Preheat oven to 350f. In a large bowl beat shortening and peanut butter within electric mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Add the 1/2 cup granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in egg, milk, and vanilla. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer. Stir in any remaining flour. Shape dough into 1-inch balls. Roll balls in the 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Place balls 2 inches apart on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake in preheat oven for 10 to 12 minutes or until edges are firm and bottoms are lightly browned. Immediately press a chocolate kiss into the middle of each cookie. Transfer to wire racks and let cool. Make 54 cookies!