January Highline Notes 2022

HIGHLINE notes January 2022

The story behind the storyteller, page 4 Putting the pedal to the metal, page 6 Meet Director Seymour, page 8

CassCountyElectric.com

January 2022 | Highline Notes 1

editorial 2021 Recap

Marshal Albright, Cass County Electric Cooperative president & CEO

gas heating bill was 64% higher than last year in December.

Although the price for natural gas has recently come down, it remains higher than in previous years. For members that use offpeak heating, you will likely use more propane as a backup, and with the cost of propane being higher, your total heating cost will be impacted.

Load control Volatile wholesale power market prices continue to impact load control hours. Power generation availability and fuel cost affect Growth the wholesale power market The 2021 construction year in the price. Transmission line capacity, metro was robust, with more than congestion, and availability also 1,000 new homes built as the Cass influence the cost of wholesale County Electric member base power when electricity cannot be continues to increase, now over sent from one region to the other.

55,000 accounts. New commercial The power generation sources growth also continues to be that supply power to the grid strong. Overall kilowatt-hours are changing from less baseload sales are up over 3% compared to supply to more intermittent last year, and revenue is expected sources; as more renewable to exceed $140 million. We energy is added to the grid, the anticipate year-end margins will volatility in price increases. For be over $7 million, and as a notexample, the wholesale power for-profit cooperative, the margins price is usually high when wind will be allocated back to the generation is low and demand members as patronage capital. is high. To avoid high market price purchases, Minnkota Power Home heating Cooperative controls loads For members who heat with when our wind, hydro, and coal natural gas or propane, you have resources cannot meet the power likely noticed your heating bill is demand. higher than last year. My natural

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Reliability Our distribution system reliability remains high at 99.99% available.

In 2021, the cooperative started a project to incorporate AI (artificial intelligence) controls to aid in outage restoration efforts on critical metro power supply infrastructure feeds. The devices will automatically sense a problem on the line, isolate the fault, and re-route power from a different source to limit the power outage duration and members impacted.

Commitment to Community In 2021, Operation Round Up gave out over $219,000 to local nonprofits. See page 11 for a complete list of donations. Operation Round Up is funded by members that agree to round up their electric bill to the nearest dollar. Since its inception, the program has paid out over $3.5 million to help our communities.

Affordability Your cooperative’s board and employees continue to focus on managing the operation of the cooperative by systematically maintaining the electrical infrastructure, planning for the future by incorporating innovative technologies, and providing excellent service.

Fundamentally, our daily mission is to supply reliable and affordable electricity to Cass County Electric Cooperative members.

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Highline Notes

Content in every issue

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outages impact

safety

tech

recipes

ads

Board meeting highlights October The Cass County Electric Board of Directors met in person on Oct. 26, 2021, and discussed the following topics: • Moved to approve the Oct. 2021 consent agenda of the regular board meeting consisting of minutes, monthly department reports, director expense report, and the Sept. Purchased Power Adjustment (PPA).

• President/CEO Marshal Albright gave the President’s Report reporting on updates from retreats and conferences attended.

• Received the third quarter 2021 financial report.

• Discussed options for the 2022 IT Audit.

• Received reports from the Square Butte, Minnkota Power Cooperative, and NDAREC board meetings.

• Received the 2020 Key Ratio Trends Analysis presentation from NRUCFC. • Received a report from the Rate, Audit, and Finance Board Committee.

• Moved to approve revisions to 17 policies.

• Moved to approve loan guaranty documents for NDAREC. • Moved to approve the October 2021 Capital Credit estate payments.

• Moved to approve a cost of living adjustment to the non-union pay scales for 2022.

• Moved to approve director attendance at the Center for Cooperatives Cooperate 2021 (Nov. 16-17, 2021).

• Reviewed upcoming meetings and events.

November The Cass County Electric Board of Directors met in person on November 30, 2021, and discussed the following topics: • Moved to approve the November 2021 consent agenda of the regular board meeting consisting of minutes,

monthly department reports, director expense report, and the October Purchased Power Adjustment (PPA).

• President/CEO Marshal Albright gave the President’s Report reporting on updates from retreats and conferences attended and gave a preview of the 2022 Business Plan.

• Moved to approve the City of Horace Franchise Agreement.

• Moved to approve the 2022 Annual Meeting voting options, including absentee ballot by request and inperson voting.

• Received the October 2021 financial report.

• Received the 2022 preliminary budget preview by each department.

• Approved the 2022 IT Scope of Work Agreement with Eide Bailly, LLP. • Approved the 2022 Letter of Engagement for the 2021 Financial Audit with Eide Bailly, LLP. • Received a presentation on the costs and number of issues sent to members for both the Highline Notes and North Dakota Living.

• Received reports from the Minnkota Power Cooperative and NDAREC board meetings.

• Moved to approve revisions to Policy 220.

• Received a report from the Center for Cooperatives - Co-operate 2021 conference.

• Moved to approve the November 2021 Capital Credit estate payments.

• The board elected Director Triebold to serve as 2022 NDAREC director and Director Seymour as the alternate.

• Reviewed upcoming meetings and events.

The next board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 25, 2022.

CassCountyElectric.com

Volume 80, Number 1

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 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.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Highline Notes 3312 42nd St. S., Suite 200 Fargo, ND 58104 © Copyright Cass County Electric Cooperative 2022. 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.

January 2022 | Highline Notes 3

The story behind the storyteller Cass County Electric’s Sara Hand uses her talents to put the cooperative community in the spotlight Written by: Kaylee Cusack, Communications Specialist, Minnkota Power Cooperative Rural electric cooperative life has always been flowing through Sara Hand’s veins. Her parents are members of Beltrami Electric Cooperative in her hometown of Bemidji, Minn. and her grandparents are members of Red Lake Electric Cooperative. But it wasn’t until she was hired at Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC) that she truly began to realize what was at the heart of the co-op system – and how she could share that heartbeat with others.

“A short while after starting, I learned what a cooperative actually was, and I loved the community feel,” Sara recalled. “I was able to meet and talk to people within my same position at other co-ops, as well as so many people in other positions. All those

connections really just make you feel like family.”

Sara has been in the co-op’s communications department for three years. She’s the brain behind every informative or amusing CCEC post on Facebook and Instagram, the designer responsible for the coop’s website, and the eye behind the vibrant videos and photography you see across platforms. She has endless skills, but one main goal.

“The thing I live for in my job is telling the cooperative story,” Sara said.

Sara works across all CCEC departments to show memberconsumers (and the general public) the collaboration it takes to make the lights come on every day.

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Every person plays a role, from the accountants to the engineers to the member services representatives.

There’s nothing Sara enjoys more than digging in and learning each role firsthand.

“For example, I’m able to go out with the line crews and really showcase what they do. Honestly, before I came to the co-op, I really didn’t understand what a lineworker was,” she said.

“Now, I realize how important they are to society and the cooperative itself.”

“A co-op communicator doesn’t have to only know about writing, photography, design, video and marketing. They have a highly complex job, requiring a massive knowledge base that spans the cooperative,” said Jocelyn Hovland,

CCEC manager of communications.

“Sara is highly inquisitive, consistently wondering how processes work, testing what communication techniques perform, and eager to learn more and share more.”

CCEC’s multimedia maven isn’t scared to strap on a hard hat and boots to get the story. Her most memorable moments have been gearing up to climb a pole in safety training – which she says is MUCH harder than it looks – and journeying through a Valley City slough to document a pole change-out.

“I took a photo of the four linemen in the water with their waders, and that picture actually made it onto

the cover of North Dakota Living magazine,” she said, adding that Ducks Unlimited reached out to use the photo when they saw all four lineworkers were sporting Ducks Unlimited waders. “Just knowing that I took a photo that a lot of people liked and wanted to use – that made me feel really good.”

Kreamery, a gelato and boba tea store in Fargo, so naturally Sara assists with the creative side. As an avid animal lover, she fosters kittens at the home she shares with her forever cat, Echo.

But for those moments when she sets aside career and community commitments, her heart is with the great outdoors.

Hovland says Sara’s enthusiasm for the cooperative and the energy she creates in the community gives her co-op team something to aspire to.

“I admire her drive and attitude. We couldn’t do all that we do without her here,” she said.

“The Minnesota girl in me sometimes misses my Bemidji trees, so I thoroughly enjoy going for a good hike or walk outside and just feeling the fresh air,” she said with a laugh.

Recently together with her husband Brady, they purchased Kones

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Sara has been with CCEC since October 2018 and was recently promoted to Communications Specialist.

January 2022 | Highline Notes 5

McNeilus Steel employees use levelers, stretchers, laser cutters, brake presses and more to craft the steel elements they supply.

Putting the pedal to the metal As McNeilus Steel rapidly expands Fargo production, Cass County Electric provides efficiency and savings It just takes a quick walk through McNeilus Steel’s newest Fargo facility to feel the weight of the growing industry. To the left, one finds large pallets of stock-sized cut steel. To the right, impressively giant leveling and stretching machinery processes product to lay flat. Even the rafters are packing power.

Minn., but expanded to Fargo in 1997. Since then, demand and opportunity allowed for a second Fargo building in 2010, which experienced its own expansions in 2011 and 2018. McNeilus now boasts a 500,000-square-foot facility footprint, and Wolf says there’s no intention of slowing down.

“That crane back there, that’s a 40-ton lift – 80,000 pounds,” said McNeilus Steel general manager Chad Wolf, pointing to the ceilingmounted rig near the building’s loading area. “Each steel coil is between 40,000-60,000 pounds.

These cranes are smaller at 10 tons, or 20,000 pounds,” he continued as his gesture moved to the machine gliding overhead.

“We could definitely see more expansion. It’s going to be customer and market driven, but we’re set up to succeed, and that’s very much the focus of our ownership,” he said.

“Their strategy is to continue to grow and reinvest in the company.”

This is the strength McNeilus Steel needs to carry out its mission of supplying steel and steel solutions to its customer base, which has continued to grow over the years.

The three-generation family-owned company began in Dodge Center,

When Wolf started with McNeilus Steel in 2008, the Fargo arm of company had grown from a dozen to 45 employees in order to ship around 450,000 pounds of product a day. Today, their team includes 163 people, shipping up to 1.2 million pounds a day within a 5-hour radius around Fargo. Unlike many companies, they have not lost employees or productivity during

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the COVID pandemic.

“We’re pretty lucky. We have a really great team and people have stuck it out with us,” Wolf said. “We have even added some employees since.

We have a reputation for being a good place to work, and a place that takes care of its people and cares.

That makes it easier to retain people.”

Power of partnership As McNeilus Steel continues to grow, so does its list of power needs. More production means more fiber-optic laser cutters (up to 15,000 watts), more brake presses, more lights, more everything. But as a business member of Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC), they aren’t concerned.

“Even with the robust growth they’ve seen, with additions and the new laser cutting line, it hasn’t been reflected in the electricity bill, because it’s been offset by some of the other efficiencies they’ve been finding,” said Chad Brousseau, CCEC

business accounts executive.

“The partnership with Cass County Electric has been great,” said McNeilus Steel operations manager Travis Qualley. “I can reach out to Chad and say, ‘Hey, we’re adding some new machines – how are we sitting? Is our transformer going to hold up?’ He’s helped with different ideas about how to save money and what other people are doing, or ways to trim our energy use.”

CCEC helped McNeilus Steel integrate one of the company’s large, 200-kilowatt generators into CCEC’s commercial demand response (or off-peak) program, saving about 20-25% on their electric bill by switching over to a backup generator during peak demand times. Brousseau says most industrial facilities already have an emergency backup generator to avoid outages, so the program just makes sense.

Qualley and Brousseau also worked together on a major lighting retrofit project in both Fargo facilities, swapping out 1,000-watt metal halides with new 270-watt LEDs.

The project is nearly 100% complete, and the company has already seen significant energy savings.

“We ran some ROI (return on investment) factors, and it was definitely worth the investment. It was a three-year payback,” Qualley explained.

“And the quality of light on the floor is better, too,” Wolf added. “It’s just a different kind of light. It’s brighter, and the guys really appreciate it.”

Brousseau explained that before the lighting retrofit, the north facility generator used to be overloaded in the summer – they could only run it during the winter. Now, this new level of efficiency has dropped their summer load enough that they can take advantage of the generator in both seasons. “That expanded the savings even more,” he said.

Community first McNeilus Steel couldn’t do what it does without the co-op, but the co-op couldn’t do what it does without McNeilus Steel. The company produces the strips of shaped steel used for the booms

of bucket trucks – the key fleet tool of CCEC lineworkers. McNeilus also works closely with other locally based equipment manufacturers to supply the steel needed to make ag-implements, trailers, airport ground support equipment, loaders, excavators and attachments.

Wolf says a part of their mission is supporting the needs of the Fargo community and the businesses of the Minnesota-Dakota region. But he reiterates that the foundation of the company’s success isn’t just new state-of-the art equipment – it has always been the people. All McNeilus shipping routes allow their drivers to be back home in Fargo by the end of the day, and no employee needs to worry about working a Saturday, as operations halt that day for a rest.

“It’s the little things. It’s not just pay,” Wolf said, describing spring family picnics and pickup giveaways at company Christmas parties. “There are so many things that we do for employees.”

“Our team is excellent,” Qualley added. “We couldn’t accomplish what we do without a great team.”

McNeilus Steel general manager Chad Wolf and operations manager Travis Qualley showcase one of the multi-ton coils of steel waiting to be processed at their Fargo facility.

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January 2022 | Highline Notes 7

Tom and Anita Seymour keeping score at the 3 on 3 Showdown Basketball Tournament in West Fargo.

Grandson, Solveig Seymour plays basketball for West Fargo High School and grandson Haakon Seymour plays basketball for Cheney Middle School in West Fargo.

director

Tom Seymour District: District 5 (West Fargo)

Years of service: Elected in 2017 (4 years)

Hometown: Cavalier, N.D.

Co-op board positions held: • NRECA Electric Directors Advisory Group Education: • Alternate representative for • Ph.D., Colorado State University, NDAREC board meetings Fort Collins, Colorado • M.A., University of North Dakota Training completed: • B.S., Mayville State University • NRECA Board Leadership Certificate Career/profession: • NRECA Credentialed • Professorships at Minot Cooperative Director Certificate State University, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, and Describe yourself in three words.

Murray State University Driven to succeed • Dean of Instruction at Ellsworth Community College and others What motivates you?

• North Dakota state senator Helping others succeed (2002-2010) 8 Highline Notes | January 2022

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What is your dream job?

Heading up a technology department What advice have you received that was the most impactful?

Your family is a daily priority What do you feel is the biggest strength of CCEC right now?

The cooperative leadership and its employees What is your favorite part about being a CCEC director?

Showing leadership with new ideas and learning by attending various events and listening to member-owners

This is hockey territory.

We know the more sticks you have on the ice, the stronger your power play becomes. That’s why we start every season with a deep bench of energy resources. We’re all in on all-of-the-above energy.

Coal-based power plant is the backbone of your power supply when extreme weather strikes For Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC), the highest demand for electricity comes in the winter months when days are shorter, heating systems are used regularly and people mostly stay inside. During extreme weather events, electricity needs skyrocket, creating significant strain on power generation and delivery resources. Minnkota Power Cooperative, CCEC’s wholesale power provider, has been successful in responding to these events by using its coal, wind, hydro and demand response resources.

While all generation resources are impacted by extreme weather, the biggest operational challenges in our region relate to wind facilities, which can be prone to shut down in extreme subzero temperatures.

For Minnkota, the most reliable and resilient resource in its power supply portfolio is the coal-based Milton R. Young Station. This large power plant located 35 miles from Bismarck, N.D., has operated dependably through numerous extreme weather events, which has helped ensure homes stay warm, hospitals are running and essential businesses are able to operate.

The following four attributes help ensure the Young Station is ready for any challenges that may arise.

No fuel transportation issues The Young Station is a mine-mouth power plant.

That means the coal mine is located nearby to the power plant, which ensures the plant can receive fuel consistently with no transportation issues. Fuel does not need to be delivered via train or pipeline from long distances. In addition, more than three weeks of coal usage are stored on-site.

Prepared for mother nature All of the Young Station’s major components are covered, insulated and weatherized to ensure they can operate in extreme cold or heat.

Prudent maintenance The Young Station is well-maintained, which ensures it is able to run for the majority of the hours each year.

In fact, in 2020, both generating units were available to produce power more than 93% of the time.

Commitment of employees The Young Station has employees on-site 24 hours per day to operate and monitor the generation of power, environmental control technologies and related cyber assets. Personnel are trained and ready to respond to numerous system issues.

CassCountyElectric.com

January 2022 | Highline Notes 9

Power outage preparation Winter can be a beautiful time of the year with white snow and sparkling ice, but that same winter weather can also wreak havoc on communities. It can cause roads to be treacherous, schools to be closed, and sometimes your power to go out. Are you prepared for what winter weather can bring?

Mike Mead, manager of safety says, “Heavy snow and accumulating ice can easily bring tree limbs down onto power lines, cutting off power to homes and businesses. Making plans now for a potential power outage can make riding out a prolonged power outage safer and more comfortable.”

Some steps to help keep your family safe and comfortable during a winter storm need to happen long before a storm is forecast. A good way to start your planning is to put an emergency kit together.

Safe Electricity offers the following list of items to help you prepare your kit: • Water – stock up on bottled water • Food – have at least enough for three days that includes nonperishable packaged or canned foods, juices, foods for infants or the elderly, and snack foods • Utensils – include a non-electric can opener, cooking tools, paper plates, and plastic utensils • Blankets, pillows, and warm clothing items • First-aid kit, medicine, and prescription drugs • Toiletries, hygiene items, moist towelettes • Flashlight and extra batteries • Radio and clock – use battery-operated radios and clocks; also consider purchasing a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio • Telephone – keep cellphone chargers (wall, car, and/or solar) on hand and, if you have a landline, a traditional (not cordless) telephone set • Emergency numbers – keep a list of emergency telephone numbers, including CCEC • Cash and credit cards • Important documents • Tools – keep a set in your kit; can include duct

tape, screwdrivers, pliers, safety goggles, etc.

• Toys, books, and games • Pet-care items • Supplies for alternate heating methods you may have, such as a fireplace or wood-burning stove Other tasks that can be completed well in advance of a storm are to have the power company or a tree-trimming professional remove limbs that could fall on power lines if they become covered in ice or snow, to insulate your home by installing storm windows or plastic covering on windows, to caulk cracks in your home, and to make sure your heating system is in proper working order.

If your power goes out due to a winter storm, you might be in for a prolonged power outage as crews work through the harsh weather to get your power back on. If you find yourself in this situation, make sure you contact CCEC as soon as you can so we know you have lost power. Other actions you can take to stay safe and comfortable are: • Stay inside and dress warm in layered clothing.

• Close off unneeded rooms.

• When using an alternative heat source, follow operating instructions, use fire safeguards, and be sure to properly ventilate. Always keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it.

• Place a rolled-up rug or heavy towel in front of the bottom of doors to minimize any cold drafts from entering the house.

• Cover windows at night.

• Keep a close eye on the temperature in your home.

• Infants and people over the age of 65 are more susceptible to the cold. You may want to stay with friends or relatives or go to a shelter if you cannot keep your home warm.

To report and view outage status, download the Cass County Electric mobile app.

10 Highline Notes | January 2022 CassCountyElectric.com

impact

Operation Round Up Cass County Electric Cooperative Foundation

Cass County Electric Cooperative members that round their bills up, and employees that round down their paychecks, have raised more than $3.5 million for local nonprofit organizations. These funds benefit members within Cass County Electric Cooperative’s service area. If your nonprofit organization is interested in applying for funds, please visit CassCountyElectric.com/oru.

December 9, 2021

Applications reviewed Organization 17 Individual 2 Emergency 0 Applications approved Organization 15 $60,677.42 Individual 2 $2,500 Emergency 0 $0 Applications denied 2 Applications tabled 0 2021 Summary Per member average contribution $5.29 Average member participation 82.2% Total income $213,068 (Includes contributions, interest earned, and donations/memorials.)

Applications approved

58

2021 Recipients American Red Cross - Dakotas Region Marketplace of Ideas/Marketplace for Kids, Inc. Friends of the Children - FargoMoorhead Presentation Partners in Housing HEART Program Jeremiah Program Catholic Charities of ND American Gold Gymnastics Mapleton Volunteer Fire Department First Lutheran Sewing Ladies Child Evangelism Fellowship of Fargo-Moorhead Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity Red River Human Services Foundation Scottish Rite Language Center Impact-Red River Market Fund

Haley’s Hope, Inc. GiGi’s Playhouse, Fargo Kindred Park Board Anne Carlsen Center-Jamestown Bridges Arts Council Friends of the Gill School HERO Family HealthCare Memory Café of the Red River Valley Ronald McDonald House Harwood Fire and Rescue New Life Center Great Plains Food Bank Abused Persons Outreach Center, Inc. Prairie Public Broadcasting Soul Solutions Recovery Center HOPE, Inc. Down Home Lisbon Pool Preservers

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Community of Care-Arthur Dakota Boys and Girls Ranch Box of Balloons-Fargo Essentia Health Regional Foundation Junior Achievement Hospice of the Red River Valley United Way of Cass-Clay Handi-Wheels Transportation Valley City Barnes County Rescue Squad Abuse Resource Network Valley City Eagles Club #2192 HeartSprings Community Healing Center Cass Clay Community Land Trust Cass County Historical SocietyBonanzaville YWCA Cass Clay Lutheran Church of the Cross

January 2022 | Highline Notes 11

32% of home fires are caused by space heaters

safety

Shopping for a space heater? Choose wisely.

If your home heating system does not deliver the toasty warmth you want or you would like to dial down your thermostat to save on your energy bill, a space heater can help make up the difference.

Multiple types exist on the market, but the most important thing to remember is to buy one that you can operate safely.

Dispose of old space heaters with exposed coils, those that are dangerous to use (e.g., worn or cracked cords) or those that operate inefficiently. Many that are available today have safety features that older versions do not, such as timers, tip-over prevention or auto shut-off.

Before you purchase an electric heater, determine the square footage of the space you want to warm and whether you have a safe spot to place it. Inefficient or excessively large options will only run up your electric bill without much benefit to you or your family.

Types of space heaters include:

Metal coil and fan: Perhaps the most common and affordable type of space heater, this type uses electricity to heat a metal coil that is safely tucked inside. The fan(s) suck cold air from the room, heat it, and redistribute it at a higher temperature.

Ceramic radiant: Similar to the metal coil variety, these space heaters also include ceramic plates inside. They absorb and store heat so that it radiates outward, even after you turn the heater off. Quick and long-lasting radiant heat makes these some of the most efficient space heaters.

Infrared: These larger and usually more expensive space heaters use electromagnetic waves to heat objects in the room. In other words, your furniture, walls and you are heated up safely, so the increased temperature radiates out from everything. This technology is often used in fake fireplaces.

Radiator-style oil: If you like the appearance of old-fashioned

12 Highline Notes | January 2022 CassCountyElectric.com

radiators or need something larger without a fan, consider an oil-filled space heater. An upside is that these radiate a lot of heat after they are turned off; the downside is that the unit itself can get quite hot and increase the risk of burns.

No matter what type of heater you choose, there are safety precautions you should follow.

These will help prevent house fires, property damage and injury.

• Use a space heater with a minimum of three feet of clearance on all sides.

•Do not put a heater in a doorway or high-traffic area in the home.

• Place the heater on a flat, safe surface.

• Consider using one with built-in safety features.

• Do not plug one into an extension cord.

• Never leave a space heater unattended; unplug it and put it away when not in use.

To access more electrical safety articles, visit CassCountyElectric.com.

tech

What’s the buzz about electric chainsaws

5 things to know about cordless battery chainsaws Most people associate operating a chainsaw with a series of headaches.

The messy mixing of oil and gas, the endless pulling of the starter cord and the ear-piercing roar of the 110-decibel motor are enough to frustrate even the lumberjacks among us.

Simple start Traditional pull-start engines can be a pain. With an electric chainsaw, you simply keep the battery on the charger and pop it into the chainsaw when you’re ready. In one push of a button, you’re ready to saw.

But with major advancements in battery-powered technology, electric chainsaws are quietly proving to be just as mighty as many of their gas-powered counterparts in everything from simple pruning to chopping up fallen trees. And their benefits will help cut the stress out of your fall cleanup activities.

Less maintenance By switching from a two-stroke gas engine to an electric motor, you avoid the need to mix fuels and maintain carburetors, fuel lines, spark plugs, air filters and other parts. With no need to refuel and fewer repairs, you can expect to save money on overall operations.

Safe and easy to operate Electric chainsaws are lightweight and easy to handle. They turn on

easily, so there’s no need to leave a saw idling so you don’t have to start it again. And when they’re on, they vibrate less, which makes them less demanding to operate and allows you to be more precise with each cut.

No noise or odor Each slice is much quieter with an electric chainsaw. And with no gas needs, there are no harsh fuel odors or emissions.

One battery does it all Several electric chainsaw brands have batteries that can be used in multiple tools. This means you can slide the battery out of your chainsaw and use it in a lawnmower, trimmer, leaf blower and more.

Chainsaw safety tips 1. Keep a steady grip on both handles on the saw. It is very important to hold the thumb of your left hand under the front handle in order to reduce the force of a possible kickback.

2. Hold the saw close to your body for better balance and to make the saw feel less heavy.

3. Stand with your feet apart. To achieve the best possible balance, put your left foot slightly in front of your right.

4. Do not work with a curved spine - bend your knees instead when working in low positions.

5. The chain must not be rotating when you are moving to another spot. When moving in several steps, you should activate the chain brake or turn off the engine. When you move a longer distance or when transporting, you should fit the guide bar guard.

6. Make sure that no one is closer to you than 4 yards when working with a chainsaw. During tree felling, a greater safety distance is required.

7. Wear appropriate safety gear: chaps, boots, gloves, and eye and hearing protection.

CassCountyElectric.com

January 2022 | Highline Notes 13

food Slow cooker soups

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

Creamy Chicken Wild Rice Soup Ingredients

1 cup uncooked wild rice blend 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast 1 cup onions, chopped 3/4 cup celery, chopped 3/4 cup carrots, chopped 4-5 cloves garlic, minced 2 bay leaves 6 cups chicken broth 2 cups additional chicken broth 2 tablespoons salt-free seasoning blend 3 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 2 cups milk salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Rinse the rice. Place the uncooked rice, chicken breast, onions, celery, carrots, garlic, bay leaves, chicken broth, water, and the seasoning blend in a slow cooker. Cover and cook on the high setting for 3-4 hours or on the low setting for 7-8. In the last 1/2 hour of cooking, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Allow to cool slightly before shredding using two forks.

When the rice is done cooking, add the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Melt the butter and oil in a saucepan. Add the flour and let the mixture cook for 1 minute. Whisk the mixture slowly while adding in the milk. Continue to whisk until all lumps have dissolved.

Allow the mixture to thicken and become creamy.

Add this mixture to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.

Add additional water or milk to your preference if the consistency is too thick. Season to taste.

Beef Barley Soup Ingredients

2 pounds stew meat salt and pepper 2 tablespoons oil 10 cups water 3 tablespoons beef base, mounded 2 cups celery, chopped 2 onions, chopped 5 cloves garlic, minced 1 large potato, peeled and shredded, about 2 cups 3-4 large carrots, peeled and shredded 1 cup pearl barley, rinsed

Preparation

Generously salt and pepper the beef. In a large stockpot, heat the oil over mediumhigh heat. When it is very hot, add about 1/3 of the meat. Brown for about 1-2 minutes, then turn to brown the other side. Remove to a plate when it is browned on all sides.

Repeat with remaining meat in 2 more batches. (If you add it all at once it will steam the meat instead of browning it - not what you want.) In a large pan, brown the meat according to the instructions. Remove the browned meat to a large crockpot. Add 2 cups of the water to the pan and bring to a boil. Stir up all the browned bits. Add this and the remaining 8 cups of water to the crock pot. Add the beef base, celery, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker and stir. Cook on low for about 6 hours. Add the potatoes and carrots and cook for another hour. Add the barley and simmer for another hour or so, until it is tender.

14 Highline Notes | January 2022 CassCountyElectric.com

d

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: ¼, ½ & whole beef from Lincoln Beef near Arthur, ND. Ready in the spring.

Packaged & ready for pickup from Hope, ND. Beef grain & grass-fed.

Finished on grain rations. $ by live weight. 701-261-0671 New queen comforter w/ matching Ki. sham & Ki. bed skirt; Used Ki. comforter, Qu. shams, Qu. bed skirt w/6 decorative pillows, $100 for all. 701-367-8263

for itemized list. 217-549-7846 10 place setting of Spode China w/ several extra pieces such as cookie jar, candle holders, 2 serving bowls, glasses, wine glasses & more. Will sell for reasonable price or make offer.

Christmas tree design. 701-367-9168 NordicTrack CX 938 elliptical exerciser machine, exc. cond., asking $350/OBO. 701-793-5859

Lift chair, good cond., $400. 701-2195743

Rock river LAR 15. 18” stainless steel bull barrel asking $1100. 701-367-8084

Coleman portable air compressor for sale. It needs a new head gasket but has a good 5 H.P. motor, $75. Pick up WF. 701-730-5224

Wanted: Manual typewriter. 701-280-9301

Jennings Split T compound bow, 2 quivers, counterweight, pin sights, arm & finger guards, upgraded arrow rest, alignment tool, soft case, plus a dozen new, in the box, aluminum Gamegetter arrows. Never used outdoors, $250. 701306-6553 Old Maytag washer; 3 sets of ice skates (women’s & child). 701-929-0017 90s Hallmark Christmas ornaments, all new-in-box. 1980’s sports cards (Topps, Donruss, Fleer, etc.), single cards, factory sets, and unopened packs. Call

Wood worker looking for a project.

1930’s hickory, rocking chair, bentwood style, needs restoration. Will text/email photo if interested. Leave message.

913-370-3116 Older Home Stereo equipment from the 1970s-80s. Only looking for the individual components like Receivers/ Amps, Turntables, and Speakers. No large consoles. Interested in brand names like Pioneer, Sansui, JBL, Technics, Sony, etc. 701-541-7852 Free: Halliet-Davis spinet piano and bench to someone who wants music in home.

Notice to off-peak and dual heat program participants: Please ensure that your backup fuel tank is full and your heating system is in good working order. Due to current and anticipated high wholesale energy market prices, drought conditions leading to decreased access to hydropower, and a significant increase in the price of natural gas, expect more load control (an excess of 200 hours) than in recent years for the winter heating season.

Contact energy@kwh.com with questions.

CassCountyElectric.com

Gallon of Milk

1937... $0.10 2021... $3.69 Increase...37x

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.

January 2022 | Highline Notes 15

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

SIMPLIFY & SAVE. 16 Highline Notes | January 2022 CassCountyElectric.com

1. Download the Cass County Electric Mobile App 2. Go Paperless - $10 bill credit 3. Enroll in Autopay - $10 bill credit *One-time credit through checking account only.