how heavy they are. When this thermal mass gets hot, it stores the heat and radiates it down into your home well into the evening.

Even if you have adequate insulation on the attic floor, the radiant heat from the hot roof easily passes through to room ceilings. Standard thermal insulation, such as batts and blown-in fiberglass or rock wool and cellulose, are most effective for blocking conductive heat transfer, but less so for radiant heat from a hot roof.

The two most common roofing materials for homes are shingles and metal. White shingles can be fairly energy efficient and effective for

reflecting much of the sun’s heat. Some white shingles even qualified for the former federal energy tax credit. Keep in mind, it takes very little color tint before shingles start to absorb heat, so white is the most efficient option.

Metal roofing can cost twice as much as shingles, but many types have lifetime warran-ties, and they can reflect the majority of the sun’s heat. Aluminum and steel are the two most common and reasonably priced materi-als. Copper is attractive and durable. It is quite expensive, but the natural aged patina color is beautiful and it absorbs heat well.

Black shingles absorb much of the sun’s heat, which makes your home hot-ter and drives up your air-conditioning costs.

JAM

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QUICK TIP

Always get a detailed, written roofing estimate. The estimate should cover the cost of the entire project, permits, timing, materials, cleanup and warranties.

10 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

I installed an aluminum simulated shake roof on my own home five years ago while the energy tax credit was in effect. My roof consists of 1-by-2-foot interlocking panels with a special heat-reflecting paint coating. The panels are made of recycled aluminum from soda pop cans and are formed to look like cedar shakes.

Aluminum is a particularly efficient roofing material because the underside surface of the roofing panels is bare. With a low emissivity rating, it does not allow the heat from the hot metal to pass through to the roofing lumber and insulation below. When selecting an alu-minum roof, it is important that its contour provides an air gap over the sheathing for its low-emissivity properties to be effec-tive. A simulated clay tile aluminum roof is also very effective with the many air gaps under it.

After my aluminum roof was installed, the second floor bedrooms stayed much cooler during summer afternoons. The only drawback to an aluminum metal roof is you must be careful walking on it and stepping on the high shake’s edges so it is not damaged. During winter, snow some-times slides off in large sheets and crushes shrubs and blocks the garage door. Snow stops can be glued to the roof to stop this, but they may also catch leaves and debris from nearby trees.

Painted steel roofs are also avail-able in many colors and simulated contours. The steel is treated with many layers of corrosion-resistant

coatings so rust is not a problem. Steel roofs with an aluminum-alloy coating are particularly durable. Steel is very strong, so there are fewer problems with walking on it.

Since your old shingles are likely cracked with curled edges, they would have to be torn off before new shingles are installed. Most metal roofs, because of their rigidity, can be installed over existing shingles regardless their condi-tion. This saves the cost (often about

$1,000) of tearing off the old shingles.Whether you choose white shingles or

a metal roof with heat-reflecting paint, also consider installing an attic ridge vent. When replacing a roof, adding a ridge vent is a minor additional expense. If you install, make sure the soffit vents are not blocked by attic insulation. Even with the metal roof, adequate attic venti-lation is needed for both summer and winter energy efficiency. KCL

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

WHERE TO SHOPThe following companies offer metal roofs: Classic Metal Roofing, 800-543-8938,

www.classicmetalroofingsystems.com Conklin Metal, 800-282-7386, www.conklinmetal.com Englert, 800-364-5378, www.englertinc.com Gerard, 800-237-6637, www.gerardusa.com McElroy Metal, 800-562-3576, www.mcelroymetal.com

JAM

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This completed metal roofing, with new flashing and decorative hip trim over the seam, is made from recycled aluminum soda pop cans.

AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 11

The atmosphere captivates the young in spirit, with pingpong, foosball, checkers and pinball machines await-ing action in the back game room and antique memora-bilia nestled throughout. Dr. Pepper collectible antiques–the second largest on display in the world–are a fun feast for the eyes, with the main course a sea foam green soda pop vending machine flanking its mannequin sidekick dressed in Dr. Pepper garb. Good luck finding Coke memorabilia–there’s only one item hidden amongst the treasures. Children search for it as part of a store scavenger hunt created by the youthful soda jerks who work there.

Sharolyn Wagner and her husband, Jay, members of DS&O Electric Cooperative, opened The Linger Longer as a way to give back to the Bennington community. “Commu-nity has always been very important to my husband and me. We believe that you need to give back to your community and there are a myriad ways to do that,” Sharolyn said. “I’ve always volunteered so this is my volunteer project now. All we want to do is make enough to replace the pingpong balls because they go everywhere,” she joked.

Sharolyn, who playfully refers to herself as the “Biggest Jerk,” employs six to nine soda jerks throughout the year, most of whom attend high school in the area or will begin college this fall. Wagner says that although these are entry-level jobs, her goal for the workers goes beyond a paycheck.

“Hopefully they could run a small business after working here for a few years. That would be my aim,” she said. Sharolyn’s commitment to mentoring youth stems from

P H O T O S B Y H E I D I T R A U T M A N

Olivia Stewart, Jessica Fahren-thold and Abby Jurgensmeier ham it up for the camera while making their ice cream favorites.

YouthFountain of

The aroma of homemade waffle cones and freshly

baked brownies linger and mingle

with the sweet smell of ice cream

confections. The ceremonial slam

of the screen door transports you to

1912 in Bennington, when the

building was built, originally housing

a pharmacy and now home to

The Linger Longer soda fountain.

12 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

her previous job at Hallmark Cards where she worked with entry-level employees, many who didn’t have prior job experience.

“The ones who worked as youth were better employees. They knew to show up on time, how to present themselves for a job, how to talk to the public, and they could problem solve,” she explained. “I think it’s important for business owners to invest in our youth by preparing them because many don’t know what it is to be an employee.”

From the first day on the job at The Linger Longer, the soda jerks begin learning different aspects of the business, from cleaning to cooking, and eventually inventory and product pricing. All of these duties Sharolyn believes are important for employees to understand the “whys” of her decisions.

“I try to explain to them from the standpoint of when you make busi-ness decisions you have to look at the bottom line. It helps everyone to under-stand how much money we are making and what things cost. The more they understand, the more they understand why I expect them to be busy and working while they are here.”

The employees, in turn, share their ideas and opinions with Sharolyn, and she’s eager to try their ideas. “If they find a better way of doing something and want to change, I will try it,” Sha-rolyn explained. “I tell them or they tell me, ‘I think we need to do this.’”

Case in point is the Brownie Shake, a concoction invented on the spur of the moment by soda jerk Abby Jurgensmeier when a friend’s brother ordered one earlier this summer. “It wasn’t something we had on the menu so I created it. Sharolyn tasted it and really liked it so she added it to the menu,” Abby shared.

From inventing menu items to helping determine menu prices, Sharolyn appreciates her employees’ initiative and drive, and encourages their input.

“Chances are they won’t make a mistake I haven’t made already! And I’m messy!” to which Abby quickly chimed in. “She is the messiest of all of us!” with both of them laughing in agreement.

Children who visit The Linger Longer look up to the youthful soda jerks and anticipate the day they might be able to work there. “The younger kids are always asking, ‘how old do you have to be to be a soda jerk?’” Sharolyn shared.

In addition to having good grades, Sharolyn looks for additional traits in prospective employees that she believes to be just as important. “They must be honest and ethical, and I want them to be leaders,” she noted.

With an undergraduate degree in elementary education, Sharolyn has always enjoyed working with children and welcomes spending time with the youthful soda jerks. “I have great employees–they are awesome! They’re fun, they’re lively, and their friends come in and bring a life and enthusi-asm to the business.”

The admiration is mutual, and the employees appreciate the opportunity to learn while enjoying what they do.

“It’s unique working here,” Abby said. “We make all the food, clean, bake–everything. And how many people can say they worked at an old-fashioned soda fountain or even know what a soda jerk is?” KCL

Learn more about The Linger Longer at www.thelingerlonger.com.

Sharolyn Wagner, owner of The Linger Longer in Bennington, has the second-largest display of Dr. Pepper collectible antiques in the world.

MEET THE ‘JERKS’JESSICA FAHRENTHOLD “I really like to meet all the different people. We’ve had customers from Canada and South Africa.” Favorite Fountain Treat: Turtle Sundae with Strawberry Ice Cream “because I really like our strawberry ice cream.”

MICHAELYN LAFLEN “I like putting on the whipped cream and making everything look pretty. I love it.” Favorite Fountain Treat: Hot Fudge But-terscotch Brownie Sundae. “The Brownies are so good here, and that’s my favorite part. And we warm them up before adding them to the sundae.”

ABBY JURGENSMEIER “I like playing the player piano because my great-grandma used to play piano a lot and it’s a good memory of her.”  Favorite Fountain Treat: The Brownie Shake, “because I invented it!”

OLIVIA STEWART “I love doing the whipped cream, and I like the people because we have fun.” Favorite Fountain Treat: Very Berry Shake “because I love fruity stuff.”

LESLIE SWAGERTY “Every day I learn something new. I also like it when customers try something new and say, ‘Oh that’s so good.’” Favorite Fountain Treat: Triple Chocolate Shake, “because it’s not too chocolatey, but chocolatey enough.”

Linger Longer soda jerks pose with their favorite ice cream treats: Leslie Swagerty, Michaelyn Laf-len, Olivia Stewart, Abby Jurgensmeier and Jessica Fahrenthold. Not pictured: Zach Everhart.

AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 13

1There’s always a new friend to be made. One of my favorite aspects of camp

was that no one knew more than one other person, so everyone was ready to meet new friends. We spent many hours connecting while sharing stories about living in a rural area.

Since my first trip to the KEC Youth Tour, I have seen the friends I made there at other events. One of my former roommates was a member of my group when I was an ambassador. This taught me that no matter where I am, there’s always an opportunity to make a connection with someone new.

2 There’s no such thing as being perfect but a positive attitude is key.

As an FFA member I always thought the state officers were perfect, and I wondered how someone could be that polished, friendly and put-together all the time. It wasn’t until I started think-ing about running for an office that I realized the state officers were just people, with one big difference–they always tried to be the best version of themselves that they could be.

They weren’t trying to imitate the person that was in their role before them, but

instead used their unique qualities to fill the role and serve others. I believe that this is a valuable life lesson because it took me a long time to realize it was OK to be uniquely me as long as I always had an attitude of self-improve-ment and encouraged constructive criticism.

3 There’s a difference between showing up and being engaged. While I was in South Africa with

FFA for the International Leadership Seminar for State Officers, I realized how much we take our education system for granted in the U.S. In college it is easy to bond with classmates over complaining about how much work we have or competing to see who has the worst week with tests and projects.

In the Soweto Uprising, thousands of students marched in a peaceful protest to be taught in their native lan-

guage and they were met with tear gas and live gunfire. In America, we simply show up for education. But in other parts of the world students engage in–and fight for–their education.

It takes a conscious effort to be engaged in everything I do but it leads me to value my time and investment in my activities.

4 Many people don’t understand American agriculture and our food supply.

Today’s average consumer is several generations removed from the farm and often will never see a farm. FFA has exposed me to the importance of sharing that farmers DO care about the quality and safety of the food they produce.

5 A cooperative allows for an environment of investment in people.

While at camp, we formed our own cooperative that included a board of directors and a general manager. In most businesses, the bottom line is making a profit. I learned through camp that a cooperative is all about the people they serve as members–not just about the profit and loss statements. KCL

Learned B Y C A R R I E C A R L S O N

Carrie Carlson (left) in 2012 with fellow Cooperative Youth Lead-ership Camp ambassadors.

Lessons I’ve enjoyed–and learned from–my many experiences in FFA and at the Kansas Electric Cooperatives (KEC) Youth Tour. I attended the KEC Youth Camp in 2011 and returned in 2012 as a Kansas ambassador where I was responsible for helping others connect while leading my group of campers. I also had the opportunity to serve as the 2013-2014 Kansas FFA vice president and I traveled Kansas sharing my love for FFA, agriculture and teaching people through workshops, speeches and various other events. From these experiences, I share my top five lessons learned.

14 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

Learned

Peak PerformanceKansas high school students joined youth from Colorado, Oklahoma and Wyoming at the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp July 11-17.

As part of the week-long adven-ture, the students established a candy cooperative business, in which they elected a general manager and board of directors, participated in daily mem-bership meetings and paid their dues membership of 50 cents to the newly established co-op business.

“The Cooperative Youth Leader-ship Camp is specifically designed to empower student leaders and help them better understand the coopera-tive business model,” said Shana Read, Director of Communications. “This camp not only highlights the co-op’s commitment to their communities, but it also helps teach the students to become community leaders.”

When not tending to their new cooperative candy business, the stu-dents learned about their local electrical co-ops, witnessed a high-voltage safety demonstration and built a transmis-sion line from craft supplies. They also created multiple committees to help plan and implement the week’s activi-ties while improving leadership and

interpersonal communication skills. The youth toured Fish Creek

Falls, Trapper Mine, Craig Power Plant and a solar array; visited Steamboat Springs; experienced the adrenaline rush of river rafting; and enjoyed traditional camp activities, such as vol-leyball, swimming, and competing in a talent show.

Camp participants were chosen by their local electric cooperatives through an application and interview process based on academic achievements, positive attitudes and the youths’ com-munity involvement. Three students who attended the camp in 2014 joined this year’s group as ambassa-dors, helping with coordination and facilitation of leadership activities. Each year, campers elect the ambas-sadors to attend the following year’s camp to serve as role models for the new campers. Kansas youth elected to serve as ambassadors in 2016 are GEORGE IBARRA, Southern Pioneer and LIZ MEYER, Flint Hills.

Kansas Electric Cooperative began sending Kansas youth to camp in 1977 and continues to coordinate the camp to provide educational and leadership opportunities for them. KCL

STUDENTS & SPONSORING CO-OPSZACK BARKER, Southern PioneerMADDY BROXTERMAN, LJECRAVHANNA CHRISCO, Sedgwick CountyADAM CLARK, Caney ValleyALLISON DIX, Prairie LandTY DIXON, Pioneer BAILEE ELLIS, Caney ValleyMIRANDA GARNER, NinnescahMALLORY HORTON, WheatlandGEORGE IBARRA, Southern PioneerLEXI JEFFERY, Rolling HillsELIZABETH KELTZ, Prairie LandBRIE LITTLE, Prairie LandDEAN MASTERS, WesternCARISSA MCAFEE, LJECNEHEMIAH NICHOLSON, Butler RECJO’BETH OCHS, VictoryAUNDRIA OGLES, VictoryBELLA OMANN, DS&OCOLTON POTTS, Flint Hills RECAMORGAN READ, KECSCOTT RING, WesternKENNAH ROBERTS, Nemaha-Marshall DAVID SALCEDO, Tri-CountySARAH SCHAFFER, Tri-CountyTRAVIAN SEMRAD, AlfalfaPAYDEN SHAPLAND, Lane-ScottCLANCIE SORRELL, Twin ValleyKRISTEN STEFFENS, AlfalfaSKYLER STRUBLE, Sumner-CowleySARAH SWANN, PioneerEMILY VAUGHT, Southern Pioneer

Attendees at the 2015 Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp will form lasting friendships.

Kansas Students Attend Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs, CO

16 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

Around KansasContinued from page 5

with a potluck meal completing the day. Visit www.kansashorsecouncil.com or call 785-889-4800 for more information.

Longford Rodeo Includes a Variety of Family Activities SEPT. 4-5 | In its 60th year, the LONGFORD RODEO offers free barbecue sandwiches on opening night, a turtle race, a dance following the rodeo, an all-day garage sale, a parade, and an opportunity to cool off at Longford Water Park. Call 785-827-0126 for more information.

Clyde’s Watermelon Festival in its 116th Year SEPT. 4-7 | Spend your Labor Day weekend enjoying a variety of activities throughout Clyde and, of course, mouth-watering watermelon! There’s a FREE WATERMELON FEED and

a largest watermelon contest with the winning watermelon traveling in the parade. Contact Jessica Brown at 785-446-3331 or jbrown@pebank.net for more information.

Caldwell Border Queen Cruisers Present Car Show SEPT. 5 | In its 28th year, this CAR SHOW takes place at Caldwell City Park with registration beginning at 8 a.m., drawings held throughout the day, including a grand prize drawing and a poker run. Visit www.borderqueencruisers.com.

‘Nothin But a Good Time’ Theme of Post Rock Festival SEPT. 5 | The Lincoln Post Rock Festival offers bed races, a parade, HORSESHOE TOURNAMENT, cardboard boat races, live band and a beer garden. Call 785-524-4934 for more information.

Orchestra on the Oregon Trail SEPT. 6 | Alcove Spring Historic Park will

host Orchestra on the Oregon Trail, where MUSIC MEETS THE MEADOW. Park gates will open at 1 p.m. and the Topeka Symphony will take the stage at 6 p.m. Visit www.ooot.org or call 844-252-6830 for tickets.

Garden City’s Mexican Fiesta in 89th Year SEPT. 11-12 | Celebrate the Mexican heritage that helps shape Garden City’s unique culture at this ANNUAL COMMUNITY EVENT. For more information about this second longest running community celebration in Kansas, contact Angelica Castillo Chappel at 620-290-6264 or 620-260-1435, or email acastill@gpcu.org or angelicachappel@gmail.com. KCL

Send items for your free listing in Around Kansas to Kansas Country Living, P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604 by the fifth of the month prior to publication. Or e-mail vestes@kec.org. Please include a contact phone number.

AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 17

Do you ever see those pictures of the poor children in Africa and wonder if anyone will help them? You know the pictures I’m talking about–kids with big eyes, bulging stomachs, ragged clothing, bare feet and a look of hopeless-ness? Well, I thought about them a lot. I com-pared their lives to mine, which is full of school, church, 4-H, living in a nice warm home and being surrounded by people who love me and support me. I combined my leadership skills with my passion for clothing and citizenship, and came up with a plan to help, not only those children, but future generations as well.

You see, two years ago, I met 10 teens from Africa at Citizenship in Action in Topeka. They came to visit America for two weeks, to learn about our democratic government and how they can help make positive changes happen in their country. Each one arrived in the United States wearing the only nice outfit they

own. So, they were amazed at the number of clothes Americans possess. By meeting them, they brought the pictures of African poverty and hopelessness alive to me.

I later stumbled upon a website and learned about an effort called Little Dresses for Africa, a non-profit Christian organization whose mission is to provide relief to children in Central Africa. People from all over the U. S. are joining together

to make little dresses out of pillow cases or other simple patterns. Little Dresses for Africa makes all the arrangements to get the dresses to the children, and distributes them through orphanages, churches and schools.

Although the children need clothing, these little dresses mean so much more! It’s an opportunity to hold Bible classes, children’s camps and informal teach-ing sessions to increase their knowledge in nutrition, clean water, and sanita-tion and to promote good

Pattern of Behavior

Seventeen-year-old Amber Kelly, Atchison County, received the 2015 Kansas 4-H Medallion in the Leadership Project category, sponsored by KEC, for her work in developing and directing a state-wide project that brought together Kansas clubs and organizations. As a result of Amber’s project, 451 dresses were made and shipped to Africa, through the Little Dresses for Africa campaign.

B Y A M B E R K E L L Y

Young sewers learned how to create dresses for the Little Dresses for Africa campaign.

18 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

health and family skills knowledge. Many of the children suffer from AIDS, and the dresses offer encouragement and hope. Many schools across Africa require girls to wear dresses to school. If they don’t have a dress, they can’t go to school. To me, education is necessary to build a better life; with education these girls could fix many hardships and issues in their country and change their own future.

I thought that this would be a project that I could help with to make a difference in the world. I love to sew and I love the idea of having a positive impact in the world. So, I developed a plan to sew dresses. A lot of dresses! My overall goal was to have more than 300 dresses sent to Africa by Christmas 2014, which would be just 10 months from the start of my project.

I got very busy and spoke with a lot of dif-ferent groups. Normally, I’m not very comfort-able speaking in front of people, with most of them older than me. But, I really wanted this to be successful. So, I spoke with four different sewing groups, four churches, my ministers, and 4-H clubs. I started getting a lot of calls.

I spoke with the 4-H office and received permission to have a working clothing display marketing my project at the county fair. My booth had sewing machines ready and fabric already cut, so that fairgoers could stop and help sew a dress. My hope was to raise awareness and elicit enthusiasm from the residents in Atchison County.

Many individuals started sending com-pleted dresses. I received calls of interest and was hopeful that everyone who called would follow through with their commitment. When this didn’t happen, I analyzed the reasons, and then decided to make one contact and then not bother them again. I definitely wanted everyone’s help, but also realized that people are very busy and that sometimes other things come up, which makes it hard for people to keep their commit-ments. By August 1, 2014, I had received a lot of fabric donations and enough monetary donations to cover the shipping costs. Twelve people had sewn and donated dresses to this cause. It was so exciting to see how my plan was starting to evolve. It was coming to life.

I also reached out and spoke to other 4-H clubs in other counties. There are six clubs from five other counties who joined this effort. This is a sewing project that young sewers can do to increase their sewing skills and at the same time,

help others across the globe–putting citizenship into action!

My project was selected to be showcased at the Kansas State Fair. It was a lot of fun helping young children learn to sew and learn about citi-zenship. Young sewers would get so excited that they would start yelling with joy and clap their hands together, forgetting that their foot was still running the sewing machine. (We got some very wavy lines, which then, I got to teach how to rip and sew again.) It was an extremely fun and exhausting day!

The hardest part of this project was keeping myself and others motivated, because it was a lot of work and I was very busy with school, 4-H, church and family. It was difficult juggling school work and other commitments with speak-ing engagements and coordinating efforts across Kansas.

We made the goal of 300 dresses by Christ-mas to change 300 lives. With all the people and clubs across Kansas helping, I had 451 dresses ready before the target date.

I hope to travel to Africa as a Little Dresses missionary someday and experience the distri-bution of the dresses. I also hadn’t realized how much the community would care. I am over-whelmed by the love, support and encourage-ment from my community and across Kansas. KCL

Amber Kelly poses with a small portion of the 451 dresses sewn and shipped to Africa as part of her 4-H Leadership project.

AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 19

Youth TourThe experience of Youth Tour never ends. The friendships made endure.

The memories archived in mind and heart. And the desire to engage in

something bigger than one’s self kindles a life-long quest to get involved,

remain involved and make a difference.

The evening before embarking on their week-long adventure to Washington, D.C., the 2015 Youth Tour delegates gathered to share a meal, last-minute tips for safe travels and to listen to inspirational accounts from Kansas leaders whose Youth Tour experiences inspired their interest in serving others.

Brant Laue, Chief Counsel for Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback, Sponsored by C&W in 1978

Brant Laue was a 1978 Kansas Youth Tour delegate from Hanover and now serves as Gov. Sam Brownback’s chief counsel, although he says it’s much simpler than that. “I consider myself a Washington County, Kansas, farm boy

who once shook hands with the president,” Laue shared. That would be President Jimmy Carter, and Laue explained that his memo-rable presidential moment occurred when it was still possible for Youth Tour participants to get that close to a U.S. president.

“That experience lit a fire in me and an interest in politics,” Laue told the del-egates, many of whom were accompanied by family members and friends. “A wonderful opportunity lies before you the next few days that will affect you the rest of your lives.”

Brant Laue, Youth Tour ’78; Bruce Graham, KEC; Steve Johnson, Youth Tour ’83; and Kyle Hoff-man, Youth Tour ’89; attended the 2015 Youth Tour banquet in Topeka.

Lights Fire to Serve

20 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

Laue prompted the delegates to reach out to earlier generations to truly understand the electric co-ops’ role in bringing people together to identify and meet common needs. “Ask your grandparents about the time before there was electricity on the farm. They will tell you stories about when those electric poles came over the hills. ‘That was a time of hope,’ my grandmother would tell me.”

Representative Kyle Hoffman, Kansas House of Representatives, District 116, 1989 youth tour delegate

Rep. Kyle Hoffman, a 1989 Youth Tour delegate sponsored by CMS, interviewed for Youth Tour at the prompting of his school principle and said the experience spurred his politi-cal aspirations. “I look at this tour as a launching point for my life,” he said. “I remember looking down from the gallery at the Kansas Capitol and thinking, ‘I’d like to do that.’”

While in Washington, D.C., on Youth Tour, Rep. Hoffman recalled

learning about the differences in agri-culture from state to state by meeting with other Youth Tour participants. “I remember talking to another del-egate from Tennessee and learning a lot about the differences in growing tobacco vs. wheat and the size of farms.”

Rep. Hoffman also praised the role of rural electric co-ops in fortify-ing rural America. “I’m so thankful for rural electric co-ops,” he remarked. “I often say that if our cell phone service was put together the same way as electric co-ops, we’d have great rural cell phone service,” he laughed.

Representative Steven Johnson, Kansas House of Representatives, District 108, 1983 Youth Tour Delegate

Growing up on a farm outside Saline County, Rep. Steven Johnson fondly recalled his days as a Youth Tour delegate sponsored by DS&O Electric Cooperative. “That first sparked my interest in government and the legislature,” he said. “This

was a really critical event for me in my life.”

Rep. Johnson believes the history of electric cooperatives working together for the betterment of others sets an example for everyone. “I love to talk about the cooperative message,” he said. “Cooperation–if we can bring that into government we can bring so much forward.”

Rep. Johnson impressed upon the delegates that our differences are what bring us together, emphasizing his point as he texted Rep. Hoffman asking for his assistance with the day’s legislative budget work. “We are blessed with representatives from a number of different backgrounds working together, and this comes from the co-ops’ cooperative spirit.”

He expressed his appreciation for rural electric cooperatives and how they have changed the face of rural America, and encouraged the Youth Tour delegates to carry on that work.

“I look forward to witnessing what all of you will bring to our RECs as we go forward,” he concluded. KCL

Kansas and Hawaii 2015 Youth Tour participants received a personal tour of the Kansas Capitol from Kansas Rep. Steven Johnson, far right.

AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 21

They huff and puff, some laughing, others gritting their teeth, determined to inch their way to victory. No matter how far they are able to pedal the small tractors with a trailer of weights attached, the kids have fun simply par-ticipating in the yearly Sedgwick County Fair Pedal Tractor Pull.

Sedgwick County Electric Cooperative has sponsored the free event since its inception at

the county fair 25 years ago and has been in charge of it for the past 14 years. The co-op’s employees have always helped in some capac-ity with the event, recruiting spouses and other family members to pitch in and help create a successful–and popular event at the fair.

“For the most part the ladies handle the registration and the guys take care of the pedal tractor pulls. It’s really a co-op family affair,”

said Cindy Kill, Member Ser-vices Director at Sedgwick County Electric.

Marcia Kampling, Office Manager for Sedgwick County Electric said the co-op supports the event because of its importance to the commu-nity, especially the participants.

“This is a great fair event for kids that costs abso-lutely nothing to participate,”

Sedgwick County Electric Cooperative employees Robert Lacy, left, and Tim Rosenhagen, right, coach a young participant in the Pedal Tractor Pull event.

P H O T O S B Y C I N D Y K I L LKIDPOWER

22 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

Marcia said. Every kid walks away with something. We had 24 prizes given away this year that were donated by area companies. If you could see the kids’ faces, you would understand why we do this every year!” she shared.

The Sedgwick County business community also plays an important role each year, donating cash and prizes for the youngsters to vie for. Kill said a few months before the fair, she begins contacting area businesses to garner enough donated prizes and fun giveaway items for all participants, including the coveted grand prize boys and girls bicycles for the class winners.

Sedgwick County Electric Cooperative board members Margie Conyac, Clint DeVore and Don Metzen also volun-teered their time at this year’s event. KCL

A young participant tries with all his might to pedal the tractor.

Left: Marcia Kampling, Sedgwick County Electric Cooperative, handles the announc-ing duties for the event. Here she readies a participant for the start.

Below: Carter Pipken, 5-year-old daughter of Line Foreman Kyle Pipken, is all smiles as fans cheer her on in the fair’s Pedal Tractor Pull.

P H O T O S B Y C I N D Y K I L L

If you could see the kids’ faces, you would understand why we do this every year!

AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 23

Liz Soza

B Y L I Z S O Z A

The Next Chapter for Public Square Communities

Ten years ago, a passionate civic leader was provoked to begin a journey to build figura-tive bridges connecting citizens and communi-ties through positive, facilitated conversation. This “rebuilding” of the public square through civic engagement became his mission and the premise of our current organization, Public Square Communities.

Now, that same civic leader, Terry Wood-bury himself, is bidding adieu to the hands-on formalized process he so carefully crafted and the succession plan he so thoughtfully executed to begin the next chapter of his life–a combination of continued civic work, consult-ing, and semi-retirement.

Throughout his journey, he exhibited a constant, mindful approach to how this civic work would be sustained much like the com-munity process model it created.

Terry’s genuine desire to see new lead-ership fostered and an authentic effort to

serve in a coaching role provided the neces-sary transition to allow a seamless transfer of authority over the past 18 months. While still providing a historical perspective, he relin-quished control and subsequently empowered his fellow colleagues and me, his “new” boss to take the lead.

In this time and with his unwavering support, we’ve adapted our traditional com-munity engagement process–interviewing citizens, hosting community conversations, initiating supporting action teams, conven-ing the four sectors, accrediting sustainable efforts–to accommodate the need for specific organization or issue-driven special projects, cataloged our publications and community resources for expanded training opportunities, and expanded our network nationally.

And that’s just the beginning of our new journey into the next decade of work!

Facilitating positive dialogue about a community’s or organization’s preferred future remains the core of the services provided by PSC. Mobilizing individuals to serve as catalysts for change is no easy task; especially when serving in a neutral capacity around tough and often emotionally charged issues. Terry’s commitment to building capacity within citizens, groups, and communities continues to serve as a model for those he’s served.

It’s also a commitment that serves as an essential benchmark for our PSC colleagues to endeavor to meet and exceed as we carry forward the proverbial torch. KCL

LIZ SOZA is CEO of Public Square Communities; www. publicsquarecommunities.com.

Mobilizing individuals to serve as catalysts for change is no easy task ...

Terry Woodbury, founder of Public Square Commu-nities, discusses the importance of civic engagement with the 2013 Leadership Kansas Class.

24 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

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AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 27

I’ve known Carmen since college. We met working at the same radio station and I instantly liked him. He was hilarious–making even the simplest of things into a funny story. Although we haven’t seen each other in many years, we stay in touch through these electronic devices we have, and I’ve grown to realize he’s more than just funny. I always knew he was bril-liant, but I’ve also learned he’s deeply religious. He’s kind and generous, too.

It’s not that I didn’t know those things at the time, but I appreciate some traits more as I get older. I think maybe they call that maturity. One of the results of meeting more people the longer you live is learning kindness isn’t as common a trait as you may once have believed, for example.

He regales those of us lucky enough to be his friend with tales of his dating adventures that make us literally laugh out loud. He gives us a glimpse into the theater roles he takes on, he tells us the struggle of searching for just the right couplet when he’s writing, and he entertains and astounds with stories of his former students who obviously adore him. He stays up way too late looking for the perfect word or enjoying classical music or musing over life’s confusions.

The one thing he waxes most poetic about is his daughter. We have all gotten to know Bella a

little bit from his posts and we are astounded by the wisdom of this pre-teen, growing up before our eyes in brief glimpses of the two of them together. We all long to have the kind of relation-ship the two of them have.

Carmen is part of a large Italian family and regularly shares photos of his mom and his siblings as they gather for family dinners. The pictures look like they are stills from a movie, and it’s a movie you want to sink into, to relish, to enjoy.

Recently, Carmen posted a note about some-thing in a book that made him think about his mother. It’s the sort of thing that makes us all remember the love embodied in having someone cook for us. The book is, “Seasons in Basilicata” by David Yeadon.

Yeadon spends a year in a Southern Italian village and at one point an elderly woman pre-pares a meal for him and he writes about the experience. “Cooking, the real casareccio casa cooking, is not about technique or flamboyance or fancy gimmicks or elaborate kitchen gadgets. It’s about wholesome goodness–so good you must have more–and about caring and love. Love for the ingredients, love for the often long pro-cesses of preparation, and, most important, love for those you invite to your table. It’s love in its most traditional, tangible and delectable guise.”

I think that’s true of all kinds of cooking. To cook for someone is an act of love, and I adore

the way this author summed it up. Were it not for Carmen I probably would never have seen this, and I love it. It’s a small but powerful example of how people enrich our lives.

In honor of Carmen’s family, I thought I’d share my favorite pasta sauce recipe. I should ask Carmen for his mom’s recipe. In the meantime, this will do nicely. It’s incredibly simple and this is the perfect time to whip some up while fresh tomatoes and basil are available. KCL

Cooking for others conveys caring, love B Y P A T S Y T E R R E L L

Patsy Terrell

CO O K ’ S L I B R A RY

Pasta Sauce

Melt butter and saute garlic and onion for a few minutes. Add tomatoes and stir in the liquid as needed. Add sugar. Cook over medium heat, adding more liquid as necessary. It can be served as soon as it’s warm, but the longer it simmers the deeper the flavors. Before serving, mix in the basil so its flavor stays bright. Serve over your favorite cooked pasta.

Ingredient amounts can be adjusted to taste. Some tomatoes are juicer than others so you may need more or less liquid. If you need to thicken the sauce a bit, use tomato paste.

3 tbs. butter 1 tsp. minced garlic 1/4 cup onion, chopped 2 lbs. tomatoes, chopped

1/2 cup liquid (water, stock, whatever you like)

2 tbs. sugar 2 tbs. fresh basil, chopped

28 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

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AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 29

Chocolate Berry Smoothie

1 1/4 cups fat-free chocolate milk

1 cup frozen mixed berries w

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1 container (5.3 ounces) fat-free m

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Lemon Blueberry Layered Pie

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Spoon about half of pie filling over graham cracker crust. Spoon lem

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and spread evenly. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour.

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EST D

AIRY

ASSO

CIA

TIO

N

CO

URT

ESY JO

HN

SON

VILLE

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ESY A

DK

INS

Gyro Brat H

oagieFor sauce:

1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream

1/2 m

edium cucum

ber, peeled, seeded & finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp. fresh parsley, chopped

1/4 tsp. salt

1/4 tsp. cracked black pepper, optional

1 package (19 ounces) bratwurst

1 loaf French bread

1 sm

all onion, thinly sliced

1 m

edium tom

ato, thinly sliced

Heat oven to 350°F.

Combine sauce ingredients in bowl; cover and refrigerate until serving. Grill brats according to

package directions. When cool enough to handle, cut into 1/4-inch bias slices.

Slice French bread lengthwise and transfer to baking sheet. Arrange brat slices on bread bottom.

Bake for 10 minutes or until bread is lightly browned. Rem

ove from oven. Top with sauce, onion

and tomato. Cut hoagie and serve.

Zucchini Pasta with A

lmond Pesto

1/3 cup whole roasted, unsalted alm

onds

1 garlic clove

1 cup chopped fresh parsley

1/3 cup grated Parm

esan cheese

1/3 cup plus 1 tbs. extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp. salt

2 lbs. zucchini

1/8 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes

In food processor, process almonds until finely ground. Add garlic, parsley and cheese; pulse 4-6

times. Add in 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil and 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste) and pulse again a few

times. Set aside.

Spiralize zucchini using a julienne peeler or a grater with zucchini lengthwise for longer strands. Preheat large skillet or wok over m

edium-high heat with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook zucchini 4

minutes using tongs to stir and rotate until cooked through, about 5 m

inutes.

Toss warm zucchini with pesto, sprinkle with pepper flakes (optional) and divide into pasta

bowls. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve imm

ediately.

Note: To roast raw almonds, heat oven to 350°F, toss nuts on sheet pan and roast for 10 m

inutes. Cool before using.

30 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING AUGUST 2015

Chocolate Berry Smoothie

1 1/4 cups fat-free chocolate milk

1 cup frozen mixed berries w

ithout sugar (blackberries, blueberries and raspber-ries)

1 container (5.3 ounces) fat-free m

ixed berry Greek yogurt

Combine chocolate m

ilk, frozen berries and yogurt in a blender. Blend until creamy. Serve

imm

ediately. Makes 2 servings.

S U B SC R I B E TO

Only $10 a year.Clip this form and mail with your

check or money order to: Kansas Electric Cooperatives,

P.O. Box 4267, Topeka, KS 66604

NAME

ADDRESS 1

ADDRESS 2

CITY

STATE ZIP

AUGUST 2015 KANSAS COUNTRY LIVING 31