Kansas Prairie Archives for July 2003

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Thursday, July 31, 2003

ELLSWORTH'S COWTOWN FESTIVAL

Tomorrow afternoon the sidewalks of Ellsworth will undergo a transformation. Instead of the merchandise being in the stores, the merchants will set up tables on the sidewalk and haul a lot of it outside for the shoppers and browsers. There will be bargains galore as this is the time of year store keepers clean off the shelves to make way for new fall merchandise. You don't want to miss it. Never mind the heat.

The "official" opening for Cowtown coincides with a "Ya Better Eat it Fast Ice Cream Social" in Preisker Park. "The Old Time Band" from Great Bend will provide musical entertainment.

Saturday the planes will be flying overhead early in the morning as they vie for landing positions at Ellsworth International Airport where they will be treated to a fly-in breakfast. I suppose they will also be offering rides to anyone who would like one.

For those who are in good shape, there will be a five mile run/walk beginning at the VFW Hall. Separate entry fees are required for that. Contact Dan Winston at 785.472.4472 for details.

There is also a golf tournament with tee times at 8:00 and at 2:00. There is a separate entry fee for that too. Mark Cunningham is the one to call at 785.472.4236.

"The Best Present is the Past" (whatever!) is the parade theme this year and you can see all of it in action at 10:00 on Douglas Avenue. Yeah! We get to have parades downtown again now that the highway construction has been completed. Don and Pat Bender are the Grand Marshalls...and very much deserve that honor. Jim Gray, who was recently named to the Kansas Cowboy Hall of Fame in Dodge City, will be the Honorary Grand Marshall. He read about it in the paper, but someone forgot to tell him.

After the parade, you can pick your place to eat...the Senior Center, Paden's Place, Pizza Hut, Dairy Queen, Kwik Shop, Ampride, Crossroads, Gambino's, Methodist Church and KC's Cafe. Actually, those are the only places in town to eat unless you do the home-cookin' thing.

In the afternoon there is a horseshoe pitching tournament, free swimming, and stuff at the high school parking lot like a petting zoo and carousel rides. In the Commons there will be bingo and other events.

Butch is catering the BBQ from 5:00 to 7:00 in the Commons. Next door in the PAC there will be local entertainment. I was hoping for a contest as I have a ringer coming to town who probably would have been a sure winner. Tom Brown and Rowdy will be in the parking lot giving carriage rides.

At 7:30 “Steve Bowman in Concert” will perform in the PAC.

Admission for all of this is with a $5.00 Cowtown button. Children under 5 are free.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:27 PM CST [Link]

GRUMBLING

People in general are doing a lot of grumbling about the lot give-away program. The only place I have initiated any conversation about it is on my blog and with one person on the committee. Still, my phone rings with people ranting about the issue.

I'm not leading a crusade against it as I have no opposition to what they are attempting to do. I just think they are throwing out the baby with the bath water in giving those particular lots away.

One of these days we are going to have to build a new grade school. It's inevitable. Someone please tell me where they are going to put it where it will be as cheap and well-located as the option we had before the school district gave those lots away?

Just once I'd like to see a master long-range plan for future development for both the city and the school district. We had one for future school construction, but that just went by the way side with the lot give-away program.

Right now I think the best move would be for the committee to do everything possible to encourage the new prison warden, his wife and seven children to move from Lyons to Ellsworth. That is important for his involvement in the community and understanding the people who are employed at ECF. We've been through previous wardens who didn't live here and who were never accepted by the community. Ray Roberts was a master at communication and involvement. He will be missed for many reasons, those being two of them.

When it comes time to build a new grade school, I hope the people who have made the decision to give these lots away, thus eliminating access to the property that could be used for future construction, are around to accept responsibility for their actions. (That never happens.)

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:53 PM CST [Link]

GEORGE W. BUSH

George W. Bush has good posture.

The end.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:15 PM CST [Link]

Wednesday, July 30, 2003

DRIVING ON BB's

I just can't bring myself to talk about the rash of accidents we've had over the past years involving teen age drivers (mostly, but not all) here and in Lincoln County. It is just too sad and we never get over the loss of such wonderful young, talented children who die so needlessly. Usually it is a combination of driving too fast on country roads. Very often "too fast" is barely more than creeping along.

During dry times like these, country roads are particularly hazardous. A friend of mine expressed it best when he said it was just like driving on BB's. He's right. And you don't have to drive very fast to lose control which happens so suddenly you can't do a thing about it.

The funeral for one is in progress as I write. My condolences to all their family members and friends.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:15 AM CST [Link]

ANT, BAT, RACCOON, FOX, POSSUM, SQUIRREL MAGNET

This house is a magnet for critters, large and small which makes life very interesting. Last night it was the red fox that set Jack on fire. Also the raccoon was ambling around, the one we haven’t yet caught and relocated. The squirrels breed faster than rabbits.

The carpenter ants that are searching for water have been contained, I hope. I don’t mind that they build nests in our trees, but I’d rather they’d stay clear of our house in the future. I guess that is one of the problems with putting trees close to your house as overhanging branches make for easy drop zones onto our roof. Rough cedar siding and heavy shake shingles are very inviting.

But that’s the way we wanted it so we can’t be too choosey who wants to come live with us.

It wasn’t Niagara Falls invading our basement after all….nothing that exciting although it sure seemed like it at the time. It was a faulty water heater., only two years old, that was the culprit. 30 gallons of water spreads out a whole lot. That has been corrected.

There will be something adventuresome happening here today…I can count on it. Some rain would help as that would get these critters back where they can survive without our help.

Now, I’m off to the County 4-H Fair to see the chickens.Then I'm meeting two of my most favorite people again at Orozco's for lunch. We have to get our talking all done in the summer before school starts as after that, they have no time for such fun. Usually we go for breakfast as no one else is there after about 9:00 and we don't have to be so careful what we say out loud. Today, we'll have to whisper. Kidding!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:00 AM CST [Link]

INDUSTRY SCHOLAR

Someone I know was just named an Industry Scholar at Southern Methodist University, one of five in the School of Engineering. It's a big deal, but of course she isn't inclined to tell anyone about it. I guess what it amounts to is that EDS (Electronic Data Systems, the old Ross Perot firm) pretty much pays for her to go to school. She will be working for them, as time allows, have a summer job and unless something goes very wrong, a job when she graduates if she wants it. With all her other scholarships, she's doing very well paying for her own education. I couldn't be more proud.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:45 AM CST [Link]

Tuesday, July 29, 2003

13 THINGS PMS STANDS FOR:

1. Pass My Shotgun
2. Psychotic Mood Shift
3. Perpetual Munching Spree
4. Puffy Mid-Section
5. People Make me Sick
6. Provide Me with Sweets
7. Pardon My Sobbing
8. Pimples May Surface
9. Pass My Sweatpants
10. Pissy Mood Syndrome
11. Plainly; Men Suck
12. Pack My Suitcase
and my favorite one...

13. Potential Murder Suspect

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:42 PM CST [Link]

THE ELLSWORTH COUNTY 4-H AUCTION

There are some "good eats" that are going to be auctioned off Thursday at the 4-H barn downtown. I think that's the same night we can all see Brent Goss kiss a pig. It sounds like a lively evening and it would be a good thing to support their fund-raising efforts.

As far as the auction goes, here's an example: 2-6 oz. sirloin dinners at Al's Bar and Grill in Wilson will be auctioned off to the highest bidder. It is sponsored by Victor Bros. Auction and Realty, Inc., Frank Princ, owner/broker Wilson Kansas.

Other related items to be auctioned off are:

2-T-bone steaks from JS Packing, sponsored by Walter and Jean Schwerdtfeger
2- K.C. strip and shrimp buffet dinners at KC's, sponsored by Ray and Carol Christianson
2-12 oz. sirloin dinners at Made from Scratch, sponsored by White Construction Co.
2-Chicken-fried steak dinners at C&V Convenience in Holyrood, sponsored by Kozisek Farms
2-6 oz. sirloin dinners at the Lorraine Cafe, sponsored by Dena and John Stoltz
2-Steak sandwiches and fries at the Lunch Box in Kanopolis, sponsored by the Independent Salt Mine
2-8 oz. bacon filet dinners at Paden's, sponsored by Brooke Insurance Co.
2-8 oz. sirloin dinners at Crossroads, sponsored by Homolka Grain
Box of fresh lamb, sponsored by Homeier Farms
2-Pork loin dinners at the Midland Hotel in Wilson, sponsored by Don and Eleanor Hunter

The fair has been going on all this week so stop by the barn and see them show and judge those critters.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:36 PM CST [Link]

I HAVE A GOOD FEELING ABOUT RURAL LIFE

Today, I drove out to Lucille Svaty's where my favorite gardner, Caleb Svaty, keeps his produce. It's the same place his cousins, his father, Dave, and his grandfather, Garfield, sold their produce. It's a Svaty family operation. I've been going there for as long as I can remember.

No one tends the place as they all have farming chores. Well, Caleb’s grandma keeps an eye on the place from a distance. There is a black board with the prices for the various things he has...tomatoes $1.00 a pound, green peppers 25 cents, beets, onions, potatoes, garlic etc. Paying is on the honor system.

I weighed out four pounds of tomatoes that had not yet been refrigerated and got $4.00 out of my billfold. The coffee can was close by with money from previous customers and a sales book. Maybe the book is for their purposes as I didn't really look through it. I left a note of what I bought and how much money I put in the coffee can and left with my purchase. That’s a nice way to do business.

Big ol' fat bacon and tomato sandwiches were on the menu for lunch. There's nothing better than Wilson Food's home-smoked bacon, cooked crisp in the micro, and Caleb's home-grown tomatoes layered on some whole grain bread that has been slathered with real mayonnaise and topped with mounds of lettuce. What a treat. What a buldge in the waistline.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:07 PM CST [Link]

GEORGINA BATES COULD USE OUR HELP

The Good Samaritan Retirement Village is having a fundraiser to help raise money to replace the roof
and sprinkler system at Villa Grace. This will be held on Sunday, September 28, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

There will be entertainment, food, fellowship, plus a chance to buy some valuable treasures.

Tickets to the event will be $15.00 per person.

Georgina needs help from everyone willing to donate time, money or goods. Anyone who would be willing to donate items for the auction or any entertainment from outside the area that would come, please let Georgina know! They are looking for such things as works of art, antiques, memorabilia, sports, music items, etc.

She hopes to draw people from both within and outside our immediate area.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:10 AM CST [Link]

Monday, July 28, 2003

PLEASE CHECK OUT NATIONAL DROVERS HALL OF FAME INFORMATION ON THE FIRST PAGE OF MY WEBSITE...http://kansasprairie.net. RUN YOUR CURSOR OVER THE DROVERS ICON ON THE LEFT AND CLICK ON THE HIGHLIGHTED "INFORMATION" LINK. drovershalloffame.org will be up and running soon.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:45 PM CST [Link]

ACCORDING TO CONGRESSMAN MORAN:

On Friday, the House of Representatives passed legislation to help Kansans access more affordable prescription medicines. Drug prices in the U.S. are 30 to 300 percent more than they are in Europe and other industrialized nations. The legislation we passed this week would implement safeguards so that Kansans can safely access lower-priced prescription medicines from other countries. (Call Arbuthnot Drug Store in Belleville and compare prices to what you've been paying...pb)

On Wednesday, the House passed a bill to reverse a recent Federal Communications Commission (FCC) decision that allows for more media mergers. An amendment, included in the funding bill for the Departments of Commerce, Justice and State, will maintain the previous regulations that prevented any one company from owning stations that reach more than 35 percent of the American public.

Saturday morning, I visited the Wilson After-Harvest Czech Festival, the annual celebration of their community heritage. I took part in the parade and presented the Grand Marshal plaque to members of the Wilson American Legion Post.

I visited with folks along the parade route and also offered people the opportunity to sign a banner supporting our American troops. I am carrying the banner to Kansas communities - collecting signatures and well wishes from Kansans. I plan to present the banner to Kansas troops returning from the war in Iraq. (that was the same banner I was hanging on to while Mike Zamrzla found bricks and rocks to hold it down ...pb)

This coming Friday, I will be able to take your calls during a live appearance on Smoky Hills Public Television. The program, entitled, "Mid-America Life: A Conversation with Jerry Moran," will air live on Friday evening, August 1st, from 8:30 - 9:30 p.m. Consult your cable company or local program guide to determine the Smoky Hills Public Television channel in your area. To call into the program, Kansans can dial 800-337-4788.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:05 PM CST [Link]

Saturday, July 26, 2003

ELLSWORTH COUNTY FAIR IS UNDERWAY

Downtown will be bustling with 4-H’ers, livestock, foods and crafts projects, and much enthusiasm during next week’s county fair. Stop by and check out the events and enjoy the good times!

Support the 4-H. They will be selling fundraiser raffle tickets, so give them a hand and buy one, if you can.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:04 PM CST [Link]

WE'VE GOT A LEAK!

I've been sitting on top of an ocean of water and didn't know it. DUH! Something somewhere is leaking and creating a lake in the corners of three adjoining rooms. Rats!

I have a rather large plastic mat thingy, whatever you call those things, that my computer chair sits on so I can whirl around and tend to stuff in all directions. It’s a big dude. I glanced down at it a few minutes ago and saw dolphins swimming underneath it...maybe sharks. It looked deep enough for that. There were waves! I was about to float away and didn’t even have my life vest on.

Brit and I pulled all the stuff out and sure enough, it took all the towels I could find to sop up the stuff. I saw some evidence of it the other day in the bathroom corner, but figured it was condensation from the ACs and soon forgot it. I'm readjusting my thinking. I think they diverted Niagara Falls down this way, knowing I love doing the barrel ride over the falls trick. Where are you o' Maid of the Mist?

I had printed copies of all my blogs in two big 5” ring binders sitting right in the center of the pool of water. They are ruined. Dang…I'll have to print them all over again. I don’t look forward to that. Besides it will take a dozen printer cartridges.

Well, it’s Saturday and Rick, my plumber friend, is finally getting a break from work. Maybe we can get him up here on Monday and he can figure it out. Whatever the problem is won’t be easy to fix. We’ve sprung a leak somewhere.

Meanwhile, I'll have to go dig out a pair the kids old galoshes if I'm going to sit here and type to keep from getting root rot....er foot rot. I wonder how safe it is to be playing with electronics while soaking your feet in water?

Posted by Peg Britton @ 06:39 PM CST [Link]

THINGS YOU LEARN AT PARADES AND OTHER ENVIRONS

I was inspired to go to the legislative coffee in Wilson this morning and I haven't the slightest idea why. Probably it's because I like to circulate and visit with people rather than enjoy too much solitude. I have plenty of time left in my life for the latter. With an estimated crowd of 3,000 to 5,000 in Wilson today, finding someone to chat with wasn't a problem. Going alone is never a problem for me.

The legislative coffee at Al's Bar and Grill was well attended with people coming and going...maybe 60-75 in all. The front room was comfortably full and there were people in the back room. The back room is really the front room as it opens on to the main street but most people like me use the "back door" by the kitchen and cash register so that's the front to me. The kolaches were delicious and very Czech. They were Adolph's treat.

All the queen candidates were attired in traditional Czech costumes which provided photo ops for those with cameras. Josh Svaty was the main attraction, as he always is, for all the obvious reasons. He had on a Czech vest and looked handsome as ever. He's very informed, said a few words then fielded questions from the crowd. The word "charismatic" was coined with Josh in mind. That was very evident when a couple of people dominated the floor with argumentative, non-general questions that would have been better addressed at another time. Josh is cool and collected, and always attentive.

Sen. Jay Emler of Lindsborg was also there and offered similar answers. With redistricting, Sen. Janis Lee will no longer be our representative beginning about the year 2005, if I remember correctly, and Jay Emler will be our Senator. After a long, personal and very successful relationship with Janis who has "always been there” for us, Jay will be a change and take some getting used to. Jay lives a lot closer to Ellsworth than Janis so we'll hope he can be here as often and represent us as well as she has. He seems like an easy fellow to get to know.

Before the coffee I put my chair in the shade in front of La Shiro's Boutique where La Vange was passing out free sodas and maintaining watch over her thousands of bolts of cloth. I put my broad-brimmed hat and water on my camp chair and trudged off to visit with “people”.

Jennifer Kepka and others were selling hoska, kolaches and cinnamon rolls in front of Sincerely Yours so I bought a large loaf of hoska, which looks delicious, and carted it back to my car which I parked squarely in front of the door to the Midland.

Congressman Jerry Moran was late for the legislative coffee but was there for the parade, as he always is. He does things right and is definitely Presidential material, as people in the crowd kept saying. Mike Zamrzla, Jerry's aide, needed some help with Jerry's long banner that people across the state have signed to send to our troops in Iraq, so I held one end down while Mike decided how to anchor it to the table. After trying sugar shakers from Al's and a couple other things, he came back with bricks and large rocks which were the answer to combating the banner-whipping wind we had this morning. Then I forgot to sign it and wandered down the street. Sigh!

I don't think I'll go to the parade next year. Well, I say that every year. I used to love parades, the kind that were designed to entertain...where there were floats all decorated with interesting, colorful displays and bands had to be spaced apart so the music of one didn't interfere with that of another and you could learn the true meaning of the Doppler effect. All that is a thing of the past, around here anyway, and now parades consist of a couple miles of advertising. Vehicles with entry numbers and advertising. Even the type of vehicle doesn’t seem to matter.

First, every emergency vehicle from Wilson and adjoining towns flooded the parade...sirens blaring so I sat there with my fingers stuck in my ears for half an hour until they passed. After that there was an assortment of old cars and farm equipment, earth movers, trucks, motorcycles and anything that runs on wheels, people throwing candy and advertising whatever they have to sell or promote. Most didn't even wash their vehicle before the parade. It is B-O-R-I-N-G! After an hour of that, there were a couple saddle clubs that brought up the rear.

There was a new addition this year to signal the end of the parade...a street sweeper with large whirling brushes spewing water to spread thin the horse pucky that appeared on the street from the last parade entries. Parades just aren't the same anymore.

After the parade I gathered up my belongings, put them in the car and walked into the Midland...found my way to Drummers and a cold Czech beer...Czechvar! Ah, how lovely. The place was cool and the beer was icy, as advertised. It was nice. Bruce B. sat with me awhile and visited. We always have topics of common interest to discuss. Then young Carl J. sat awhile and we chatted about his son's wedding and other assorted things. By the time my food arrived at noon Dick and Heather joined me for lunch.

What I learned during the course of events was that the last piece of kitchen equipment (it's all new) was connected late Wednesday afternoon in the Midland kitchen. No wonder they were in a bit of a scramble on Thursday when I was there. The friend who was the "connecter person" for the kitchen equipment also told me he gets paid off next week, plus 6% interest, on the long-standing law suit that I blogged a year ago. It is finally fading away with, I believe, all the subs being paid with interest. One large law suit remains to be heard.

I visited with John Eichelberger, the kitchen manager and chef at the Midland, who said he served 460 meals there last night. Adolph V. had told me earlier that he had eaten there and that it was excellent. He also said Drummers was packed full and a peck of fun last night. John was prepared to serve between 1,200 and 1,400 meals today....so I was wrong in my earlier comments about that. I didn't imagine on Thursday that could be possible, but that's what he said and I’m sure he knows all about it. He is capable of and accustomed to serving ten times that many people. I’m glad I gave him a call when I did about the chef opening at the Midland. He is too.

They only had one choice of food today and it was very good....two slices of roasted pork tenderloin, a smoked sausage, mashed potatoes topped with dill gravy and wonderful sweet-sour sauerkraut that tasted homemade. It was $7.00, the Czech beer was $3.00, both including tax. That is very reasonable and in keeping with prices the people in the know had quoted. Rumors have been circulating about outlandish prices at the Midland and they simply aren’t true.

I visited with Marion Vaughn, the manager, before I left and she said they are going to make every effort to have the main restaurant open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. with Boomers open from noon to 11:00 p.m....and until 2:00 a.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.

It's well worth the trip to Wilson to enjoy a meal at the Midland, either upstairs or down, and take a look around at the wonderful accomplishments of the Wilson Foundation in restoring this beautiful old railroad hotel. I believe they are going to see a lot of traffic from their neighbors if today is indicative of how they can perform. It is a tremendous addition to Ellsworth County and one in which we should take great pride. We need to support each other.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:16 PM CST [Link]

Friday, July 25, 2003

LEGLISLATIVE GATHERING

The gathering is tomorrow morning about 8:30 at Al's Bar and Grill. The parade is at 10. The day will be filled with activities. Wilson is the place to be. Enjoy the Czech Festival!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:17 PM CST [Link]

THE CZECHOSLOVAKIAN CAPITAL OF KANSAS

The Midland was scheduled to open on Thursday...yesterday. Maybe it was a brief opening. They've had an official ribbon cutting by the Wilson Chamber and they have honored reservations of guests to stay there. Many loose ends have needed to be taken care of.

Linda and I stopped in about 6ish last night even though the sign said "Closed." I obey signs, but when Linda walked in, I assumed she was there on some business for the paper. Well... nooo! We just stepped into the lobby and looked around, admired the hardwood floors, table and chairs in the dining room and the sitting room. She wanted to take a tour. That idea didn't get far.

Marion Vaughn, the manager, was bustling around as they were receiving shipments and it was obvious they were playing catch-up. I suppose they will be ready for guests today. Everyone under the sun is going to want to tour the place. I asked her if they intended to serve meals on Saturday (tomorrow) as I'd heard from a Wilson resident that "the Midland was going to be serving 1,100 meals" (how could anyone believe that?) and heard from a couple other people that they had not yet received certification from the state for serving meals. She said they would serve a small number of guests from a very limited menu...probably one thing and "Czechish". She's going to be a very good person to promote the Midland.

For someone who may be hitting my website for the first time, The Midland Hotel is an old railroad hotel built around 1890 and operated until the late 1980s. Every one from Will Rogers to Sen. Bob Dole stayed there. In 1997 the Wilson Foundation took possession of the historic structure and led a $2.4 million renovation and preservation project. I have more about Wilson and the hotel on my website should you care to peruse it.

The small town of Wilson (population 800), one of my favorite places to just hang out, is ready for the 3,000 to 5,000 visitors they will have over the weekend. If it were an election year, there would be twice that many according to past experiences.

The two food eating contests aren't exactly what I envisioned. For men there is the wiener eating contest and for women it's Jell-O. I don't understand food eating contests anyway. I can easily miss that part of the festival.

I still haven't found out what the prize is they are drawing for Saturday night. There are always surprises.

It's going to be a good weekend to be in Wilson. I just wish, for my own personal tastes, it would be cooler. I'll go see what is going on and last as long as I can stand the heat.

It will be a weekend of "Vitame Vas" coming from the residents. Very nice.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:01 AM CST [Link]

Thursday, July 24, 2003

LOT GIVE AWAY PROGRAM

We moved here shortly after the Ellsworth Elementary School was built. The controversy about its location was still a hot topic of conversation long after our arrival. People lined up on both sides as they debated where that school should have been built.

At that time, the Wellington block had only the Wellington house on the property and little else. That's in the area of Forest Drive and Lincoln and 4th Street. That was the proposed site for the school but the neighbors didn’t want it there basically because of traffic and noise. Some didn't think it was located centrally enough for students living south of the river. That was back in the days when kids walked to and from school and home for lunch every noon. (It wasn't uphill both ways.) There was lots of bickering that was going on in 1952 when we arrived and it continued for years. Now, no one remembers.

The alternative site that was chosen was on a highway which was dangerous and boxed in any possibility of downtown development. It was not a good location for an elementary school. A young girl was killed crossing the street back in the '50s which brought more attention to the location.

Traffic surrounding the school has always been a serious concern. The city and school continued to have crossing guards and cross walks in the center of the block on Douglas and on 3rd Street despite the fact the children were being taught in school always to cross the street at the intersection. Finally that changed.

Now flash forward a few years when many of us on the school board believed that when it came time to replace that school, it should be located elsewhere. We had the perfect piece of ground behind the pizza hut that was made available for school use by Gertrude Kunkle. The cemetery that opened in the south part of that property was very small then. Now it is growing and will continue to grow as there isn't anything to stop it. That whole area could have been saved for future school use simply by building a ball diamond or something for school use. A small structure of any kind would have sufficed.

I think the school board back in those days showed a great deal of foresight in acquiring those lots that were contiguous to the Kunkle land so that there could be full access to the land from two sides. There was a reason for acquiring those lots. The cost of maintaining the lots was small compared to the potential savings of the overall project.

Now they are giving the lots away to anyone who wants to build a house. I'm not even going there except to say a more logical approach might be to raze some of the property about town that has been condemned, clean it up and give those lots away.

One of these days ....we hope....we will need to replace the grade school. If our town survives, it is inevitable that we will. Where are they going to put a new grade school where young students won't be faced with crossing one of the busy highways that ring our town? And at what cost to taxpayers? Has anyone even addressed this issue in the last 20 years? Where else is there ample room for such a structure? Where else is there free land?

Surely they won't make the same mistake again and put it downtown. Tell me we have learned something from this experience. Tell me that the city and school district have a master plan for expansion.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:29 PM CST [Link]

ANOTHER RACCOON HAS GONE SOUTH

Another raccoon managed to get in the squirrel trap last night. It was really pretty sad, but at the time, I couldn't do much about it.

Larry Beagley came early this morning to take it south to his place outside Geneseo. He will have a new happy home and join a whole bunch of his relatives who once lived here too.

I really don't know where all these raccoons are coming from....well, yes I do...but by now I figured we caught and relocated all the breeding stock. Guess not....as they still find our house a big temptation.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:50 PM CST [Link]

WANT TO SEE A PURPLE POLAR BEAR?

CLICK HERE

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:43 PM CST [Link]

Wednesday, July 23, 2003

INSURANCE BUILDING

Have you noticed the transparency of the Insurance building on the splash page of my website? Take a look and tell me what you think. My wonderful webmaster person did that for me and I like the way it looks. We're open to suggestions. The information for the National Drovers Hall of Fame is front page stuff and that was the logical spot for it.

Soon, the link on my page to the drovershalloffame.org or .com site will connect. They are working on it now. I will also be writing articles for my website and using a lot of information from Jim Gray and others so you can keep track of our progress.

If you'd like to be a member of the Founder's Club, you can contact Jim Gray at 1.877.DROVERS. It will cost you $100 to help preserve our history which may mean the difference of whether or not we survive as a town. We have to do a lot to turn things around quickly from the way they are now. Take a look at the enrollment figures for the elementary grades and you'll recognize the problems we are facing. We're all in this together and everyone needs to pitch in and help.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:38 PM CST [Link]

MOZILLA

I've been using Mozilla, off and on, for quite a long time now and really like it although I haven't used it as my default browser. I was using Netscape for that after IE shot craps. When I first started on the net, I used Netscape. It was a philosophical choice because of Microsoft's treatment of Netscape founders. For years I always preferred Netscape over IE. I think Mozilla and Netscape use the same engines.

Then IE got better so I switched to it about a year ago. I still have a problem with IE as it is not optional with windows, and if you run into trouble with it, you almost have to reload your OS.

I like the cute fire eating dragon on Mozilla. The newer version, 1.5a, seems to work just fine. I imported all my bookmarks from my troublesome IE. I'll let Mackenzie experiment with her newer version before I try it.

One thing I do recommend is that you have a browser in addition to IE. I would have really been up a tree had I not had both Mozilla and Netscape ...or one or the other...when IE went down. It crashed completely for no apparent reason and a month or so later, it reappeared, for no apparent reason. A glitch is lurking in my computer some place...a compatibility issue I think. You can't do a whole lot on your computer without a browser and I suppose restoring it would require DOS expertise that I don't have.

That's about all I know about this matter!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:29 PM CST [Link]

FROM MY GRANDDAUGHTER:

Everyone needs to trash Internet Explorer and switch to Mozilla Firebird. It's amazing. The best feature: tabbed browsing... keeps all your windows in tabs so your taskbar isn't all cluttered. Also has a popup blocker which so far seems to actually work. :)

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:15 PM CST [Link]

THE DELL TECHIE

The Dell techie...well he works for a company that does contract work for Dell...just replaced another drive for me. That makes three he's replaced. I've never seen anyone work faster on a computer or dialing a phone than this guy. We're talking about dialing about 50 numbers...sounded like a machine gun, the way he did it.

The great thing about it is that now everything is working as it should. I can back up files and burn music CDs....again. There are no lags or gaps when I play music. He installed a new program that was compatible with the new drive so that's a plus. I think I have a new computer. The three year service contract I bought has been paid for many times. I believe it is the way to go with a Dell.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:49 PM CST [Link]

BRIT IS HAVING ANOTHER CONNIPTION FIT

Every time some general of some service appears on TV to give a war report Brit has another conniption fit. I don’t blame him.

The reason is…the whatever general from whatever branch has on a starched, ironed, stiff-as-a-board camouflage uniform….battle dress with a sewed on combat infantry patch. Who is he trying to kid?

He isn’t out in the field with a three-week accumulation of sand, sweat and stench covering his body. He’s had a nice long shower, a hot home-cooked meal and he’s standing in an air-conditioned room in the Pentagon behind a dais, all “spit and polish” pretending he’s in the field of battle reporting back to us dumb folk. He isn’t leaving on the next plane for Iraq or North Korea.

Why do they do that?

Why doesn’t he just wear is general’s uniform that is more appropriate for the Pentagon and TV appearances?

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:29 PM CST [Link]

Tuesday, July 22, 2003

WILSON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PRESENTS THE 43RD ANNUAL AFTER HARVEST CZECH FESTIVAL

VITAME VAS! It's time to join the Czechs this weekend and have fun.

The events in Wilson will get fired up noon on Friday the 25th with the ferris wheel spinning on Avenue D and heads spinning in the beer garden. Dave Salmons will perform in the beer garden from 5:00 to 6:30.

There will be arts and crafts galore in the Lions Club Park. The Midland Hotel will be the site of the annual state meeting of Kansas Czechs, Inc. at 3:00 p.m. I'm sure the hotel will be a bevy of activity all day as people are anxious to see it now that it is finished and the showplace in central Kansas.

Evening events pick up about 6:00 p.m. with a polka party in the park, softball tournament, band concert, ice cream social and square dance. Later on you will find karaoke music at Al's Bar and Grill.

Saturday will be filled to the brim with more activities...an 8:00 a.m.softball tournament, the Czech walk or run, flea market and a contination of arts and crafts. There will be a legislative coffee with free kolaches at Al's Bar and Grill beginning at 8:00 a.m.

The city band starts playing at 9 a.m. to get everyone warmed up for the big parade at 10:00. Of course it never starts at 10:00 but it's fun to see them try to be on time. It's always a long, good parade with lots of candy for the kids, unless they really stop it this year. They always threaten to end it. I'll miss Ray Vopat who announced the parade for many years.

Meantime you can eat during the parade and plan where you're going to have serious food afterwards. You can pick from the Parish Hall where they will feature their full meal deal Czech-style buffet and country store or burgers and such at The Snack Shop, Opera House, and Knights of Columbus. The Senior Center is serving a breakfast buffet then brots at noon. The American Legion folk are serving but they aren't saying what. Al's Bar and Grill will offer off the menu and there is a full evening buffet by CYO. You can go to Sincerely Yours and pick up more kolaches, hoska and rolls to go if you think you'll run out.

I want to know who is serving homemade smoked sausage topped with kraut, chopped onions and mustard on buns. Shaw's always had that to offer in the beer garden. I hope someone doesn't let me down on that. It's a tradition. For me it is.

If you've made it this far, through the heat, the afternoon activities are just for you. There are lots of activities for the kids, more polka dancing, historic talks, Wilson olympics, a Czech food eating contest, open horseshoe tournament, the Czech queen pageant, and organ concert and MORE food.

In the evening there is a talent show at 7:00, Mass at the Catholic church, a teen dance in GB's parking lot, a dance in the Parish Center, more dancing at the Opera House...dancing all over town. At 10:00 there is a drawing for something or other.

Sunday morning is a poker run, another softball tournament and a dart tournament. Things wind down after that. Sigh!

This has to be an endurance contest for the people who do all the work to create this weekend for visitors. It takes a lot of planning all year for the events to coordinate the way they do. After so many years, the festival has taken on a life of its own, but it still needs a great deal of coordination to make it run smoothly. It's a great celebration in the wonderful, historic town of Wilson...one of my favorite communities in the state. Be there if you can. I'll see you there.

Nascheladanou ahoj !

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:06 PM CST [Link]

INTERNET VISITOR

Many moons ago when the city/school district first became involved in getting internet service in town, I was about the third person to sign up after Joe Smith, who was city administrator, and Jerry Aday, who was director of ECED. It was a grand day for me as I had looked forward to having the ability to communicate with the outside world for a long time. The service couldn't have been worse, but there were good things that happened along the way in spite of it.

Joe Smith came to my house and we struggled to get the program loaded. It wasn't easy in those days. Once connected, he showed me around IE then took me to a chat room he had somehow stumbled on. It was operated by young Norwegian men who were very bright, spoke excellent English and were very willing to help me learn. It was a small, close, friendly group and for some reason they included me right away. They were all good people and ran the room so that it was perfectly acceptable if young people would stumble in. No bad language...just bright, polite people who were a lot of fun. I still count them all among my friends.

The first person Joe introduced me to was "akadiana". We called her a-kahd-eahna as it had such a mellifluous sound. Then it dawned on me it was aka Diana, the huntress. I still call her akadiana the way I first heard it from Joe. She took me under her wing and taught me from the beginning how things on the net worked. I talked with her, and the others, every day and we became good friends. At the time, she lived in Dallas and had a new born daughter.

Well, flash by a lot of years. Akadiana is now working in Kansas City with a huge, top-notch national law firm doing marvelous things where they appreciate her skills. She heads up all their help desks nation wide and hires and trains dozens of ITs. She's a whiz. She also lives with a friend I introduced her to, the son of one of my good friends, and the match seems to be going very well. The daughter is now heading into fourth grade.

We still stay in touch but not like we once did. We haven't been in the Finzness chat room for many years. We call and write back and forth now and then just to stay in touch. We know where to find each other should the need arise. We pick up where we left off.

I've lost count of the number of times she's been to Ellsworth to visit. Many, many times. She drove from Dallas numerous times and brought her daughter some of the time. Once she brought her mother and daughter for Thanksgiving and stayed a week or so. That was nice except that she left all her hanging clothes on the top of a car that was parked next to hers in Dallas so it was a scramble for a couple of days until a friend retrieved and mailed them to her. Two other times we met in Oklahoma City to join other internet and family friends. Once we gathered to meet one of our Norwegian friends who had come to visit her. I took my granddaughter on one occasion and we had a great time. There are very good people out there on the internet.

So, she and I have a long internet history. When I first told my friends here I had an internet friend coming to visit they thought I was nuts, that she most certainly was an axe murderer (remember originally they all had that reputation?) or would "steal me blind". We still laugh about that. I've had a bazillion internet friends come to visit...others from Texas, Indiana, California, Florida, London, Monitoba, Nova Scotia, County Durham, Iowa, Hexham ...well, from all over the western world. They have all been wonderful houseguests and we've loved having them visit. Since they generally come from a long distance, most stay a couple of weeks so they have an opportunity to explore Ellsworth and the environs. That has been a good thing.

The first weekend in August, my friend akadiana will be here with her daughter. It's one of the rare weekends she has free from work and travel so I'm really looking forward to her visit. I'll try to round up the family for a gathering over food of some kind. I want to take my internet granddaughter to the zoo as I think she'll enjoy that. She's a corker. If any of you want to hear her sing karaoke, I have a wav to send you that is just darling. She's a natural.

Then toward the end of August my webmaster friend is coming, also someone I met on the internet...I'm really looking forward to her visit. I hope she spends the winter! We have computer work to do.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:44 PM CST [Link]

Monday, July 21, 2003

NATIONAL DROVERS HALL OF FAME

Maybe today or tomorrow on the splash page of my website you will see the drawing of the Insurance Building where my windmill picture once was located. It is going to provide a link for information about the National Drovers Hall of Fame and the work we do as it progresses. I haven't written anything yet to have it posted, so that is a couple of weeks away. It will soon be there so you can refer to it.

We...my webmaster and I... hope to have a link available so you can grab it and put it on your website. We'd like to spread the word about the project wide and far.

We're looking for founders and there will only be 500. If you want to help make history, you can become one by donating $100 to help get the project off the ground. It would be very much appreciated. Jim Gray, the president, is the one to contact at 1.877.DROVERS.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:44 PM CST [Link]

MY SOCIAL LIFE SHOWS SIGNS OF IMPROVING

Today a friend I once worked with is coming by for a visit. I always enjoy my chats with him.

Wednesday I'm going to Salina to meet three college roommates for lunch. I haven't seen two of them for a couple of years so that will be very nice.

This weekend we'll have a house guest, a good friend who once lived and worked here. He's relocating to Florida to be closer to his parents so he wants to come see me before that happens. That makes me feel warm all over. He's always been nice to me and my family. He's in Iowa so he will have to head west a "fer piece" before he can head east and south to his destination.

The 9th of next month, my nephew and his family will be here from K.C. on their way to Colorado. They are wonderful to be with. Their family is spread out from Aimee who is a college grad by a couple of years, Kyle a K-State senior engineering student and little Emily who is 8 and a corker. She's a beautiful child. They all treasure Cozy Inn hamburgers so they'll fill up on them before stopping here. It's a family tradition. Kurt's mother was my sister and grew up in Salina on Cozys too.

And I'm really looking forward to August 10th when several of us gals are heading west to Downer Creek to visit a friend. That is going to be a great day of downhome cooking and conversations and I'm going to love it. It's nice to have that to look forward to.

I'm not sure how I'll fill in the gaps, but there will be things going on that I won't miss.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:37 PM CST [Link]

I HAVE NEW SITE METERS ON MY WEBSITE

My nice webmaster installed two new site meters for me, one on my website and the other on my blog. She found several good alternatives to Bravenet and installed the one she liked best on my site so I can keep track of the traffic flow.

I had been using Bravenet for about a year until things crashed not long ago. Now I think I know where some of the blame can rest for that mess as they completely changed their program and didn't notify customers along the way. The rest of the problem probably can be attributed to space limitations on my server that I encountered.

I enlisted my patient grandson, Tyler, to contact Dell about the same old problem relating to my music problem. It is so exasperating to get Dell tech support these days as they have taken it all off shore. I'm getting so I talk with more people in India and the Philippines than I do in Ellsworth as that is where all their support seems to be located.

Today it was "Raine" in the Philippines, but I neglected to inquire as to the spelling. It was a guy for a change. It took Tyler exactly one hour to finally get to him. Techs along the way suggested to Tyler that he call the tech support they have where you have to pay. Wisely, he said, "NO. My grandmother has already paid for 3 years of tech support." Second, they suggested that he clean off my hard drive and reinstall my entire operating system. "Never", he said. He's a wise kid. I had forewarned him not to let them tell him to enter my Registry. They further advised I start backing up everything on my hard drive. Done did all that! I think they love to recommend reinstalling the operating system as they know it instills fear that knows no bounds in people like me. I bet they have groups of techies that gather around the phone when they decide to mention the OS plan just to hear people like me scream or faint at the other end of the line.

Before when I called on three previous occasions about this same problem, I was inclined to think part of my problem was my E Drive but they steadfastly maintained it was a software problem. They didn't get the software problem fixed after 3 calls lasting about 6 hours. Finally, I raised my voice slightly and they said they'd get a techie out right away to replace the E drive. I’ve been told you have to get a little hostile with them to get results (someone who once worked for Dell told me that). That just isn’t my nature.

Today, I had no reason to believe it was my CD Burner/drive F that was the problem, but after an hour of fiddling with things, Raine said he was going to order the F drive be replaced. They've replaced A and E drives, now to get a new F drive. They are expensive. I won't object. Maybe next time they'll just bring a new machine. Despite this, I love my Dell. I love Classic Cable. I'm a happy person unless there are big problems, and these are relatively small. I really think it is a glitch.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:21 PM CST [Link]

Sunday, July 20, 2003

LETTER FROM IRAQ 7/10/03

This is a letter sent to a retired Lutheran chaplain in Seattle who is a friend of a friend of mine, who sent it to me. It is an interesting letter from an inside perspecitve that I thought I should share, particularly since we have soldiers from here serving in the 4th Infantry Division. And, I quote, word for word:

"It has been a while since I have written to my friends at First Lutheran Church about what's really going on here in Iraq. The news you watch on TV is exaggerated, sensationalized and selective. Good news doesn't sell.

The stuff you don't hear about on CNN? Let's start with Electrical Power production in Iraq. The day after the war was declared over, there was nearly 0 power being generated in Iraq. 45 days later, in a partnership between the Army, the Iraqi people and some private companies, there are now 3200 mega watts (Mw) of power being produced daily, 1/3 of the total national potential of 8000 Mw. Downed power lines (big stuff, 400 Kilovolt (Kv) and 132 Kv) are being repaired and are about 70% complete.

Then there is water purification. In central Iraq between Baghdad and Mosul, home of the 4th Infantry Division, water treatment was spotty at best. The facilities existed, but the controls were never mplemented. Simple chemicals like Chlorine for purification and Alum (Aluminum Sulfate) for sediment settling (the Tigris River is about as clear as the Mississippi River) were in very short supply or not used at all. When chlorine was used, it was metered by the scientific method of guessing. So some people got pool water to drink and some people got water with lots of little things floating around in it. We are slowly but surely solving that. Contracts for repairs to facilities that are only 50% or less operational are being let, chemicals are being delivered, although we don't have the metering problem solved yet (...but again, it's only been 45 days).

How about oil and fuel? Well the war was all about oil wasn't it? You bet it was. It was all about oil for the Iraqi people! They have no other income, they produce nothing else. Oil is 95% of the Iraqi GNP. For this nation to survive, it MUST sell oil. The Refinery at Bayji is at 75% of capacity producing gasoline. The crude pipeline between Kirkuk (Oil Central) and Bayji will be repaired by tomorrow. LPG, what all Iraqi's use to cook and heat with, is at 103% of normal production and WE, the US ARMY, are insuring it is being distributed FAIRLY to ALL Iraqi's.

You have to remember that only 3 months ago, ALL these things were used by the Sadam regime as weapons against the population to keep them in line. If your town misbehaved, gasoline shipments stopped, LPG pipelines and trucks stopped, Water was turned off, power was turned off. Now, until exports start, every drop of gasoline produced goes to the Iraqi people. Crude oil is being stored and the country is at 75% capacity right now. They need to export or stop pumping soon, so thank the UN for the delay. ALL LPG goes to the Iraqi people EVERYWHERE. Water is being purified as best it can be, but at least it's running all the time to everyone.

Are we still getting shot at? Yep!!! Are American Soldiers still dying? Yep!!!, about 1 a day from my out fit, the 4th Infantry Division, most in accidents, but dead is dead. If we are doing all this for the Iraqi's, why are they shooting at us? The general Iraqi population isn't shooting at us. There are still bad guys, who won't let go of the old regime. They are Ba'ath party members (Read Nazi Party,but not as nice) who have known nothing but and supported nothing but the regime all of their lives. These are the thugs for the regime that caused many to disappear in the night.

They have no other skills. At least the Nazis had jobs and a semblance of a national infrastructure that they could go back to after the war, as plumbers, managers, engineers, etc., ...these people have no skills but terror. They are simply applying their skills ...and we are applying ours.

There is no Christian way to say this, but they must be eliminated and we are doing so with all the efficiency we can muster. Our troops are shot at literally everyday by small arms and Rocket Propelled Grenades (RPGs). We respond. 100% of the time, the Ba'ath party guys come out with the short end of the stick. The most amazing thing to me is that they don't realize that if they stopped shooting at us, we would focus on fixing things more quickly and then leave back to the land of the Big PX. The more they shoot at us, the longer we will have to stay.

Lastly, all of you please realize that 90% of the damage you see on TV was caused by Iraqi's, NOT by us and not by the war. Sure we took out a few bridges from military necessity, we took out a few power and phone lines to disrupt communications, sure we drilled a few palaces and government headquarters buildings with 2000 lb. laser guided bombs (I work 100 yards from where two hit the Tikrit Palace), he had plenty to spare. But, ANY damage you see to schools, hospitals, power generation facilities, refineries, pipelines, was ALL caused either by the Iraqi Army in its death throes or from much of the Iraqi civilians looting the places.

Could we have prevented it? Nope. We can and do now, but 45 days ago the average soldier was fighting for his own survival and trying to get to his objectives as fast as possible. He was lucky to know what town he was in much less be informed enough to know who owned what or have the power to stop a 1,000 people from looting and burning a building by himself.

The United States and our allies, especially Great Britain, are doing a very noble thing here. We stuck our necks out on the world's chopping block to free an entire people from the grip of a horrible terror that was beyond belief. 'We've already talked the weapons of mass destruction thing to death. Bottom line, who cares? This country was one big conventional weapons ammo dump anyway. We have probably destroyed more weapons and ammo in the last 30 days than the US Army has ever fired in the last 30 years (Remember, this is a country the size of Texas), so drop the WMD argument as the reason we came here. If we find it GREAT, if we don't, SO WHAT?

I'm living in a "guest palace" on a 500 acre palace compound with 20 palaces with like facilities built in half a dozen towns all over Iraq that were built for one man. Drive down the street and out into the
countryside 5 miles away like I have and see all the families of 10 or more, all living in mud huts and herding the two dozen sheep on which their very existence depends -- then tell me why you think we are here.

WMD? Important. Have to find 'em wherever they may be (...in Syria?), but not OUR real motivator. Don't let it be yours either.

Respectfully,
ERIC RYDBOM MAJOR, ENGINEER Deputy Division Engineer
4th Infantry Division
July 10, 2003"

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:38 PM CST [Link]

NATIONAL DROVERS HALL OF FAME

The National Drovers Hall of Fame Association has formed a Founder's Club for those who want to contribute to the rescue of our signature building in downtown Ellsworth. This will become the home of the National Drovers Hall of Fame Museum and other special features designed to preserve the heritage of our community...a library, theater, and restaurant are in the plans.

The cost to become a founder is $100 and there is a one-time limit of 500 members who will form the Founder's Club. We urge your support to launch this effort.

Jim Gray is the Association president and can be reached at 1.877.DROVERS or at Drovers Mercantile 1.785.472.4703.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:59 AM CST [Link]

GIVE BLOOD ON TUESDAY, JULY 22nd

Tuesday is the day to roll up your sleeve and give a donation of blood. Needs are great everywhere. The Red Cross Bloodmobile will be at the Presbyterian Church from noon until 5:30 p.m. Call 1.800.GIVE. BLOOD for an appointment.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:48 AM CST [Link]

Saturday, July 19, 2003

CONVERSATION BETWEEN JANIS AND SON MICHAEL

(My friend Janis lives in Vidalia LA and her son, Michael, was home for a visit.)

Michael asked, "Why do you have these papers from Kansas?"

I said, "I've been corresponding with a woman from Kansas who saw fit to look after me when I was going through hard times. She's 75 years old and has three children of her own."

"Oh, she's lonely."

"No, I don't think so Michael. She is about as busy as anyone I know. She's a trained architect and works on restoration projects. She's on half a dozen boards. I should have such an interesting life."

"Oh, she's one of those people who tells you what color to paint your house."

"Not as I understand it, Michael. She's more interested in restoring and preserving old buildings."

Then I told him a little about Ellsworth and the great cattle drives. We looked at the papers and compared them to the Concordia Sentinel.

"Ellsworth is a community of about 2700 people."

"They have color? That's impressive."

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:35 AM CST [Link]

FARMERS MARKET

Caleb's 650 tomato plants are bearing fruit so this morning the farmers market was awash in beer flats filled with round red balls. Everyone has been waiting since last season to get their fill of fresh tomatoes from the garden so traffic was brisk around the flat bed where he had them laid out for sale. He also had many varieties of sqash, potatoes, onions, beets and huge green peppers perfect for stuffing.

Other stands had bierocks, pies of all varieties, brownies and other sweets, cinnamon rolls both iced and plain (she makes those for me), and hand-crafted items.

They were selling 4-H raffle tickets and I bought a couple of sure winners!

If you haven't been to the market yet this summer, try to stop by on Saturday morning, the earlier the better, to load in a supply of fresh veggies. It's a wonderful thing for our community to have the market so give them all the support that you can.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:09 AM CST [Link]

Friday, July 18, 2003

WHAT DO YOU FEED A BADGER ON HIS BIRTHDAY?

Janis Gore of Gone South fame saw my blog about Monte Hudson's badger and offered a suggestion on what you feed a badger on his birthday.

She just had a birthday party for her parrot, Lucy, so she knows all about these things. You can check her suggestion on her website and read more about badgers if you click HERE.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:19 PM CST [Link]

THE BATS WON'T GO AWAY

We've always had a lot of bats around our house and in the woods. Lots of them. Bats are a good thing and having them around helps keep the insect population under control. I don’t mind them at all as long as they keep their distance.

I thought we'd rid ourselves of them from our house last fall when they flew away for the winter. I then had two large bat houses put up high in the cottonwood trees behind our house which I was certain they would prefer. They were new, roomy, orderly and had good places for them to hang. They were made and approved by the national bat preservation people who know such things. Larry Griffith came with his cherry picker truck and put them way up there where they are supposed to be. I was sure they would prefer them (boys in one, girls in another) to our house. Alas!

About 40 of the little dickens are back living in a tight space on our deck, right above my bedroom window. It’s easy to tell from the guano on the deck below. It has marked characteristics that make me sure of what I’m saying.

When the windows are closed and the air-conditioning is on, it’s not so bad having them live there. But when I have the bedroom windows open and they come home early in the morning after a night on the town, they screech and whine like nothing you’ve ever heard. They are pitiful sounds and it makes sleeping difficult.

So today, Brit made an effort to encourage them to move elsewhere. We’ll hope it works.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:45 PM CST [Link]

ARECIBO RADIO OBSERVATORY

I have completed 417 data units which equate to 12,990 hours, 19 minutes and 32.2 seconds of computer time for SETI at Home. I'm still contributing my computer innards to track this stuff for the University of Berkeley and their Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence...at HOME.

If something pops up on my machine they will know it in California and I'll get a phone call. Well, I should think so. I hope they don't come confiscate my computer, but maybe that wouldn't be all bad either. They could just haul me along with it to wherever they do this wonderful research. I wouldn't mind at all returning to Costa Rica this time to see the Arecibo Radio Observatory, the one Jodi Foster made famous in Contacts.

Anyway, I love their screen saver and never tire of having it on my computer as it is helpful to someone. You can visit their website by clicking HERE.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 06:25 PM CST [Link]

IT WAS A SCORCHER TODAY

It was 106 degrees here today and with the humidity index thrown in, that made it 112 degrees. It is stifling outside. In Topeka it was 116. Well, it probably still is the same on both counts. And multiply that by several times for the individuals who happen to be working with hot asphalt on our highways. It also runs about 146 degrees in the desert in Iraq so by comparison, we have it good. We have air-conditioning and water too. We should have no complaints.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:24 PM CST [Link]

2003 ELLSWORTH COWTOWN FESTIVAL REMEMBERS "PAST AND PRESENT"

The 2003 Ellsworth Cowtown Festival will get underway on Friday, August 1 with an ice cream social at Priesker Park. And that’s not all—this year’s event is packed with hometown fun and celebration. Buttons are available throughout town, and a complete schedule will be available next week.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:19 PM CST [Link]

CZECH FESTIVAL DRAWS NEAR

The Annual After Harvest Czech Festival will be July 25-27 in nearby Wilson. Dancing, Czech food, a parade, antiques, arts and crafts and, new for 2003, a poker run will highlight this year’s event. For more information, contact the Wilson Chamber of Commerce.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:15 PM CST [Link]

IT'S COUNTY FAIR TIME

The Ellsworth County Fair kicks off on July 28th. Bring the family downtown where you can see cows, sheep, pigs and chickens of all varieties in the 4-H barn. And, don’t forget the arts, crafts and food for sale in the City Hall. Do you want to share your talents with others? Consider exhibiting in the Open Class Fair. For a complete fair schedule and more information, contact the Extension Office at 472-4442.

Ellsworth County Fair

Thursday, July 24
8:00 pm Public Fashion Revue at EHS Performing Arts Center

Monday, July 28
8:00 am Set-up Fair
8:00 am Livestock and other animal entries may be brought into barn
8:00 am Dogs – Rec. Center
10:00 am Pets – Rec. Center
1:00 pm Arts & Crafts Judging – City Hall Basement

Tuesday, July 29
9:00 am 4-H Foods Judging
10:00 am Judging of Knitting & Crocheting, Plant Science and Photography
9:00 – 5:00 pm FOOD SALE
1:00 pm Judging of Woodworking, Forestry, Electric, Entomology, Notebooks, Project Exhibits, Home Environment, Banners, Geology, Rocketry
1:30 pm Judging of Rabbits
2:30 pm Judging of Poultry
4:00 – 5:00 pm Pictures
6:00 pm Horse Show (ELKAN Arena)

Wednesday, July 30
9:30 am Swine
11:00 am Dairy
1:00 pm Sheep / Shepherd’s Lead
5:00 – 6:00 pm Pictures
5:30 pm Beef Show

Thursday, July 30
10:00 am – Noon FACS Judging in CMR
2:00 pm Livestock Judging Contest
3:00 pm Cow Patty Bingo
6:00 pm Champion Fitting & Showing
7:00 pm Awarding of Trophies and Parade of Champions
8:00 pm Sale of Livestock

Friday, August 1
Noon Friends of 4-H Picnic

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:14 PM CST [Link]

FREE LOT GIVE-AWAY AUGUST 21ST

The Welcome Home Plan, a result of the collaborative effort of the citizens of Ellsworth County, will be giving away FREE LOTS for new residential construction. Fifteen lots located in the City of Ellsworth will be given away on August 21st, the first day of school for USD #327. A ribbon cutting ceremony will be held on August 1 to kick-off The Welcome Home Plan. Join community members at 9:00 a.m. on the corner of Elizabeth Drive and Kunkle for this exciting event!

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:09 PM CST [Link]

TONY'S PIZZA

I can't resist telling this story. In fact, I have a whole lot of stories like this...things that have happened over the years that have been hilarious to experience and fantastic to relate. Barrel laughs are just plain good for you. Some I’ve told, more I need to tell.

The wife of the couple who were friends of ours is alive and well and doing all her good things about town so I won’t mention her name. Names aren't important. She and her husband both told this story numerous times so you’ll know who I mean if you’ve shared in the laughter. At gatherings with them, we’d request the story over and over. I hope I haven’t forgotten too many of the details.

Well, you probably remember that years ago, if you’ve been around awhile, Tony’s Italian Restaurant was in downtown Salina. It was the forerunner of Tony’s Pizza, the same people who now employ most of the people living within 50 miles of their plant. Tom Belcher long has had the market on their broken pizzas or “mistakes” made along the production line. He collects rejects for his hogs. Sharing Tom’s pork chops right off the hoof is a good thing as they come already seasoned. No kidding. They taste Italian. But I digressed. The restaurant was the beginning of all of this pizza expansion and that was many years ago. There is a lot of history associated with it.

By the way, that’s IT alian, as in IT aly and IT alia Airlines….NOT EYE talian. Hearing someone say “EYEtalian” dressing makes my teeth hurt.

Anyway, back to the story. These four were dining at Tony’s years ago as often everyone did. There weren’t many restaurants around here in those days and tony's was a favorite of many when it opened. Brit and I ate there a few times as he’s a big fan of ITalian food. I am not, so I balked at going there. We were also young, with three kids and broke so dining out wasn’t an option except on rare occasions.

One of the things about it that I didn’t like was their lack of lighting. It was as dark as a vodoo queen at midnight in that place and only dim light flickered from half-candle power table lights which signaled a wall you shouldn’t run into. I never knew what was on the menu as I couldn’t see it. I like to see what I’m eating and who I’m eating with…ambiance begone.

So, this story revolves around the fact that EVERYONE agreed the place was black as a cave and NO ONE could see nuttin’ in that place. Maybe that’s why most people liked it so well.

So our friends went to Tony’s for dinner. They had heaping plates of Italian food which, as you know, tends to create intestinal problems that, when relieved, require ear plugs, gigantic amounts of fresh air and huge ventilating fans. Friend X ate so much during the extended evening that he, according to his story, was in a severely distended, gaseous state and about to explode. He hated to even wiggle his toes thinking about what might happen. He needed an escape route to avoid being identified when "it" happened. So he devised a plan.

After dinner it was time to move to the cashier’s stand which he knew he couldn't negotiate. His wife was across the table so he couldn't forewarn her. Having figured out the best escape route for this enormous problem, he spied an empty booth against the wall in the far corner, away from other diners, and decided he could make it that far before letting it rip. Taking more than a few steps was out of the question so he slowly sidled backwards to the edge of the booth so his backside was pretty much resting on the table top then he quickly and uncontrollably let ‘er rip! The gaseous explosion was so loud, prolonged and intense it shocked him…but it horrified the twosome he had not seen who were sitting in the booth quietly enjoying their Italian repast in the blackness. Their heads were only a matter of inches away from the point of release of all this explosive stench. They quickly clamored over the backs of their booth, climbing over people in the adjoining booths (who had also gone unnoticed) before flying out the front door along with most of the other patrons.

It’s not a story easily forgotten or one that doesn’t bring on laughter with the recollection of it. He had no choice but to laugh about it. There were no other alternatives. I can't attest to what the other diners thought, but I imagine they never forgot the incident.

As he slipped quickly out the door, he whispered to his wife to pay for the meals of the two unfortunate diners and anyone else who wanted it.

He was a great guy with a marvelous sense of humor. And we miss him.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:52 PM CST [Link]

OUR ANIMAL FRIENDS

Everyone has a preference when it comes to pets. Or they prefer no pet at all. Pets come slinky, furry, slimy, greasy, hairy, bug-eyed, leggy, wet, feathered and slithery and anyway you like. Anything qualifies. Every pet rocks are acceptable as pets, preferable to some.

One came to my attention the other day that seems almost unimaginable. Monte Hudson, who lives on the outskirts of Kanopolis, has a pet badger. He didn't plan it that way, but being a Good Samaritan, he rescued one off the highway that was clinging to its mom’s body after an accident

Monte took the badger home and nursed it back to health. That was a good deed. But now the badger is growing to adulthood, it’s getting to be a lot to handle. It’s a playful thing, love kids and wanders freely, or it did until a wire fence seemed to be in order. The fence rings his woodpile home.

Badgers are carnivorous burrowing animals with little ole’ short legs and long claws on the front feet that intimidate animals many times larger. It clawed its way under the fence without giving it a thought. Their coats do not induce cuddling. They are nasty, fierce creatures when they are angry. But Monte’s badger is gentle and plays with everyone like he’s a puppy. It’s those claws you have to watch. And he’ll gently put his teeth around your finger, but he doesn’t clamp down to remove it, as he easily could. Maybe he just hasn’t thought of it yet.

Speaking of puppies, as I was, the badger soon discovered the doggy door to Monte’s house and loved the freedom of exploring inside. There were people to play with and lots of objects to explore. I expect badgers are very indiscriminate in their choice of playthings and the inside of a house should be a source of endless wonder for a badger.

In order to put an end to that, Monte put a screen door in front of the doggy door, assuming at the time, it would deter the badger. Well, after the screen door was ripped to shreds, Monte gave serious consideration to a relocation site and took Madge the Badge about a mile away where she could establish her own territory and build her own house.

The next day those little legs on that critter had carried her back to her favorite hangout, Monte’s woodpile.

I’m not sure where this story is going, but I think we’ll be following the badger’s life rather closely. I wonder if it’s a he or she? Madge seems a good name. Or Marge in Charge might work.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:57 AM CST [Link]

BACKYARD BARBEQUE

Tomorrow night will be the scene of a backyard barbeque without having to go out in the back yard. I think it will all transpire inside where the presence of air-conditioning will allow us to treat each other civilly.

I intended to take a gallon of baked beans, since I "always" take my "famous baked beans" to this particular event, but a newbie to the gathering stepped up ahead of me and said he was taking his "famous baked beans". Just as long as he brings enough, that's fine with me. I love baked beans, famous or not.

I'll take my hominy casserole that is a fav of the hostess. That will put me in her good favor all evening. It's simple and good and consists of drained white hominy, chopped green chilies and jalapenos, chopped green onions, salt, lots of sour cream to make it soupy and topped with a mound of shredded cheese. If I have a jar of them, I will throw in some roasted chipolte peppers. Amounts don't matter much. Just do it to taste. Bake it until it is very hot all the way through. That way you get two kinds of "burn".

It will be a good evening among friends and we look forward to it.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:03 AM CST [Link]

TIGER IS ON HIS GAME TODAY

Tiger is hitting right to the flags today. Yesterday he triple-bogied the first hole. He lost his ball plus distance as they never found it and the penalty hurt. Where was the fore caddy? He was one over starting today and playing with Garcia. It looks like it will be an interesting round.

Phil Michelson had trouble yesterday. He was addressing his ball to putt and the wind just rolled it away. He never touched the ball with his club, according to replays, and it cost him a stroke. They will talk about that a long time.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:48 AM CST [Link]

LA PRAIRIE

Miss Lori had a wonderful opening yesterday for her Christmas in July preview. She also hosted a buffet of barbequed brisket sandwiches, baked beans and potato salad for her shoppers. It smelled heavenly.

If you missed it, stop in and see the wide array of gifts she has to tempt you. One of our out of town visitors left with an arm load of gifts for the Christmas exchange with her bowling league members. That's foresight. And she left some precious "new" dollars in Ellsworth to re-circulate.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:33 AM CST [Link]

ELLSWORTH JAIL

It wouldn't take an escape artist to worm out of the Ellsworth jail....the one built in 1873. It didn't take much, an eating utensil was the tool of choice, to get out of the jail we had before the new one. That would be the big three story, red brick building just east of Holm Motor Company. We've even had our share of inmates crawl out of the one we now call our Ellsworth County Law Enforcement Center. If there is a will, there is a way.

But now, at least the ruin we call the 1873 Ellsworth jail has been stabilized, according to the Ellsworth County Historical Society folk. We can hope that there is no further damage to the structure as efforts are being made to stop the deterioration of the building. There wasn't money to duplicate the original building so they did what they could. The Mid-Continent Restoration Company of Ft. Scott workers have pulled out of town, their deed is done.

Volunteers will continue to work the next few weeks to clean up the site and complete the preservation of the windows and the steel framing. If you can lend a hand for a few hours, few days, call the Hodgden House for further instructions. The number is 785.472.5039 and they could use your help.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:26 AM CST [Link]

Thursday, July 17, 2003

THE ANNUAL CZECH FESTIVAL IS GATHERING MOMENTUM

The kolaches are rolling out of ovens, the sauerkraut is fermenting and the parade positions are being grabbed up like cans of ice cold beer. The activities for the After Harvest Festival take place on July 25-26 in Wilson.

The parade route will gather thousands to curbside Saturday morning. The camp chairs first will be unfolded in areas where there is shade and that territory will be staunchly defended. It is usually a day of intense heat especially if you choose to settle on a slab of concrete in the sun. A patch of grass under the shade of a tree is where you want to squat, if you can find it.

There will be more little kids than you can imagine all carrying plastic grocery sacks to gather up the candy that is thrown their way from the various floats. Kids never have to buy candy these days with all the free stuff they gather up along parade routes and on Halloween.

There will be food available everywhere...music and dancing too. I hope someone is selling smoked sausage topped with kraut, chopped onions and mustard. Now that's a winner in the heat of the day.

The Czech queen will reign for the weekend. This year's grand marshals are members of the McManus American Legion Post 262.

Wilson is good place to be during the Czech Festival...see you there.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:13 PM CST [Link]

ELLSWORTH BASEBALL PLAYERS ARE IN ELKHART FOR STATE PLAY

Our local boys teamed up with Ellinwood players forming the Quivira baseball team and won the 16-18 year old Babe Ruth district tournament.

After defeating Salina they won the right to travel to Elkhart for the state tournament. The tournament started today and runs through July 21st. Our "Quivira" team will play its first game tomorrow at 2:30...right in the heat of the day. Scott Eggers is one powerful pitcher and he certainly helped them win games.

If anyone is traveling out there tomorrow to watch our boys play, call Jim Gray and take Ian's shoes with you. He left them behind and I'm sure he'll play better with them. He contributes a great deal to the team.

The boys are all required to stay with host families at all times so parents won't have an opportunity to do anything other than watch their sons play. There apparently isn't a motel close by so that complicates matters.

I hope my grandson gets to play a little, just so he can say he did. He's a good catcher, but he's behind Billy Finke who's a much better, stronger hitter. Everyone wants the team to win.

They play their first game against Wellington where a win would advance them in the tournament.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:33 PM CST [Link]

THE DEED TO THE "INSURANCE BUILDING" WAS GIVEN TO THE DROVER BOARD LAST NIGHT.

We're moving right along.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:37 PM CST [Link]

Tuesday, July 15, 2003

BIG OL' SNAKE

There is a big ol' snake right by the door where I am sitting. I'd like to bring him in to cool off, but my Girl Scout knowledge of snakes has left me. It isn't a rattle snake and most likely it's a harmless bull snake...pretty at that. Maybe a six footer. He's just trying to find some coolness off the bricks, I suppose.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:30 PM CST [Link]

TOOOO HOT!

Yesterday the thermometer on our deck registered 110 in the shade. I hear our trees whistling for Jack. Here Jack! Here Jack!

It's just too hot.

I'm trying to keep things watered and that's an uphill climb both ways. The water coming out of the cold water spigot is as hot as that coming out of the other. I feel like standing under a shower of well water as it is cool.

I need to go to town, but there isn't any place to park where there is shade. After half an hour in the sun with leather seats it would be the same as if I had a bike wreck, was knocked out and left lyiing on the pavement to cook to death. Everyone would pass me by and think I was taking a snooze in my car. Alas. Maybe I just naturally have that "fried" look about me that doesn't raise suspicions.

So...it's nice to be cool and inside. Maybe someone will come visit and join me in something cold to drink. For sure there is plenty of that around here. I can make instant sun tea in an instant.

And, I've made sure my phone is on the hook. It was off all day yesterday just when I was hoping someone would call. I accidentally shoved my tower up against it when I was rearranging stuff and infuriated friends who were trying to call.

I've never known it to be too cold except on a couple of occasions when the house froze, along with the toothpaste and everything else, and that was too cold. But I'll take winter anytime to this.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:41 PM CST [Link]

Monday, July 14, 2003

XXX ARCADE AND A RAINBOW OF COLOR

Someone said there is a rainbow of color....very reminiscent of the Amazing 100 Miles logo...that is behind the XXXs on the Adult Arcade. I wonder if that is coincidence.

It has also been learned, and you can read about it in the INDY, that what I said in a blog a few weeks ago very well might happen in Wilson. That needs to be revisited.

I suggested that the man operating the Arcade just might turn out to be a strong supporter of Wilson's activities and charities. It is very conceivable to me that the people in Wilson and the Arcade could exist independently of each other with one not paying a whole lot of attention to the other....just co-existing. That happens in a lot of places under diverse situations.

And, as it turns out, in an area in Missouri where they own another arcade that's exactly the way things are.

Check the Indy this week for more details.

Recently, the local ball team in this Missouri town needed uniforms and a sponsor and no one in town would help. Absolutely no one would buy uniforms or sponsor the team. Guess who they turned to in desperation? Guess who came forward to help? Yes...the same individual who owns the Arcade in Wilson. The uniforms were great and the logo was so tastefully done and insignificant that it wasn't noticeable.

I just think it's wise to try to get along.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:31 PM CST [Link]

EXPLORER SPIRIT IN KANOPOLIS

There were many scheduled activities in Kanopolis this weekend but there were also individuals exploring the area with friends. It was a renewal of the old "explorer spirit", according to Jesse Manning.

Jesse and a group of friends went to Ferris Caves on Saturday. On Sunday, Ben Orozco was giving his friend from Manchester, England a quick tour of some of the more interesting sites around Kanopolis. They all joined together and continued on to Mushroom Rock State Park and then to tour the Ft. Harker guardhouse museum which they felt was a good way to end a weekend devoted to the old fort.

The history of Ft. Harker and other Kanopolis places such as Ferris Caves, Thompson Creek, the salt mines, the drive-in, and early homesteads in the area is really fascinating and it's wonderful to know that college students from the area understand and appreciate this heritage. It's hard to believe that so much history could be packed into a town of 600 people, but it's all right there, waiting for someone to write about it.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:57 PM CST [Link]

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

The U.S.House of Representatives passed legislation this week that will help Kansas schools recruit math, science, and special education teachers - three areas with significant teacher shortages.

The legislation allows the forgiveness of a larger amount of student loans for eligible instructors who teach math and science for secondary schools or special education for elementary and secondary schools. The amount of forgiveness will be raised from the current $5,000 to $17,500. To be eligible, the instructors must agree to teach for five years in schools with high enrollments of low-income families.

This legislation will help improve the ability for Kansas schools to recruit and retain high-quality teachers.

I wonder if the potential science teachers have learned we're heading back to the Dark Ages again with the argument in the State Board of Education over evolution. The board is split evenly on this issue so I'm sure they will waste hours of valuable time discussing this and making Kansas the subject of ridicule worldwide...AGAIN.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:47 PM CST [Link]

ACE'S IN AXTELL

Ace's in Axtell Kansas is a new community-developed and operated cafe. This is a commendable effort by the people of Axtell to develop a hometown business and to meet the needs of people in their area. There are community-owned groceries and cafes springing up over the state in an effort to sustain rural Kansas.

If you are passing through Axtell (in northeast Kansas) stop in and have something to eat.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:42 PM CST [Link]

JOSH SVATY IS PREACHING IN THE CARNEIRO CHURCH

Hang on to your hats. I just might go to church! This one has been around so long it won't shake in my presence.

Josh is preaching in the Carneiro Methodist Church every Sunday at 9:45 during July and August as the regular minister wanted some time off. I've never heard Josh in this particular type of setting and I'd really like to...and this is the perfect place to do that. It won't matter that I'm only an observer and not a participant. Anyone who knows me at all should know I'm definitely not looking for a church home.

The congregation is a small one...Mazie and Jack Grothusen, the preacher's grandma Lucille Svaty, Nancy Thornburgh, Bob Hudson and his wife, Mr. Bohata, the Hendersons, Evelyn Arensman and two sisters from Brookville (one plays the organ), generally attend.

After this service, Josh moves on to a church in Kanopolis for another service. He's a wonderful speaker, very bright, well-informed, articulate and always has a message to impart. I'm sure he picked up a lot of things at Boston University this summer in his government/religion course to talk about.

It might just be a neat thing to do to fill the small, but well-maintained, Carneiro Church for his services.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:08 AM CST [Link]

CHICKEN-FRIED STEAK IN KANSAS

Following in the steps of Bill Bunyan, I predict that soon there will be groups of die-hard Kansas Explorers who will search all corners of the state for restaurants that meet the strict criteria of their organization for preparing chicken-fried steak. This group is dedicated to preserving rural culture and there isn’t any other Kansas food quite so basic as this.

There will be a stampede to find every restaurant in Kansas where care is taken to do it right. A notice has been sent out to Explorers to find these restaurants and they are responding. A list of restaurants that qualify has been appearing in the Kansas Explorer and will be included in Marci’s guidebook that is due out early next year.

This is an elite group of restaurants and this is Kansas food we’re talking about. It must be prepared properly as Explorers expect the standards to be maintained for this fine Kansas product. They love chicken-fried steak and so does their leader, and it absolutely won’t do for some fry cook to pull a frozen hunk of meat out of a box and fling it in the fryer. No sir, not on your life. Not with this group.

To meet explorer standards the steak must be fresh and preferably purchased locally, sprinkled with secret seasonings of the chef’s choice, hand-dipped in a coating then grilled or pan-fried to perfection. This is according to the criteria established by the Kansas Explorers Club, an organization dedicated to preserving and sustaining rural culture.

And, for all you local Ellsworth people, KC’s Cafe meets these strict criteria and it is high on the list for Explorers everywhere. They buy their meat locally from JC and Judy Scritchfield at JS Packing. Curtis applies his special seasonings then hand-dips the steak and cooks it on their grill. I have had great reports back from some of the Explorers I have taken there to eat. So, give it a try and let me know what you think.

Others that are on the Explorer list, so far, are:

Prairie Nut Hut in Altoona
Iris’s Country Kitchen in Ulysses
Bubba’s in Brewster
Pinky’s Bar in Courtland
The Paddock in Eureka
Herrman House B & B in Scandia
Otto’s Café in Pittsburg
Cassoday Café in Cassoday
Trapper’s in Simpson
Sue’s Kitchen in Hope
Hays House in Council Grove
Schirer’s in Lyons (also try his coconut cream pie as it is terrific. and...based on the quality of it, any of his pies must be wonderful. The thought of his homemade whole wheat bread slathered in butter makes me want to hop in the car and zip right down there.)

Keep all these places in mind as you are traveling the state. Maybe you can eat your way through Kansas on chicken-fried steak. If you do, I'm sure it will come to the attention of someone somewhere.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:05 AM CST [Link]

MACKENZIE IS BACK IN GAITHERSBURG MD

My granddaughter, who surprised me by coming home for my 75th birthday celebration Saturday night, arrived back in Gaithersburg in the wee hours of the morning today. She was a tired traveler as it isn't easy getting out of central Kansas. She had to drive to Wichita, fly to Baltimore and then drive to Gaithersburg. That took her about 10 hours. You can see why you have to be really inspired to want to leave here or try to get here from some place else. This is the the center of the Universe after all.

She's spending the summer as an intern at the National Institute of Standards and Technology...where all the innovative, good stuff begins. It was wonderful seeing her again.

Thanks for coming home, Kenz.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:16 AM CST [Link]

EXPLORER #1033 BILL BUNYAN, THE HAMBURGER MAN, WILL EAT HIS RECORD-SETTING HAMBURGER AT PADDY'S IN STERLING AT NOON ON AUGUST 21ST

Bill Bunyan is on the final countdown in his quest to eat a hamburger in every county of Kansas. The latest few, according to The Explorer, the newsletter that reveals all these important events, have been consumed in Cheyenne, Wichita, Kearney and Douglas Counties.

While attending a meeting last week in Sterling, I heard a rumor that Bill's final hamburger will be consumed there on August 21st at noon at Paddy's to celebrate his birthday. Marci even said so in the February issue #47 of the Explorer. That being the case, I intend to be there.

Bill's cholesterol levels seem to be cooperating with his efforts. But we should expect that from this KU Ellsworth Medallion winning diehard Jayhawk fan. He was featured in the KU Alumni Magazine. Bill and his wife Susan also check out other things in the counties they visit like the Eisler Brother's Market in Riverton on famous Route 66 and the Beaumont Hotel where they toured the rooms and had catfish filets. He doesn't live on hamburgers alone.

Bill's top hamburger places in Kansas will be featured in Marci's Kansas Guide when it is published the first part of 2004.

I think every Kansan should be a member of the Kansas Sampler Foundation as it will help your area to become informed on what is going on in Kansas (aside from hamburgers). It's the right thing to do as it shows support for the one person in the state, Marci Penner, who probably does more to promote and sustain rural Kansas than any other. Give me a call and I'll see that you become a member. Explorers are great people.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:08 AM CST [Link]

Sunday, July 13, 2003

BLOGS BREAKING LOGJAM OF JOURNALISM

Kathleen Parker has an interesting article today on blogs. You can find it HERE. Then click on July 13th for this title. Blogs are growing faster than fleas on a dog.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 06:35 PM CST [Link]

MY 75TH BIRTHDAY BASH

There was nothing much to draw my interest to my birthdays between the ages of 10 and 75....but 75 is really worth celebrating, especially if you don't feel 75.

Family and friends gathered last night for food, drink and conversation....lots of each. I have a ton of leftovers in the beverage department, but we took care of most of the food. It was good planning on the part of my daughter and Jamal who catered the event. And all my family members were here...Dane, Barb, Mackenzie, Ally, Ruby, Rod, Todd, Karen, Drew, Tyler and Brit. We are a small family of a dozen.

I had a huge surprise, one that was totally unexpected. My granddaughter come home from D.C. just to be with me last night. Mackenzie really pulled that off smoothly which means I must be losing my touch. Everyone knew but Brit and me....and Tyler who was away at church camp. There wasn't a hint from anyone, but usually I don't need any. I just know. Last night was clearly an exception. She flies back this afternoon. She took a lot of digital pictures and will post them on her website this week. I'll let you know when and you can look at them too.

And, friends from Denver zipped out in their black Porche convertible. I attached some balloons to it and pretended it was my birthday present for the evening.

It was an outstanding evening for me. I didn't get to visit very much with anyone, because of the numbers of people, but my idea of having a good time is to see that everyone else has a good time. And that they did.

Many good friends and my family have given me a lot of memories to last a long while.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:08 AM CST [Link]

Saturday, July 12, 2003

SENSORY EXOTICA FROM LA PRAIRIE

I have a gorgeous, sensually exotic arrangement of wild flowers, tree branches and vines from three counties...Lincoln, Ellsworth and Saline...in a very tall vase sitting on my dining room table. It was created by Lori at La Prairie. Its boundless beauty is something to behold and the creativity and "wildness" it displays (as Lori sees me) is a treasure. I am enjoying it immensely.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:57 AM CST [Link]

THIS IS IT FOR THE WEEKEND....I THINK.

I have lots going on today and tomorrow. Weekend guests and the like. I'll see you Monday.

Don't forget all the activities in Kanopolis. Lots of things to see and do, food galore and friends to meet. They work really hard over there to make this day possible for us so it's a good thing to show our appreciation and participate.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:50 AM CST [Link]

FT. HARKER HAMBURGER FEED

Brit and I went to the Ft. Harker hamburger feed and I'm happy to report they had what appeared to be a very good turnout for the fundraiser. Not only that, it was very pleasant sitting outside in the shade of the trees surrounding the Commandant's Quarters. It was a nice evening among friends. I like that.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:46 AM CST [Link]

CLASSIC CABLE

Since I signed up with Classic Cable I have not had a single virus-infected message come my way. I look back on my problems with Informatics where I easily would have a dozen or more a day plus spam running out my ears. I know both those things were generated within Informatics. I proved it on several occasions. KIT was better but still not trouble free. Their filters helped but there were still problems.

I do get an annoying "messenger service" popups now periodically and don't know how to rid myself of them.

But...I'm very happy with Classic Cable. It runs all the time, I don't have to dial up and hope I get through and I don't get cut off at all....and that is a relief. It seems to be a very good, reliable service.

As long as my car and my computer are running, I'm a happy campter.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:40 AM CST [Link]

ORANGEMEN'S DAY

This is Orangemen's Day in Ireland.

Protestant forces defeated the Roman Catholic army of James II in Ireland (1690) and they have been feuding ever since.

The Orangemen's secret society was founded in Northern Ireland in 1795 to maintain the political and religious ascendancy of Protestantism. An "orangeman" is a Protestant Irishman.

The society was named after William, Prince of ORANGE1, later King William III of England, Scotland, and Ireland. I think the monarch butterfly was named after William of Orange as well.

This is a big day of celebration in Ireland for the protestants. I'd like to be there, but then I have my own celebration going on here.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:10 AM CST [Link]

Friday, July 11, 2003

BEASTLY HOT

There are no two ways about it...it is beastly hot this afternoon.

It cooled off beautifully last evening as I sat with a fine gathering of people to watch the All-Stars land a decisive victory against Ellinwood. It was about as pleasant as an evening could get. And it was a game with good pitching and fielding. They play again tomorrow mid-afternoon but I won't be there to see it. Too much heat for me.

Soon the festivites in Kanopolis will start and continue until late tomorrow night. The hamburger feed at the Junior Officer's quarters is something not to miss.

Meredith won't know what to do without all that hamberger in her freezer. She's like a storage locker for all the activities and charities in town. She's even getting a new refrigerator and offered to supply room in it for some of my overflow. What a gal! If everyone volunteered and worked as hard as she does, what a wonderful world this would be.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:06 PM CST [Link]

LA PRAIRIE's CHRISTMAS IN JULY

Wrap the season in elegance and join Lori Park in her "ABLAZE IN BEAUTY" next Thursday.

She asks that you join her for fun, frivolity, and fine laughter as La Prairie ushers in the pre-Christmas merriment of uncommon gifting.

You can find all this at the La Prairie home at 304 N. Douglas in Ellsworth.

You are invited to visit anytime betweein 10:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

The supper hour is from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. The menu includes smoked brisket, homemade potato salad, baked beans and ice tea.

Lori always makes her pre-Christmas showing a special gathering. Stop by sometime during the day and see all the new merchandise she has to offer. Her store is a real gem in our community.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:55 PM CST [Link]

Wednesday, July 9, 2003

I'M GOING TO BE A TAD BUSY

There are a lot of things that are going to keep me busy for the next several days so I won't be doing much, if any, blogging.

I have a commitment in the morning, a meeting all tomorrow afternoon in Sterling and probably won't get home until 8, just in time to go see Drew play ball. It is also Todd's 50th and I don't like not being here to help him celebrate. Friday will be much the same...and the weekend.

So...check back when you can. Let me know if you have something you want me to post. Thanks.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:23 PM CST [Link]

ELLSWORTH COUNTY NEW RESIDENT INCENTIVE PACKAGE

This new plan offers direct assistance to young families in securing home ownership and establishing roots in a strong rural community. The plan is designed to help our rural communities look forward to a long, prosperous future.

If you are already a resident of Ellsworth County, the program offers a chance for you to build a new home on a free lot or upgrade to a larger home with the support of financiang options.

Free lots are available to new county residents and current county residents.

Participants must build a residential home with at least 1,000 square feet and complete occupancy within 24 months.

There are programs in play for down payment assistance, home financing assistance and fringe benefits and services.

The sponsors of the New Residential Incentive Plan are:
Ellsworth County
Ellsworth County Community Development
Ellsworth County Economic Development, Inc.
Ellsworth County Chamber of Commerce
City of Ellsworth
City of Kanopolis
City of Wilson
City of Holyrood
Unified School District #327, Ellsworth-Kanopolis-Geneso

Call 785.472.4705, 785.472.8876 or 785.472.4136 for further information.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:07 PM CST [Link]

JOHN STOLTZ'S WEBSITE IS A REAL WINNER

John Stoltz has a wonderful business of his own invention in the old grade school in Lorraine. Appropriately, his site can be found at OLD SCHOOL.

What John has created is a series of personalized "seals", like the kind you use to seal an envelope or to create a personalized, waxed label for fine wine. The kind Rich Vargo needs for his wines.

In John's words:

"Enhance your correspondence, invitation, label, packaging, direct mail and many more with the high quality look and feel of your own wax seal. Old School Seals offer standard, ready-made designs, as well as completely custom, one-of-a-kind seals in any quality you wish. A great gift or promotional piece!"

As of 10:00 this morning, John's site was up and running and it is exceptionally well done, very professional with a lot of class, as is John's style. Take a look at it and think about someone in your family who would enjoy having one of his seals. They are perfect for Christmas, birthday and anniversary gifts.

His has his website hosted with Overture.com which he hopes will place them on all the major search engines. They will be launching a targeted mailing this fall to drive business to their website.

John and Dena have created this business and we all want it to flourish. They have done a lot personally to enhance Ellsworth County and we're very fortunate to have them in our midst.

You can reach John at 785.472.3464.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:41 PM CST [Link]

NIKOLA TESLA, INVENTOR

Born: 9 July 1856
Birthplace: Smiljan, Croatia
Death: 7 January 1943

If I have time later, I'll try to blog Nikola, the prodigal genius....one of the greatest, if not the greatest, inventors of all time...and one of the least recognized.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:15 AM CST [Link]

NICE YOUNG MEN IN MY LIFE

When I go to Orozco's for breakfast, Jesse Orozco doesn't even ask me what I want. He already knows. I like that as he always gets it just right.

I had a good visit with Jesse Manning who treated me to breakfast. That was very nice of him...and I always enjoy our visits about assorted things going on about town. He's an interesting young fellow and always involved in a lot of good deeds for everyone....he's a great volunteer and just steps in when he sees something that needs doing. He's the kind of college kid, unlike many others, who really enjoys being in Kanopolis during the summer. He knows who he is and the direction he's heading.

When I got home I discovered a beautiful flat of tomatoes, onions and green peppers that Caleb Svaty delivered for my birthday. He's such a great gardener and remarkable for his age. He's known for a long time what he wants to do with his life and all of us in Ellsworth are much better off because of it. All the hanging baskets I bought from him are doing very well, where the others are not. He's got the touch....and a great smile to go along with it.

Two great guys...Jesse and Caleb. I'm very proud to call them friends.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 08:45 AM CST [Link]

Tuesday, July 8, 2003

IT'S TIME TO SEND ANOTHER PAPER

It just occurred to me. I wonder if I'll get a call at 10:00 p.m. as I did last Tuesday to make a run to Hays to take the paper for printing. If the Indy's computers/hubs/servers and Classic Cable all cooperate, I can go to bed early. The pages should be in transit now...let's hope that's the case.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:33 PM CST [Link]

BURRITOS

Thinking about Mexican food for breakfast made me hungry for Mexican food tonight so we're having some improvised burritos. I have a couple of pounds of very lean ground steak, fresh large, chopped onions (2) and jalepenos (5) from Rich's garden, a fistful of chopped garlic and some of Georgie Rodrigues's homemade hot salsa simmering on the stove. Pretty soon I'll roll in it some tortillas, pop it in the oven...then pile it high with finely shredded lettuce and cheddar cheese. Whatever it turns out to be, it will be good. Guaranteed.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:29 PM CST [Link]

MARK PHILIPPOUSSIS SEX ACTIVITY

Someone just hit my blog looking for "Mark Philippoussis sex activity". Sorry to disappoint them, but they won't find anything like that here. I did find it amusing.

That was fast. What I publish on my blog goes to Google right away and so far as I know, stays about three years. That's why I get strange hits to both my website and blog. People are still hitting my website to learn how I went over Niagara Falls in a barrel and broke into the files of the CIA. These are wily grandmother tricks I employ when the occasion demands.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 04:32 PM CST [Link]

THINGS ARE BURNING UP

Brit's grass and flowers have gone from lush and beautiful to "fading fast", all in a week's time. This is too much heat for much of anything to survive.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:43 PM CST [Link]

ROEHRMAN'S ARE ON A ROLL

Josie, Georgia and I chatted today about the Antique Mall coffee shop. I am so excited for it to be up and running...and Josie said it should be by the first of the month. They're going to call me as I'd like to be among the first in line. It is a wonderful addition to Ellsworth.

The machines are ordered and she and Mark are heading to Colorado Springs next week to get their coffee. I think it is so exciting.

They've really improved that area by the front door in a very classy way. It is beautiful and stylish and shows thought and care with design. The rest of the entry has been rearranged and is much improved. I still have an old picture on my website from "Don's days", so I'll get that changed after the coffee shop opens. I do have a new Roehrman update about the Antique Mall on my website, if you want to take a look. I wrote a lot of articles about them, but I failed to change the material on my website. Bummer. i just spaced it out.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:41 PM CST [Link]

EVA WALLERT MUST HAVE STARCHED HER FLAG

Following my usual path from Salina back to Ellsworth, I passed by Eva and Wayne Wallert's beautiful country home. The one that has paths mowed through the pastures and everything surrounded by beautiful white fences. It always looks so neat and tidy and very picturesque with the horses grazing nearby.

I love seeing their big American flag flying on their deck. Today I noticed it looked like Eva had starched the heck out of it as you could hardly say it was rippling in the wind. The wind was blowing so hard from the south it looked stiff as a board, lying parallel to the ground and up high just heading straight north like a piece of plywood. With the kind of heat we've been having, I guess wind is a good thing.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:57 PM CST [Link]

A NICE NOTE FROM CHERYL RATHBUN THAT I'D LIKE TO SHARE

Peg,

Thanks so much for your words of support for the Spanish trip kids. Becky Bailey sent me a copy. It has been a lot of fun. Perhaps the most fun has been the Mexican rodeos hosted at Jesse Magana's ranch El Milagro. We have sold concessions there on three occassions. The money made was not much, however every little bit helps. We had so much fun interacting with natives from Mexico who speak predominantly Spanish. What a cultural education for our youth. The music provided during the entire rodeo was outstanding. Many people probably have no idea of the work Jesse does to put on these events.

Bonnie Orozco is a saint providing an opportunity for local youth to travel to different countries and experience life outside of our small community. What these kids will bring back to the community will be invaluable. We hope they are given the opportunity to present at different local groups their experiences.

Thanks to Ellsworth community for their support, to La Prairie for allowing us to have Bake Sales in front of the store and for sponsoring a raffle and to the Methodist Church for use of their parking lot for garage sales and their kitchen for making peanut brittle.

Cheryl Rathbun

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:02 PM CST [Link]

LONELINESS

The principal contributor to loneliness in this country is television. What happens is that the family 'gets together' alone. -Ashley Montagu, anthropologist and writer (1905-1999)

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:40 AM CST [Link]

MY FEATHERS ARE CALLING

It's time to go find my feathers and call it a night. My "sleeper machine" (as one of my friends calls it) is ready to go so I'll strap on the mask and sleep like a box of rocks. I wouldn't part with my memory foam outer space mattress for the life of me...or my C-PAP machine. I just wish I'd discovered them long ago.

Heading east tomorrow but will not tarry.

Stay tuned.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:10 AM CST [Link]

WHAT A JOB!

I had a note from Annie Hochman tonight in regard to my blog about the Central Market. This is what she had to say about her daughter who works there.

"I thought you might be interested: daughter Kathy works at Central Market part time in Austin. She teaches school during the school year plus working there part time. That place will drive you crazy. What you can't find there you don't need. I tend to buy things I really don't need. I guess they're really great people to work for. Just thought I'd let you know. She also works there during the summer."

Annie

(What a lucky gal....I just want to spend a day there. That isn't too much to ask.)

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:03 AM CST [Link]

Monday, July 7, 2003

OFF TO CHURCH CAMP

I don't know how many years my youngest grandson has been going to church camp in southeastern Kansas, but for a long time. I'm not even sure where the camp is, but I think maybe it's out in the tallgrass prairie someplace. He was a little tyke the first time he was determined to go and he didn't know another soul who was going. That never matters to Tyler. He makes friends quickly. He just loves it there.

So today, his mom once again took him to Wichita where he boarded a church bus with other campers from the Wichita area. We won't hear a thing from him until he gets off the bus in Wichita next Saturday. I've tried giving him a phone card so he can call me, but he's much too busy for that.

It will be the same when he goes to college. We'll say goodbye when he leaves in August and won't hear from him again until he comes home during a break. What a kid. He has a very full agenda. He loves life.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:53 PM CST [Link]

BREAKFAST AT OROZCO'S

It's really hard to beat a good Mexican breakfast at Orozco's. Them's mighty good groceries! Wednesday morning at 6:45 I'm going to again join one of my favorite breakfast companions, Jesse Manning....one of the best and brightest of our young college students. The conversation is always lively. I have so much to learn. He's a good teacher.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:40 PM CST [Link]

XXX ADULT ARCADE

I hear there is a sign on the interstate at the Wilson exit that also marks the place to exit to the "XXX Adult Arcade." The only thing is...it must be 100 feet tall...or maybe taller. I doubt you could see the top of it on a hazy day. It gets bigger every time someone tells me about it. I think it must be bigger than Wilson!

My good friend, Sandra, who lives about 15 miles southwest of WaKeeney says if she stands on her tippy-toes, she thinks she can see big VVVs. That wouldn't surprise me. Those would be the top part of the XXXs, right? Of course, everyone knows she has very good eyes and everything this direction from WaKeeney is down hill and down wind. She'll be coming this way soon so I'll get her first hand report of the sign, that is if she can keep her car on the highway as she passes by. She's prone to convulsive laughter.

And, it's not the kind of sign you'd like pointing to your small, classy, conservative roadside town which is trying to draw families off the interstate to shop and visit.

But the sign is there and it has every right to be there, as does the store, and folks are up in arms about it. I'm not sure what they think they can do about it but they are gathering up ideas....like recording license plates of cars and turning truckers who stop there in to their employers...all sorts of very questionable tactics. The man who owns the Arcade has constitutional rights which are the same ones that protect the rest of us. So beware.

Instead of speculating as to what is actually inside the Arcade, it seems to me it might be sensible to stop in and talk to the owner and ask for a tour of the place. I'm sure he'd oblige. Maybe it won't be as bad as they think. Or, I suppose it could be worse. But, my guess is it won't be entirely as they claimed on the flyers.

As there was a meeting in Wilson tonight to discuss all the various aspects of this problem, I'm sure there will be something in the INDY about it tomorrow.

Like someone said who was there, "I get very nervous about people who claim they talk with God".

So do I. Very.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:56 PM CST [Link]

BEN AND BILLY THOMPSON CAME ALIVE TONIGHT

A gathering of re-enactors, cowboys and their ladies clad in period clothes …along with some of us "plain" folk …met tonight for a rare opportunity to learn about Ben and Billy Thompson from expert, Tom Bicknell who hails from Illinois. Tom presented historical facts he has gathered over many years of research which also included a slide display of rare photos, many not seen here before. It was a fascinating evening and was hosted by The Cowboy, Jim Gray, and Linda Kohls.

The Thompson brothers were Texans and well-known for their gun handling abilities. Ben was also a highly respected gambler. Billy was a little rough around the edges compared to his older brother, Ben, and found himself on the wrong end of several disagreements. Among his less than honorable deeds was the accidental shooting of Sheriff Chauncey Whitney in Ellsworth, August 15, 1873. Ben and Billy Thompson were famous during their time, but have been largely over-looked in historical comment. Tom Bicknell has written extensively and brought their interesting lives back to life. It was a rare opportunity tonight to be a part of this presentation.

I'm always intrigued with Ellsworth history as my ancestors were roaming the streets at the same time the Thompsons were here and were very much a part of the local color.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:29 PM CST [Link]

HARVEST HANDS IN ELLSWORTH COUNTY

July 10, 1903. Harvest hands are so scarce in Ellsworth County that a farmer paid the fine of a tramp and took him from the jail to the harvest field.

Wheat cutting in Saline County is about finished and threshing will probably begin next week.

(From the Salina Journal archives)

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:32 PM CST [Link]

1953-54 SALINA SCHOOL BUDGET

The 1953-54 budget for Salina's public schools is expected to be up $75,000 to $100,000. Superintendent W.M. Ostenberg can see no escape from high costs. He said the increase would be needed for about $45,000 in salaries for 13 additonal teachers; and estimated $25,000 in salary hikes for teachers now on the job; and rising costs of new equipment, supplies, utilities and maintenance of buildings. The present budget calls for $1,033.000. It is $163,000 higher than the 1951-52 budget.

(From the Salina Journal archives)

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:29 PM CST [Link]

BIGGEST WHEAT CROP...JULY 7TH

It's the biggest wheat crop this section has seen in years. Grainmen broke the news this morning in confessions which included such expressions a "bumper crop," "enormous yield," "heaviest test," and similar phrases. Coming on the heel s of last year's crop, which was scraggly, spotted and wet, the enormous yield of this year, ranging in the territory anywhere from 30 to 50 bushels to the acre, seems all the more like a fairy tale to the farmers and grainmen.

The year was 1928.

On July 8th, 1903 The Western Star Mill brought its first load of new wheat this morning from Fred Hinneman. The grain tested 59 pounds and brought 57 cents. The grain is of a fine quality.

And July 9th, 1903, the Lee Hardware Company has begun business in the hadsome new five-story structure erected on North Santa Fe Avenue, south of the Lee Mercantile Co. Salina now has the largest wholesale hardware house in the state.

(From the Salina Journal archives)

My dad, Bruce H. Baker, was the head builder's hardware man for the Lee Hardware Company for over 40 years.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:03 PM CST [Link]

I'LL MELT

If I go outside I will melt.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:37 PM CST [Link]

ADULT ARCADE

Wayne Grabbe of Russell sent the following to me:

There will be a meeting on Monday, July 7th at 7:00 p.m. at the Wilson Senior Center to discuss the Adult Arcade and its ramifications to the region. Please forward this notice to anyone you feel might be interested. Thank you.

Why are we concerned?

A. The perception it gives our community and the region. Wilson will be known as the place where the Adult Arcade is located. No matter what visitors are looking for it will be referred to as, "You know the place with the XXX store."

B. The complete opposite of what we are trying to attract to our communities and region: families, tourists, and international travelers. We are the center of the Amazing 100 Miles. It will detract from our focus and could have a very negative effect on what we are trying to accomplish.

C. The stigma and complete dislike that comes with the business. People will pass us by rather than stop. By being there it diverts people from our real focus. Our wholesome values, our safe community.

D. What the outlook might become? Drug dealings? Pandering to a group of people that we may not want in our community.

E. A detriment to the economy of the area. A deterrent to all the new things we have worked for in the Amazing 100 Miles, especially Wilson’s businesses: The Midland Hotel, Ollie’s Antiques, the Opera House, the new grocery store, Made from Scratch, Kansas Originals. In addition it could have a negative effect on the businesses in Lucas and other towns.

The money pulled in there will not come to our communities. The site has been lost as an attraction to pull families off of the Interstate and send them and into our cities.

F. The crime that may follow it. Statistics show that crime in the area increases and property values decreases.

G. Detriment to the Future of our Society. Our children will learn to accept these places as natural and not question their existence if we don’t do something about it now. What will our state look like in another twenty years?

I am only the messenger about the meeting. pb

Posted by Peg Britton @ 12:00 PM CST [Link]

H.E.B. FOOD CHAIN

The H.E.B. food chain has opened a new group of upscale supermarkets in Texas called Central Market. There are two in the Dallas area.

This is what my Louisiana friend, Janis Gore, had to say about the one she visited:

"The produce department was large and stocked with most everything imaginable: white asparagus, lotus root, 15 varieties of potatoes, a multitude of greens, a dozen kinds of mushrooms, 10 kinds of radish, bulk vanilla beans (I bought three), a vast cornucopia which workers would chop for shoppers on site. The meat and seafood department was beautiful, and included pre-prepped or marinated portions which could be cooked at home. There were at least a hundred brands of olive oil on the shelves, 30 kinds of vinegar, ranging from $2 bottles to $169 bottles of balsamic kept under lock and key. The breads were gorgeous rustic loaves baked on site, ryes and pumpernickels, olive loaves, multi-grains, Italian, French, English. Wines and beers, salamis, hams, pates, hundreds of varieties of cheese. Oh, the lovely lunches of a baguette with pate and a piece of fruit! Flowers! Roses and lilies and daisies and exotics! Arghhh!"

The store she described is seven hours away from each of us. I'd walk over hot coals to spend a day in this grocery store. It's the only kind of shopping I like...."exotic grocery stores". By comparison, we live in a third world country.

Some of my fondest memories are of grocery stores I've visited so it's easy for me to visualize what Janis described.

I love browsing though all the produce and fancy the salads that I could toss that would be a thing of beauty. I like the ones that have tropical storms with claps of thunder to warn you to stand back as the veggies are going to get misted. And I wonder at some the exotic veggies and how to prepare them. I haven't yet met a vegetable or fruit I didn't like.

And I wonder at how much better the balsamic under lock and key would taste than the kind that sits on my kitchen bar all the time. I love balsamic vinegar.

And the fresh bread...my weakness for fresh baked bread is legendary and it's obvious to the beholder than I have no resistence to it. I wear it where one shouldn't wear bread.

I've had a wonderful time reading Janis's daily blogs and archives. You can check them out on GONE SOUTH.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 07:29 AM CST [Link]

Sunday, July 6, 2003

HISTORY OF THE MIDLAND HOTEL

I've added more to the section on "Wilson" on my website. Most of it pertains to the history of the Midland Hotel. I'm blind from typing ...groan...but I've wanted this to replace what was there so that is good. I still don't have an article about the history of the town of Wilson, so if anyone wants to volunteer to write something, that would be nice. Same goes for Kanopolis, Lorraine and Holyrood...or any of the frontier settlements.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:58 PM CST [Link]

Saturday, July 5, 2003

AVOID THOSE TELEMARKETERS

The Federal Trade Commission opened a National Do Not Call web site last week where you can sign up to avoid telemarketers. You can register your home phone and mobile phones for free. The registration will last for five years.

CBS News reported that 1,000 people per second were accessing the site on opening day. I signed up on line that day with no difficulty.

If you can't get in right away to sign up, not to worry. It doesn't take effect until Oct. 1 so there is plenty of time to register.

If you live west of the Mississippi River, you can register by phone: 1-888-382-1222. Phone registration will open to the rest of the country on July 7.

Even if you register, you can still expect to get calls from politicians, charities and pollsters. They are exempt. The Do Not Call site is HERE

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:24 PM CST [Link]

GAEDDERT FARMS SWEET CORN

There is one thing Brit does that is better than anyone I've ever seen...and that is clean sweet corn. He even does it outside in the 110 degree heat and doesn't make a mess...or complain. He likes good sweet corn so well he pampers it like a newborn babe.

The problem is, we rarely get any good sweet corn unless one of our farmer friends brings it to us...or someone sets up a stand somewhere. Rich Allen was for many years in the sweet corn business and it was always wonderful, but Rich is no longer with us.

Brit has been dragging corn home from the store that only he tries to eat. It isn't worth the effort, in my opinion. I'll pass. We once could get Olathe corn here, but I haven't seen that in awhile.

Today Karen and Todd brought us a sack of Gaeddert Farms Sweet Corn....corn whose reputation preceeded the delivery by over a year. I learned of it last year when a friend out WaKeeney way said a mutual friend of ours who lives in the Buhler area where this is grown delivered some to her. And wouldn't you know she just jumped right over me? Whoa! Well, I hate to beg, but I guess this is really stuff to beg for.

Here's what their brochure has to say:

"We are a family owned and operated business located just outside the small community of Buhler. Our business started over 20 years ago as a small sweet corn patch for extended family use. Through many years of hard work and entrepreneurship, we have established a customer base that spans across the country.

"Gaeddert Farms takes pride in the fact that we are known for our quality and integrity. We provide our customers with an outstanding product as well as an honest, family-oriented atmosphere."

In addition to Buhler, you can buy it in McPherson, Newton, Hutchinson and Wichita.

Chicken and noodles (Laurie Donley's homemade noodles) are simmering on the stove and the corn is ready to drop in the cauldron when we are. That's the menu here tonight...one that's hard to beat.

P.S. Dinner was great and the corn is good enough to head down the highway to McPherson to buy some. I've had corn that was equally good, but never any without a healthy crop of worms. This was perfect and worm free.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 05:15 PM CST [Link]

JIM GRAY'S GUEST OPINION

The old building with the oriel, the castle-like projection overlooking Douglas Avenue, has been the object of curiosity and nostalgia for generations and yet, how could it be salvaged from the inevitable demolition? The questiion of what to do with the Insurance Building has plagued Ellsworth for years.

Most folks would say that they wanted to save the venerable old building but coming up with a feasible plan was the BIG problem. Thirteen interested individuals met to discuss possible options and in a relatively short period of time developed an exciting proposal. The Insurance Building, combined with the two buildings to the north, provide a unique space for the proposed National Drovers Hall of Fame.

The National Drovers Hall of Fame is no small project. It IS national in scope. The undertaking is monumental and exciting. The momentum and the energy of the 13-member Board of Directors is unbelievable.

The proposed plan is certainly the source of that energy. The plan involves bringing the exterior of the Insurance Building back to its original appearance. The original three stories of the interior will bring the floor levels back to the 1887 plan. The lower level will house a restaurant/saloon. The second or main level will house the gift shop/reception area. The upper story willl include offices and, of cousrse, public access to view the inside of the oriel.

The two buildings now to the north of the Insurance Building will be entirely remodeled; the height of the two buildings are intended to be as high as the Insurance Building thus allowing for an atmosphere to exhibit the various aspects of the drover experience honoring the men that founded the Great American Cattle Indstry.

The Board of Directors has established the "Founders Club" for those wishing to contribute $100 toward this exciting Ellsworth venture. The "Founders Club" will be made up of 500 distinguished contributors interested in preserving a meaningful part of our past. Just as the drovers founded a national industry, you can help "Found" the National Drovers Hall of Fame here in Ellsworth. Help keep the momentum and energy alive.

Jim Gray, president
Linda Kohls, vice-president

As it appeared in the Ellsworth County Independent/Reporter, Thursday July 3rd, 2003, page A4.

Other board members are: Dennis Katzenmeier, Mark Roehrman, Paula Svaty, John Curry, Ken Wasserman, Don Hanson, Garnell Hanson, Phyllis Dolezal (secretary), Scott Moore (treasurer), Linda Denning, Peg Britton.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:12 PM CST [Link]

FORT HARKER DAYS ARE APPROACHING

Bonnie Orozco and I met this morning at the check out counter at Robson's and talked about the "2nd Annual Ft. Harker 4 Mile Run/Walk" and other events of mutual interest. She said they would like to have more runners and walkers for these events...4 miles for runners or 2 miles for walkers...so I'm encouraging you runners and walkers to participate, if you are able. That ought to be a good thing to do next Saturday the 12th particularly since the organizers of the "Days" make an effort to organize these events for others.

You can get all the details by calling veteran runner, Pete Orozco, a member of the famous Orozco family of runners. His number is 472.4567 and he's the one who knows about event details.

The "on your mark" time is 7:00 a.m. at the corner of A and Kansas Street (Orozco's Grocery) in Kanopolis and the race route follows a hilly course to the salt mine. You can register Saturday morning before the race but I think it will cost you a little more than pre-registration. You'll get a shirt, maybe win a medal and there will be water stations along the way.

Saturday will be filled with events in Kanopolis. There is a legislative coffee at 9:00 a.m. and a parade at 10:00 a.m. The parade grand marshall is Charlie Roehrman.

At 11:30 the amazing box turtle races will be held in the park. I think someone sometime must have tried to enter a Tasmanian saber-toothed, razor-backed fighting turtle as they are strictly forbidden. This is a race for little kids and little turtles so follow the rules.

You'll find plenty of food vendors in the park. The Smoky Hill Cattlewomen will be selling their charbroiled hamburgers, Butch's Barbeque will be serving his usual fare, Bonnie Tripp's Mexican foodr...and you'll find Kettle Korn, Red Wagon and various church concessions.

There will be an all-school social hour at 4:00 p.m., not at the school, but in the Community Center. The reunion banquet follows at 5:00 p.m. The Kanopolis Volunteer of the Year Award recipient will be announced at 8:45 p.m. Meantime, between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m., there will be surrey rides north of the library.

Pick your partner for the Free Dance with music by D.J, Shane McClintock. It's from 9:00 until 12:00 p.m.

Friday night there are pre-acitivities in the park...a carnival, hamburger feed and cake walk. You'll find the hamburgers ($4.00 per plate) at the Commanding Officer's Quarters at the Fort and sponsored by the Ellsworth Historical Society. If you can't participate in any of the above events, please try to make it a point to attend the hamburger feed. It's a good thing to show your support for this group of individuals who work so hard to preserve our past. The Butternut Boy's String Band will keep you entertained.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:28 PM CST [Link]

Friday, July 4, 2003

WE CLOSED MY COMMENT SECTION

There is something that Greymatter doesn't like about comments. It has to do with some kind of sophisticated security issue with the gov'mint. I think. Anyway, we took it off my blogs to be on the safe side. The comments that you did make were very welcome and fun. You can always write me, as many of you already do. I like that and try to respond promptly to everyone.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:25 PM CST [Link]

MARK PHILIPPOUSSIS

Mark Philippoussis seems headed to the Wimbleton finals. He has such a powerful serve. And he's easy to watch. Besides, Philippoussis is fun and easy to type.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:44 PM CST [Link]

4TH OF JULY ON THE WASHINGTON MALL

This is another granddaughter tale (which she's not fond of me writing) that I might slip by her since she's too busy to read my blogs.

At the crack of dawn this morning she and 20 other NIST interns packed sandwiches and water to last the day then caught the jam-packed Metro to D.C. to watch the nation's fireworks and listen to all the music on the Capitol grounds.

Mackenzie knows her way around almost every place, a trait she inherited from her dad. Getting lost is not in her life. When they got to the stop where she knew they should get off, only her roommates and one boy joined her as the others thought they were destined for the next stop.

Mackenzie and her roomates were among the first in line, got through all the security and planted themselves on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol in front of the stage where the symphony will be playing tonight. They timed everything just right. The security people give you some kind of indelible marks somewhere on your body, probably emblazoned on foreheads, so you can come and go if you like. But once the place is full, they won't allow anyone in unless you are marked.

Their friends who got off by the Washington monument, which was at the wrong end of the Mall where they should have been, finally made the long hike back to the previous stop in time to be admitted to the area and join their friends. She just said they had all been reunited and were having a great time.

This afternoon the various groups that are performing tonight have been rehearsing. A band is marching right now. Dolly Pardon is there and has performed. The centerpiece of the performances will be the National Symphony. There is some broadway singer who has a great voice, she said, who has rehearsed.

She is sitting about 30 yards in front of the stage and just to her right is the Capitol building. She is surrounded by friends and has a perfect location for watching the show tonight. They have free water for everyone and so far she said she hasn't spent money on anything except her round-trip Metro ticket which was $4.00 something. She watches her pennies.

The musical programs and fireworks are to be broadcast tonight on PBS, so I'll be watching to see if I can catch a glimpse of a happy smile on a girl from Kansas. She said they are very close to the TV cameras so there is a chance of her and her friends being caught in action. Let me know if you see her.

Getting home will be another project. They anticipate a crowd of 200,000 and the area won't accomodate that many people. They will put on extra trains, but even then they will be packed. They just plan on it taking a long time to get back to their apartment.

She also reported her trip to NASA headquarters was very interesting and a lot of fun. She met and talked with the director of the MARS probe program who assured her they were always looking for good computer engineers. Not that she'd ever consider anything else. Math and computer engineering are all she's ever thought about since she was a wee lass.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 03:05 PM CST [Link]

BLUEBERRY PANCAKES

Well, I am helpless in the face of such temptation. My daughter-in-law went to Missouri over the weekend to pick fresh blueberries. She gave me a large zip-lock bag full of those giant, dark blue berries that represented her efforts in the sun, heat and humidity east of the dry, windy prairies. I love blueberries. Besides, they are extraordinarily good for you. I read that some place.

Then there has been this hankerin' rumbling around in me for some pancakes with pure maple syrup.

Usually, when I am tempted like this, I just get busy and forget it, but this wouldn't go away. There is nothing like pancakes slowly cooking on the griddle with the top of the bubbly mass just loaded with fresh blueberries. One flip and soon it is ready for fresh, creamery butter and Vermont maple syrup. Put several slices of crisp bacon from Shaw's (whatever it is named now, Koettner's maybe) on the side and you have a meal fit for royalty.

I knew Brit would relent. When I explained my intentions and asked if he wanted to join me, he declined. Breakfast is not his thing. Lunch isn't mine. About the time I got mine on the table, he wandered in and looked longingly at the blueberry pancakes, which are his favorite in the event he too gets a hankerin'. He relented, so now we are both set for the day at the same time. That doesn't happen often anymore as our eating habits have changed so much over the years. But the one meal of the day is now out of the way.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:45 PM CST [Link]

1873 JAIL GETTING A FACE LIFT

The old city jail is undergoing a face lift to be stablized as a ruin. It is a product of "Preserving Our West" fund drive. The work is about half-finished.

There are also plans to restore the Fort Harker Junior Officer's Quarters in Kanopolis and the Terra Cotta depot which is located on the Ellsworth Historical Society grounds. These things all take time and money and every dollar contributed helps to preserve our heritage. And our history is what we must revive and hang our hat on. That's one of the keys to our survival as a vibrant community.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:33 PM CST [Link]

THE RUMBLE IN WILSON SEEMS TO HAVE QUIETED DOWN

It's a good thing to give a new neighbor a chance to show how neighborly he is or isn't going to be before drawing conclusions. It's easier to try to get along reaching common goals than it is bickering over it. Somehow, we are just going to recognize that we all have our eccentricities and differences, opinions and ideas and we have to set these aside and work together. Otherwise, we'll never get anything of value accomplished.

Which brings to mind...

A man appears before St. Peter at the pearly gates.

"Have you ever done anything of particular merit?" St. Peter asks.

"Well, I can think of one thing," the man offers. "Once, on a trip to the Black Hills, out in South Dakota, I came upon a gang of high-testosterone bikers who were threatening a young woman. I directed them to leave her alone, but they wouldn't listen. So I approached the largest and most heavily tattooed biker. I smacked him on the head, kicked his bike over, ripped out his nose ring and threw it on the ground, and told him, 'Leave her alone now or you'll answer to me.'"

St. Peter was impressed. "When did this happen?"

"Just a couple of minutes ago."

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:17 PM CST [Link]

HARD-WORKING SPANISH STUDENTS

Peg,

Thanks for the nice press on our last bake sale! The students and parents have worked very hard in their fund-raising endeavors. We couldn't have done as well as we have without the support of a good community.

The students going to Spain (Dana Peters, Anna Slomka, Rebecca Orozco, Blaze Mollhagen, Kyle West, Brett Rathbun and Tyler Bailey, along with their sponsor, Senora Bonnie Orozco) will depart from Kansas City on July 14th. They will be visiting several interesting cities including Seville, Madrid and Barcelona. Many wonderful historical sites are also on their itinerary. They hope to attend a bull fight and take 'flamenco' dancing lessons (can you imagine T-Bailey doing that??) They will return to the states on
July 26th.

Anyway, they are certainly a hard-working group of kids!! I think the peanut brittle making (400 pounds in all) and the enchilada assembly line (over 70 dozen) have to top the list for our hardest and most successful fund-raising events.

Once again, thanks for your kind words of support.

Becky Bailey

They only made 400 pounds of peanut brittle? I thought I bought that much. It was terrific and I'm picky about peanut brittle. These kids have worked hard to raise enough money for their trip. The community has been very supportive and without it such trips for our students wouldn't be possible. A little donation here and there makes a difference so keep that in mind when you see students out selling tickets, washing cars, and peddling their products. We wish them well on their trip. It will be an unforgetable experience for all of them...particularly Bonnie who gets to chaperone them.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 02:06 PM CST [Link]

HEY, LUCY!

For Independence Day, three cheers for the red, white and blue. Always dressed for the occasion. Hey, Lucy!

posted by Janis Gore at 9:37 AM July 4th

Posted by Peg Britton @ 01:58 PM CST [Link]

WE'RE LOSING TWO WONDERFUL FAMILIES FROM OUR MIDST

Mark and Talley Kayser are going to be leaving Ellsworth the end of the month to return to the area of Talley's home town. Mark is the minister at the Presbyterian Church, and both are much loved and respected. Their two children are very popular and talented and have been wonderful contibutors in school music programs, debate, Boy Scouts, etc. Their leaving will leave a big hole in Ellsworth.

We're also losing Ray and Anna Jean Roberts to El Dorado. Advancement opportunities in the state prison opened up for him there so we understand the move. We just hate to see him leave ECF and Ellsworth as he has been so very involved in the community and contributed to it enormously. We like to see a smooth operation at ECF and Ray always had a good handle on community relations and how to work with people.

We wish both these families good luck and good fortune.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 11:26 AM CST [Link]

JUNE 2003 WEBSITE STATISTICS

Total Hits, any request 28,379
Total Files sent 18,052
Total Files saved by cache 7,508
Total Page Views 6,359
Average Hits per day 945
Maximum Hits per day 1,332
Page Views per day 211

This tells me that the word about Ellsworth is getting out to a lot of people all over the world. I'm constantly amazed at the number of people who hit my site and where they are from.

And, my website is growing. There is a lot of new material I want to add about the National Drovers Hall of Fame and information associated with the Drover movement. This is where the cattle industry as we know it today began and I feel it's an important message to convey to others.

Jack Grothusen is also working on an article about wheat for me. There are those from elsewhere who are curious about all aspects of wheat growing, so I've asked Jack to do a comprehensive article for me. He doesn't know it yet, but once he finishes that, he has to do one on cattle.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 10:02 AM CST [Link]

THIS WAS THE ENTRY FOR JULY 1ST THAT WAS THE BACKBREAKER FOR GREYMATTER:

Today was the day to go to Salina and run odd, disparate errands for things I can't get here. It was one thing here, another thing there, hardly two things at one place. Salina and all that concrete was a bit like shopping in Tucson. The heat just sort of comes at you as if from a blast furnace. I didn't linger.

Going and coming as I was, reminded me of the things we had in cars back in the Dark Ages that we don't have now. I'm not wishing for those old days again or the cars that were old and held together with bailing wire and acumpucky. And back then, when you were driving down the street it seemed the car ahead of you was driven by a headless person as we all drove when we reached age 12. My parents never trusted me, or anyone, to drive the one car we had that we had to keep running to get dad to work, but I occasionally wrangled the opportunity.

I do miss some features of the cars we had back then. The convenience of that round headlight dimmer switch on the floor is something I miss. It was nice to rest your left foot near it and know exactly where it was. Click! Brights. Click! Dims.

It was sure nice having the ignition switch on the dash where you could see it rather than have it curled somewhere underneath the steering wheel out of sight where you need to stand on your head to find it. It was the same with the dome light. It had a switch on it so there was no hunting around trying to figure out how to turn it on.

I loved the air vents, those triangular-shaped windows that had the little turn latch, where all you had to do was push the window open to let in fresh air. There were also knobs to pull on either side of the dash that opened something or other to let air in. Nowdays, you can't drive on the highway with the windows open without going deaf from the constant effect of air pressure pounding on your eardrums. The alternative is to run the air conditioner, which would be pointless on most days if they'd only kept those little window vents.

And, just for the heck of it, when I'm driving around town with the windows down, I frequently stick my arm out to signal which way I'm going to turn. That's the way we did it back then, before someone invented turn signals. It feels good with the wind whistling around your arm...straight out for a left turn, bent at the elbow with the hand sort of heading up over the car for a right turn...and the flick of the wrist as a "howdy" for a friend passing by. I miss all those waving hands. I get funny looks when I do that now.

Back then it was easy to change a tire as there was no mystery about where the jack was located…in the trunk and accessible. Now the jack is so well hidden I'd have to get out my owner's manual to figure out how to open up the compartment to get to it. Maybe "roadside assistance" is supposed to take care of all of that.

And there are some things I positively dislike about my Explorer, specifically "the dash". They hide all the stuff you really need to know, especially the mileage meter, in those microscopic, impossible to read digital displays that require a sequence of button pushing to bring up. I never remember which button to push first, especially in the dark and can't read it if I do. If you have your lights on, or the sun is shining on the display, you can't read it at all. So you Ford Explorer people who build these things, please figure out a better system for us folk in Kansas who drive by distances not time.

I still groan everytime I go by Eisenglass hill. I always will. There is no way to forgive them for what they did to that landmark hill. There should be a law against people who tear up the land like that for no legitimate reason at all.

I tried to post this yesterday (Tuesday) but Greymatter was having a little trouble so it didn't come up.

Meantime, yesterday the folks at the INDY were having trouble with their server, the computers, the OS, the router and couldn't send pages to Hays in a normal fashion for printing. Everything went wrong. They gave up trying at 10:00 pm. Linda called and asked me if I'd go with her to Hays (i.e. "drive her" since otherwise they'd find her asleep in some ditch) to take the paper for printing which I did. It was one of those phone calls where I should have been in bed and not answered the phone. Kidding...it was a nice evening to be out and we always have plenty to talk about.

And, I had the rare opportunity to see the young woman who looked much too young to be around those presses and all that equipment do her thing. She was a tiny thing, strong and agile, with movements like a picture in motion, beauty and grace. And she was cute, despite being well-soiled with printer's ink. It was worth the trip just to see her in action. She was good. Seeing those presses run gives you a thrill. That's when Linda first knew she wanted to be in the newspaper business...when she saw the presses running back home in Bluffton, Indiana.

We arrived by home at 2:00 am which made it a 22 hour day for me. I'm glad no one asked me if I'm getting too old for this. (Smile...I'm not!) Anyway, there IS a paper this morning thanks to the cooperation from a lot of people. My grandsons got up at 3:30 am to put the labels on for mailing. I love the great harvest picture on the front page. It takes a lot of cooperation from a lot of people to get a paper on the stands.

I missed the Wilson Chamber breakfast and it's just now time for the Midland ribbon cutting. If I really hurry....arghhhhh.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:45 AM CST [Link]

GREYMATTER CRASHED JUNE 30TH

You’ve noticed I haven’t been posting for the past few days and that’s because Greymatter crashed big time on me. It had a lot to do with the fact I ran out of disk space (20 MB) and apparently hit a brick wall around June 30th with zero disk space. Greymatter didn’t know how to handle that and went into a tizzy and corrupted a lot of my files. It seems a sure thing that Greymatter can’t deal with 0 disk space.

Brad at MetaPros came to my rescue. I can’t sing his praises and those of MetaPros loud and high enough. This is what Brad had to say in his letter this morning:

“I think it's fixed! It was a bear though. There were *many* files that were corrupted. Greymatter's rebuild procedures didn't even come close to fixing the problems. I had to figure out how Greymatter used the different data and config files and I had to manually edit the individual files by hand to "correct" them - 88 log files and 7 configuration files in all.

“After seeing how Greymatter handles it's data files and after reading up on the support forums at their website, I'd say that the likelihood of this happening again is high. ..And that's not just if disk space runs out again. If there is any little glitch in the connection when updating a log, rebuilding the indexes, etc. then it may happen again.”

Well, I can only hope things go smoother. I now have 75 MB of disk space so that hitting the brick wall won’t happen again, but there are other things that can go wrong.

I don’t have any way to tell you when that happens, since the means to do so is the problem. I hope you’ll just check back until I do have it going again. I appreciate your loyalty and support.

Now back to posting some other entries that Greymatter rejected.

Have a wonderful 4th. We plan to have a quiet one around here.

Posted by Peg Britton @ 09:43 AM CST [Link]