September Highline Notes 2021

HIGHLINE notes September 2021

Meet Director Mitzel, page 4 Charging etiquette, page 5 Leading the charge, page 6 The road to EV charging, page 9

CassCountyElectric.com

September 2021 | Highline Notes 1

CCEC offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 6, for Labor Day

editorial Is an electric vehicle revolution coming?

Marshal Albright, Cass County Electric Cooperative president & CEO What does this mean for Cass County Electric?

The cooperative supports the The affect development of electric vehicles.

According to the White House We currently have one all-electric briefing, over the program’s life vehicle and one hybrid electric (which was not stated), the proposal vehicle, and we recently ordered will save about 200 billion gallons the all-electric Ford F-150 Lighting of gasoline and cut 2 billion metric pickup. tons of CO2. One caveat, according to the proposal - the precise benefit The challenge of transitioning to of the CO2 reduction depends on electric vehicles is to overcome the fuel used to generate electricity public perception about the that charges the EVs. In the central performance of an EV and, for United States, about 70% of the fuel the power industry, the current to produce power comes from coal power supply and transmission and natural gas (fossil fuel). grid are not equipped to handle a significant increase in demand.

Will the automaker industry and the public accept the proposal?

How much electricity will be The only way it will work is if needed to replace gasoline for the government spends big on transportation? charging stations, electric grid To put this issue into perspective, infrastructure (including zero200 billion gallons of gasoline carbon baseload resources), and are equivalent to 6.8 trillion incentives to get people to buy EVs. kWh. According to the Energy Currently, there is about an $8,000 Information Administration, U.S. to $10,000 premium for an electric wind energy produced 338 billion vehicle over the combustion kWh in 2020, and over 10 years, engine. the total production would be 3.3 trillion kWh. To supply EVs with The Biden Administration is also renewable power, the nation would considering expanding tax credits likely need to TRIPLE the current and rebates for EV buyers. One renewable energy supply, requiring bill in the Senate would expand significant investments (likely to all automakers a $12,500 tax trillions of dollars) in power supply credit for five years, making EVs and transmission. more affordable or, in other words, subsidizing or buying down There is no easy button here; a the cost of each electric vehicle transition from the combustion produced. engine to electric-powered vehicles will take time and money. mileage requirement of 37 MPG from automakers.

Recently, President Biden announced his target of 50% electric vehicle sales share by 2030.

The information below outlines some of the details, opportunities, and challenges of transitioning to electric vehicles (EVs).

President Biden’s plan for EVs President Biden’s Executive Order sets an ambitious new target to make half of all new vehicles sold in 2030 zero-emissions vehicles, including battery-electric, plug-in hybrid electric, or fuel cell electric vehicles. The nonbinding deal with most automakers is to have electric, plug-in hybrid, or hydrogen-electric vehicles make up half of their U.S. sales by 2030.

Biden’s plan requires 10% emissions reductions from automakers in 2023 and 5% every year after that through 2026. The result is a

2 Highline Notes | September 2021

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Content in every issue

11 12 13 14 15 safety

tech

recipes

photo

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July 2021 The Cass County Electric board of directors met in person on July 27, 2021, and discussed the following topics:

COUNT ON US FOR FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS

The next board meeting is scheduled for Tues., Sept. 28, 2021.

Volume 79, Number 9

Communications Team: Sara Hand Jocelyn Hovland

Printer: Forum Communications Printing Board of Directors: Douglas Anderson Sid Berg Kalvin Hoff, Treasurer Terry Kraft Wendy Loucks Glenn Mitzel, Secretary Thomas J. Seymour Marcy Svenningsen, Chair Jeff Triebold, Vice Chair

Board meeting highlights

• Approved the July 2021 consent agenda of the regular board meeting consisting of minutes of the previous meeting, monthly department reports, director expense report, and the June Purchased Power Adjustment (PPA).

• President/CEO Marshal Albright gave the president’s report reporting on updates from meetings held with Minnkota, FMWF Chamber, Greater FM EDC, Grand Farm, and the upcoming board retreat.

• Moved to approve a three-year contract extension to the wholesale power contract with Minnkota Power Cooperative.

• Received the second quarter 2021 financial report.

• Received a report from the NDAREC summer board meeting.

• Moved to approve the annual IT audit as prepared by Eide Bailly.

• Moved to approve transferring ownership of the board’s mobile devices (Apple iPad) to each director, and that the cost of the mobile device be considered as income.

• Moved to approve the July 2021 capital credit estate payments.

• Moved to approve a revision to Article VI of the bylaws allowing the board to retire small capital accounts of $1,000 or less.

• Moved to approve no changes be recommended to Policy 102 – Functions of the board of directors.

• Reviewed upcoming meetings and events.

Highline Notes

CassCountyElectric.com

Executive Staff: Marshal Albright, President/CEO Jodi Bullinger, VP of Engineering & Operations Paul Matthys, VP of Member & Energy Services Chad Sapa, VP of Corporate Services & CFO Tim Sanden, VP of Information Technology & CIO Highline Notes (USPS 244-740) is published monthly by Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc., 3312 42nd St. S., Suite 200, Fargo, ND 58104. Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, North Dakota 58104, and at additional mailing offices.

Subscription Rate: 28¢/month.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Highline Notes 3312 42nd St. S., Suite 200 Fargo, ND 58104 © Copyright Cass County Electric Cooperative 2021. All rights reserved.

Questions: 701-356-4400 800-248-3292 info@kwh.com Call Before You Dig: 800-795-0555 or 811 Cass County Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Information about the cooperative, articles of incorporation, bylaws and more can be found at CassCountyElectric.com.

September 2021 | Highline Notes 3

director

Glenn Mitzel District: District 5-3 (West Fargo, ND)

What motivates you?

Finding solutions to tough challenges.

Hometown: Valley City, ND

What is your dream job?

I’m not sure there is such a thing. If you enjoy what you do, every day, you are living the dream.

Education: University of North Dakota Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Career/profession: Electrical and controls engineer, Mereen-Johnson Machinery Company Controls lecturer, North Dakota State University Years of service: Elected in 2013 (8 years) Co-op board positions held: Board Secretary (current) Chair, Operations and Administration Committee Training completed: Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Working toward Board Leadership Certificate Describe yourself in three words: Thoughtful. Neighborly. Reliable.

4 Highline Notes | September 2021

What advice have you received that was the most impactful?

As a controls engineer: “Gravity always wins.”

It’s advice to remind one that the basics and fundamentals must never be forgotten. In the coop world I take it to mean “The lights must come on.”

What do you feel is the biggest strength of CCEC right now?

CCEC’s amazing growth is its strength. It allows CCEC to hold rates low and improve operations through technology.

What is your favorite part about being a CCEC director?

The best part is the people - the members on the street, at meetings, or other cooperatives’ directors. Learning what challenges other co-ops face helps us make better decisions for CCEC. People are what makes cooperatives special.

CassCountyElectric.com

CCEC Program

Charging Etiquette

INCENTIVE FOR EV CHARGERS INSTALLED ON OFF-PEAK:

Nothing is worse than pulling up at a charging station when you’re running on proverbial fumes, only to find that all chargers are in use – or worse, blocked by a non-electric vehicle. Do your part to make charging a reliable and smooth experience for EV drivers by following these etiquettes rules.

LEVEL 2 CHARGER REIMBURSEMENT AT $50/kW ($500 MAX PER CHARGER)

OFF-PEAK RATE: $.056 OFF-PEAK RATE ($5 MONTHLY METER CHARGE)

In addition to the incentives offered from Cass County Electric, current federal consumer tax credits are available for EVs, ranging from $2,500 to $7,500 based on the size of the vehicle’s battery. Also, many insurance carriers offer discounted rates. Cass County Electric provides the load control device free of charge.

1. Only charge when you really need to.

If chargers are scarce and you can complete your trip without charging, leave the spot available for someone who really needs it.

2. Move your car when you’re done charging.

If you’re taking up a charging spot, don’t spend three hours window shopping. Come back after you’re adequately charged and free up the space for the next driver. Apps can help with this by notifying you of your charging status.

EV requirements to qualify for off-peak

3. Check in.

If you use an app like PlugShare, check in and out to let other drivers know if the charger is available. See page 7 for a list of EV apps.

4. Leave reviews.

Did you pay a parking garage fee only to find that the chargers aren’t available on weekends? Leave a review on PlugShare or other apps to let other drivers know to look elsewhere.

5. Leave EV parking spaces for EVs. Oftentimes chargers are located close to businesses, potentially taking up “prime parking spots” – that’s likely due to the proximity to the building’s electrical room. The power for the EV chargers comes from the building’s electrical service, so the closer the charger is to the building, the more cost-effective it is to install.

All-electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids qualify Level 2 charger, 240V

Charging windows October-May: Noon-5 PM and 11 PM-7 AM June-September: Midnight-10 AM *Please visit with our energy management team for details, terms, and conditions about specific offers and credits available. Marketing promotions/incentives may be subject to change, conditions, or restrictions. There is a maximum incentive credit of $500 depending on kW purchased. To be eligible, the member must install the charger on Cass County Electric’s off-peak program.

The incentive will be applied in the form of an energy credit after a Cass County Electric technician has verified the account.

CassCountyElectric.com

September 2021 | Highline Notes 5

“The benefits of having the electric bus range from saving time and not having to go to a fuel station - instead we plug it in to the garage. The bus has no emissions or noise, making the students love the ride to school.”

- Brad Redmond

LEADING THE CHARGE EV Bus The Blue Bird electric school bus designated as e16 is entering its third year of picking up and dropping off West Fargo students. “It’s been an interesting journey for us,” said Brad Redmond, director of transportation at West Fargo Public Schools (WFPS).

On average, the electric bus loses 30% of its maximum range in cold weather.

After experiencing the first winter, WFPS teamed up with Blue Bird to give the e16 bus two significant updates to help preserve range. The first update was installing an insulated pack that wraps around the batteries and coolant lines. The second was a software update to preheat the bus while it’s still plugged in. These updates allow the driver to heat the bus’ cabin before leaving the parking garage to start their route—meaning they won’t lose any miles on their daily range through heating the bus to temperature.

Operational & Maintenance Per Mile (20’ & 21’ school year) Diesel #1:

$0.40

Diesel #2:

$0.33

Electric (e16):

$0.11

Savings per mile (avg.):

$0.26

Total savings:

$3,208.10

WFPS is a cold weather electric bus pioneer, paving a path toward more potential electric school buses. By educating students and providing firsthand experience of riding an electric bus, there is a chance these future drivers might think twice about purchasing a mainstream vehicle and instead opt for an electric one.

According to Cass County Electric’s ChargePoint analytics, in the lifetime of our Level 3 public EV charging stations, we have avoided 4,092 kg of greenhouse gas emissions – that’s like planting 105 trees and letting them grow for 10 years! Together, let’s continue to lead the charge of electric technology.

CCEC public chargers In 2020, we partnered with West Acres Shopping Center, Hornbacher’s Gateway West, and the FM Convention and Visitors Bureau to bring three Level 3 fast chargers to the area. These chargers are the first of their kind on our system and some of the first in North Dakota. Based on sessions from October 2020 through August 2021, the average cost for charging is $13.35 for 28 kWh of energy and 46 minutes.

Depending upon the vehicle, this is approximately 100 miles of range.

Electric motorcycle Cass County Electric, Fargo Police Department, and Fargo Parks District partnered to bring the first all-electric patrol motorcycle to the area.

We installed our Level 3 DC fast chargers in easy-to-access locations for travelers close to the interstate.

These chargers are close to restaurants, shopping, and more to provide EV drivers something to occupy time while waiting for a full charge.

6 Highline Notes | September 2021

CassCountyElectric.com

The electric motorcycle has many advantages for both the public. Officer Marvig was the original assigned rider.

He patrolled places where other officers rarely or never get to with their vehicles, which offers a safer trail atmosphere for parkgoers. “There is peace of mind knowing that the police are around even when things are good.”

The Fargo Police Department officially oversees the electric patrol bike and uses it for community events and some traffic stops. By utilizing the bike to patrol the parks and educate the community it creates a positive impact, offering a roadmap and proving how electric vehicle technology is a unique and reliable tool.

FIND A STATION With the increasing popularity of EVs, as well as clean energy goals of municipalities, businesses and some government agencies, the nation’s EV charging network is growing – and that’s only going to continue.

In 2020 there were some 43,000 publicly accessible EV charging stations nationwide, according to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center. You can put range anxiety to sleep knowing there are tools to locate your next charge.

Google Maps If you already have Google Maps on your phone, you’re ahead of the game. In late 2018, Google announced it would support searches for EV charging stations on the Google Maps app. All you need to do is type “EV Charging Stations” or a related term into the search bar, and you’ll see a list of stations near you. Also included: the plug type, whether it’s free or paid, and how many chargers are available.

PlugShare PlugShare is one of the more popular apps for EV drivers. It provides information about public charging stations around the world and allows users to post check-ins,

ratings and reviews. It also allows is that many different companies you to filter by your charger type and own and operate their own even provides a trip planner tool. charging stations, and many of those companies require you to be a ChargeHub member in order to use the station.

ChargeHub is a communityThose memberships are often augmented charger finding app free, but you’ll want to sign up for that allows you to see charge type, them in advance and either get the find out if a charger is available, add membership card or download the your own personal charger to the company’s app. You’ll preload your network to share the love, and even credit card info so that when you pay for charging using the app. The get to the charging station, you can ChargeHub website offers discounts scan your card or the app and get on EV products, savings calculators, charging. a trip planner and lots of EV-related content.

There are also some free stations available – often at governmentTesla owned facilities like libraries or If you’re a Tesla owner, you’re really recreation centers, or at grocery missing out if you’re not using the stores. But they tend to be popular, Tesla app. Not only does it link you so you shouldn’t rely on them as up with Superchargers on your your only option for on-the-go route, it also works as a veritable charging. remote control for your car. It allows you to check charging progress and Here are some of the most popular start or stop charging, heat or cool charging networks. See which ones your car before getting into it, lock or operate near you and decide which unlock your car from afar, and more. one you’d like to sign up for.

Non-Tesla owner, the only reason to 1. ChargePoint download this app is to stoke your 2. Blink Tesla envy.

3. SemaConnect 4. EVgo Join these charging networks 5. Greenlots One of the main complicating 6. Tesla Supercharger factors in EV charging on the road

CassCountyElectric.com

September 2021 | Highline Notes 7

glossary EV Terminology

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1

Level 1 charger:

2

Level 2 charger:

Charges your EV using a Charges your EV at 240v using an standard household outlet up installed outlet. Level 2 chargers to 120v. Level 1 is the slowest are the recommended chargers method of charging and can take for EV owners. Level 2 can charge up to 24 hours or more to fully 5x faster than Level 1, which charge your EV. equals up to 26 miles per hour of charging.

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3

Level 3 charger: Also known as a DC or fast charger, and the fastest method of charging for all EVs. It can fully charge an EV battery in about half an hour. Infrastructure is expensive, but is steadily improving in our area.

Tesla Supercharger:

Off-peak charging:

Range anxiety:

A super-fast charging system that can provide up to 250 kW directly to the car’s battery. These systems are only available to Teslas.

Charging your electric vehicle at certain lowest-cost off-peak hours.

See page 5 for information.

Worry or stress that is caused due to the fear that an electric car will run out of battery power before the destination is reached.

DUE TO LOW DEALER STOCK, WE HAVE DECIDED TO POSTPONE OUR EV TAILGATE PARTY. STAY TUNED! 8 Highline Notes | September 2021

CassCountyElectric.com

THE ROAD TO EV CHARGING Imagine never going to the gas station again. If you’re a homeowner with an electric vehicle (EV), installing a Level 2 charger in your garage makes “refueling” a breeze. A Level 2 charger significantly cuts the time it takes to replenish the battery. To help our members charge faster, Cass County Electric Cooperative provides an incentive to help cover the cost of a charger when signing up for our off-peak program!

1| 2| 3| 4|

Determine your home’s eligibility.

Confirm with Cass County Electric that your home is eligible for charger installation and incentives.

Get an electrical assessment of your home.

Consult a licensed electrician to assess whether your electrical service has the capacity for a Level 2 charger. If you are building or remodeling, consider making your home EV ready by installing a dedicated 240-volt, 50-amp (minimum) circuit to serve a charger in the future.

Choose your charger.

Aside from Tesla-model vehicles, EVs and plug-ins in the U.S. use the SAEstandard J1772 plug. Level 2 chargers range in price from less than $500 to more than $1,000. Cass County Electric provides a $50/kw ($500/max) rebate toward the purchase of a Level 2 charger when installed on our off-peak system.

Arrange for the electrical work.

Contact a licensed electrician. This professional can add a new panel, make any necessary service upgrades and install your new charging station. This is also the point in time when your electrician will sign out a ripple control device that will provide the off-peak functionality that allows Cass County Electric to signal to the charger when to charge, earning you the discounted electric rate.

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Install the EV charging station.

Most charging stations are suspended on a wall in a garage near where the EV will be parked. Consider the distance to the charging port on the car and the length of the cord you plan to use when determining the location.

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Contact us to complete your application.

After you complete the steps above, contact us at energy@kwh.com or 701-356-4400. A Cass County Electric technician must inspect the service for you to receive the off-peak rate.

CassCountyElectric.com

September 2021 | Highline Notes 9

THIS IS NOT THE EV THE NORTH KNOWS.

THIS IS THE EV THE NORTH NEEDS.

Image via Ford

Need a workhorse that won’t drain your bank account?

The starting price for an F-150 Lightning is $39,974. Models that add more comfort and range features will start at $52,974, which is still an amazing price for all this EV has to offer.

Need the speed to pass quickly on a two-lane country road?

The Lightning is lightning fast, boasting 563 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of nearly instant torque. Here’s a reason to upgrade to the extendedrange battery – its 0-60 mph time is in the mid-4-second range.

The electric vehicle (EV) North Dakotans and Minnesotans have been waiting for is here.

Ford has announced it will start delivering its all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning in 2022, and dealers have already been overwhelmed with reservations from those who see the benefits of the future-focused pickup.

We understand some members still have apprehensions about EVs. Our region needs strength and durability to get things done.

But this name is recognized for being tough, and this F-150 will be no different.

Need a “tank” that will handle a full day of driving from field to field?

The basic range for the Lightning is 230 miles, more than enough to tackle all of your daily tasks before plugging in at night. You can also choose an extended range-battery that will boost you to 300 miles.

Need a generator when that wicked storm takes down your electric line for a couple of hours?

Ford Intelligent Backup Power turns the truck into a power source with the ability to deliver 9.6 kilowatts.

Plug in and keep your lights, appliances and security system running for up to three days.

Need the strength to tow the boat to the lake?

The truck targets a maximum 2,000 pounds of payload, but drivers can see up to 10,000 pounds of towing capacity with the extended-range battery and Trailer Tow Package.

Need a vehicle that won’t emit exhaust into the clean rural air you love so much?

Like all fully electric vehicles, the F-150 Lightning does not produce emissions. Not only are you keeping your homestead air cleaner, you’re contributing to a global effort to reduce transportation emissions.

You need an all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning.

Image via Ford

Image via Ford

Image via Ford

If you’re interested in making a $100, fully refundable reservation, contact your nearest EV-certified Ford Dealer.

Cass County Electric Cooperative can make your switch to electric even easier with our home charger rebate (up to $500) and our super-low, off-peak charging rate. Learn more at our EV webpage, CassCountyElectric.com/EV. 10 Highline Notes | September 2021 CassCountyElectric.com

safety Will charging your electric vehicle leave you singin’ in the rain?

Many novice electric vehicle (EV) owners and those interested in plug-in cars wonder what will happen if they charge their electric vehicle in wet or snowy conditions.

Will I get shocked? Is it dangerous?

Those are good questions to ask because usually electricity and water do not mix. Normally, standing on a wet surface and plugging something in is a bad idea.

However, using your EV charging equipment is usually safe to do in wet conditions. The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) designed and rigorously tested EV charging equipment to ensure safe charging in almost any weather conditions (we don’t advise it during a flood, for example).

The car’s electrical system is engineered to resist rain and water intrusion, as well as dust particles, all of which could damage it.

Reputable charging equipment systems should be engineered with the same precautions. After all, if they weren’t, EV enthusiasts

could only charge their vehicles on a nice day – and we know North Dakota weather isn’t always pleasant.

That being said, there are some general charging station precautions to keep in mind. Safe Electricity and Cass County Electric point out these EV charging safety tips: 1. All components of a charging station should be in good working order. Look closely for signs of vandalism or disrepair.

2. Although it sounds obvious, never use an EV charger if it’s off its base or otherwise damaged, which could be caused by a natural disaster, major construction mishap, or other type of accident.

3. If you are considering having a Level 2 charging station installed at home, make sure it’s certified by a reputable and independent testing laboratory (or purchased from the car manufacturer) and professionally installed.

(See page 8 for the different CassCountyElectric.com

charging levels) Level 1 charging requires a regular outlet. Level 2 equipment requires a 240v outlet.

4. Always follow manufacturer’s directions when charging your vehicle.

5. Place charging components up and out of reach when not in use.

6. If you have an at-home unit in a carport or exposed area, make sure the outlet is covered so that water does not get inside the outlet.

For more information about electrical safety, go to CassCountyElectric.com/ SafetyBlog.

If you have questions about an at-home Level 2 charging station and its energy use, contact us at 701-356-4400. Level 3 changing stations, which fully charge an EV in about an hour or less, are usually offered at public charging stations.

See page 7 for where to find public charging stations.

September 2021 | Highline Notes 11

tech An e-bike for everyone

Have you been curious about electric bicycles (or e-bikes) cruising around your neighborhood? If you’re wondering how they work or why you would even want one, you’re in good company – we’ve heard the same questions from our members. We decided to check in with the Grand Forks Scheels store to learn more about this newly trending technology.

John Vojacek, Scheels service shop manager and e-bike expert, says his store has carried battery-powered bikes for more than six years. However, they’ve become more mainstream in the past year or so as people begin experiencing the wide range of benefits for every age and activity level. Vojacek loves hearing stories from customers whose lives have been enhanced by a little electric pedal assistance.

“One gentleman who winters in Arizona, he would sit on his porch and every morning he’d watch a bike group go by – just a simple coffee ride,” he recounted.

“He said there was no way he could keep up, but now with an e-bike, he can ride with that group down to the corner to get coffee. It’s exciting, on our side, to know that we can help folks fit in or keep up.”

expensive (some up to $7,000 or more), and there are also some that are less. However, Vojacek urges potential buyers to seek out a store with an e-biketrained service staff (like Scheels) or a knowledgeable independent bike shop to ensure you are purchasing a safe and durable bike with a UL-listed battery.

“E-bikes in Europe are huge, and have become one of the main ways people get around. That technology is now making its way over here, and they already have all of the kinks worked out. They’re super reliable and super easy to use,” he said.

E-bike batteries can typically be charged from depleted to full power in three hours, giving 30-80 miles in assisted range, depending on performance setting.

Some daily commuters (who arrive to work sweat-free) will plug in their bike or battery pack at their desk and have a full charge for the ride home. The effective range of the battery does decrease in colder temperatures, but the batteries are water resistant for off-roading experiences that take a rider through puddles or rain.

“If you’ve never ridden one before, come in and take one for a test ride. We see guests with a ‘perma-grin’ E-bikes have three levels of classification. Class 1 e-bikes when they get back, because they’re so much fun to give electric pedal assist only, with the motor simply ride,” Vojacek said, adding that they are a great way to amplifying the rider’s pedal power up to 20 mph. Class 2 work toward health goals. “It makes it enjoyable to get e-bikes have the same 20-mph cutoff, but they are also out and ride. If you enjoy the activity, you’re going to do allowed to have a throttle, allowing the motor to fully it a lot more than if it’s a chore.” propel the rider forward. Class 3 are higher-performing e-bikes, with a drive system that will assist pedaling up Our Scheels expert doesn’t yet have an e-bike at home to 28 mph.

– but he’ll soon be one of the many taking a seat. “I have two young boys that are into racing BMX right Scheels usually stocks Class 1 and Class 3 models, now. When they get into high school, there’s no way I’m with prices ranging from around $1,500 for the going to be able to keep up with them on a bike, so an Electra Townie Go up to $3,150 for the popular Verve e-bike is going to be my jam,” he said with a chuckle.

3 Trek. There are models on the market that are more 12 Highline Notes | September 2021 CassCountyElectric.com

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food

Visit our Pinterest page for more recipes!

You won’t even need utensils to eat these meals on wheels! Just store the soup in an insulated thermos, pop the lid and enjoy!

Email recipes to ccec@kwh.com or mail to: Cass County Electric; Highline Notes, 4100 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, ND 58104

Homemade artisan bread Ingredients

3 1/4 cups bread flour (spooned & leveled) Bread flour for hands and pan 2 teaspoons instant yeast 2 teaspoons coarse salt 1 1/2 cups cool water

Preparation

In a large ungreased mixing bowl, whisk the flour, yeast, and salt together. Pour in the cool water and gently mix with a spatula.

Keep working it until all the flour is moistened. The dough will be sticky. Shape into a ball in the bowl.

Cover the dough tightly with plastic wrap and set on the counter at room temperature and allow to rise for 2-3 hours. The

dough will just about double in size, stick to the sides of the bowl, and have a lot of air bubbles. Let risen, covered dough rest in the refrigerator for at least 12 - 24 hours. The dough will puff up during this time but may begin to deflate after 2 days – this is nothing to worry about.

Lightly dust a large nonstick baking sheet with flour. Turn the cold dough out onto a floured work surface and cut dough in half. Some air bubbles will deflate as you work with it. Place dough halves on prepared baking sheet.

Using floured hands, shape into 2 boules (round loaf), 3 inches apart.

Loosely cover and allow to rest for 45 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 475°F. When ready to bake, using a very sharp knife, score the bread loaves with 3 slashes, about 1/2 inch deep.

Bake for 25 minutes or until the crust is golden brown. Gently tap the loaves – if they sound hollow, the bread is done. Store leftovers loosely covered at room temperature for up to 5 days or in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.

Flavor ideas: Before pouring in the water, add any of the following combinations of ingredients to the dry ingredients: minced garlic, chopped rosemary, fresh herb, shredded cheese, a diced jalapeño, dried cranberries, chopped nuts, garlic powder, etc.

Spicy avocado cucumber cold soup Ingredients

2 cucumbers - peeled, deseeded, and chopped 2 avocados, coarsely chopped 2 teaspoons Thai green curry paste 2 teaspoons sugar 2 teaspoons finely grated lime zest 1 serrano chili, deseeded and chopped 1 13-ounce can unsweetened coconut milk 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice Salt

Preparation

In a food processor, puree the cucumbers until smooth.

Add the avocados, curry paste, sugar, lime zest and chili.

Process until blended. Add 3 1/2 cups of water, the coconut milk and lime juice and process until smooth. Transfer the soup to a large bowl and season with salt. Cover and refrigerate until chilled. Ladle the soup into thermos.

CassCountyElectric.com

September 2021 | Highline Notes 13

photo ND Through Your Eyes

We look forward to publishing member photos that encompass anything North Dakota. Upload your image to CassCountyElectric.com/photo to have your image considered for the magazine.

Felicia Teske, West Fargo

Cass County Electric Cooperative Mission: To serve our members’ energy needs with affordable and reliable electricity.

Cass County Electric Cooperative Values: Safety, Integrity, Innovation, Accountability, and Community 14 Highline Notes | September 2021 CassCountyElectric.com

o

ads

Decades of value

Member market

All ads must be 40 words or fewer and will be abbreviated following our guidelines. No real estate or commercial ads will be accepted. Ads are published for members at no charge as space permits on a first-received, first-printed basis. Ads are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication.

Members may submit only one ad per issue. Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any ad. Email ads to: ccec@kwh.com.

For sale: Lenox China. Repertoire pattern. Service for 8 w/serving bowls & platter. Used very little and stored in China protectors w/ foam between items. Asking $500 but will accept reasonable offers. Photos avail. 701388-7330 Stihl Blower vacuum gas powered, $50.

701-367-8626 8’ Boss v plow, fit 1973-1987 Chevy pickup, 1981 Sea Nymph Runabout w/70hp mec.

701-588-4538 Remmington elec. pole saw. 2000W Powerhorse generator. Campbell Hausfeld framing nailer. Dewalt elec. ½” impact wrench. BxD 4 ½” angle grinder. 37” Westinghouse flat screen TV. 5 – 30”X72” white resin tables. 701-730-4080 2006 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo 4x4, color taupe, automatic, brown leather seats, no tears, no rust or body damage & good tires, new radiator, water pump & 17,000 on rebuilt engine. My son joined the Marines. $4,500. 701-371-1989 Tikka T3 bolt action rifle, 300WSM, laminated, stainless, 3 clips, ex. cond., $800.

Beretta A391 3.5 Xtrema, 12-gauge semi auto shotgun, 28” barrel, several chokes, soft case, ex. cond., $850. 701-866-4183 Interior/exterior paint & stain $1/gal, many colors. Text 701-540-7929 Older Model 4 Remington 7 MM Express semi auto rifle, Monti Carlo wood stock, Bushnell scope w/covers, leather sling, 2 boxes of shells, $500 cash. 701-238-5797

On July 27, 2021, the board of directors approved the following amendments to Bylaws Article VI – Early Retirement of Capital Credits The Bylaws now read Section 6.6 (D) – small capital accounts. The board

Toothpaste

1937... $0.35 2021... $6.47 Increase... 18x

4”-WF overhead crane, 15’ long, pivots at one end, w/trolley. Airplane T-hanger, to be moved. 3-point planter toolbar, 22.5’, 7”x7” tube, w/markers & assorted openers, hydraulic motors & hoses. All offers considered. 701-730-3638 A good used car; 2005 Buick Lesabre, custom, 114k mi, auto, tilt wheel, 3.8 litter V6 engine, many new upgrades, $4,995.

701-289-0260 Vintage galvanized heavy-duty washtub w/double basins, wheeled stand & hoses, made by C.H.F.S. Co. $200. Vintage Cosco metal high chair, blue vinyl, great shape. $145. 701-306-1736 2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, $2,000/OBO. Pontoon lift., $1,800. Bedroom curtains for little boys room (footballs w/ teddy bears) Free. 701-645-2244 or 701-238-1976 Wanted: Motorcycles & ATV’s, all makes & models, all years, any condition. 701-361-7289 Looking to purchase 1-4 acres in Mapleton Township. Not for a house. Will be digging a pond and putting in a beach to create a bit of a lake environment for my family.

440-228-6541 Free: Montgomery Ward sewing machine works good, but needs a belt, attachments included. Free to a good home. 701-2813476 Blue pickup topper for Chevy S10 pickup.

You haul. 701-799-6661

shall have the discretionary power to retire capital credits account of $1,000 or less (“small capital accounts”) at any time under terms and conditions as established by the board. The previous amount of small capital accounts was $500.

CassCountyElectric.com

Electricity

1937... 5¢/kwh 2021... 11¢/kwh Increase... 2x

Affordable, reliable electricity is something you can count on as a cooperative member.

While the cost of everyday items has increased, the cost of electricity has remained a powerful value.

September 2021 | Highline Notes 15

800-248-3292 | CassCountyElectric.com 4100 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, ND 58104

Autumn events!

Lost in the Valley at the RRV Fairgrounds

$10 MEMBER DEAL for pumpkin, hayride, and corn maze!

Friday, October 8, from 5:00 - 9:00 PM Saturday, October 9, from 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Sunday, October 10, from 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, concessions, and much more!

Visit CassCountyElectric.com/RRVF-LostValley for discount information.

Member Meetings

Swag, food, friends, and cooperative news!

Valley City Eagles

Thursday, October 14, at 5:30 PM

Fargo Hilton

Tuesday, October 19, at 5:30 PM

Visit CassCountyElectric.com/events for detailed event information and more autumn experiences!

16 Highline Notes | September 2021 CassCountyElectric.com