winter 2015 | vol 71 | issue 4 | kansasmag.com
years of
Kansas! magazine
“We don’t have skyscrapers or the seashore or mountains in the Sunflower State. But we have land and grass and uninterrupted sky. We have silence where we can listen and the land talks back.” -Bill Kurtis, Tallgrass Beef
winter 2015
winter winter features
“Through the years I received a lot of responses from people out of state who thanked me for giving them a sense of what this place is.”
Photograph Kansas department of wildlife, parks and tourism (KDWPT)
—Dave Kendall, former host of Sunflower Journeys
Kansas’ Top 70 36 | Discover In no particular order, the top 70 experiences on Kansans’ bucket lists.
50 | Kansas’ Finest
The 2015 class of Kansas promoters, lovers and supporters
on the cover Lasswell, Kansas near the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway
Photograph by Harland J. Schuster
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Magazine winter 2015
winter winter
04 | In This Issue
departments
06 | Editor’s Letter 09 | In Season
10 | Eat 13 | Shop 14 | Culture 15 | Sampler 16 | Ride
18 | Reasons We Love Kansas 22 | Winter 2015 Events 24 | Wide open spaces
24 | Sweetly sings o’er the plains
The annual Cathedral Concert lights up St. Fidelis
28 | Home Sweet Hays
Celebrate the present—and explore the past—in one of Kansas’ favorite frontier towns
32 | Turning 70
A look back at how KANSAS! got its start
57 | KANSAS! Gallery: Winter 62 |
Taste of Kansas: Season’s Eatings
Despite gray skies and barren fields, winter’s bounty offers a variety of flavors
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Magazine winter 2015
Photograph doug stremel
inthisissue
From your Bucket List t o
o u r
T o p
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Thank you to everyone who submitted to the Kansas Bucket List! It was so much fun to see what readers enjoy doing across the state. With the more than 300 submissions we narrowed the list (with the help of a trusty editorial board) to our Top 70 list in honor of KANSAS! magazine’s 70th anniversary! That’s right, with this issue we mark 70 years in print, and what better way to celebrate than marking off every event, destination and café on this list! Follow along all year at ksbucketlist.com!
Kansas’ Finest! We welcome our first kiddo to the line up of Kansas’ Finest this year—but don’t be fooled; Macey Hensley is an old soul! As photographer Michael Henry worked with the pintsized subject after her return from the Big Apple, he shared with us some of the dialogue.
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Magazine winter 2015
Photographer: So, Macey, you just got back from New York. What were you doing there? Macey: I was on the “Ellen Show.” Photographer: Wow! Mother: Tell him who you interviewed. Macey: I interviewed Hillary Clinton! Photographer: Wow! Macey, we look forward to seeing where all your presidential knowledge will take you! – Your friends at KANSAS!
Proud Kansans
This winter, our cast of Kansans included
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writers
photographers
Photographs mark mangan, courtesy of hensley family
what’s on your bucket list?
KANSAS!
winter 2015 Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Andrea Etzel editor
Sam Brownback governor
Robin Jennison
KDWPT Secretary
www.sunflowerpub.com lawrence, kansas
www.mcaprint.com wichita, kansas
design & production
printer
Katy Ibsen
General manager
Cheryl Wells
Account Executive
Shelly Bryant
Designer/art director
Joanne Morgan
marketing, (785) 832-7264
Bert Hull
Director of special projects
The “Kansas” Antique Shop What antique shops were meant to be
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN
EMPORIA
317 COMMERCIAL ST. KANSAS! (ISSN 0022-8435) is published quarterly by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism 1020 S. Kansas Ave., Suite 200, Topeka, KS 66612; (785) 296-3479; TTY Hearing Impaired: (785) 296-3487. Periodical postage paid at Topeka, KS, and at additional mailing offices. Newsstand price $4.99 per issue; subscription price $18 per year; international subscription price $22 per year. All prices include all applicable sales tax. Please address subscription inquiries to: Toll-free: (800) 678-6424 KANSAS!, P.O. Box 146, Topeka, KS 66601-0146 e-mail: ksmagazine@sunflowerpub.com Website: www.KansasMag.com POSTMASTER: Send address change to: KANSAS! P.O. Box 146, Topeka, KS 66601-0146.
Specializing in authentic antiques full of history, character, charm and craftsmanship Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 10am-5pm 620.412.2759 • paper-moon-antiques.com
The one-mile drive takes you through Pratt’s oldest and most scenic park, illuminated by thousands of lights and animated displays. Lemon Park Lights has expanded into its neighboring park, Sixth Street Park, with animated displays depicting the Twelve Days of Christmas. Lemon Park Lights will be lit from dusk to 11pm nightly from the 1st Saturday before Thanksgiving through January 1st.
Please mail all editorial inquiries to: KANSAS!, 1020 S. Kansas Ave., Suite 200, Topeka, KS 66612 e-mail: ksmagazine@sunflowerpub.com The articles and photographs that appear in KANSAS! magazine may not be broadcast, published or otherwise reproduced without the express written consent of Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism or the appropriate copyright owner. Unauthorized use is prohibited. Additional restrictions may apply.
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Magazine winter 2015
from the editor
Through social media, fans shared not only their ideas but also their photography and videos from around Kansas. I’ve picked out a couple of my favorite shots. To see current and past images visit travelks.com/ksbucketlist, and keep them coming. If you’re on Instagram or Twitter use the hashtag #KSBucketList.
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Magazine winter 2015
Preparing for the 70th Anniversary edition of KANSAS!, I logged many hours in our archives. I want to thank past editor Francis Smith for establishing a detailed system that has been maintained over the decades—or I might still be digging through filing cabinets. Since 1945, just under 350 issues of KANSAS! or To The Stars have been published. While I’ve not read each issue (yet), it is on my bucket list. This past summer we asked readers and social media fans to submit ideas of what they thought should be on the Kansas Bucket List. After receiving hundreds of submissions, an honorary editorial panel identified the Top 70 experiences in Kansas that should be on your bucket list. We are thrilled to unveil the complete list in celebrating our anniversary. Thank you to Marci Penner, Jim Richardson, Todd Lovin, Tom Averill, Julie Mulvihill, and Angela Bates for participating on the panel. With so many submissions, it could not have been an easy task. I hope you enjoy this special issue of KANSAS!; 70 years is quite an accomplishment. Thank you to the hundreds of photographers, writers, artist and more who have become members of the KANSAS! magazine family. I feel privileged to be one of only 13 to hold the honored role of editor. A favorite aspect of my position is meeting our readers. So many care deeply for the magazine and have for generations. We appreciate your continued loyalty and support. I know that one day future generations will celebrate 150 years! From our family to yours, we wish you the merriest of holidays this season.
winter 2015
winter 2015
Photograph courtesy of ANs zoutenbier
10 eat / 13 shop / 14 culture / 15 sampler / 16 ride
Welcome to KANSAS! magazine’s “In Season.” Here we explore what’s new and buzzing throughout the state—from restaurants and shopping to cultural happenings and attractions. And this season, we find a tallgrass getaway near Cottonwood Falls.
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Magazine winter 2015
in season
eat
By Dave Zumbaugh
Feed the pheasant hunter For many Kansans, winter is pheasant season. After a morning filled with hundreds of cackling roosters erupting at our feet (with perfect shooting and exceptional dog work, of course), hunters are all too familiar with aching muscles, fading energy, and growling stomachs. Fortunately, restaurants in western Kansas prepare for the winter pheasant season with the hungry hunter in mind. Here are three favorites, each with generous, hearty fare to keep you warm and full.
Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
The Page: an American Bistro
The Gutierrez family serves exceptional heirloom dishes, made fresh daily in their “Mexican Kitchen” restaurant in Hays. Even the tortilla chips will arrive at your table warm and crisp. My favorite mistake is to order the signature “Hombre” with extra fiery green sauce. My tongue begs for the spicy mixture, but my gullet sometimes has second thoughts after the hunt.All appetites craving Mexican food can be satisfied here whether you like chicken, beef, pork or no meat at all. Lighter meals include a variety of salads delivered with a friendly smile, and non-Mexican dishes include chicken strips and hamburgers. 1106 East 27th Street, Hays gutzmex.com
This casual Great Bend bistro offers an amazing selection of entrées ranging from savory meatloaf to filet of salmon. To refill your protein depletion after a long openingday trek, the prime rib is always satisfying, but other generous cuts of beef can be prepared to order. Page offers traditional pasta favorites, complete with harmonizing wines. Gourmet pizzas are popular for lunch, and carry-out is available if you are in a hurry to get back after the roosters. Of course, those with a hankering for a burger or deli sandwich like a Reuben will also be happy hunters at Page. Hours are extended the first few weekends of pheasant season. 2920 10th Street, Great Bend (620) 792-8700
City Limits Bar & Grill City Limits boasts a tempting salad bar with 27 tasty toppings plus two delicious, hearty soups. The feast continues with certified Angus steaks, chicken, a variety of sandwiches or a daily chef’s special. If you need a carbohydrate boost, pasta is available, but fresh seafood and juicy burgers adorn the menu as well. If you are still hungry after this barrage, homemade desserts await your sweet tooth. Distinctive specialty sides include fried green beans and pickle chips. Locals and seasonal hunters usually go with the house favorite chicken fried steak and mashed potatoes or the acclaimed clam chowder. 2227 S. Range Ave., Colby http://colbychance.com/city-limitsbar-grill/
PhotographS bill stephens
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Gutierrez Cocina Mexicana
shop
By Katy Schamberger
in season
the perfect gift—
Photographs jason dailey
The perfect cause Clayworks/One Door North McPherson Jenna Swortwood, retail coordinator of Clayworks/One Door North at Disability Supports of the Great Plains, loves her job’s morning ritual. First, she walks through the door of the non-profit that provides full- and part-time services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. And then her artists offer hugs. “I always stop to get several hugs,” she says.“It’s a daily occurrence.” The McPherson-based nonprofit offers day support, residential programs, social enrichment and meaningful employment for approximately 100 clients. Employment is through in-house Clayworks, a pottery studio that has created and sold ceramic art since November 2010. “We started playing with clay, and it grew into this,” Swortwood says. Clayworks artists are able to use the studio space and then sell their work directly at the studio or in an adjacent gallery. All proceeds from the sales go back to the artist. Visitors often have the chance to observe artists at work. Each month, Clayworks and One Door North (Disability Supports’ sister studio dedicated to two-dimensional art) exhibit work from studio artists. Swortwood says they also typically invite a couple of local artists from outside the gallery to show their work. TheClayworks.org
The holiday season is prime time to shop— and to give. At two Kansas galleries—Clayworks and Van Go—you’ll undoubtedly discover the perfect gift made with talent and a lot of love.
Van Go Lawrence For many people, art is a hobby, a passion, a career. For others, it’s a lifeline.At Van Go, Inc., high-needs and under-served youth ages 14–24 create art while learning valuable life and professional skills. Lynne Greene founded Van Go in 1997 and serves as the organization’s executive director. Greene’s idea for the organization grew out of her education in social work. Through two different programs,Van Go mentors artists in different projects throughout the year.Van Go students learn life and job skills in a supportive environment that, for many students, often becomes a haven. “Many of our kids don’t fit in— they’re not mainstream,” says Greene. “Here, they are respected and loved in a fair and special way. That’s what we encourage here—that support.” Although one of the primary goals for Van Go students is to create art— much of which is either commissioned or sold through Van Go’s on-site gallery— Greene says that what the students learn at Van Go encompasses much more than the creative process. Van Go kicks off the holiday shopping season with Adornment, an annual event that features art and products created by Van Go students. Adornment begins November 28. “I always tell people,‘This isn’t an art program,’” she says.“Art is the tool we use to reach young people. Our slogan is,‘Art is what you see, jobs are what we do.’” Van-Go.org
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Three Highlights from the Topeka Symphony Orchestra’s 70th Anniversary Season
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By Nathan Pettengill
Topeka Symphony Orchestra(just turns like us!)
70
(just like us!)
Maracas World-sensation percussionist Ricardo Gallardo is the featured performer in Pataruco, a Concerto for Venezuelan Maracas and Orchestra in the November 7 “Music of Latin America” performance.
A Snowman The annual holiday concert on December 16 presents sacred carols and fun holiday melodies such as “Frosty the Snowman.” There will be sing-a-longs.
Tornado A special night of music on March 19 commemorates the 50th anniversary of the devastating tornado that tore through the Kansas capital, honoring those who provided assistance to one another and helped rebuild in the aftermath.
KANSAS! magazine is not the only organization celebrating 70 years. This fall, the Topeka Symphony Orchestra (TSO) begins its 70th year of performances with a special anniversary season of world music. Begun as a community orchestra drawing heavily from students and staff of Washburn University,TSO quickly grew into a full-size orchestra with a core of professional musicians. These immediate post-year wars not only were good for the Topeka symphony but also were a golden age of sorts for professional orchestras across the United States.Things have been more challenging over the past decade, with several American orchestras cutting back on their size and performances or shutting down entirely. Kathy Maag, general manager of the Topeka Symphony Orchestra, says that the biggest challenge now facing orchestras is the explosion of competing entertainment available online or through electronic downloads. But, she notes, this same technology also allows audiences to become more familiar with a range of orchestral works, to explore classical music on their own and develop a love for it. The orchestras want to convert that widespread electronic listening into a live audience. “Our challenge is to help people get into the hall,”says Maag. “Because there is no substitute for being in a concert hall and hearing the performance live, to be in the moment, to hear it as it is happening.There might be something unexpected in the performance and it becomes a shared experience as you get into the concert hall.That’s hard to replicate.” Like many orchestras, the TSO has expanded its audience base in recent years by bringing in guest performers and including pops or themed musical concerts. For example, the anniversary year will feature a February concert with music from films Lord of the Rings and Pirates of the Caribbean. But the orchestra will also bring solid performances of classical standards such as Verdi’s Requiem as well as a world premiere of a vibraphone concerto by Mexican composer Héctor Infanzón. “We have a dedicated base that has made this possible,”Maag says of the symphony’s longevity.
Photographs (from left) Bill Stephens, Courtesy of the Langdon Family and Ans Zoutenbier.
in season
By KANSAS! magazine staff
sampler over 100 rental properties See this rental home and others in Kansas at vrbo.com
The Flint Hills region is a magical place, but many enthusiasts might not realize that the area boasts a handful of unique vacation rentals such as a Santa Fe-style bunkhouse and petite artist’s cottage in Matfield Green, a whimsical cabin in Cottonwood Falls and a prairie home with endless views. Any of these accommodations will surely astonish those who seek a memorable stay. And now, a home new to the rental scene is piquing a great deal of interest. Enter the True Prairie Home in Bazaar. Debbie and Larry Langdon first visited the Flint Hills in 1975 and discovered they wanted a retreat of their own. In 1995, the Olathe couple was able to begin that quest for a stone house on the tallgrass prairie. “We would visit the area often, just to experience the beauty of the prairie, driving the back roads, captivated by the old tumbled-down stone homes, and searching for one we could repair and restore,”says Debbie. This would become a 12-year hunt that introduced the couple to Luke Koch, a stonemason from the area who knew of an abandoned limestone barn and connected the Langdons to the owner. The couple had finally found their limestone. “We purchased the barn, had the stone loaded onto trucks, and brought it to the hilltop property we had purchased south of Bazaar,” says Debbie. In the fall of 2014, the Langdons
in season
true prairie home began renting out their retreat. The three-bedroom, two-and-a half-bath, 2,200-square-foot home offers a nice dose of luxury in the hills.The home has a porch on every side, optimizing prairie viewing during the day and stargazing at night. Cattle roam the property; cars are seldom seen.With sleeping accommodations for up to six, the home is ideal for a gathering of friends or family.The space’s well-curated collection of prairie-inspired artwork adds to the experience. Curl up next to a warm fire and grab one of the many board games (stashed next to the hearth) for a fun gathering. While television and wireless internet are included in the home’s amenities, guests will likely not use them—the chance to unplug on the plains outweighs any desire to check an inbox. Debbie reflects on her 2011 Thanksgiving, when more than 30 family members joined her and Larry at the prairie home. “What was most rewarding was the time together, taking walks on the prairie, the kids hanging out and joking with one another on the porch, talking about old times, getting to know each other again, playing with the grandkids, and in general catching up again with what everyone was doing,” she says.“It is that time for reconnection that makes our time at this place so special, and we hope others are able to do the same.”
in season
ride
By KANSAS! magazine staff
Taking Capital Highway?
Don’t miss these gems The Capitol Take a tour! You can learn more about the Kansas Capitol on page 38 as it makes KANSAS! magazine’s Top 70 list. NOTO Take SW Topeka Boulevard north of the Kansas River to the NOTO Arts District (north Kansas Avenue and northeast Laurent Street) where art galleries, businesses and events abound. Catch a performance by Ballet Folklorico, stroll the area during First Fridays or take home a piece of pie from Bradley’s Corner Café. notoartsdistrict.com Mulvane Art Museum From SW Topeka Boulevard, take 17th Street east to the campus of Washburn University. Here you’ll find the wonderful Mulvane Art Museum. Experience the stories of art in the museum’s well-curated gallery; see traveling exhibits and the work of a wide array of local, Kansas-based artists. washburn.edu Blind Tiger Brewery Just east of SW Topeka Boulevard at 37th Street, a local legend stands—the Blind Tiger. The variety of freshly handcrafted, award-winning beers at Topeka’s homegrown brewery is sure to satisfy. Pair a pint with the brewery’s delicious entrees.
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Photographs KDWPT, jason dailey, KDWPT
If you find yourself griping about busy roads and congested intersections, rest assured the Kansas Department of Transportation knows of—and responds to—your grumbles. Such was the case with SW Topeka Boulevard, old US-75 known as the Capital Highway. As traffic grew, heading south out of Topeka, it increasingly bottlenecked the 4-lane urban street, particularly at the access control points along the boulevard. In response, KDOT developed a plan to redirect traffic off of the boulevard and onto a 4-lane expressway. This new expressway connects to Interstate 470, allowing much of the traffic to roll along quickly and efficiently. The realignment has proven to be beneficial as well, encouraging the economic growth that continues to develop in the area and allowing drivers access to key attractions. And, after all, reaching those destinations is one of the reasons for driving down this highway in the first place.
Capital Highway by the Numbers
Also known as: US-75, south of Topeka and north of the Kansas Turnpike
Project length: about 5.6 miles Total project cost: $13.2 million
Project completion date: 2002
reasons
we love kansas By Cecilia Harris
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We search the state, near and far, to find reasons to love our Sunflower State. Share your Reasons to Love Kansas (see page 20).
INDULGE MAN’S BEST FRIEND
PET DELIGHTS Don’t forget Fido! Pets give two paws up to Pet Delights’ homemade gourmet treats trimmed with peanut butter, yogurt and carob and shaped like reindeer, Christmas trees and snowmen cookies during the holidays. “We wanted to make something that was healthy for dogs,” says co-owner Vicki Williams. “And all our treats are hand-dipped and decorated.” pet-delights.com
SIP OLD-FASHIONED ROOT BEER TOP CITY SODA POP Tap into nostalgia with handcrafted Top City Soda Pop root beer. “When you crack open a root beer, you’re enjoying the flavors, but you’re also enjoying some good memories,” says co-owner Scott May, who fondly recalls drinking root beer out of glass bottles with his grandfather. Create new traditions with the sodas microbrewed to perfection in original root beer, cinnamon root beer and dark cream soda flavors. topcitysodapop.com
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Photographs (Clockwise from left) Rachel Lock, Courtesy of Top City Soda Pop, Staff, Courtesy of Symphony in the Flint Hills, Aaron east, Shutterstock
CANDLE AMBIANCE CANDLE QUEEN CANDLES AND WAXMAN CANDLES Light up the holidays with a few comforting candles. Bring seasonal scents into your home with a special Hope for the Holidays fragrant candle from Candle Queen Candles in Leavenworth, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to cancer research. Or decorate with unscented handmade snowmen candles found at Waxman Candles in Lawrence. candlequeencandles.com; waxmancandles.com
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SAVOR GLUTEN-FREE FLAVORs
NU LIFE MARKET Tantalize the taste buds of those who seek allergen-free food options with Nu Life products. The Scott City company produces high quality all-purpose and sorghum flours, sorghum grains and brans, and a pizza-crust mix free of gluten, peanut, dairy and soy. Make sure everyone gets to indulge in desserts this holiday season with gingerbread cookies, blueberry streusel and many other treats you can make with these products (find recipes on their website). nulifemarket.com
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reasons
we love kansas
ONE-STOP SHOPPING
SHOP SYMPHONY IN THE FLINT HILLS Get a head start on your holiday purchases without leaving home by visiting Symphony in the Flint Hills online. A diverse selection— all related to the Flint Hills region—includes prairie-grass themed limestone coasters, an eco-region map, limited-edition artwork, one-of-a-kind field journals, grass ink stamps, books, music and much more. shop.symphonyintheflinthills.org
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FIRE UP FLAVOR
ORIGINAL BARBECUE SAUCES There’s no doubt, Kansas knows good barbecue. Wrap up bottles of signature sauces from favorite Kansas barbecue restaurants— perhaps Hillsdale Bank Bar B-Q in Hillsdale, Roy’s Hickory Pit BBQ in Hutchinson, or Cox Bros. BBQ in Manhattan, Junction City and Salina—to add unique flavor to home-cooked meals throughout the year. roysbbq.com; hillsdalebankbarbq.com; coxbbq.com
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reasons
we love kansas
AS EASY AS PIE
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Magazine winter 2015
GIFTs THAT KEEPS ON GIVING
ROSEWOOD WINE CELLAR Cross a few items off your gift list at Rosewood Wine Cellar in Great Bend. Besides award-winning wine, Rosewood offers horsehair pottery, bath products, candles, jellies, summer sausage and more. People with developmental disabilities—Rosewood client-employees— produce most shop items, and every purchase supports their diverse employment opportunities through Rosewood Services. rosewoodcreations.com
HOW SWEET IT IS
COCOA DOLCE CHOCOLATES Stuff Christmas stockings with artisan chocolates from Cocoa Dolce in Wichita. The Holly Jolly collection, which is available only during the holidays, features eggnog, gingerbread and other nostalgic flavors of Christmas. Comfy sofas in the chocolate lounge offer “an oasis away from all the holiday buzz,” says owner Beth Tully. shopcocoadolce.com
GIVE IT YOUR BEST SHOT POP-A-SHOT Score big with young and old alike with Pop-A-Shot, the original home electronic basketball shooting game. The object of the game, which simulates a free-throw contest, is to make as many shots as possible in a time frame counted down by the clock on the electronic scoreboard. “We can even customize design them with family pictures,” says CEO and inventor of Pop-A-Shot, Ken Cochran. pop-a-shot.com
Send your “Reasons We Love Kansas” to ksreasons@sunflowerpub.com or to Reasons, KANSAS!, 1020 S. Kansas Ave., Suite 200, Topeka, KS 66612.
Reasons
We Love Kansas
Photographs (Clockwise from left) Logo courtesy of MarCon, Michael Dawes/Rosewood Services, Shutterstock, Gavin Peters Photography (2)
MARCON PIES Save room for a slice of MarCon pie, made from scratch in Washington. Suit everyone’s taste with a wide selection including fruit, crunch, cream, nut, cheesecake, specialty and sugarfree pies. “Pumpkin is popular at Christmastime and also pecan,” says owner Don Walsh. “We also have two or three pies that are different mixes of berries.” Order pies freshly baked, frozen-baked or frozenunbaked. marconpies.com
Come Play With Us in marion CoUnty • Travel the Santa Fe Trail • Visit our historical sites and museums • Hike in the Flint Hills • Fish in our heated dock • Shop at our antique and speciality shops
We are waiting for you! Come eat, sleep and explore in Marion County!
Marion County Economic Development
200 S. Third, Suite 4 • Marion, KS 66861 • (620) 382-8830 www.growmarioncounty.com
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events winter 2015
WWII Remembered: Leaders, Battles & Heroes (1941–1945) Through December 31, 2016 Abilene A multi-year, multi-faceted, largescale exhibit that focuses on the unsung Allies and heroes of the War is on display until December of next year. Make a stop at the Presidential Library to broaden your understanding of the era and increase appreciation for the difficulty and enormity of Eisenhower’s job as Supreme Commander of all Allied Forces in Europe. eisenhower.archives.gov
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Birger Sandzén Holiday Gift Show November 8–January 24, 2016 Lindsborg More than 40 invited artists will be represented in the show along with special works from the artists of Clayworks at Disability Supports in McPherson. Priced to sell and ideal for holiday shopping, the artworks include paintings, prints, ceramics, jewelry, sculpture, blown glass, Swedish-inspired folk art and woodcarvings. sandzen.org
Sanders Saunter Heavy trail race November 21 Lawrence The Lawrence Trail Hawks welcome runners looking for an exciting trail run along the shores of Clinton Lake. Running a 10k and a 25k, participants will enjoy scenic views and a challenging terrain. trailhawks.com
25th Annual Fabulous Light Parade & Christmas Opening November 27 Oakley Enjoy a host of events in celebration of the holidays. Have supper with Santa at the pancake and sausage feed at the VFW, see the 25th annual Fabulous Christmas Light Parade, and don’t miss the fireworks at the UP Depot at 9 p.m. Events begin at 5 p.m. discoveroakley.com
Christmas Past at Historic Fort Hays December 4 Hays Experience an old-fashioned Christmas at Fort Hays as it would have been decorated in the late 1800s. Discover how soldiers spent their Christmas holiday. Visitors can sample fresh baked, old-fashioned cookies. kshs.org/fort_hays
Candlelight Tour December 4–5 Fort Scott Witness the magic as 19th-century Fort Scott comes to life by the glow of hundreds of candles. More than 100 costumed reenactors interpret some of the most important events in our nation’s history. The hour-long tours are available by reservation only. Start reserving $8 tickets on November 1st. (620) 223-0310, nps.gov/fosc
Old Time Holiday Happenings December 4–5, 11–12 Topeka Take pleasure in the charm of the beautifully decorated Victorian Prairie Mansion at holiday time. You’ll be whisked away to an enchanting evening you’ll long remember. Enjoy an elegant candlelight dinner, listen to live music and indulge in hot cider and cookies by the fire. Begins at 6 p.m., tickets are $30 (seating is limited to 72 guests). parks.snco.us
Magazine winter 2015
find more events at travelks.com
/
All events are subject to change.
NJCAA Salt City Bowl December 5 Hutchinson Fill up the cheering section at the annual Salt City Bowl. The NJCAA football game will be held in Gowans Stadium. Begins at 1 p.m. njcaa.org
Photographs shutterstock
Folk Art Festival December 5–6 Liberal This event showcases handcrafted items by artists from many different states, as well as baked goods and canned items. It is a great place to find unique Christmas gifts and handmade holiday decor. Events are 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday and noon–5 p.m. Sunday at the Seward County Activity Center. (620) 624-8534
Cookies with Santa December 6 Salina Kids will have a festive time at Rolling Hills Zoo decorating their own giant sugar cookie, enjoying holiday music and visiting with Santa. There will also be a special story time and a chance to write a letter to Santa and drop it in his mailbox. First session begins at 10:30 a.m. rollinghillszoo.org
Wynonna & The Big Noise Christmas December 12 Mulvane Ring in the holidays with country star Wynonna Judd. Whether performing solo or alongside her mother as legendary duo The Judds, her songs have charted countless singles including 20 No. 1 hits. Tickets are $29. Begins at 7:30. kansasstareventcenter.com
Lincoln Days February 12–13 Lincoln Enjoy two days of presentations, reenactments, period music, a buffalo stew meal and a Lincoln Look-Alike Contest. The 2016 Lincoln Days features a reader’s theater, Lincoln Meets the Press written by Deb Goodrich, among other events. Tickets are $25 for adults; $12.50 for children. Begins Friday at 3 p.m. and Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Lincoln Historical Museum Complex. (785) 524-5133
Santa Express December 4, 12 Bonner Springs Join Santa Claus in the train depot at the Agriculture Hall of Fame. Ride the Union Pacific train and take in Christmas decorations on the farm. Enjoy cookies and share your wish list with Santa himself. Begins at 10 a.m. aghalloffame.com
1st Infantry Division Band Holiday Concert December 18–19 Junction City The 1st Infantry Division Band will captivate audiences at the annual holiday concert full of jolly classics and traditional sounds of the season. Free admission, no reservation required. Begins at 7:30 p.m. at the C. L. Hoover Opera House. jcoperahouse.org
EquiFest of Kansas February 26 Topeka The 19th annual EquiFest of Kansas, one of the largest equine expositions in the Midwest, sets up its annual show in Topeka. EquiFest features educational events, a world-class equine trade show, clinics, exhibitions and entertainment. Tickets are $17 for adults; $8 for children, ages 6-12. Begins at 9 a.m. at the Kansas ExpoCentre. equifestofks.com
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eo ce p e n s pa
s
w
id
sweetly sings
o’er the plains
The annual Cathedral Concert lights up St. Fidelis
W
ith sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows and winter’s howling wind blocked out by thick limestone walls, Fort Hays State University choir members, clad in tuxedos and formal black gowns, gloriously lift their voices in unison as they perform a sacred Christmas masterpiece at The Basilica of St. Fidelis in Victoria.
By Cecilia Harris
photographs (Clockwise from Left): Harland J. Schuster (3), Connie Windholz, Harland J. Schuster (2)
The sound reverberates majestically through the beautiful structure, thrilling the audience at the annual Cathedral Concert held here every December. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the concert by the Fort Hays State University (FHSU) choirs inside the church known as the Cathedral of the Plains, according to Dr. Terry Crull, associate professor of music and director of choral activities at FHSU. Crull has been in charge of the concert for a decade and says the historic limestone church built over a century ago with twin bell towers provides the perfect setting. “The lovely Christmas carols and also the fine motets that have been written throughout the centuries by the greatest composers were meant for big cathedrals like that,” Crull says. “The acoustics [at St. Fidelis] are marvelous and comparable to the great cathedrals of Europe. My wife and I have had the privilege of singing overseas, and it matches the quality and sound of some of the greatest cathedrals.” In fact, during the concert choir members occasionally encircle the sanctuary or are scattered through the church in surround-sound fashion because of the impressive acoustics. “We often have the brass or some other group up in the balcony, so the music comes showering down over the audience,” Crull says. FHSU brass, flute and string ensembles often are included in the concert that features the Fort Hays Singers (the top chamber choir) and the larger FHSU Concert Choir singing acapella or accompanied by piano, organ, brass, strings, flute and other instruments. Also performing are the Smoky Hill Chorale (an adult community choir), the Hays High School Chamber Choir, a guest high school or middle school choral group, and guest vocal and instrumental soloists who typically are talented students or professors in the music department at FHSU or area community members. All in all, 232 musicians are involved, according to Crull. Their vibrant performances of Christmas music set the mood for the holiday season. Jan Brungardt, church parish secretary, says the church requests the songs be sacred. Such pieces as “’O Come, Emmanuel,” “Ave Maris Stella,” “The Shepherd’s Lamb,” “Christmas Cantata” and “Take Home Joy” have been performed. Crull chooses a theme for inspiration, and in 2014 it was “Carols and Lessons.” He selects the concert numbers so that each annual performance is different.
The ornate and historic St. Fidelis cathedral will host the 30th annual Cathedral Concert in 2015. This iconic event celebrates the beautiful space along with holiday traditions.
25 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
3:30 p.m. on December 6, 2015
26 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
Across Kansas
The Basilica of St. Fidelis is one of many impressive and historic religious sites in Kansas. Visit these religious sites in Kansas any time during the year. The stone Beecher Bible and Rifle Church in Wabaunsee was founded by settlers inspired by the Brooklyn, N.Y., abolitionist minister Rev. Henry Ward Beecher. Beecher helped finance the purchase of rifles smuggled to the church in crates marked “Beecher’s Bibles” for use as protection against pro-slavery forces during the “Bleeding Kansas” era. wabaunsee.com The gothic-style Nazareth Motherhouse in Concordia is home to the Sisters of St. Joseph convent and contains Sacred Heart Chapel, featuring 14 stained-glass windows designed by Chicago Munich Studio founder Max Guler and brought to Concordia by train in 1907. csjkansas.org
Alexanderwohl Mennonite Church, a rural church near Goessel, was constructed in 1886 in Dutch Mennonite style with an interior allowing worshippers to surround the worship leader, reflecting the idea of community. alexanderwohl.org The limestone Place of Meditation on the campus of the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home in Abilene is the final resting place of Dwight D. Eisenhower, 34th president of the United States, his wife, Mamie, and their first-born son, Doud Dwight. The chapel features chipped glass windows. eisenhower.archives.gov The gothic-style Chapel of the Veterans on the grounds of the Eisenhower VA Medical Center in Leavenworth is the only church where Protestant and Catholic religious services could be conducted under one roof at the same time, earning it a spot in Ripley’s Believe It Or Not in the 1920s. Built in 1893, it features two-story stained glass windows featuring religious and patriotic scenes. Travelks.com
photographs (from top) Harland J. Schuster, Mitchell Weber
christmas Masterpiece
However, he says one song, an arrangement of “What Child Is This?” created by a college friend who was tragically killed, has become his signature piece for the concert. In addition, because the event typically lasts at least 90 minutes, he always plans a singa-long to allow the audience to stretch while harmonizing familiar Christmas carols. The Romanesque-style church was completed in 1911 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In 2008, it was named one of the original 8 Wonders of Kansas by the Kansas Sampler Foundation. Brungardt says that the ambiance of the concert is due in part to St. Fidelis’ minimal holiday décor. “The church itself is so beautiful we don’t want to distract from the natural beauty,” she says of the church, which was designated as the first minor basilica in Kansas in 2014. “The music is really, really good; it’s just a beautiful concert.” In this spiritual setting, moving musical performances simply stir the soul, and Crull recalls one particular number from the past that evoked great emotion. Members of a guest middle school choir sang “Away in the Manger” in a combined piece as FHSU choir students sang accompaniment. “That was a neat picture,” Crull says. “We had boy-girl couples of my choir with a junior high student standing between them singing the melody, so it looked like little families. It was the simplest arrangement, but there were tears. Sometimes the simplest pieces are the most touching and the best.”
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Hays
Celebrate the present—and explore the past—in one of Kansas’ favorite frontier towns By Katy Schamberger Photography by Karen Mikols Bonar
T
o some people, Hays might best be known as the approximate halfway point between Kansas City and Denver on Interstate 70. However, Hays is more than a pit stop for road trippers—especially for those who love local history mixed with small town charm and an abundance of cultural heritage. The largest city in northwestern Kansas, Hays is home to more than 20,000 people, a number that swells to more than 30,000 when you add the annual enrollment of Fort Hays State University (FHSU). And with a picturesque, revitalized downtown and a flourishing creative community, Hays has come a long way from its roots as a violent frontier town. Contemplating a trip to Hays? There’s no shortage of things to see or do.
Day 1: Explore Downtown When you’re getting to know a new place, there’s no better way to start than by exploring the downtown area. “Downtown Hays is really a jewel in our community,” says local resident Andy Stanton. “The revitalization of the area has taken about 15 years, and there are lots of really neat, unique shopping and eating experiences.” To start your downtown adventure, grab a cup of coffee and a homemade pastry at The Paisley Pear Café, then head to the Historic Chestnut Street District, which spans Main Street between First and 17th streets. The route is marked with Gateway Markers, sculptures created by Hays artist Pete Felten that mark the Chestnut Street District within downtown Hays. Markers are currently located at the corners of Eighth and Fort streets, Eighth and Oak streets, and 17th and Main streets. The Downtown Hays Development Corporation plans to add markers throughout the district. If you’re in the mood for a little retail therapy, you’re in luck. A mother/daughter duo showcases a carefully curated mix of accessories, kitchen goods, home décor and more at Be Made. C.S. Post & Co., a locally owned general store, has been featured nationally in publications such as Better Homes & Gardens and Real Simple for its unique blend of antiques and gifts.
The Hays retail community continues to grow, especially in the downtown area, which means visitors have no shortage of places to shop. “The shopping gets better every year,” says Zach Woolf, destination marketing manager for the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau. “Even as the businesses continue to grow, they all help keep that feel of the small, charming downtown with a cohesive character.” If you enjoy exploring treasures at an antique shop, make sure Em ’n Me Antiques is on your list. The shop features antiques and collectibles, including seasonal décor, vintage clothing, glassware, furniture, figurines and more. The store is also home to Soda Shoppe Café, a great place to grab a nostalgic soda fountain favorite. After a day of exploring, you’ll need a delicious meal. Feeling particularly indulgent? Chestnut Street Kitchens specializes in dessert, including a cheesecake bar that lets you customize a slice with your favorite toppings. The Huffington Post calls Gella’s Diner and Lb. Brewing Co. “the one thing you must do” in Kansas. Don’t miss Lb. Brewing Co.’s handcrafted and award-winning beers. Seasonal brews are always changing, and a growler gives you the opportunity to take some home. If you’re craving sushi, don’t miss Sake 2 Me, one of Hays’ most popular new restaurants Day 2: History and Heritage Hays has a rich history with a bounty of historical sites where visitors can learn more about the city. Once Fort Hays was established in 1867, Hays “sprang to life on the plains in August of that year,” according to the Hays Convention and Visitors Bureau. Today, Historic Fort Hays is home to a public park and four of the fort’s original structures—the stone blockhouse, guardhouse and two frame officers’ quarters—along with a modern visitor’s center. If your visit to Fort Hayes coincides with the holiday season, don’t miss seeing the fort decorated as it would have been during Christmas in the late 1800s.
29 OPPOSITE A peek inside Sake 2 Me Sushi Rolls, a popular new restaurant in Hays. ABOVE Shop housewares and antiques at C.S. Post & Co., enjoy a shake at the Soda Shoppe Café, and shop some more at Be Made.
Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
Boot Hill Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries west of the Mississippi. The limestone buffalo, “Monarch of the Plains,” welcomes visitors to the Fort Hays Historic site.
Woolf and Stanton agree that no trip to Hays is complete without a visit to the Sternberg Museum of Natural History on the Fort Hays State University Campus. “The museum really provides you with the perspective of what it truly was like out on the Plains millions of years ago and why we have so much limestone, along with great exhibits for the kids to see and do,” Stanton says. The museum’s fossil exhibit is among its highlights and features an internationally renowned fossil: the fish within a fish. In 1952, the museum’s namesake, George Sternberg, discovered a 14-foot Xiphactinus with a 6-foot Gillicus preserved within its rib cage. Current exhibits include Post Rock Country: A Cultural Heritage 90 Million Years in the Making (through May 15, 2016). Once you’ve explored the museum and the Fort Hays campus, which Stanton says is a wonderful place to see buildings made of native limestone while you stretch your legs, continue your journey into the Hays of yesterday. Boot Hill Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries west of the Mississippi. Woolf says the cemetery is named Boot Hill because so many of the cemetery’s inhabitants “died with their boots on,” a testament to the harsh, often unforgiving conditions of the Kansas prairie. The last recorded burial on Boot Hill was November 9, 1874. While you tour the cemetery, note another piece of art by Pete Felten, a statue called The Homesteader. Head back downtown for a tour through the Ellis County Historical Society Museum. Start in the main gallery, with exhibits dedicated to the town’s frontier history and notable residents such as Wild Bill Hickok, Buffalo Bill Cody and George
Armstrong Custer. Stop in the re-created saloon for a game of faro, a favorite local pastime. The museum also has a number of exhibits dedicated to showcasing Hays’ rich German heritage, including the 1879 Stone Church, considered one of the oldest existing church buildings in western Kansas. Additional highlights include the Younker Harness Shop and Volga German Haus, which replicates an early immigrant dwelling complete with authentic furnishings. Speaking of the city’s German heritage, it’s more than a tourism highlight—it’s part of the rich historic and cultural narrative of Hays. After all, there’s a reason that Hays is fondly known as “the German capital of Kansas,” according to Woolf. The German tradition dates back to 1876, when Germans from Russia began to move to Hays after they learned that the area’s living conditions were similar to those on the Volga River. While you explore the German exhibits at the Ellis County Historical Society Museum, be sure to stop in the museum store to browse books on the Bukovina Germans (also known as Volga Germans), who made up the majority of the ethnic German population in Ellis County. Afterward, toast your newfound knowledge at Gella’s Diner and Lb. Brewing Co., which offers German-inspired brews throughout the year. Past seasonals have included German Hefeweizen and Oktoberfest Lager. “I fell in love with Hays when I moved here in 1988 to attend FHSU,” Woolf says. “I’ve moved away twice and moved back twice. Hays has the unique situation in that we’re big enough to have all of the amenities of a larger city, but we’re small enough that you know your neighbors and other people around town.”
popular hays events FrostFest
Wild West Festival
Oktoberfest
Kansas!
November–December Celebrate the magic of the holidays during FrostFest, which begins with a Holiday Open House weekend during the first weekend of November. One of the many highlights is the annual FrostFest Illuminated Parade, held at 6 p.m. on the first Saturday in December.
July 2016 One of the biggest festivals in western Kansas includes fireworks, concerts, a carnival, craft booths, a fishing tournament, baseball, a parade and more. The Wild West Festival typically hosts national recording artists, so keep an eye on the concert schedule!
Early October 2016 This favorite local tradition, hosted since 1972 by the Ellis and Rush County Volga German Society, is held in conjunction with Fort Hays State University’s homecoming festivities. Oktoberfest highlights include a tapping of the keg, traditional German food vendors, live music and much more.
winter 2015
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Turning
70 A look back at how KANSAS! got its start By Julie Tollefson
“To the Stars” is a new publication which we hope will be of help to Kansans, particularly to those interested in making Kansas the most outstanding state in the Middlewest. We want it to be informative. We will pass along all ideas and developments which have merit. We will, from time to time, have information that will be of benefit to every community in the state. We believe “To The Stars” will serve a real purpose in Kansas life. We hope you like it. —From the inaugural issue of To The Stars, November 1945
photographs courtesy of KANSAS! magazine
With those words, the Kansas Industrial Development Commission launched a little eight-page newsletter, called To The Stars and designed to promote business and economic development in the state. “Kansas needs the right kind of advertising—lots of it—if it is to grow industrially,” said a front-page story in that first issue. “The opportunity to create a balance between industry and agriculture will never be greater than now.” The modest newsletter with great aspirations—renamed KANSAS! in 1957—now celebrates 70 years of tempting Kansans to explore the back roads and byways of their state, of enticing non-Kansans to see the beauty beyond the stereotype, and of encouraging business and industry to discover the benefits of calling Kansas home. “We’re really excited about hitting 70 years,” says Andrea Etzel, a native Topekan who took the reins as editor of KANSAS! in 2014. “That’s a big accomplishment, especially in the publication world.” The heart of the magazine The magazine has seen many changes over the decades; from bi-monthly to quarterly publishing, from a black-and-white newsletter to a full-color magazine, from free distribution to paid subscriptions, from industry-focused to an emphasis on lifestyle and leisure. But one thing has never changed: The unique qualities of the land and the people of the state are the heart of every photo and every story. Dip into any issue for confirmation: • A 1954 issue, dubbed the Kansas Tourist Guide, detailed a mix of leisure and industry destinations, from St. Jacob’s Well in Clark County to one of the largest linseed and soybean mills in the United States at Fredonia, complete with coded locator maps for all six regions of the state. • The second issue of 1966 delved into the eclectic mix of festivals found in every small town and community across the state. From
OPPOSITE A cover from 1961 features an illustration of John Brown in celebration of 100 years of statehood. ABOVE Former editor Frances Smith poses with issues of KANSAS! in a 1977 edition, after a celebrated career with the magazine. LEFT The first edition of KANSAS! under its former title, To The Stars. Bottom Left Andrea Glenn, editor from 1978-2001
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its introduction: “Every so often, the superb peace of Kansas is disrupted by a phenomenon known as the community celebration. When it happens, whether it be the ringing voices of the choir at Lindsborg during the Messiah Festival or the slightly out of kilter brass section of a high school marching band, it is the signal of happiness in the prairie country.” • The first issue of 1997 relived the wild west in a feature marking the 130th anniversary of the legendary Chisholm Trail. (Psst … 2017 will mark the 150th anniversary; be sure to check back.) • The Fall 2001 issue featured an annual blues festival that drew talented musicians to play for two nights in a former church in Salina. “It’s really about exploring your own backyard and appreciating what we have here,” says Etzel. “We always tell people you have to get off I-70. There’s a lot of Kansas to see, and you have to get off the major highways.” A passionate legacy Now known for striking photography and features that uncover the richness of the state and its people, and published by the Tourism Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism, KANSAS! has evolved under the direction of a series of dedicated editors. Jennifer Haugh, a lifelong Topekan (with a small stint in Paxico in her childhood), says she loved the magazine long before she became editor in 2009. “I wanted to be part of its legacy,” she says. “I love the passion of the readers and the residents of Kansas.” Under her leadership, staff redesigned the magazine, introduced the idea of themed issues, accepted advertising for the first time, and began publishing supplementary pieces such as Kansas Outdoors for subscribers. The International Regional Magazine Association, or IRMA, named KANSAS! magazine of the year in 2014 (for a circulation under 35,000). Haugh and Etzel are the latest of about a dozen editors who have guided KANSAS! since its inception 70 years ago. Three of those editors held the post for a combined 45 years: Andrea Glenn, from 1978 to 2001, the longest tenure to date; Don Richards, 1953 to 1964; and Frances L. Smith, named the magazine’s first woman editor in 1966. Smith retired 11 years later after 42 years of service to the state, beginning in 1935 with the State Planning Board. A feature in the second issue of 1977 profiled her remarkable career and achievements. In it, Smith said, “I have worked with many people all over the state and I couldn’t ask for a more interesting job than 42 years of learning about Kansas. It has brought many friendships and made me proud to be a Kansan.”
Contributing writers:
Fally Afani, Amy Conkling, Cecilia Harris, Katy Ibsen, Seth Jones, Nathan Pettengill, Edie Ross, Katy Schamberger, Megan Saunders, Bethaney Wallace, Liz Weslander, Darin White
Haskell Indian Art Market
photographs (Clockwise from left) Mark Mangan, Jason Dailey, Doug Stremel for KDWPT, KDWPT
Lawrence
From Kansas’ Tallgrass prairie to Alcove Springs Park; The Boot Hill Museum in Dodge City to chicken cuisine in Pittsburg, the Gypsum Hills to the Amelia Earhart Festival—these are just a few of the amazing experiences on Kansans’ bucket lists.
When the leaves start to change color in Lawrence, the tents go up on the Haskell University grounds for the annual art market. This colorful event attracts hundreds of visitors in search of NativeAmerican artwork and an introduction to the local culture. The market is held on the second weekend of September every year. F.A. haskell.edu/hiam
Home on the Range Cabin Smith Center
The birthplace of the state song, the cabin was the home to Dr. Brewster M. Higley, who described the beauty of the site he had chosen for his Kansas homestead in a poem in 1871. His words were set to music in the song “Home on the Range.” C.H. thehomeontherange.com
Over the summer of 2015, Travel Kansas asked magazine readers and fans of Kansas what they would put on their bucket list. With that, we pulled the results and filtered them through our knowledgeable editorial board to develop this refined list of 70 things to do in Kansas.
Free State Brewery Lawrence
The first legal Kansas brewery after prohibition, Free State Brewing Company opened its Lawrence doors in 1989 after a 100-year drought. Enjoy a variety of longstanding beers that are named in honor of Kansas symbols, such as Wheat State Golden, as well as award-winning seasonal brews. Their motto quoting a Franciscan monk, “Because without beer, things do not seem to go as well,” is something that certainly should be explored—not to mention their fish and chips. D.W. freestatebrewing.com
What’s amazing is that 70 spots aren’t enough for all the unique, interesting, beautiful, fun experiences the state has to offer. Nevertheless, it’s a good start for those of you, and visitors, who want to dive into the special parts of Kansas.
Camping at A state park or lake outdoors
sports
food
arts & entertainment
destinations & attractions
landscape
events
history
misc.
Across Kansas
Exploring one of the 26 state parks provides visitors an opportunity to see the natural beauty of this amazing state. Kansas’ state parks feature lakes, hiking, horseback riding, scenic landscapes and much more, all easy to enjoy from a camper or tent. The state parks system includes a rail trail, historic structures and events. D.W. ksoutdoors.com
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the Dirty Kanza 200 Emporia
Typically it’s a bad thing to “eat dust,” but no, that’s the taste of victory for riders in the annual Dirty Kanza race. For serious cyclists who don’t mind getting dirty, this is your race. The DK takes you on backroads through the Flint Hills for a grueling 200 miles in all kinds of conditions. S.J. dirtykanza200.com
deer hunting
Across Kansas
Constitution Hall Lecompton
“Where slavery began to die” is the slogan for Constitution Hall in Lecompton. History buffs will enjoy this National Historical Landmark and now a museum that was a hotbed of political activity and the site of tense debates between pro-slavery and free-state factions in the years leading up to the Civil War. L.W. kshs.org/constitution_hall
Deer season remains one of Kansas’ most popular hunting seasons, and the state is an ideal destination for those in search of a trophy buck. While mule deer are limited to the western part of the state, whitetail deer can be found across Kansas. A variety of seasons exist for deer, including special seasons for youth. K.I. ksoutdoors.com/Hunting
the Big Well Any time the words “world’s largest” are involved, you’re talking bragging rights. So tell your friends you made it to Greensburg to eyewitness the world’s largest hand-dug well. Travel 109 feet down a spiral stairway and see why this one of the “8 Wonders of Kansas.” S.J. bigwell.org
Botanica Wichita
Of the natural wonders in Kansas, the gardens of Botanica in Wichita are where you’ll find a vibrant and colorful collection of flowers, meadows and green spaces. Attendees will enjoy a variety of events in the garden, lectures, children’s gardens or simply a stunning walk. F.A. botanica.org
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kansas State Capitol Topeka
Architecture, art and history are all part of the experience at the recently renovated Kansas State Capitol. Climb the capitol dome’s 296 steps during a guided dome tour, see historic Kansas murals, or take a tour guided by the Kansas Historical Society—both are free and offered daily during the week. L.W. kshs.org/capitol
Big Brutus
West Mineral South of West Mineral in Cherokee County, the Big Brutus museum is home to the world’s largest electric coal shovel. In its heyday, this 160-foot-tall shovel moved 0.22 miles per hour and required a three-man crew to operate. Today, visitors can sit in the operator’s seat and discover the mining history of our state. M.S. bigbrutus.org
photographs (Clockwise from top left) Jason Ebberts/TBL Photography, Bill Stephens, Shutterstock, KDWPT, Jason Dailey, Shutterstock, Tim Sigle, Courtesy of the Big Well Museum & Visitor Center, KDWPT
Greensburg
Cimarron National Grassland Elkhart
Nestled in the southwest corner of Kansas, the Cimarron National Grasslands are a magical place. Measuring 108,175 acres near Elkhart, the area is the largest public land in Kansas and the only land managed by the Forest Service. As one of 20 national grasslands in the nation, Cimarron is ideal for wildlife watching, photography, hunting, camping and fishing. K.I. ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/ Locations/Federal-Wildlife-Areas/ Cimarron-National-Grasslands
Guy & Mae’s Tavern Williamsburg
Barbecue tastes better when you’re eating it off of last week’s newspaper in a holethe-wall joint in Smalltown, USA. Such is the case with Guy & Mae’s—which has become legendary in Kansas. Located in Williamsburg, about 40 miles east of Emporia, this family operation continues to satisfy diners from near and far (including the governor’s mother). The tavern is known for its ribs, but any variety of smoked meats will equally impress barbecue aficionados. Be sure to ask for Judy, keeper of the recipes, who will tell you how the famous Guy & Mae got their start. K.I. 119 W William St., (785) 746-8830
Amelia Earhart Festival Atchison
Atchison residents and visitors gather to celebrate aviation legend Amelia Earhart with a summer festival. Live music, food, crafts, a carnival, children’s activities and more draw thousands of visitors each year. Don’t miss the festival’s grand finale, “Concert in the Sky,” a breathtaking fireworks show. K.S. AtchisonKansas.net
Konza Prairie Manhattan
Home to some of the most beautiful views in Kansas (and the Flint Hills), the Konza Prairie in Manhattan features miles of native plants and beautiful scenery. Spend the day hiking with Mother Nature on gravel nature trails or take a picnic supper to view the Kansas sunset in all its colorful glory. B.W. kpbs.konza.k-state.edu
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve Chase County
Experience the stunning beauty of Kansas while learning about the natural and cultural history of the tallgrass prairies at this national preserve north of Strong City. A visitor’s center, collection of historic buildings, daily bus and walking tours, extensive hiking trails, and a bison herd make this a educational destination for all interests and ages. L.W. nps.gov/tapr
Kansas State University football game Manhattan
Few things are more contagious than the passion of 50,000 purple-clad fans cheering on the K-State Wildcats. Whether you’re a K-State fan or just there for the experience, it’s nearly impossible not to enjoy the limestone beauty of the recently renovated Bill Snyder Family Stadium and to join in the “Wabash Cannonball”— Kansas! K-State’s signature anthem. M.S. Magazine kstatesports.com winter 2015
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The Gypsum Hills Barber County
Experience the beauty of the southwest among the red-tinged canyons and mesas of the Gypsum hills. Take a drive along the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway to soak in enchanting views of ancient floodplains and rolling hills, or get an up-close look through the Gypsum Hills’ many recreational opportunities such as horseback trail riding. M.S. travelks.com/ksbyways/gypsum-hills
1950s All-Electric House Shawnee
In 1954, Kansas City Power & Light constructed a five-bedroom ranch house to show off the latest, most futuristic gadgets like a garage door opener, a hidden TV and even an electric curtain opener. A family home for more than 40 years, the 1950s AllElectric House, located in Shawnee, is once again open to visitors interested in experiencing life in the ’50s. K.S. JoCoGov.org
Lewis & Clark
Atchison to Kansas City
NOTO Arts District Topeka
Named for its North Topeka location, the NOTO Arts District is a collection of studios, galleries, antique stores and eateries housed in restored historic buildings near the city’s downtown. To see this revitalized section of North Kansas Avenue in full bloom, visit during the monthly First Friday Art Walks. L.W. notoartsdistrict.com
Downtown Lawrence Lawrence
If you want to find the heart of any city, look downtown. This is especially true in the thriving community of Lawrence, where you can enjoy boutiques for every type of shopper, live music, dining for any palette, a roaring nightlife, and a vibrant events calendar. Considered a special place in Kansas, this bustling downtown shouldn’t be missed. F.A. downtownlawrence.com
Pawnee Indian museum Republic
The Pawnee Indian Museum State Historical Site near Republic offers an authentic glimpse into the lives of one of the most dominant Native-American tribes of the central plains. The centerpiece of the site is the excavated floor of a large Pawnee earth lodge from the 1700s. Artifacts and a nature trail round out the experience. L.W. kshs.org/pawnee_indian
photographs (Clockwise from top left) KDWPT (4), Shutterstock, KDWPT (3) Harland J. Schuster, KDWPT
Relive history in Kansas as you trace the footsteps of explorers Lewis and Clark. Visit the confluence of the Missouri and Kansas rivers near Kansas City, where Lewis and Clark camped after a long journey westward and saw their first Kansas symbol—the buffalo. Today, you can hike the trail and even visit the monument erected in their honor. F.A. travelks.com
The Bartlett Arboretum Belle Plaine
Flint Hills
Central Kansas Engage in the vast beauty of rolling hills and breathtaking views along the Flint Hills in east-central Kansas. This is one of the largest tallgrass prairies left in the world and can still be experienced by visitors through historic attractions, hiking, overnight stays, education and events. A scenic overlook site is located just south of Cottonwood Falls and includes a panoramic view of surrounding areas. A.C. travelks.com/flint-hills
Kansas State Fair Hutchinson
This 10-day event packs non-stop fun for all ages in Hutchinson each September and attracts the largest special event crowd in the state, totaling more than 350,000. For more than 100 years fairgoers have enjoyed seeing the blue-ribbon animals, strolling around exhibits, riding down the Midway, hearing live music, and topping it all off—indulging in an eclectic menu of fried cuisine. A.C. kansasstatefair.com
Strataca
This wooded sanctuary carries a unique history matched with a blossoming future. Accounting for 40 acres just 20 miles south of Wichita, the arboretum was founded by Dr. Walter Bartlett, an area doctor, in 1910. His love for the land led to a relationship with the Department of Agriculture as they used the area to test trees and plants from around the world. Today, singersongwriter Robin Macy tends to the gardens with her troupe of soil sisters. Enjoy a summer concert on the lawn and take in the sights of the flora and fauna. K.I. bartlettarboretum.com
Hutchinson Explore 650 feet below the earth’s surface inside the salt mines of Strataca in Hutchinson. One of the original Kansas Sampler Foundation’s “8 Wonders of Kansas,” Strataca opened in May 2007 and features a double-decker elevator that plunges visitors to the depths of salt deposits. This museum experience is like none other, featuring mined areas, geographic formations, and exhibits that showcase artifacts left behind by miners from the last 85 years. A.C. underkansas.org
Fort Riley
Junction City Home of the “Big Red One” 1st Infantry Division, this active military base was established in 1853 to protect settlers. Notable attractions are the U.S. Cavalry Museum, Regimental Museum and Custer House (early-day officers’ quarters). The “Old Trooper” life-size horse and rider monument was inspired by a Frederick Remington drawing and is the gravesite of Chief, the last Army Cavalry horse. C.H. riley.army.mil
Boot Hill Museum Dodge City
This interactive recreation of Dodge City’s historic Front Street—including the saloon, jail and church—will keep the entire family entertained. Within its collection of more than 60,000 objects, photographs and documents are exhibits featuring the Kansas Cowboy Kansas! Hall of Fame and an extensive gun Magazine collection. E.R. boothill.org winter 2015
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Castle Rock & Monument Rocks
Leavenworth
Out of the approximately 1,000 carousels produced by Charles Wallace Parker’s company, only 16 are in operation today— and two of them are at the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum in Leavenworth. The main attraction is the 1913 “Carry-Us-All,” which features 31 hand-carved wooden features, including horses, rabbits and a spinning teacup. K.S. FirstCityMuseums.org
Rails-to-Trails Across Kansas
In recent years rail-trails have welcomed cyclists, runners, walkers and anyone seeking a unique outdoor experience. In Kansas the Prairie Spirit Trail (also a state park) and the Flint Hills Nature Trail are not to be missed. Various volunteer groups keep the trails groomed for ideal sport leisure. F.A. kanzatrails.org or ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks
Kansas Museum of History Topeka
You’ll find more than just political history in our state’s capital. The Kansas Museum of History is where visitors travel back to the pioneer era, explore forts and trails, and learn about famous figures throughout the state’s history. The museum hosts on-site events and is a popular destination for student tours. F.A. kshs.org/museum
Oakley & Quinter Anyone who thinks Kansas is flat hasn’t been to the rocks. Two sets of striking rock formations can be found south of Oakley and Quinter. The photogenic chalk beds, ideal for photographers, are full of fossils and have been named one of the “8 Wonders of Kansas” by the Kansas Sampler Foundation. Don’t miss the Keystone Gallery for a memorable look at fossils. F.A. discoveroakley.com/visitors/ attractions
the Pony Express Marysville
One of the most familiar historical routes in the Midwest, the Pony Express runs straight through modern Marysville. Visitors can explore different stopping points and markers that were on the postal route, see where riders were exchanged and visit the Pony Express museum, located in the route’s 150-year-old stable. B.W. nps.gov/poex/
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Magazine winter 2015
Garden of Eden & Grassroots Art Center Lucas
Nestled by the majestic and scenic Wilson Lake, Lucas is home to one of the most whimsical attractions in Kansas. That’s where you’ll find folk art of every taste at the Grassroots Art Center and an eye-catching sculpture garden at the Garden of Eden. Come for the eccentric art, stay for the cheeky commentary conveyed through the fetching sculptures. F.A. grassrootsart.net
photographs (Clockwise from top left) KDWPT, Harland J. Schuster, KDWPT, Harland J. Schuster, KDWPT, Shutterstock (2), Harland J. Schuster, Jim Richardson, KDWPT, Shutterstock, KDWPT
C.W. Parker Carousel Museum
Emma Chase Friday Night Music Cottonwood Falls
The Emma Chase Café may no longer exist, but the music lives on. Since 1999 musicians have made their way to Main Street in Cottonwood Falls where they perform during Friday Night Music. The tradition began with Sue Smith, who welcomed the talented pickin’ and fiddlin’ musicians as well as an audience of locals and those passing through. Sixteen years later a crowd still gathers around 7:30 as lawn chairs pepper the brick street. And if conditions aren’t fair, the crowd moves inside. K.I. facebook. com/EmmaChaseMusic
Clark drug, Soda & ice cream parlor Cimarron
Ol Stuga
Lindsborg If you’re stopping in Lindsborg, make sure you bring your appetite. The Brent Nelson sandwich—a Polish sausage on a submarine bun with barbecue sauce, onions, cheddar cheese and hot pepper cheese—is one of a kind. With plenty of Swedish heritage and a local following, Ol Stuga is the place for food and a cold beer in central Kansas. F.A. facebook.com/olstuga
All ages, especially those young at heart, will enjoy a visit to an old-fashioned soda fountain, and Clark Drug, Soda & Ice Cream Parlor in Cimarron is just the place. With only seven stools, the 1920s soda fountain still uses chrome spigots and offers a wide counter for children swimming in a big banana split. Rest assured, Clark’s is only one of many soda fountains across Kansas still serving up ice cream delights. The Kansas Sampler Foundation maintains a complete list of operational soda fountains. K.I. kansassampler.org
Scott State Park Scott City
Just north of Scott City lays a stunning canyon nestled among the prairie and natural springs. The historic Scott State Park boasts 26 archaeological sites and attracts campers, hikers, horseback riders, and nature enthusiasts. History buffs can also explore the area settlers called home and the location of the last Native-American battle in Kansas. F.A. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/ Locations/Scott
Flint Hills Discovery Center Manhattan
Visitors of the Flint Hills Discovery Center will be inspired as they celebrate the last contiguous stand of tallgrass prairie in North America. Visitors will be immersed in the natural beauty of the Flint Hills through a multimedia theater, or explore the everevolving interactive exhibits. Considering the rich ecosystem, there’s something for everyone to discover. M.S. flinthillsdiscovery.org
Chicken Mary’s & Chicken Annie’s Pittsburg
When you find yourself in southeast Kansas there is one thing you must do—eat chicken. Here chicken is king, and regardless of whether you choose Chicken Annie’s or Chicken Mary’s, you will be satisfied. Both are institutions in the area (and in fried chicken), and each restaurant carries a storied past that—of course—includes the rivalry. While secret ingredients and recipes remain a mystery, the breadcrumbs do not. Provided to all the southeast Kansas chicken joints, breadcrumbs come from the local Frontenac Bakery. K.I. visitcrawfordcounty.com
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Magazine winter 2015
Kansas Sampler Festival Across Kansas
Sample all that there is to see, do, hear, taste, buy, and learn in the state of Kansas—all in one place during the Kansas Sampler Festival. Held every May, the festival celebrated 25 years in 2014. Hosted by the The Kansas Sampler Foundation and a partnering city (changes every two years), the event features more than 150 communities, dozens of Kansas-made products, food, local entertainers, cultural heritage demonstrations and historical performances. A.C. kansassampler.org/festival
Victoria
paddle the Kansas River
Junction City to Kansas City Running from Junction City to Kansas City, the Kansas “Kaw” River is a celebrated State Park and National Water Trail. Water sport enthusiasts will enjoy kayaking, canoeing and fishing along the picturesque river. A designated boat ramp is an ideal drop-in point, just north of MacLennan Park in Topeka. “The Kansas River, one of only three public rivers in Kansas, is designated as a National River Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior.” – Robin Jennison, KDWPT Secretary K.I. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/ Locations/Kaw-River
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Magazine winter 2015
Aptly nicknamed by William Jennings Bryan, the massive Basilica of St. Fidelis is an architectural masterpiece featuring colossal twin bell towers rising above the prairie. The majestic cross-shaped Romanesque Catholic Church built of native stone is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Read more about its annual concert on page 24. C.H. stfidelischurch.com
Nicodemus National Historical Site Nicodemus
This northwestern Kansas historical site is the oldest preserved black settlement west of the Mississippi River. Visitors learn about Nicodemus history in the Visitor’s Center and take a walking tour to view the historic buildings that represent the five pillars of the African-American community: church, selfgovernment, education, home and business. A.C. nps.gov/nico
Svensk Hyllningsfest Lindsborg
This famed biennial festival in Lindsborg celebrates Swedish pioneers who settled the Smoky Valley in 1868 and 1869. Established in 1941 in conjunction with Bethany College’s 60th anniversary celebration, this community-wide event features arts and crafts, special foods, ethnic music and dancing, and more. The next Svensk Hyllningsfest will be in 2017. E.R. svenskhyllningsfest.org
photographs (Clockwise from top left) Jason Daily, KDWPT (3), Shutterstock, KDWPT (3), Jim Richardson, Shutterstock
Cathedral of the Plains
The Dwight D. Eisenhower presidential Library and Museum Abilene
Honoring America’s 34th president, this complex also includes the final resting place of Dwight D. Eisenhower. The museum contains more than 30,000-square feet of gallery space, with exhibits featuring fine art collected by and given to Eisenhower along with the stories of his military and presidential careers. E.R. eisenhower.archives.gov
Cheyenne Bottoms/Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
basketball game at Allen Fieldhouse Lawrence
Great Bend
Bird enthusiasts and wildlife photographers will love this duo of North American shorebird migratory stops. Experience both Cheyenne Bottoms and the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in one drive by taking the 76-mile Wetlands and Wildlife National Scenic Byway. The Kansas Wetlands Education Center, located southeast of Cheyenne Bottoms, is a great place to learn more about plants and wildlife in the area. L.W. wetlandscenter.fhsu.edu fws.goc/refuge/quivira
Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing Co. Hays
Possibly Kansas’ best-kept secret is Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing. Award-winning beer waits for visitors, as it can only be found at the brewery and at beer festivals. Garnering multiple honors for its various brews (such as gold medals from the Great American Beer Festival), Lb. Brewing is on beerenthusiasts’ radars, and the diner is merely the cherry on top. The menu features some German fare, brewery favorites and a personal favorite, pub chips. K.I. lbbrewing.com
We root for every Kansas basketball team to succeed, but when it comes to basketball venues, one place is the clear favorite—Allen Fieldhouse. Even ESPN’s Jay Bilas, a former Duke Blue Devil, calls the Fieldhouse “the St. Andrews of college basketball.” Hear the haunting chant of “Rock Chalk Jayhawk, GO KU,” in person to become a believer. S.J. kuathletics.com
Prairie Museum of Art and History Colby
Visitors are encouraged to handle the antique collections of toys, coins, clothing, and much more at this convenient, familyfriendly spot just off of Interstate 70. The 24-acre site includes a 1930s farmstead complete with sod house, one-room schoolhouse, country church and the Cooper Barn, the largest barn in Kansas. L.W. prairiemuseum.org
Stargazing at Coronado Heights Lindsborg
Named after the Spanish explorer Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, Coronado Heights is perched high above the Kansas farmlands. During the 1930s the Works Progress Administration built the stone castle as a means to attract visitors—which many travel to today. Located northwest of Lindsborg, Coronado Heights is a stargazer’s destination, for the uninterrupted Kansas! sky gives a majestic view of the Magazine stars above. K.I. lindsborgcity.org winter 2015
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Walnut Valley Festival
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge Canton
This refuge provides a rare look at the past as a herd of bison roam the native prairie. Elk, birds, wild flowers and native grasses in the rolling hills can be viewed from the observation tower or up close while on the “covered wagon” tram tour. C.H. maxwellwildliferefuge.com
Every September, visitors from all over the world camp out in the small community of Winfield for a weekend of pickin’, fiddlin’ and dancin’. The bluegrass festival attracts musicians for the worldfamous competitions, while big names in folk music hit the stages scattered across the fields. The campgrounds end up turning into all-night parties that keep dedicated fans returning every year. F.A. wvfest.com
Symphony in the Flint Hills Central Kansas
What’s better than a drive through the stunning Flint Hills? Combining it with an accomplished symphony orchestra. Symphony in the Flint Hills celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2015. The event began as a birthday party on the beautiful Kansas prairie. Today it welcomes more than 7,000 attendees to take part in a grand symphonic tribute to our land, extolling history, art and music. D.W. symphonyintheflinthills.org
Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site Topeka
The 1954 Supreme Court case Brown v. Board of Education, is memorialized at this educational national historic site. Exhibits and presentations teach visitors about this important era in U.S. history and the case’s lasting impact on American society. B.W. nps.gov/brvb/
kansas Motorcycle Museum Marquette
46 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
Peruse more than 100 vintage and rare motorcycles of all makes and models at the Kansas Motorcycle Museum, opened in 2003 in honor of hometown racing legend “Stan the Man” Engdahl. Located on the main drag of Marquette, this museum features a vast array of racing memorabilia, including Engdahl’s custom Harley-Davidson racing motorcycle and more than 600 of his trophies. A.C ksmotorcyclemuseum.org
Alcove Springs Park Blue Rapids
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Alcove Springs offers visitors a picturesque landscape of the Independence Crossing of the Big Blue River near Blue Rapids. The rocks that surround the springs create a unique natural element that pools the water below. Located on the Oregon Trail, Alcove Springs was a stop for many emigrants, California-bound gold seekers and other travelers who camped there, including the Donner-Reed Party. Today remnants of their stay still exist today in the form of carvings in the rocks. K.I. marshallcoks.com/attractions/oregon-trail/
photographs (Clockwise from top left) KDWPT, KANSAS! magazine, Shutterstock, KANSAS! magazine, Doug Stremel, Shutterstock, KDWPT, Courtesy of Sporting K.C. Nick Smith, KDWPT (2)
Winfield
fishing
Across Kansas Kansas state fishing lakes, known for largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, gar, catfish, carp, buffalo, drum, wipers and more, offer a wide variety of fishing opportunities. Clark State Fishing Lake near Dodge City has seen consistent ratings in walleye, flathead catfish, crappie, largemouth bass, white bass and channel catfish. Be sure to check the fishing report to find your new fishing hole. K.I. ksoutdoors.com/Fishing
Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum Chanute
Follow the adventures of Martin and Osa Johnson, who, during the first half of the 20th century, photographed and documented some of the most remote areas in the world. Now, their photographs—which the museum calls “one of the greatest contributions to the pictorial history of the world”—along with films, books and personal memorabilia are on display at the Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum in Chanute. K.S. SafariMuseum.com
Switchgrass Trail Wilson State Park
Mountain bikers celebrate the Switchgrass Trail at Wilson Lake. The trail is a challenging yet scenic 24-mile route that has earned the distinguished Epic status from the International Mountain Bicycling Association. Designed and maintained by Bob Nicholson, a retired Fort Hays State University professor and one of our “Kansas’ Finest” recipients, the trail puts Kansas on the map of single-track destinations. K.I. facebook.com/SwitchgrassTrail
Soccer match at Sporting KC
rowhouse restaurant
Kansas City
There was a time when Kansas City’s Major League Soccer team was known as “the Wiz” and played at the 79,000-seat Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. Those days are long gone. Sporting Kansas City, the 2013 MLS Cup champions, now plays in the intimate, soccerspecific Sporting Park, an 18,000seat high-tech stadium in Kansas City, Kansas. Visiting teams are warned they’ve entered “Blue Hell,” but for soccer fans, it’s their blue heaven. S.J. sportingkc.com
Topeka
Porubsky’s Topeka
Hidden away in Topeka’s neighborhood of Little Russia, this is the corner store that refused to die. But why would it? Porubsky’s serves some of the region’s best chili and offers delectable fire pickles that keep a steady burn in your mouth long after you leave. N.P. 508 NE Sardou Avenue (785) 234-5788
The prix fixe approach of this Topeka classic highlights the best seasonal dishes by owner and head chef Greg Fox. Fox grows his food, promotes talent and shares generous praise for other regional restaurants … all while setting the pace for sophisticated menus with honest ingredients in pleasing combinations. N.P. rowhouserestaurant.net
Wichita Art Museum Wichita
Kansas’ largest art museum has a fine collection of American art including pieces by Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper and Thomas Eakins. Visitors also love the museum’s colorful glass chandelier and sea-themed glass ceiling installation piece—both by Dale Chihuly. Admission is free on Saturdays. L.W. wichitaartmuseum.org
Across Kansas
You can’t see Kansas from Interstate 70, but the back roads and 11 scenic and historic byways will paint a beautiful picture. Take time to explore the Kansas’ back roads to discover something new. Regardless of your mode of transportation, something unique is always around the next bend—scenic landscapes, curious wildlife, the delicious hole-in-the-wall diner, the best fishing spot, and much more. D.W. travelks.com
Oz Museum Wamego
More than a century of wonderful Oz memorabilia can be found at this petite museum in Wamego. See artifacts from the movie and learn about L. Frank Baum, author of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. Heel clicking isn’t necessary to learn more about the Oz legend and its ties to Kansas. Don’t forget to pick up a souvenir in the gift shop and bring the Oz love back home—in Kansas or beyond. B.W. ozmuseum.com
Arikaree Breaks St. Francis
This rugged landscape of deep canyons is formed by remnants of sand, silt and clay (known as loess) carving out space for the Arikaree River and the South Fork of the Republican River to flow—a marked difference from the typical Kansas plains. Driving and self-guided tours feature steep-sided canyons, cavernous ravines and gullies. Many tours are available and include the location of the Cherry Creek Encampment and other historic sites. E.R. stfranciskansas.com
Oktoberfest Hays
Mushroom Rock State Park
Ellis and Rush counties’ Volga German Society joins forces to host the annual Oktoberfest in conjunction with Fort Hays State University’s homecoming festivities. This three-day festival in October includes an annual keg tapping along with several traditional German food vendors, along with the Fort Hays Homecoming community parade and football game. Family-friendly events take place in the morning in an alcoholfree area. A.C. haysusa.net
Marquette
Just south of Salina stands one of Kansas’ many natural wonders—Mushroom Rocks. These unique, mushroom-shaped rocks date back to the Crustaceous Period and are the remains of beach sand and sediment rock that were naturally cemented by calcium carbonate. As a bonus, the rock is located on Prairie Trail Scenic Byway. F.A. ksoutdoors.com/State-Parks/Locations/ Mushroom-Rock
Thank you to our Editorial Board for their time and profound knowledge of and affection for kansas.
48 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
Tom Averill, Professor of English at Washburn University of Topeka Angela Bates, Nicodemus Historical Society Todd Lovin, Tuttle Creek State Park Manager Julie Mulvihill, Executive Director of the Kansas Humanities Council Marci Penner, Executive Director of the Kansas Sampler Foundation Jim Richardson, National Geographic Photographer & owner of Small World Gallery in Lindsborg
photographs (Clockwise from top left) KDWPT, Harland J. Schuster, Sunflower Publishing, KDWPT, Guy Windholz, KDWPT
Cruising the back roads
t s i l k c che Item
Location
Item
Location
1950s All-Electric House
Shawnee
Haskell Indian Art Market
Lawrence
Alcove Springs Park
Blue Rapids
Home on the Range Cabin
Smith Center
Amelia Earhart Festival
Atchison
Kansas Museum of History
Topeka
Arikaree Breaks
St. Francis
Kansas Sampler Festival
Various
The Bartlett Arboretum
Belle Plain
Kansas State Capitol
Topeka
Basketball Game at Allen Fieldhouse
Lawrence
Kansas State Fair
Hutchinson
Big Brutus
West Mineral
Konza Prairie
Manhattan
The Big Well
Greensburg
K-State football game
Manhattan
Boot Hill Museum
Dodge City
Botanica
Wichita
Lewis & Clark
Atchison to Kansas City
Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site
Topeka
Martin and Osa Johnson Safari Museum
Chanute
Camping at a state park or lake
Statewide
Maxwell Wildlife Refuge
Canton
Castle Rock + Monument Rocks
Quinter/Oakley
Kansas Motorcycle Museum
Marquette
Cathedral of the Plains
Victoria
Mushroom Rock State Park
Marquette
Cheyenne Bottoms & Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
Nicodemus National Historic Site
Nicodemus
Great Bend
NOTO Arts District
Topeka
Chicken Mary’s & Chicken Annie’s
Pittsburg
Oktoberfest
Hays
Cimarron National Grassland
Elkhart
Ol Stuga
Lindsborg
Clark Drug, Soda & Ice Cream Parlor
Cimarron
Oz Museum
Wamego
Constitution Hall
Lecompton
Paddle the Kansas River
Cruising the backroads
Statewide
Junction City to Kansas City
C.W. Parker Carousel Museum
Leavenworth
Pawnee Indian Museum
Republic
Deer Hunting
Statewide
The Pony Express
Marysville
Dirty Kanza 200
Emporia
Porubsky's
Topeka
Downtown Lawrence
Lawrence
Prairie Museum of Art and History
Colby
The Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum
Abilene
Rails-to-Trails
Statewide
RowHouse Restaurant
Topeka
Emma Chase Friday Night Music
Cottonwood Falls
Scott State Park
Scott City
Fishing
Statewide
Sporting KC Soccer Match
Kansas City
Flint Hills
Central Kansas
Stargazing at Coronado Heights
Lindsborg
Flint Hills Discovery Center
Manhattan
Strataca
Hutchinson
Fort Riley
Junction City
Svensk Hyllningsfest
Lindsborg
Free State Brewery
Lawrence
Switchgrass Trail
Wilson State Park
Garden of Eden & Grassroots Art Center
Lucas
Symphony in the Flint Hills
Statewide
Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing Co.
Hays
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve
Statewide
Guy and Mae’s Tavern
Williamsburg
Walnut Valley Festival
Winfield
The Gypsum Hills
Barber County
Wichita Art Museum
Wichita
by Kim Gronniger
A Macey Hensley: Kaw Mission, Council Grove and the Eisenhower Museum and Library in Abilene
Mary Myers: Flint Hills
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Magazine winter 2015
packet of presidential flashcards her grandmother plucked out of a dollar bin at Target last fall captivated Macey Hensley and catapulted the youngster to national stardom with four 2015 appearances and a fifth one slated for December on The Ellen DeGeneres Show (she recently interviewed former First Lady Hillary Clinton). DeGeneres was so charmed by Macey during her first appearance on Presidents’ Day that she gave her an Abraham Lincoln costume and provided trips to Washington, D.C., the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, Mount Rushmore and Rapid City, South Dakota, where Macey’s favorite attraction was a presidential wax museum. The pint-sized Oval Office aspirant, 6-year-old kindergartener, says if elected she would eat all the candy she wants, Werther’s Originals preferred, “give my mom $100 and make sure she’s doing good.” Her favorite president is Zachary Taylor because he wore blue, her favorite color, and seeing his sword was the highlight of her White House visit. She also likes Ike and has toured the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home three times. Macey’s fascination with presidents began as early as two when she became curious about the men printed on money. Macey’s grandparents on both sides cared for her from infancy while her parents worked. Nichole, Macey’s mother attributes her daughter’s fixation in part to her early connection with her grandfathers and notes that Macey wears her Lincoln costume in some configuration “every day.” Mary Myers, a social studies teacher at Council Grove Junior High who works in the same district with Hensley’s mother, Nichole, invited Macey last December to address her eighth grade students. Myers
posted a 20-minute YouTube video of Hensley dressed in a George Washington costume singing the song she’d created to help her remember the presidents’ names in order. At the urging of others, Nichole, a Title 1 reading and math teacher, sent it to Ellen’s nowsmitten producers, who Skype with Macey weekly. Myers deflects credit for helping position Macey as a national sensation and describes herself as “lucky to be the first one to have her” in a forum where Macey could publicly display her penchant for presidential trivia. “Macey is going places with or without me,” says Myers, who believes her guest speaker will someday serve in a political capacity. Myers is adept at sizing up talent and seizing opportunities to broaden the world for her students, many of whom don’t often travel beyond Morris County’s borders. A few years ago, seventh graders wanted to enliven their Kansas history curriculum by creating a Facebook page, “Where on Earth Is Kansas?” and having someone from every town in Kansas “like” it. When the goal was reached, the students received more than 10,000 congratulatory comments from worldwide fans who had followed their progress. Many continue to post pictures and memories prompted by student questions, including a Wichitaborn soldier who shared a picture of a Wichita-made plane during his tour in Iraq. “It’s pretty cool,” Myers says. “We post whatever we want to learn about and people send information about tractors or water towers or whatever the topic is. People in Kansas are really special, and we need to talk about what we have here that’s so unique to Kansas. We’re always trying to find ways to bring the rest of Kansas to us.”
photograph michael henry
The 2015 class of Kansas promoters, lovers and supporters
51 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
Switchgrass Trail at Wilson Lake
52 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
photographs Karen Mikols Bonar (2)
M
ountain bike enthusiasts who veer off Interstate 70 to ride the Switchgrass IMBA Epic trail at Wilson State Park will encounter 22 miles of twisting terrain and backcountry beauty encompassing sandstone canyons and panoramic prairie views. What began in 1995 as a six-mile course has since become one of the International Mountain Bicycling Association’s worldwide Epic sites, an elite endorsement made possible in part through the ingenuity and perseverance of Kansas Trails Council volunteers and the Switchgrass trail’s primary caretaker, Bob Nicholson. A retired Fort Hays State University professor in rangeland ecology, Nicholson’s ecosystem expertise and passion for biking have converged into a rewarding avocation that seamlessly blends work and pleasure. “People often ask when they see me on the trail whether I’m working or riding, but I’ve never ridden when I didn’t stop to pull weeds or move rocks,” he says. “It’s all part of the job—the best part.” Nicholson, who lives in Hays, drives an hour each way to Switchgrass, putting in many volunteer hours each year managing the vegetation with herbicides and mowing equipment. His resourcefulness won him a panelist spot at the 2014 Professional Trail Builders Association meeting where he shared affordable ideas for adapting tools for grassland environments to supplement hand work. He also attends workshops to glean tips on everything from enhancing signage to building climbing turns to ensure the trail entrusted to his oversight continues to evolve. He designs new sections or rehabilitates and reroutes other portions to boost a biker’s experience and “create something that hopefully will last that others will enjoy and appreciate.” Most bikers come from Wichita, Topeka, Lawrence and Kansas City, but the trail is gaining traction as a tourist destination for out-of-state visitors and logging blog mentions because of the Epic designation, which Nicholson pursued for three years. Singletracks.com also named the trail the state’s best and “one of the top 30 or 40 out of many hundreds of trails based on user rankings,” Nicholson says. “Most people driving on I-70 never suspect the terrain we have in the Saline River Valley less than five miles away from the two Wilson Lake exits,” says Nicholson. “They are pleasantly surprised.”
Jim: Flint Hills Kathy: two-lane roads
T
he Small World Gallery in Lindsborg is an inviting amalgamation of global treasures created and curated by Jim and Kathy Richardson, a National Geographic photographer and a jewelry designer, respectively. Framed prints and greeting cards of Jim’s favorite shots, from the Flint Hills to 40 years of chronicling the Cuba, Kansas, community, beckon buyers along with bracelets made with European trade beads and distinctive necklaces designed with Swedish steamship tokens, Thai silver and Czech glass. The Richardsons, native Kansans who met while working at the Topeka Capital-Journal in the 1970s, traveled the world from their home in Denver for 20 years before beginning their biggest adventure yet as Main Street merchants. Undaunted by their lack of retail experience and eager to return to their Kansas roots, the Richardsons opened the gallery with Jim’s work and a few consignment pieces in 2002. “If you weren’t in the mood to buy major art, we didn’t have much else,” Kathy says. Since Kathy “enjoyed fiddling with beads,” she soon fashioned a small jewelry assortment that “led to a bit of an obsession” as she became enamored by the storytelling characteristics of the gems, minerals and other items she acquired for her creations. The ever-evolving collection now includes evocative offerings available online as well as custom orders to accessorize an outfit or include a specific element tied to geography or ancestry. Visitors are looking for something that “connects with their experiences and interests” or “a new experience to cherish,” Jim says, whether it’s a windmill print or a vintage watch-piece pin. “That’s why we spend so much time telling them the stories of the things we have in our gallery. We like to think Kansas is an interesting part of an interesting world.” Gallery merchandise also includes Maruca bags, scarves and children’s and travel books. “We want to have plenty of variety,” says Kathy, who sometimes writes a blog about her discoveries. The Richardsons enjoy providing tourists with not only souvenirs to commemorate their travels but also advice on where to go next to complement their sojourn through the state. Kathy often directs people to her favorite dining destinations, which include the nearby Lindsborg restaurants. “I send them to Cottonwood Falls, Lucas and Atchison and paint a picture to make them want to stay on the road in Kansas and learn about what we love. That’s very gratifying to me. “Why wouldn’t you want to know what’s in your town, county and state?” asks Kathy. “Curiosity is what makes life grand, and a lot of our customers are already on the hunt.” While on assignment for National Geographic, Richardson discovered “the sumptuous beauty” of the Flint Hills, capturing images frequently mistaken for the Irish countryside. “Kansas doesn’t need to be so shy,” he says. “We offer quality experiences to visitors with our own bit of character thrown in.”
53 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
Flint Hills
54 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
photograph michael Henry
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hortly after Dave Kendall joined KTWU, the public television station licensed to Washburn University in Topeka, he was entrusted with developing and hosting Sunflower Journeys, a three-feature, 30-minute program promoting the state’s history, geography and culture. With degrees in cultural geography and media anthropology from the University of Kansas, Kendall was well-suited for exploring the people and places that have made Sunflower Journeys a treasured travelogue since its debut in 1988. Supported by the Kansas Humanities Council and other entities, the show appeals to viewers watching in homes and classrooms or discovering content online. “Kansans like to feel connected to people, attractions and each other,” says Kendall, who was raised on a Morris County farm. “Each story built on how they feel about themselves as Kansans. Through the years I received a lot of responses from people that moved here from out of state who thanked me for giving them a sense of what this place is.” Hard pressed to pick a standout segment amidst so many, Kendall lands on Glenn Close “waxing nostalgic” about Morris County’s Flint Hills attributes during his interview with her between takes of Sarah, Plain and Tall. It’s a sense of wonder that Kendall relates to based on his own affinity for the prairie, including covering the inaugural “Symphony in the Flint Hills” event for Sunflower Journeys and then emceeing the popular outdoor concert on five occasions. Kendall credits the Flint Hills with his “awakening” years ago when he returned home after living in northern California in the late ’70s. “It wasn’t until I came back to Kansas that I really saw the open spaces and appreciated the landscape,” he says. “Especially the meteor showers and the natural forces.” Recently retired from KTWU, Kendall, an accomplished documentarian who now serves as a digital news instructor at Kansas State University, plans to introduce a broader audience to Flint Hills splendor. He and his wife, Laura Mead, are producing an hour-long documentary about the 20th anniversary of the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve in Chase County through a collaboration with Manhattan’s Flint Hills Discovery Center Foundation. Prairie Hollow Productions, a nod to Kendall’s roots and Mead’s upbringing in a Vermont hollow, will provide new creative opportunities for positioning Kansas positively. “There’s a lot more going on in our state than people realize,” he says.
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KANSAS!
57 Geary County Bruce Hogle
Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
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Jefferson County Brad Neff
58 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
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59 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
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Labette County Lou Stone
Riley County Teresa Grove
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johnson county Rose Burgweger
Sedgwick County Betty Morgan
61 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
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Season’s eatings
Despite gray skies and barren fields, winter’s bounty offers a variety of flavors By Lou Ann Thomas Photography by Doug Stremel
KANSAS!
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s the temperature cools, we begin opting for warmer clothes and craving heartier foods. Soups and casseroles replace the cool, crisp salads of summer, but that doesn’t mean we have to give up using delicious, fresh Kansas produce and products to tickle our taste buds and delight our senses. “You can always eat seasonally fresh food,” says Greg Fox, chef and owner of RowHouse Restaurant in Topeka. The RowHouse’s menu changes weekly, relying on what is fresh and available. “Think squash and roots for eating seasonally during the winter in Kansas. Butternut, acorn and spaghetti squash along with root vegetables such as beets, turnips, carrots and potatoes take center stage this time of year and many are available fresh from local growers,” Fox says. Because it is naturally sweet, winter squash lends itself to a wide range of dishes. Whether tossed with pasta for a new twist on Italian sauce, roasted and used in Southwest entrees, or pureed and added to Indian curries, the mild flavor doesn’t overpower other tastes while the firm texture holds up well when combined with other foods. Spaghetti squash is considered a serious low-carb pasta substitute that shines as much with butter and Parmesan as it does with an old-world Bolognese sauce. Winter foods don’t have to be boring or complicated. Fox, who prefers to allow the natural tastes of food to shine, doesn’t believe in over saucing or herbing dishes. “Roasted root vegetables really only need butter. That’s it. And maybe a pinch of sugar—that’s the love,” Fox says. To improve winter dishes, Fox suggests adding grains, like quinoa and barley, to salads and using jams and jellies, dried herbs and more winter-like flavors of honey and maple in sauces and glazes.
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Stocking up An added bonus of late season crops is that many can be easily stored and preserved to maintain usability throughout the winter. “Fall crops are designed to have a longer shelf life than foods from other seasons,” says Andrea DeJesus of A&H Farm in Manhattan. DeJesus is a third-generation farmer and provides produce to several area restaurants, grocery stores and farmers’ markets. She also maintains a late-season Community Supported Agriculture opportunity at her farm. This pre-boxed CSA pick up runs from Thanksgiving to Christmas and is made up of predominantly squash and root vegetables, but because of new high hoop greenhouses, like many farmers, DeJesus is expanding her offerings for winter.
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“Although last year we had tomatoes and peppers for the first few weeks. This year we’re hoping to have some greens too,” DeJesus says. Some communities have farmers’ markets that extend into the late fall and early winter where shoppers may still be able to find Swiss chard, kale and some lettuces. Food for all seasons Eating and cooking locally during the winter isn’t only about squash and vegetables. Kansas’ farms produce a wide variety of fruits, nuts, grains, beans and dairy products, regardless of the season. The Jason Wiebe Dairy in Durham creates award-winning cheese year round. The dairy uses its own milk to create a wide variety of cheese, from Hot Habanero for the adventurous to rich, raw milk, aged Cottonwood River Cheddar. Add local flavor to chili by tossing in some Kansas-grown pinto beans. Alan Townsend, of Townsend Farms in Goodland, is a sixth-generation farmer who has found the high plains perfect for growing pinto beans. Townsend is part of Twentyfirst Century Bean, a cooperative of 20 farmers in Sharon Springs that grows, processes, cleans, packages and sells locally and regionally grown beans. The co-op also sells black, navy, garbanzo and northern beans, mostly grown in Kansas, Colorado and Nebraska. For local fruits and pecans, Kling Family Orchards, Pittsburg, sells at the Pittsburg Famers’ Market from spring through fall, but their fresh jams, jellies and other Kansas-grown products are available year round at the Root Coffee Shop in Pittsburg. Kansas is known for its wheat, and The Kansas Wheat House, Cimarron, is known for manufacturing 50 edible products and whole-wheat flours. The Kansas Wheat House also has dessert covered with their Cow Patti candy, which is made with natural grains of wheat, soybeans and sunflower seeds in caramel and coated in chocolate. Keeping our menus interesting, our dishes delicious and our taste buds dancing year round may take some planning and preparation, but Kansas-grown produce and products are sure to deliver this winter.
Scott Bean Photography K A N S A S L A N D S C A P E A N D N AT U R E P H O T O G R A P H S
64 Kansas!
Magazine
785-341-1047 | SCOTT@SCOTTBEANPHOTO.COM
winter 2015
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Find your Farmer
smashed root vegetables Ingredients 2 russet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes 1 medium to large beet, peeled and diced into ½-inch cubes 1 stick butter 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon sugar pepper to taste ½ cup sour cream
Instructions Toss the beets with a pinch of salt, pinch of pepper and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil. Spread on prepared baking sheet and roast at 375 degrees for 30 minutes. Should mash easily with fork, but won’t be as soft as a potato after roasting. Set aside. Put both kinds of potatoes in a large stockpot and cover with water. Bring to boil and cook approximately 12 to 14 minutes until tender. Drain water. To same pot add roasted beets and remaining ingredients. Smash with a potato masher, but leave some chunks. Adjust butter, sour cream and salt as needed. Serves 4–6
Locate an ongoing farmers’ market by visiting pickyourown.org/KS or localharvest.org. Both websites allow users to search for farms, CSAs and markets in their area. Pick Your Own also lists foods that are in season for each month and canning and freezing information. Local Harvest will allow you to search for a particular food or product by city or zip code.
Pan-fried Butternut Squash Tacos with Fennel and Feta Salsa Cut large butternut squash in half lengthwise. De-seed, brush with oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake cut side down in 375-degree oven until soft and slightly browned (approximately 40 minutes). Let cool, then peel off skin, shred inside of squash.
Fresh recipes from rowhouse Greg Fox, chef and owner
Greg Fox creates new menus for RowHouse every week, and each is based on fresh, seasonal foods. In an effort to not over-manipulate food, Fox allows the natural flavors to take center stage in his dishes. For root vegetables, butter is about the only seasoning needed, and Fox suggests roasting, baking, sautéing or frying them, as well as using them as garnishes. Dried beans are also a valuable staple during the winter, and Fox never hesitates to use canned products along with fresh ones. “Use high-quality canned tomatoes during the winter and pair with seasonal produce, and your meal will still sparkle with a fresh, lively taste,” says Fox.
66 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
Filling 1 16 ounce can kidney beans, rinsed and drained ¼ stick butter 1 onion, chopped 4 cloves garlic, chopped 2 stalks celery, chopped 1 teaspoon cumin ¼ cup brown sugar 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 1 teaspoon chili powder 2 teaspoons salt (adjust to taste) dash of vinegar
Instructions Melt butter in large pan on stove over medium heat. Add onions, garlic and celery. Cook 2 minutes. Add the cumin, chili, brown sugar, salt, paprika and vinegar. Stir. Add shredded squash and beans and stir together. Taste and adjust spice to your liking. Heat a cast iron skillet to hot. Place a corn tortilla in hot oil in skillet. Should be hot enough to sizzle. Cook for 45 seconds. Spoon filling onto one half of the tortilla and then fold into taco shape. Continue to cook for another minute until one side begins to crisp and brown. Flip taco and let other side cook until crisp, about another minute. Serve hot with feta and fennel salsa and sour cream. Makes 20 tacos.
Fennel and Feta Salsa Ingredients ½ cup fresh fennel, chopped ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled ½ cup celery, chopped ½ cup green onions, chopped 1 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons sugar 2 tablespoons vinegar (red wine or white balsamic) 1 tablespoon oil 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro or mint
Instructions Combine all ingredients in mixing bowl and taste. Adjust as desired. Spoon generously over butternut squash tacos. Can also be eaten with chips as a dip or enjoy by the spoon.
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Historical Lecompton Civil War Birthplace Where slavery began to die
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COME VISIT KANSAS’S FINEST SMALL MUSEUM The Inman Museum is home to over 25 extraordinary attractions. A life-size village square with six buildings constructed with 100-year-old materials, a restored train depot complete with caboose and a full early-prairie homestead. www.inmanmuseum.com
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68 Kansas!
Magazine winter 2015
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