July 2023 Cooperative Living - Statewide Edition

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DEPARTMENTS

2 Our Communities

4 Powerful Careers

5 Happy & Healthy

8 Field Trip

14 Member FYI

23 Smart Connect

24 Energy Sense

25 Cross Roads

27 Cooperative Kitchen

30 Happenings

31 Life Styles

32 Rural Living

34 Marketplace

10 A POLISHED PROFESSION

Rocking out and digging it in Harrisonburg.

36 SALTY DOGS OF SUMMER

Four-legged family members test their sea legs.

VIEWPOINT

Summertime in Co-op Country

Summer is in full swing with all the popular vacation spots filling up and outdoor activities taking place everywhere you look. We get to start this month by celebrating our Declaration of Independence, which was ratified by the Second Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, establishing the United States of America. It’s a time to enjoy fireworks, cookouts, and other summer fun with our friends and family.

July is National Anti-Boredom Month, so throughout the pages of Cooperative Living you will find all sorts of exciting features to keep you interested and engaged. This includes some amazing art from our Youth Art Contest and an interesting story about the young girl from Northern Virginia Electric Cooperative’s territory who won the top prize. Our cover story takes place in Harrisonburg, Va., in

Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative’s neck of the woods. It is about a geologist, goldsmith, silversmith and jewelry maker who mines his own gemstones and then creates beautiful rings, earrings, pendants and necklaces with them.

In the Southside Virginia area, we’re very excited to recognize the 500th graduate of the Power Line Worker School program. The Association along with our 15 electric cooperative members worked with Southside Virginia Community College to get the program started seven years ago. Most graduates are immediately offered positions once they complete the training. It’s an amazing program that we are proud to be involved with.

Enjoy your time with loved ones this summer as we celebrate living in this great country, and continue to enjoy the freedoms our founding fathers established for us 247 years ago. 

Brian S. Mosier, President & CEO Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives

PAW-TY IN THE U.S.A. Clover is feeling patriotic. Photo submitted by Lynn Peters.

SIPPIN’ LIBER-TEA. Bottoms up for America! Photo submitted by Courtnie Bowie.

COVER: STUART MERCER WORKS ON A PIECE OF AMAZONITE.

PHOTO BY GREGG MACDONALD.

ART POWER Youth Art Contest winners announced.

SOUTH BOSTON PROUD

A visit to Breedlove’s Seafood truck is worth the trip.

Cooperative Living

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OUR MISSION

To inform you about your cooperative and its efforts to serve your energy needs; how to use electricity safely and efficiently; and the people who define and enhance the quality of life in communities served by electric co-ops.

GREGG MACDONALD • Executive Editor

LAURA EMERY • Deputy Editor

JOHN GROTT • Creative Services Coordinator

SONJA KINNEY • Advertising Account Representative

JIM ROBERTSON • Director, Marketing & Brand Management

TOMMY CAMPBELL • Digital Producer

NINA JACOBS • Production Coordinator

Published by the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives

WADE C. HOUSE • Chair

C. MICHAEL SANDRIDGE • Vice Chair

GEORGE N. GOIN • Secretary/Treasurer

BRIAN S. MOSIER • President & CEO

Board of Directors: Christopher D. Bott, Belvin Williamson Jr., A&N; C. Michael Sandridge, Bill Buchanan, BARC; George N. Goin, Gary E. Wood, Central Virginia; Robert E. Arnold, Micheal E. Malandro, Choptank; Jeannette S. Everett, Steven A. Harmon, Community; James E. Huffman, Jeff M. Ahearn, Craig-Botetourt; Patricia S. Dorey, Rob Book, Delaware; Fletcher B. Jones, John C. Lee Jr., Mecklenburg; Russell G. Brown, Brad H. Hicks, Northern Neck; Wade C. House, David E. Schleicher, Northern Virginia; David T. Kindle, Brad Coppock, Powell Valley; Herbert R. Patrick, Sarat Yellepeddi, Prince George; Sanford Reaves Jr., John D. Hewa, Rappahannock; G. Todd Van Horn, Greg S. Rogers, Shenandoah Valley; Frank W. Bacon, Jason C. Loehr, Southside.

To advertise in Cooperative Living, contact: advertising@co-opliving.com (804) 297-3429

National Advertising Representative: AMP, 611 South Congress Ave., Suite 504, Austin, Texas 78704 • 800-626-1181

Member of AMP network of publications, reaching more than 9 million homes and businesses.

To change your subscription, contact your electric cooperative. For editorial inquiries, contact editor@co-opliving.com.

COOPERATIVE LIVING (USPS 473-300) is published 10 times a year, monthly except for combined January/ February and November/December issues, by the VMD Association of Electric Cooperatives. POSTMASTER, address changes should be sent to: Cooperative Living, 4201 Dominion Boulevard, Suite 101, Glen Allen, VA 23060, (804) 346-3344. Periodicals Postage paid at Glen Allen, VA, and additional mailing offices. Subscription: $5.69 per year for members of subscribing co-ops; $10 per year for all others.

ADVERTISING published is accepted on the premise that the merchandise and services offered are accurately described and willingly sold to customers at the advertised price. Neither this magazine nor the electric cooperatives in Virginia, Maryland and Delaware endorse any products or services advertised herein. If any readers encounter noncompliance with these standards, they are asked to inform the Association.

Please recycle.

Laying it On the Line

THE VIRGINIA, MARYLAND & DELAWARE ASSOCIATION OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES hosted its 19th annual Gaff-n-Go Lineworker Rodeo in May. More than 200 utility lineworkers from seven states, including North and South Carolina, New York and California, gathered at The Meadow Event Park in Doswell, Va., on May 19 and 20 for the two-day competition, which also featured more than 60 vendor exhibits and a barbecue competition.

“Every day, lineworkers go out to serve communities. In storms, in high wind, on holidays, no matter what, lineworkers are there to keep the lights on for families. VMDAEC’s lineworker rodeo is about celebrating that and giving the community an opportunity to see all the skill that goes into doing what lineworkers do,” says Community Electric Cooperative President and CEO Steve Harmon.

“VMDAEC is proud that this year’s rodeo shattered participation records,” says VMDAEC CEO Brian Mosier. “Lineworkers are on the front lines keeping our communities going — celebrating these lineworkers, emphasizing worker safety and efficiency, and watching them compete with the best of the best is why we’ve been out here for 19 years, and it’s why we’ll be out here for years to come.”

VMDAEC would like to thank Terex Corporation and all the sponsors of this year’s competition. Next year’s Gaff-n-Go Rodeo will be held May 17 and 18. 

For more, visit gaff-n-go.com.

Lineworker rodeo celebrates 19th season

PHOTOS COURTESY VMDAEC

Rewarding Careers in Your Rural Backyard

by Jim Robertson, Staff Writer

Pursuit of an education degree interrupted by 20-year co-op career

Coming out of high school, many students are unsure about which career path to follow. This is especially common in the small towns and rural areas served by electric cooperatives. Options are limited for those who wish to remain in their small town.

“The rewards of this type of job, or a job with a cooperative, in this area far surpass other opportunities to stay local,” says Jason Stapleton, area supervisor for the Jonesville, Va., district at Powell Valley Electric Cooperative, headquartered in New Tazewell, Tenn.

Stapleton, an elementary education major at the time, took a job with the co-op in 1997 during summer break. With the understanding that he would go back to school and earn his degree, he decided to continue assisting with the construction of a transmission line for the next eight months. To his delight, Stapleton was offered a permanent position with Powell Valley Electric Cooperative in January 1998.

Serving as an apprentice line technician in New Tazewell for more

than three years, Stapleton’s career path included a move to the Jonesville district as a first-class line technician and crew leader before shifting focus to the engineering side of the business. Unlike his predecessor, Stapleton was fortunate to have training from a knowledgeable mentor.

Staying true to the promise he made, Stapleton attended night school at Tusculum College and earned his bachelor’s degree in organizational management. His research project focused on the deregulation of electric cooperatives in Tennessee. Although tuition assistance was not available at the time, former PVEC General Manager Randell Meyers made sure Stapleton was able to be back at the office by 4 p.m. each day for class and to complete schoolwork.

As Jonesville area supervisor, Stapleton is responsible for supervising and coordinating all activities relating to the construction, operations and maintenance of the cooperative’s electrical system. This includes maintenance, troubleshooting and

problem resolution of all electrical facilities, including substations, transmission, distribution, poles, meters and wires. Ensuring the safety of PVEC employees, contractors and the general public is a top priority. Stapleton also provides a safety tip in the PVEC section of Cooperative Living every few months, opposite his counterparts in the co-op’s other districts.

Stapleton finds great reward in his role today, but admits at times he misses the personal interaction with farmers, landowners and others to help determine the best ways to meet their needs. “We don’t sell power,” he says. “We offer a service, and to see your efforts make a positive difference in someone’s life brings a real sense of fulfillment.”

During a memorable 2009 snowstorm, Stapleton was put to the test during a nine-day outage. “I was expected to dispatch crews,” Stapleton recalls. He was responsible for coordinating the efforts of more than 100 employees and mutual-aid crews — something he had never done before. “That got pretty hectic, but I had a lot of support.” Following the storm restoration, Stapleton spent countless hours gathering data for reimbursement from FEMA.

Like many others in the cooperative industry, Stapleton appreciates the camaraderie among the team working toward a common goal. “Like a machine, all parts must be working,” he says. “No one person is more important than another.” That’s the cooperative difference.

Consider a powerful career at your local electric cooperative. You may be surprised at the opportunities in your rural backyard. 

For more, visit vmdaec.com/powerfulcareers.

Jason Stapleton

Stop Being a Carbo-Phobe

by Vanessa LaFaso Stolarski, Contributing Columnist

Five reasons to include carbohydrates in your diet

When it comes to nutrition, proteins and fats get all the glory, while carbohydrates get sent to the corner like an undisciplined classroom student. Perhaps that’s because many of the foods we have come to refer to as “carbs” are often sugar-laden, processed varieties that are well-known to cause health or weight issues.

However, healthy carbohydrates like beans, fruits and other vegetables are essential for maintaining good health and should not be overlooked. Aside from being an easily tapped energy source, here are several other reasons why carbohydrates should form a significant part of a balanced diet.

ENERGY SOURCE

Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the human body. When consumed, carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is used by the body as fuel for all cellular functions. Glucose is particularly important for brain function, as it is the preferred energy source for this vital organ. By including carbohydrates in our diet, we ensure a steady supply of energy that supports physical activities and cognitive processes.

NUTRIENT DENSITY

Carbohydrates also provide essential vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber.

Carb-dominant foods like whole grains, fruits and vegetables are rich in complex carbohydrates, which are packed with nutrients. These foods offer an array of vitamins, including B vitamins, vitamin C, and essential minerals such as potassium and magnesium. Furthermore, the dietary fiber found in carbohydrates aids in digestion, promotes a healthy gut microbiome and helps regulate cholesterol levels.

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

Healthy carbohydrates are essential for maintaing good health.

performance declines. By consuming an adequate amount of carbohydrates before and after exercise, individuals can replenish glycogen stores and enhance their endurance and overall athletic performance.

BALANCING MACRONUTRIENTS

Contrary to popular belief, carbohydrates are not the enemy when it comes to weight management. They can play a crucial role in a healthy weight loss or maintenance plan. When consumed in their complex form, carbohydrates provide a feeling of satiety, which helps control hunger and prevent overeating and cravings. Moreover, for most individuals, going carb-free for good is unrealistic and often results in weight regain because it’s not a sustainable protocol.

PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE

For individuals engaging in regular physical activity, carbohydrates are essential for optimal performance. During exercise, the body relies heavily on stored carbohydrates, known as glycogen, to fuel muscle contractions. When glycogen levels are depleted, fatigue sets in, and physical

A well-rounded and balanced diet requires the inclusion of all macronutrients in appropriate proportions. Carbohydrates, along with proteins and fats, provide the body with the necessary nutrients to function optimally. Restricting or eliminating carbohydrates from the diet can lead to imbalances and deficiencies in other essential nutrients. It is important to choose healthier sources of carbohydrates, such as whole grains, legumes and fruits, while being mindful of portion sizes.

Carbohydrates are an integral part of a healthy and balanced diet. They are the body’s primary energy source, provide essential nutrients, contribute to weight management, and enhance physical performance. By including carbohydrates in our daily meals, we can ensure our bodies receive the necessary fuel and nutrients for overall well-being. However, it is important to make wise choices and opt for complex carbohydrates found in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, while moderating the consumption of refined carbohydrates. Embracing carbohydrates as an essential component of good nutrition is a key step toward achieving and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Vanessa LaFaso Stolarski is a certified nutrition counselor, weightlifting coach, life coach and stress-management specialist.

All health-related content and media provided by Cooperative Living or its website(s) is created and published for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your health or a medical condition.

PHOTO BY S_A_N, CANVA

PHOTO BY MIZINA, CANVA

PHOTO BY SINAN KOCASLAN, CANVA

Flower Power

by Laura Emery, Staff Writer

Budding artist wins Best In Show

Dahee “Diana” Baek, daughter of Hyunsoo “Henney” Baek and Amy Yang, won Best In Show in the 21st annual Cooperative Living Youth Art Contest. Her winning submission was a beautifully painted picture of a basket of freshly picked red tulips sitting on a chair, with a person seen through an open door tending to more tulips in the yard.

For the 2023 contest, students in kindergarten through fifth grade were tasked with the challenge of portraying visual interpretations of the theme, “Oh, How We Grow!”

Student-artists from all over Virginia and Maryland entered the competition, which was judged by eventgoers at the Gaff-n-Go Lineworker Rodeo in Doswell, Va., held in May.

First place in each grade category received a $25 cash prize, while Diana’s Best In Show work earned her a $100 prize. When asked what she plans to spend her winnings on, Diana jokingly says, “My sister and my mom keep asking me to buy something for them. But I haven’t decided yet.”

Diana moved with her parents, older brother Shinhee and younger sister Ivy to the United States just a few years ago from South Korea.

“South Korea is a beautiful country, full of great music, food, natural areas and, most importantly, great people,” Henney says. “It has been a great adventure for our entire family because, before the immigration, all of our family members were comfortable. But we wanted to learn something else and grow more. Becoming a family that serves and helps others in need is our family’s vision.”

Diana is a rising sixth grader in Fairfax, Va. The 12-year-old created her winning art while in an art studio. “I go to the studio every Thursday and spend around two hours every time I go there. I finished the art in about three or four weeks,” Diana says. She used pencil to sketch it out and then used paint to fill it in with color.

When she’s not focusing on being a good student, Diana loves to water plants, read books, draw and listen to music — especially K-pop. Her favorite subjects in

school are science and art. “I like art because you can create something — and science, because I think it’s really fun to learn how the world works and how things work,” she says.

Diana says her “jaw dropped” when her mother told her she’d won Best In Show honors in the competition. “I knew my painting was good and I really liked it, but I did not expect that I would win the contest,” she says. “I was so happy. I’m glad that so many people liked my painting. I am so proud of myself.”

Henney says his daughter’s goodness blooms from within. “We are very proud of her. Diana is a really good girl. She is always speaking with warm and kind words, and she is considerate of others’ feelings. She cares for her little sister, her friends and all others around her. She also cares for nature a lot — animals, plants and flowers,” he says.

Cooperative Living started the youth art contest in 2003 to encourage youthful creativity and give kids a chance to display their talents to the magazine’s 1.7 million readers. Executive Editor Gregg MacDonald says the members of the public who voted in the competition were very impressed with the imagination and talent in this year’s contest.

He adds, “To all of our contestants in this year’s contest, thank you for your effort, your interest and your entries. We say it each year and we’ll say it yet again: In our eyes, you’re all winners!” 

Best In Show: Dahee “Diana” Baek Fairfax, Va., 5th Grade

KINDERGARTEN — 2 ND GRADE WINNERS:

WINNERS:

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

Aaran Dubey, Abi Fogle, Abigail Knight, Abigail Smith, Adriana Lee, Aiden Law, Alexis Purkiss, Allison Mucino, Amanda Knight, Amelia Norkelun, Ananya Bhatia, Anayiah Mehta, AnneMarie Tate, Aubrey Custer, Aubrey Juby, Avery McPherson, Benjamin Mucino, Braxton Hudson, Campbell Frank, Caroline Cornwell, Cecilia Wunsch, Charlotte Hill, Chloe Smith, Elsie Lamb, Emilia Ovando, Emily Juby, Emma Kronberg, Evelyn Tsepas, Ezra Davis, Grace Vaughn, Harper Davis, Haven Maisel, Hope Maisel, Isarah Garcia, Jeffrey McCormack Jr., Jeremiah Bittler, Kameron Middleton, Kathryn Bittler, Kelly Moseley, Kensie Foster, Kerri Moseley, King James Townsend, Leah Bourne, Leo Dunning, Lilah Norman, Logan Cornwell, Lydia Wunsch, Mackenzie Whittemore, Macy Swisher, Marilyn Rodriguez, Mickie Dobbins, Nadia Exantus, Oliver Mucino, Olivia Purkiss, Patrick Zebrowski, Peyton Walker, Rosalie Dobbins, Rosemary Havlovick, Rylee Enochs, Samika Desai, Samvid Kannekanti, Sanvitha Kolakalapudi, Savya Kannekanti, Sofiah Paras, Tracey Edmonds, Tucker Frank, Tyson Enochs, Venus Cross, Watson Bracewell, Weston Hollender,

1ST | Clark Yap, Fairfax, Va., 2nd grade

Yashwanth Mandalapu.

3 RD GRADE — 5 TH GRADE

2ND | Johan Ma, Ashburn, Va., 1st grade 3RD | Issac Law, Ashburn, Va., 2nd grade

1ST | True Gleich, Lexington, Va., 4th grade

2ND | Avery Miller, Aldie, Va., 5th grade

3RD | Vanya Paidipally, Chantilly, Va., 5th grade

The Road Less Traveled

by Elizabeth Ellis, Contributing Writer

Exploring the back roads of Virginia’s Eastern Shore

Green in Eastville, you can get some exercise and take a nature break. Fresh air, sandy trails and lush green areas are not far away.

From Eastville, it’s no more than a 5-mile drive to Savage Neck Dunes Natural Area Preserve, named for one of the area’s most famous settlers, Thomas Savage, who was around the age of 13 when he came to America in 1608. Savage was part of a bizarre trade where he was handed off to a local Native American tribe while a young Native was sent to Jamestown. Later, a large portion of land was given to Savage by a Native American chief.

Traveling across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is an experience. Seventeen miles over and under water lead to a peninsula that some may not realize is even a part of Virginia. Highway 13, or Lankford Highway, intersects the land and guides many to Chincoteague, the place made famous by its historical ponies grazing on the flat marshland.

The bridge-tunnel and popular Chincoteague might normally be what comes to mind for most when thinking of the Eastern Shore, but between these two is a world full of equally fascinating places.

Driving the flat Lankford Highway, one could incorrectly think there’s not much to the Eastern Shore, but turning off onto the back roads can lead you to many interesting places and things.

One of these places is called Eastville, a small town only about 15 minutes from the bridge. You may have never heard of it, but it is quite

a historical area. It has been the seat of Northampton County since 1677. Driving through the main street you will find nestled here a group of historical buildings called the Historic Court Green.

One building in the group is the 1731 Courthouse, where the Declaration of Independence was publicly read from its steps on Aug. 13, 1776. Beside it is the old clerk’s office, built around 1800, which contains the original wood cabinets used for record storage. Behind the clerk’s office is the debtor’s prison, built around 1814, with its massive oak planking and bars on the windows. Visitors can wander through all these old buildings.

Various exhibits are on display in the 1899 Courthouse/County Administration building, including the oldest continuous court records in the nation, dating from 1632.

After exploring the Historic Court

Savage Neck Dunes is a 298-acre preserve that was a part of that land gift. It has lovely trails meandering through a maritime forest and coastal scrub that lead to an isolated beach where you can find a special insect, the northeastern beach tiger beetle. When the tide is out, you can explore the secluded beach scattered with driftwood. Depending on the time of year, various songbirds can be heard and seen throughout. Red summer tanagers make their warm weather home in these woods. Eagles can be seen regularly flying along the shore, and in the winter, various ducks such as buffleheads and red-breasted mergansers can be seen swimming in the bay.

After an invigorating hike, you can take a break at a local winery or eatery. A few miles north you can find an excellent glass of wine at Chatham Vineyards or a bite to eat at the Machipongo Trading Company.

So, venture off that main highway. The Eastern Shore of Virginia is full of interesting places just waiting to be explored. 

The 1899 Northampton County Courthouse (left) and earlier 1731 Courthouse on the Historic Court Green.

Savage Neck Dunes

Chatham Vineyards

Making

by Audrey T. Hingley, Contributing Writer

Harrisonburg jeweler mines, creates and sells unique Shenandoah creations

Sitting at a workbench in his light-filled shop at 49 West Water Street in downtown Harrisonburg, Va., Stuart Mercer is clad in jeans, a comfortable-looking shirt and a well-used leather apron. A colorful three-tiered gemstone necklace he made dangles from his neck. He’s doing what he loves best: creating gemstone jewelry. His constant companion Leah, a white shih tzu dog who weighs in at nine and a half pounds, attracts attention by lying curled up on her bed in the showroom window. Leah and Mercer’s colorful jewelry creations beckon customers to a window sign that tells the story of Mercer’s Elk Run Mining Company. The sign reads: “I mine, cut and polish Virginia gemstones and create sterling settings for each.”

Mercer says there are similar shops in the western United States that do it all; mine, cut and create jewelry, but he says to his knowledge there is no one

the Cut

else in Virginia who does it, at least not with locally mined stones.

THE THRILL OF THE HUNT

Mercer calls hunting down the rocks for his artistic creations “the most fun part of what I do,” adding, “I have done underground mining in the past, but

now I primarily focus on surface mining. It’s very easy for me. People know what I do and often invite me to surface mine on their property.” This often includes standing in creeks and panning like a 19th-century gold miner. Mercer says he often hunts for up to 30 different types of rocks in his adopted home of Rockingham County and other Virginia locales.

In his shop, all his finished jewelry creations identify a piece’s origins, many of which feature stones like quartz from Albemarle County; citrine from Fluvanna County; milky quartz from Madison County; and bloodstone from Madison, Page and Rockingham counties.

Mercer says he buys some subterranean rocks like amazonite — a striking turquoise-look type of microcline feldspar mineral — from Amelia County’s Morefield Mine

PHOTOS BY GREGG MACDONALD AND AUDREY T. HINGLEY

Stuart Mercer

PHOTOS COURTESY STUART MERCER

near Richmond, but he has also worked in the mine himself.

AN EARLY PASSION

Mercer’s passion for rocks and gemstones began as a child. He says one of his earliest memories is taking an empty chocolate candy box that his father gave his mother for Valentine’s Day, and filling it instead with colorful rocks found in his Cape Cod, Mass., hometown.

“There were naturally tumbled rocks everywhere along the waterfront — which drew me to them and spoke to me,” he recalls. “Soon I had a bookcase filled with rocks instead of books.”

As a very young boy, Mercer says he often took his rocks to school for show-and-tell days. When he was a 5th grader, he says his mother gave him “a cheap rock grinder” that he still owns to this day.

A family friend who was an early mentor showed a young Mercer how to cut cabochons. A cabochon is a gemstone that has been cut, shaped and polished rather than faceted. Mercer says many stones can be cut into cabochons; a notable exception being diamonds, which are rarely cut as cabochons as their brilliant sparkle is brought out better via faceting.

Mercer later earned a geology degree from James Madison University and took jewelry and metals classes, but says he is largely self-taught as a goldsmith and silversmith.

LIFE’S INTERRUPTIONS

In the early 1990s after getting married and having two daughters, Mercer says his passion for rocks was forced to the side as he spent 22 years as a self-employed roofing contractor. A small home workshop allowed him to continue creating and selling jewelry as a sideline, but no more than that.

“I had no seed money to start a [jewelry] business,” he says of the long journey to eventually owning his own Harrisonburg store.

After his two daughters finished college and left home, Mercer closed his roofing business and took the plunge, opening Elk Run Mining Company in 2013. Located on a side street adjacent to downtown’s Water Street Parking Deck, his compact store is surrounded by other small locally owned businesses.

BACK TO THE PASSION

Today his studio/workshop is filled with colorful creations utilizing polished cabochons set primarily in sterling silver, along with a limited number of pieces set in gold.

Most of his necklaces for sale are displayed on colorful ribbons; customers can buy their own sterling or gold chains to replace the ribbon as desired. His shop also sells earrings, pendants and rings, does jewelry repair, and creates custom items at customers’ request, such as the special necklace he did for Beth Orebaugh of nearby Keezletown, a 10-minute drive from Mercer’s store.

Orebaugh is also a self-described “rock hound” whose father introduced her to rock hunting. She owns several of Mercer’s creations, including a pendant necklace featuring amazonite on one side — with her former pet cat’s ID tag on the back.

“Rocks are the only thing I collect,” Orebaugh explains. “For jewelry, I like amazonite and rhodochrosite from Argentina and rhodonite, a pinkish stone from Fluvanna County.”

She adds, “I collect rocks because to me they are a masterpiece of the Almighty’s hand, and no two are alike, so a collection is never complete. A dream I have is that when my husband retires, we can go and hunt for rocks.”

A FAMILY AFFAIR

Mercer admits he still loves rock hunting as well. He often returns to the shop from a typical outing armed with several 5-gallon buckets filled with

(continued on page 12)

Beth Orebaugh

A bloodstone from Rockingham County, Va.

A pendant made from a bloodstone mined in Madison County, Va.

A pendant made from a bloodstone mined in Page County, Va.

Making the Cut

(continued from page 11)

rocks. He uses a power saw to cut them, a grinder to shape them and finally, a finisher to smooth and polish the pieces into finished cabochons. There’s usually a whole day’s labor in one piece, he says.

Mercer says his 10-year-old granddaughter, Isabella, has exhibited some interest in continuing his passion for stones. “She comes in the shop,

cuts rocks, works on the grinder, assembles jewelry … she’s very artsy,” he notes.

A typical day in Mercer’s shop includes creating cabochons, doing settings, replenishing sold inventory with new creations, and interacting with customers. He has a website and Facebook page, but notes he usually only sells online to

A Museum Piece

by Audrey T. Hingley, Contributing Writer

Keeping the Shenandoah jewelry-making heritage alive

In addition to the Elk Run Mining Company, Harrisonburg is also home to The Museum of American Jewelry Design & Manufacturing, operated by Hugo Kohl.

The museum debuted in 2015, becoming the third arm of Kohl’s part-retail/part-workshop/part-museum enterprise. Located at 217 South Liberty Street in downtown Harrisonburg, Kohl’s business is in The Ice House, a mixed-use development utilizing the rehabilitated 1934 Castco Ice Factory complex that includes retail and office space, apartments and restaurants.

Kohl preserves historical methods of jewelry making, creates new custom and reproduction pieces, and offers jewelry repairs. His jewelry boutique emphasizes fine jewelry in gold, silver or platinum, manufactured in-house. Customers can buy jewelry, watch the artist create it and visit a place described as housing the largest collection of jewelry hubs in America.

From the 1790s until the 1940s, master engravers created jewelry by carving designs into a steel block by hand, resulting in a hub. Hubs are “casts” that goldsmiths used to create jewelry via a mold. Kohl’s museum showcases over 7,000 hubs used in jewelry manufacturing, from filigree rings to pendants to wedding bands.

current or previous customers. He advertises on local-area television during his two busiest holiday times of the year — Christmas and Mother’s Day.

“Others have described my work as ‘simple in silver or gold’ — the star is the gemstone. This is a work of passion and love,” he says. “I have to have this outlet — I want to cut and polish rocks. I’ll do it as long as I have health and ability.” 

Today, Kohl uses both vintage and modern jewelry processes, explaining, “The ‘age’ of a process as an attribute is irrelevant as to what is the best version of a thing. I use whatever process is readily available to get a particular result.”

The museum also features antique machinery like drop hammers and screw presses. Drop hammers, for example, were used in many processes, including the forging of precious metals; later, as electricity became available, such tools were retrofitted with electric motors and clutches for more efficiency. The museum focuses on “the American story through the preservation of our country’s jewelry manufacturing past.”

“The response [to the museum] has been very supportive,” Kohl says. “Some folks enjoy the artwork, some enjoy the machinery. Everyone seems to enjoy the narrative about the origins of the jewelry industry in America.”

Kohl’s retail operation is open Tuesday-Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Currently the museum is only open on Thursdays, but special tours can be arranged by appointment. 

Top, lake of lace quartz mined in Albemarle County, Va.; Middle, citrine mined in Fluvanna County, Va.; Bottom, amazonite from Amelia County, Va.

Protecting Our Protectors

Ways military families can stay safe online

Is someone in your family, or someone you know, an active-duty service member or military spouse planning a permanent change of station? Now is the time to help them protect their information online.

A third of the military — nearly half a million families — make a PCS move every year. According to the Federal Trade Commission, active-duty service members are three times more likely to be victims of digital theft than the general public.

While financial and identity theft can happen any time of year, military families are especially vulnerable when moving for a permanent change of station. Anyone managing a move risks sensitive data being stolen. In fact, personal information is shuffled from one location to another, leaving it accessible to movers, family members, dumpster divers, real estate agents and home buyers, contractors, appraisers and more. That’s why it’s critical to be proactive and secure your digital lives before a move so you don’t leave yourself open to digital attacks. Here are five ways to keep your family safe before, during and after relocation.

DON’T OVERSHARE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

You may be tempted to share the excitement of your move online, but doing so can make you vulnerable. Avoid sharing information about your family’s relocation, or any personal information for that matter, on social media.

these tidbits of information to steal your identity. Even when you’ve settled into your new home, stay vigilant. Use caution when sharing information like your location, favorite sports team, children’s birthdays or any details that could help hackers guess your passwords.

UPDATE PASSWORDS

Speaking of passwords, you should update your passwords as you prepare to move. Even better, create complex passphrases with multiple digits, special characters and letters in various cases. Don’t pick phrases a stranger could guess by looking at your social media or publicly available information.

Even if you have a strong passphrase, don’t reuse it across multiple accounts. If a cybercriminal successfully breaches one of your accounts, they could use it to access the others with the same passphrase.

Finally, don’t write your passwords or passphrases down digitally or on paper. To make it easier to remember your credentials and keep them secure, consider using a password manager, like Aura’s, which alerts you when you need to change your password, if there has been a data leak or breach.

EXPLORE DIGITAL SECURITY SOLUTIONS

Simplify your digital safety before your move and beyond by exploring digital security solutions. Consider signing up for an all-in-one online security platform like Aura. This easyto-use security solution keeps your and your family’s personal information, devices and finances safe from online threats.

Aura offers everything you need to proactively control your digital life and keep your finances and identity safe and secure. This includes lost wallet recovery, antivirus, VPN, multi-device protection and monitoring for credit, bank accounts, social security numbers, home and title use, and criminal and court records.

Don’t wait for cybercriminals to strike. Using these five tips, you can help your family stay safe online before, during and after your permanent change of station. 

You may think sharing your new neighborhood, children’s school or duty station is harmless, but cybercriminals can use Learn more about Aura by visiting aura.com/military.

Story courtesy of Brandpoint Content

3.

2.

Fall Festivals Travel Guide &

Fall Festivals & Travel Guide

Publication: Sept. 1, 2023

Space Reservation Deadline: July 24, 2023

Don’t miss this chance to have your biggest attendance ever! Cooperative Living’s Fall Festivals & Travel Guide section is coming up in our September issue.

Each issue of Cooperative Living reaches over 595,000 homes and businesses — that’s 1.7 million readers and potential visitors to your fall festival or special event.

Take advantage of our circulation and make sure your festival or special event is included!

CONTACT: SONJA KINNEY skinney@vmdaec.com 804-297-3429

Providing Your Own Power During an Outage

by Paul Wesslund, Contributing Columnist

How to sort out the many choices in home generators

If you’re wondering whether to buy a home generator in case of a power outage, you’re not alone. Backup power sources have gotten so popular that manufacturers now offer a wide range of choices.

Options run from pull-start gasoline models costing a few hundred dollars to permanent outdoor installations for several thousand dollars. That variety makes it easier to get exactly what you want, but harder to choose.

A good first step is to think about what you want a home generator to do. Do you just want to keep your phone charged? Do you want to make sure food doesn’t spoil in your refrigerator? Do you want to make sure you have heat and air conditioning through an extended outage? Answering those questions will require you to know the wattage of the appliances you want to run so you know the capacity of the generator you need. You might also ask if you really need a generator. The average U.S. home is without power about seven hours a year. Is that enough to justify the expense and attention?

Another part of your planning should be contacting your electric co-op to get their expert advice on the best and safest fit for your home.

Here’s what to know about the four basic choices in home generators:

PORTABLE GENERATORS

Portable generators are small enough that you might even take them on camping trips. The costs for these can vary — from more than $2,000 to as low as $400. Most should be able to run a refrigerator or a window air conditioner. Special attention to safety is required. They should never be used indoors, not even in a garage. The carbon monoxide they produce can be deadly in minutes. The Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that 85 people die each year from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by gasoline-powered portable generators. Portable generators should be operated more than 20 feet from the house and be connected only with outdoor extension cords matched to the wattage being used. Look for models with a carbon monoxide detector and automatic shutoff. Appliances should be plugged into the generator — the generator should never be plugged into an outlet or your home’s electrical system.

You should also spend the money to have an electrician install a transfer switch. That acts as a mini-circuit

breaker to protect your appliances and can be an easier way to connect the house to the generator.

INVERTER GENERATORS

Inverter generators are higher-tech versions of standard portable generators. The power they produce changes to match what the appliances are using, so although they are a little more expensive, they use fuel more efficiently and make less noise. The same safety guidelines apply to both inverter and standard portable generators.

STANDBY GENERATORS

Standby generators can cost $7,000, plus installation, but they have the benefit of turning on automatically during a power outage and running your whole house. They’re typically a permanently mounted outdoor unit that’s connected to your home electrical system and runs on propane or natural gas. It must be installed by a professional electrician.

POWER STATIONS

Power stations, also known as batteries, charge themselves up while the power is on. They’re not as powerful as some of the other options, and can be more expensive, but they’re quiet, easy to operate, and some are designed to look good hanging on the wall. They can cost between $400 and $6,000. One common use of power stations is to pair them with rooftop solar panels so that electricity from the sun can be available even at night.

With the increased intensity of storms and our reliance on electronic devices, power outages can be a bigger concern these days. Technology now gives you many choices for how to react, whether you want to make sure you’re never without power, or you’re willing to just light a candle and wait for the lights to come back on. 

Paul Wesslund writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

A good first step is to think about what you want a home generator to do.

PHOTOS COURTESY CANVA

Portable generator

Standby generator

Shining a Light on Solar

by Jennah Denney, Contributing Columnist

Questions to ask before taking the plunge

With most residential solar systems being installed and electrically interconnected with your electric provider, your local electric cooperative should top your list of project contacts when considering such a purchase. Virginia’s and Maryland’s electric cooperatives are well-versed in both the pros and cons of solar installations. They can help you make an informed decision and navigate the interconnection process (to connect your system to the electric grid). Your electric cooperative likely has a specific process by which planned solar arrays are approved prior to installation and inspected afterward.

For many homeowners, solar installations are considered an investment. As with any investment, you need a clear understanding of your final investment costs, the annual energy production to be expected along with its corresponding value, and the ability to determine how long it will take before you achieve a return on your investment.

Many solar installers provide quotes using national averages for energy prices to calculate your annual savings. These

calculations can be wildly inaccurate as energy price ranges vary considerably across the country. The assumption for increases in energy prices over the lifespan of your solar array can’t be ignored, but is often calculated at a rate that is higher than that experienced over the last 15-30 years.

If you’re considering solar for your home, use the questions and considerations below to help guide your decision before entering into a contract with a solar vendor. 

Thinking about solar?

Installing a rooftop solar system is a major decision. If you’re considering solar, use the following questions as a guide before entering into a contract to install the system.

INITIAL QUESTIONS

• Do you plan to stay in the home long-term?

• How much shade does your roof receive? (The orientation of your roof can impact how much electricity the system provides.)

• How old is your roof? (If it’s old or in poor condition, consider replacing it before installing solar.)

• What are your goals? (If you’re looking to save on energy bills, consider an energy audit first.)

• Will you lease or purchase the solar system?

(Compare quotes from multiple contractors/installers.)

UTILITY QUESTIONS

• How will you need to work with your electric co-op to connect the solar system to the electric grid? (For example, an interconnection agreement must be signed.)

• How long will the process take?

• Does your co-op offer special rates for members with solar systems?

CONTRACTOR QUESTIONS

• Can the contractor provide appropriate documentation of licensing, permitting, bonding and insurance requirements?

• Can the contractor show documentation of safety practices and how those will be followed?

• Can the contractor provide current credentials?

CONTRACT QUESTIONS

• Do the ownership terms make sense/seem fair?

• Do the system performance calculations seem realistic?

• Do the terms change if you sell the property?

• Do the project start and end dates seem reasonable?

• How long is the system warranty?

• Who is responsible for system maintenance?

• Who will receive the renewable energy credits (RECs)?

Jennah Denney writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Living Your Best Life

Story courtesy of Family Features

What women need to know about stroke risks

immediately following a pregnancy. Managing conditions like high blood pressure before getting pregnant helps keep you and your baby healthy during pregnancy and beyond. In addition, your health during and immediately after pregnancy can shape the lifelong health of you and your child. If you’re planning to become pregnant or are currently pregnant, it’s important to regularly monitor your blood pressure.

LEARN THE WARNING SIGNS

It may not be widely known that women face unique risk factors for stroke throughout their lifetime. Things like pregnancy, preeclampsia and chronic stress can increase the risk for high blood pressure, a leading cause of stroke.

Cardiovascular disease, including stroke, is the leading cause of death among women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and 1 in 5 women will have a stroke. However, a large majority of strokes can be prevented.

Caring for yourself by understanding your risk factors can help reduce your risk for stroke and provide a better quality of life. Start managing your stroke risk with these tips from the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association:

MONITOR YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE

The first step you can take in reducing your risk for stroke is knowing your blood pressure and keeping it in a healthy range. High blood pressure is the No. 1 preventable cause of stroke,

according to the American Heart Association.

The best way to know your blood pressure is to have it measured at least once per year by a healthcare professional and regularly monitor it at home, and then discuss the numbers with a doctor. For most people, normal blood pressure should be 120/80 mmHg or less.

In addition to properly monitoring blood pressure, maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, eating healthfully and reducing or eliminating alcohol and tobacco use can help control blood pressure. If you do develop high blood pressure, work with a healthcare professional on a plan to help manage it.

PLAN FOR PREGNANCY

In the United States, high blood pressure during pregnancy is becoming more common, according to the CDC, and medical conditions including preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and blood clots during pregnancy all increase stroke risk during and

A stroke can happen to anyone at any point in life. Immediate treatment may help minimize the long-term effects of a stroke and even prevent death. Learn how to spot a stroke F.A.S.T.:

• Face drooping — Does one side of the face droop or is it numb? Ask the person to smile. Is the person’s smile uneven?

• Arm weakness — Is one arm weak or numb? Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?

• Speech difficulty — Is speech slurred? Is the person unable to speak or hard to understand? Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence like “The sky is blue.”

• Time to call 911 — If someone shows any of these symptoms, even if the symptoms go away, call 911 and get to a hospital immediately. Check the time so you’ll know when the first symptoms appeared.

Talk to your doctor about ways to improve your well-being to help prevent a stroke. 

For more wellness tips, visit stroke.org.

PHOTOS COURTESY GETTY IMAGES

The Cream of the Crop

Newest and most innovative ice cream flavors win international awards

Banana Graham Ice Cream. Smooth Blended Cottage Cheese with Strawberry. Costa Rican Pineapple & Guava Greek Yogurt.

These and other sensational, fruit-forward flavors and inclusions shined this year, taking home two-thirds of the awards at the International Dairy Foods Association’s annual Innovative Ice Cream Flavor and Innovative Cultured Dairy Product competitions, co-sponsored by Dairy Foods magazine.

The ice cream and cultured dairy product competitions took place during IDFA’s annual, co-located Ice Cream Technology Conference and Yogurt & Cultured Innovation Conference, which attracted a record crowd of more than 270 industry professionals to Austin, Texas.

Honey Sopapilla by H-E-B took home top honors in the Most Innovative Ice Cream Flavor competition; Lemon Bar Sandwich by DFA Dairy Brands was awarded Most Innovative Ice Cream Novelty; and Peach Green Tea with Mango Bubble Burst from Tastepoint by IFF was named Most Innovative Prototype Ice Cream Flavor — the award for flavors not yet found in the marketplace.

In the Innovative Cultured Dairy Product competition, Smooth Blended Cottage Cheese with Strawberry by Dairy Farmers of America was named Most Innovative Cultured Dairy Product, and Costa Rican Pineapple & Guava Greek Yogurt from Fruitcrown Products Corp. secured the distinction of Most Innovative Cultured Dairy Prototype Flavor.

The third Sunday of July each year is National Ice Cream Day.

“While chocolate, vanilla and strawberry continue to top the list of America’s favorite ice cream flavors each year, dairy companies continue to innovate to meet consumers’ expectations and preferences,” says Joseph Scimeca, Ph.D., senior vice president of regulatory and scientific affairs at IDFA. “This year’s winners were able to match consumer preferences for fruits by incorporating peach, passionfruit, guava and other tropical, citrus and fruit flavors. We also saw the delicious combination of fruit and bakery goods, such as biscuits or graham crackers.”

“It was yet another incredible year for the Innovative Flavor and Product Contests. The applications were outstanding and delicious, and it was very difficult to select the winners,” says Brian Berk, editor-in-chief, Dairy Foods magazine. “I congratulate all the winners.”

The combined competitions attracted a record 50 entries, delivering new programming and contest opportunities to a broader spectrum of dairy professionals and suppliers than ever before. 

FUN ICE CREAM FACTS

• July is the busiest month for ice cream production, when nearly three-fifths of all ice cream is produced.

• The average American eats roughly 20 pounds of ice cream each year, or about 4 gallons.

• Waffle cones beat out sugar cones 32% to 12% among consumers, but 37% of consumers prefer to eat ice cream out of a bowl.

• The most popular added ingredient is cookies at 46%, followed by candy/chocolate pieces at 27% and brownies at 19%.

• 84% of consumers prefer to purchase ice cream at the grocery store and eat it at home.

• Fortune Business Insights estimates the global ice cream market will reach $97.85 billion in 2027, up from $71.52 billion in 2021.

Story courtesy of the International Dairy Foods Association

Ovation in Onancock

Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital in Onancock, Va., has been recognized as a Top 20 rural and community hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health and the National Rural Health Association. RSMH has been nationally recognized for its hard work in providing safe, quality care to those on the Eastern Shore for three years in a row.

The NRHA names the Top 20 Rural & Community Hospitals annually based on an evaluation conducted by the Chartis Center for Rural Health. The selected hospitals are identified through the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX, the most comprehensive and objective assessment of approximately 800 U.S. rural Prospective Payment System hospitals’ performance, based upon market, value-based and financial measures.

“We are honored that Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital has been recognized as one of the top rural hospitals in the nation,” says Mike Dacey, M.D., president & CEO of Riverside Health System. “We are proud to provide the Eastern Shore safe, quality, compassionate care close to home.”

In 2023, RSMH is the only hospital on the East Coast to be recognized in the Top 20; making it the only hospital in Virginia to make the Top 20 in the past seven years. In 2021

and 2022, RSMH was one of two hospitals on the East Coast and the only one in Virginia to receive Top 20 recognition. In 2020 RSMH was the only hospital in Virginia to be recognized in the Top 100 Rural and Community Hospitals.

The RSMH team is an essential part of supporting the Eastern Shore’s primary and specialty care needs. Ranging from inpatient and outpatient care, diagnostics, rehabilitation and wellness services, Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital provides a strong care continuum for medical and surgical patients, emergency department and critical care patients, newborns, and patients seeking diagnostic testing.

Through the ongoing efforts of the RSMH team, the Eastern Shore knows who they can count on to promote, maintain and restore health with exceptional patient-focused care in a compassionate setting.

“Providing high-quality medical care to our close-knit community is what we do and a part of who we are,” says Nick Chuquín, MSHA, FACHE, president of Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital. “This recognition is a testament to our team’s dedication to living the Riverside mission on the Shore — to care for others as we would care for those we love.” 

For more, visit riversideonline.com.

Story and photos courtesy Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital

Eastern Shore hospital named a Top 20 facility

“ Providing high-quality medical care to our close-knit community is what we do and a part of who we are.”

Nick Chuquín,

President, Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital

Summer heat can be exhausting!

by Elizabeth Crumbly, Contributing Columnist

You can avoid wearing out your wallet by using energy more efficiently

When it’s hot, and your family is hanging out more at home, energy costs may spike if you’re not careful. Make it a family affair by getting the kids involved to help conserve energy.

Start by discussing all the energy savers and wasters. Then, for more energy-saving tips and activities for kids, visit the Energy Star Kids Page online: energystar.gov/about/kids.

Let’s check your answers.

Your Gateway to Savings

by Miranda Boutelle, Contributing Columnist Insulate your home with an efficient exterior

I like the style of my front door, but it is drafty. Can you recommend ways to fix the drafts and make it more energy efficient?

Efficient exterior doors seal tightly and don’t allow air to pass through. Limiting airflow from exterior doors can result in lower heating and cooling costs. Throughout the years, the construction of exterior doors has improved to increase their efficiency. If your door is older, it likely is not insulated.

There are two strategies to address an inefficient front door: Purchase a new one or work with what you have.

If you want to replace your front door for aesthetic purposes, make it more functional or improve its efficiency, consider upgrading to an Energy Star-certified model. The Energy Star certification ensures the door you buy meets efficiency criteria for your local area. It also means the National Fenestration Rating Council independently tested and verified the door.

Certification requires any windows in the door to be double or triple pane to reduce heat flow, which results in a more efficient home. While windows in doors offer aesthetics, more glass means less efficiency. Energy Star offers different criteria based on the amount of glass the door has. That means that the bigger the windows in a door, the lower the efficiency. The most efficient doors have no glass or windows in them.

door

The front door of your home has a lot of meaning. It sets the stage for the home and is the first impression for your guests. Beyond curb appeal, the front door is a good place to look for energy savings.

MADE ESPECIALLY FOR U

U-factor is the primary rating for efficiency on doors and windows. U-factor is the inverse of R-value, which is the rating used for insulation. Unlike R-value where higher is better, the lower the U-factor, the more energy efficient the door. Check the U-factor on Energy Star doors at your local hardware store or online to help choose the most efficient door in your preferred style.

Energy Star-certified doors are made of the most efficient materials, such as fiberglass, wood cladding and steel with a polyurethane foam core. They are built to fit snugly into their frames, reducing drafts and airflow.

When it comes to doors, you don’t have to sacrifice style for efficiency. There are many styles available to match the architecture, whether your home is historic or modern.

EXPANDING YOUR SAVINGS

When completely replacing a door and the frame, you can use expanding foam or caulk to fill the space between the door jamb and structural framing. Energy Star doors have specific installation instructions to ensure the desired efficiency.

If a new door isn’t in your budget, there are less expensive options to reduce air leakage and improve your home’s efficiency.

All of that coming and going throughout the years can wear out weatherstripping. If you can see daylight around the edges of the door or underneath it, it’s time to stop those air leaks.

Weatherstripping around the door jamb can be adjusted to make a snug seal or replaced if it’s too far gone. Apply one continuous strip along each side, and make sure it meets tightly at the corners.

There are many different types of weatherstripping products on the market, so shop around for what’s right for you. Don’t forget the door sweep at the bottom of the door.

RIDING THE STORM OUT

Adding a storm door can also help and is less expensive than replacing the entire door. Most storm doors have options for using a screen or glass. Swapping the screen for the glass insert can help save energy in both the winter and in the summer if you use air conditioning. Consider a storm door that’s easy to switch between glass and screen so you can maximize the benefits.

Open the door to energy savings by improving the efficiency of your exterior doors — without compromising the aesthetics of your home. 

Miranda Boutelle writes on energy efficiency topics for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Improve your front door. Add a storm door.

The Cycle of Life

Story and photos by Jeff Reid, Contributing Writer

E-bikes growing in popularity, especially among seniors

What is an e-bike? According to bicycling.com, e-bikes are bicycles with a battery-powered “assist” that comes from pedaling and, in some cases, a throttle. When you pump the pedals on a pedalassist e-bike, a small motor engages and gives you a boost, so you can zip up hills and cruise over uneven terrain without wearing yourself out. Think of it like a moving sidewalk in an airport, where you’re still walking, but you’re also getting an electronic assist.

A rising interest in e-bikes or electric bikes has been well-documented for several years now, with more and more people discovering the benefits of cycling using this lessstrenuous option.

E-bike interest has surged in popularity with both suburban and urban commuters who see them as a practical form of transportation and a potential way to cut back on greenhouse gas emissions by reducing combustion vehicle travel.

One local area where e-bikes are becoming increasingly popular is on Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

“The e-bike industry is exploding here,” says Rich Alloway, owner of Chincoteague Bike Shop on Chincoteague Island. Alloway says he is the only business on the Eastern Shore of Virginia to rent and sell e-bikes.

“We have witnessed continued growth on the island as well as the demand for different ways to experience it,” he says, “We started Chincoteague Bike Shop because we believe

electric bikes are the future. E-bikes run on clean energy and provide an up close and personal experience, unlike any other mode of transportation. From Chincoteague Island to the Assateague seashore, we believe e-bikes provide the best touring experience.”

Alloway, a retired judge and former state senator from Pennsylvania, opened his shop last summer after his first e-bike experience.

“A friend introduced me to electric bikes and as soon as I rode one, I was hooked,” he says. “They are so much fun. I have ridden bikes my whole life for pleasure and exercise. With e-bikes, you can do as much exercise as you want,” he says, adding that e-bikes’ electric-assist motors generally allow for speeds up to 20 mph.

Alloway says his e-bikes can operate up to 40 miles of travel on one battery charge, and at the end of each day you simply plug them into the wall, and they are charged for the next day. The shop also carries e-trikes for people who have balance issues.

With battery-assisted pedaling, e-bikes can also allow more people to enjoy nature; including those whose physical fitness, age, disability or convenience might otherwise make them unable to venture into natural settings. Most National Parks such as Assateague and Virginia State Parks now welcome the use of class one (pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum speed of 20 mph) and class two (maximum speed of 20 mph, throttle-assisted) on any bicycle path or trail designated for such use.

Alloway says that many of his customers are seniors and that e-bikes allow them to stay active. He says they can pedal as much as they want, but if they get tired they can simply engage the electric assist.

“I had a 70-year-old gentleman come back to the shop in tears after riding all over Assateague Island,” he says. “He just had two knee replacements and did not think he would ever be active again. But the electric pedal assist allowed him to just keep going.

“I hear stories like that every day at our shop,” Alloway adds. “For me, keeping seniors active is incredibly fulfilling. E-bikes are also great if one person in the group is not able to keep up with the others by only pedaling.”

If interested in purchasing an e-bike, Alloway says you should do your homework. E-bikes can run anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000, and some are better quality than others.

Rich Alloway

Jeff Reid

In 2023, e-bike sales are estimated to reach 40 million units worldwide, generating about $20 billion.

Fruity Summer

DESSERTS

Got a tasty treat to share?

Email your favorite recipes to cooperativekitchen @co-opliving.com, or mail to Cooperative Kitchen, c/o Cooperative Living, P.O. Box 2340, Glen Allen, VA 23058-2340 and include your email address.

Lemon Cheesecake with Fresh Fruit

Recipe courtesy of Family Features/Culinary.net

Ingredients:

1 ¼ cups graham cracker crumbs

¼ cup sugar

¼ cup butter, melted

2 pkgs. (8 oz. each) cream cheese, softened

1 can (14 oz.) sweetened condensed milk

3 eggs

You also can submit them online at co-opliving.com/ cooperativekitchen. Selected recipes will be published in future issues of Cooperative Living or at co-opliving.com. Because of volume we cannot guarantee publication of all recipes. Reader recipes are submitted in good faith. Cooperative Living cannot warrant results.

¼ cup fresh lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 orange, peeled and separated

8 raspberries

3 mint leaves, for garnish

Directions: Heat oven to 350 degrees. In medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, sugar and melted butter. Press firmly into 9-inch springform pan. In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Gradually beat in sweetened condensed milk until smooth. Add eggs, fresh lemon juice and vanilla extract; mix until combined. Pour into pan. Bake 50-55 minutes, or until center springs back when lightly pressed. Chill in refrigerator until completely cooled. Arrange orange slices around border of cake and place raspberries in middle. Top with mint leaves. Serves 6-8.

Cherry Garcia Ice Cream

Recipe courtesy of Family Features/“Always Eat After 7 PM”

Ingredients:

¼ cup fresh Bing cherries, pitted and halved

¼ cup stevia-sweetened dark chocolate bar, chopped

3 overripe frozen bananas, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces

¼ cup unsweetened coconut milk

1 pinch sea salt

Directions: Chill cherries and dark chocolate. In food processor, pulse frozen bananas, milk and salt until smooth, creamy consistency of soft serve is achieved. Stir in cherries and chocolate. Serve immediately or place in freezer-safe container and freeze until serving. Serves 4.

Strawberry Mousse

Recipe courtesy of Family Features/Culinary.net

Ingredients:

1 cup strawberries, halved

2 cups heavy cream

1 cup powdered sugar

8-oz. pkg. cream cheese, softened assorted fruit, for serving

Directions: In blender, purée strawberries until smooth. Set aside. In mixing bowl, whip heavy cream and powdered sugar until fluffy. In a separate mixing bowl, beat cream cheese until smooth. Add strawberry purée to cream cheese and mix until combined. Add whipped cream and stir until combined. Serve in bowl with fruit. Serves 6-8.

Keep on Trucking

Story and photos by Peggy Hyland, Contributing Writer For South Boston seafood, Breedlove’s is the catfish’s meow

When I heard the best seafood in South Boston, Va., was from a food truck, I immediately started planning my trip. Breedlove’s Seafood has been a local institution for decades and has definitely earned its reputation. This easy-going eatery is a simple food truck located on North Main Street, just a few blocks from downtown.

I was looking for a menu when a gentleman greeted me from his casual perch. He said, “I’ll make it easy on you: We have fish, shrimp and scallops.” Hungry from the drive, we opted to try all three.

The gentleman turned out to be none other than Breedlove Ford, known to all as Mr. Breedlove, who has owned and operated the food truck for over 40 years. He got his start cooking for the Department of Corrections at Powhatan Correctional Center and mastered the kitchens at several other regional institutions before retiring. He is well known to the local community, and everyone who came for their lunch greeted him by name. We encountered a young woman who had moved away to Louisiana but returned for a family event. She enthusiastically stated that she had been looking forward to her Breedlove’s lunch the whole trip. “I got to get my fish!” she exclaimed.

As with most food trucks, there is no dining room or place to eat. There are some chairs to sit in when waiting for your food, which is cooked to order, so it is not sitting

around. The shaded area is heated by a wood stove in the winter, cooled by a fan in the summer, and full of locals who greet each other warmly. Most of the patrons were getting their meals to take home to their families. We walked across the street to a local park and enjoyed our lunch in the shade of a picnic pavilion. The fish was flaky and tender, the shrimp were delicately cooked, and the scallops were little pillows of flavor. Each meal came with hot sauce (the local favorite) and tartar sauce, as well as a hearty serving of fries. The food was easy, unpretentious, filling and delicious. The portions were generous and the price was very reasonable. With their menu limited to four types of seafood (catfish, whiting, shrimp, scallops) and fries, you will need to get drinks elsewhere, but there is a convenience store right next door.

I asked Mr. Breedlove if I could take his photo. He declined, saying, “Just knowing you enjoyed it is worth more to me than a thousand photos.” He said he wants to rely on his name alone because his name goes a long way in the community. His genuine spirit shines through in his friendliness as much as his food, and both are true South Boston treasures. 

Shrimp, scallops, fish and fries

Generous portions will fill you up and the flavor will have you wanting more.

Events Around the Area

Editor’s note: All information is believed to be accurate as of press time. Before you attend, please use the contact information to verify the status of an event. Listing an event does not constitute an endorsement.

BLUE RIDGE WEST

JULY

15-23 HOT SPRINGS. Bath County Arts Assn. 58th Annual Art Show. 1-5 p.m. Bath County High School. Bathcountyarts.org.

20 STAUNTON. Jazz in the Park – Bob Russell Quartet. Gypsy Hill Park. 7 p.m. (540) 280-4321.

20-22 FULKS RUN. Fulks Run Ruritan Lawn Party. 15962 Hopkins Gap Rd. Fulksrunruritanclub@gmail.com.

21 SHENANDOAH. Outdoor Movie Night. First St. 8:30 p.m. Townofshenandoah.com.

22 WINCHESTER. George Washington’s Election to the Virginia House of Burgesses 1758 – Living History event. 20 N. Loudoun St. 5-7 p.m. Fiwf.org.

27 STAUNTON. Jazz in the Park – Kurt Crandall & True Story. Gypsy Hill Park. 7 p.m. (540) 280-4321.

29 SHENANDOAH. Music in the Park. Big Gem Park. 6 p.m. Townofshenandoah.com.

AUGUST

3 STAUNTON. Jazz in the Park – Zu Zu’s Hot Five. Gypsy Hill Park. 7 p.m. (540) 280-4321.

10 STAUNTON. Jazz in the Park – Jazz Infusion. Gypsy Hill Park. 7 p.m. (540) 280-4321.

PIEDMONT

JULY

22-25 CHANTILLY Freedom in Nature at the Gardens. 12-5 p.m. National Botanic Garden. Nationalbotanicgarden.org.

AUGUST

2-6 BRANDY STATION. Annual Fair, Parade and Tractor Pull. 20057 Fleetwood Heights Rd. (540) 825-0354. Bsvfd.com.

4 BOYDTON. First Fridays on the Porch: Sit & Sip. Boyd Tavern & Visitors Center. 5-9 p.m. Robbrawles@gmail.com. Boydtavern.net.

5 MANASSAS. African American Heritage Festival. Metz Middle School. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Maahf.com.

5-9 CHANTILLY Exploration Adventures Outdoors at the Gardens. National Botanic Garden. 12-5 p.m.

TIDEWATER

JULY

20-22 CHINCOTEAGUE. 35th Chincoteague Island Blueberry Festival. 6155 Community Dr. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (757) 894-2334.

MARYLAND

JULY

16 EASTON. Cars and Coffee. 355 Glebe Rd. (410) 463-0542. Djtrans100@outlook.com.

DO YOU HAVE A FALL FESTIVAL OR DESTINATION TO SHARE?

Don’t miss your chance to have your best attendance yet! Advertise your event in our Special Fall Festivals and Travel Destinations section coming up in our September issue and reach 1.7 million potential visitors.

Contact Sonja Kinney at skinney@vmdaec.com or (804) 297-3429 for more information and to book your space today.

19-22 CHESTERTOWN. Kent County 4-H Fair. 21349 Tolchester Beach Rd. Kentcountyfair.org.

24 SNOW HILL. Summer Music at Furnace Town: The Folk Heroes & The Folk Villains. Furnace Town Historic Site. 5-8 p.m. Events@furnacetown.org.

AUGUST

4-6 FEDERALSBURG. 63rd Annual Wheat Threshing, Steam & Gas Engine Show. 5806 Federalsburg Hwy. 10 a.m. (410) 673-2414. Threshermen.org.

5 SNOW HILL. Summer Music at Furnace Town: Hoedown with DJ Kay. Furnace Town Historic Site. 5-8 p.m. Events@furnacetown.org.

6 EASTON. Cars and Coffee. 355 Glebe Rd. (410) 463-0542. Djtrans100@outlook.com.

11-13 ROCK HALL. Pirates and Wenches Weekend. Main St. 10 a.m. Rockhallpirates.com.

12 ST. MICHAELS. Cars and Coffee –Mustangs. 102 East Marengo St. 9-11 a.m. Classicmotormuseum.org.

12 PRESTON. 21st Annual Peach Festival. Preston Firehall. 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Office@prestonbethesdaumc.org.

MORE EVENTS AT: CO-OPLIVING.COM/HAPPENINGS

PRINT DEADLINES: Aug. 1 for Sept. 15-Oct. 15 Sept. 1 for Oct. 15-Nov. 15

Email: Send to: Online:

happenings@co-opliving.com

Happenings, P.O. Box 2340, Glen Allen, VA 23058-2340 co-opliving.com/happenings

Powering Down

Story courtesy of Statepoint Content

How video games help boost military morale

F or military members, video games are not just a fun way to unwind during downtime, they can provide much-needed stress relief and an opportunity to connect with friends and family.

For these reasons, video games have had a place in United Service Organizations’ centers over the past four decades — from the early days of standup arcade games and pinball machines to today’s modern video game consoles and livestreaming. The USO has taken its gaming initiative to the next level by outfitting more of its locations with dedicated gaming spaces, equipped with all the latest technology, as well as by hosting in-person and online video game events.

Here are the top ways these initiatives benefit service members:

COMBATING ISOLATION

In recent surveys, time away from family because of military service is a top concern within the military community. Through gaming, military members can connect with loved ones back home.

STRESS RELIEF

About half of military and veteran video gamers specifically play video games to deal with military-related stress. Research conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs shows that gaming can improve mental health by helping veterans cope with combat-induced trauma, by alleviating stress and by providing opportunities to bond with others.

BUILDING CAMARADERIE

Gaming often encourages collaboration and can be an important way to socialize and make friends with fellow service members. USO locations are outfitted with a variety of gaming equipment and consoles designed specifically so that groups of service members can play together. This is significant, as studies show that playing video games on teams and with others can improve teamwork in daily life.

BREAKING BARRIERS

Gaming allows service members of all ranks to step away from the chain of command and be on equal footing as they compete against and alongside one another. And thanks to dedicated

spaces at USO centers around the world, such as the 2,500-square-foot facility gaming center on Eglin Air Force Base in northwest Florida, service members and their families can enjoy state-of-the-art systems and games at no cost.

ENGAGING WITH THE COMMUNITY

In addition to local gaming events at its centers, the USO hosts larger online gaming competitions, which are often livestreamed via Twitch. These competitions, which are occasionally open to the public and sometimes feature high-profile professional gamers, serve as a means for active military to engage with members of the community, bridging the civilian-military divide.

“Gaming’s ability to give service members a break from the pressure and responsibility of their daily missions, while building community and strengthening bonds, goes straight to the heart of our mission,” says Callum Fletcher, USO director of Global Gaming Operations. “Although video games are in fact games, for America’s military, they can be so much more.” 

PHOTO COURTESY UNITED SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Let Me Tell You About My Family Vacation

by Margo Oxendine, Contributing Columnist

Looking back at great memories of summer

It’s the most wonderful time of the year!

No, not Christmas.

I’m talking about the family summer vacation.

I have so many great memories of our family vacations. Whether we were going to Connecticut to see relatives, or to some “remote” beach my parents had discovered, it was truly always an adventure. I can still laugh out loud at many of the antics and occurrences.

There was the trip to Ocracoke Island, N.C. Oh, it sounded glorious. Not so, it turned out, for a 16-year-old girl who always kept an eye out for a “cute boy.” There were no cute boys, but there was a ferry boat to the island, which made me queasy. There were also thousands of sand fleas.

Daddy had bought a summer hat that went down in family lore as “the Ocracoke hat.” Oh, my sister and I hated that hat. We did everything we could to hide it from him, or to “ruin” it in some way so it couldn’t be worn that day. Once, we put it into a cooler full of icy water.

Daddy got back at us for that, you

can be sure. The next morning, when we went to put on our bathing suits, there they were: floating in icy water. There’s not much ickier than climbing into a wet, frigid swimsuit. Oh, how we laughed.

There was something else memorable: When we loaded our many belongings into the Pony Island Motel, my mother began putting away groceries. Opening the cupboard, she called out, “David! Come look at this!”

Tucked in the cabinet was a handgun. Not something you’d usually find next to the cereal. Daddy, a lifetime law enforcement officer, took charge of the weapon. He always carried his gold badge and his own weapon. “You just never know,” he’d say.

Before too long, a knock came upon our door. Daddy moved us to the back of the room and opened the door to find two unsavory characters standing there, trying to look menacing. Well, no one could look as menacing as my father, holding a pistol and flashing a gold badge, sporting his Ocracoke hat.

“Forget something, fellas?” he inquired.

“Uh … no … wrong room. Sorry,” was the reply. The unclaimed pistol was then turned in to local authorities.

WHEREZ IT?

The trips to Connecticut could be fraught. Daddy did all the driving. He drove for a living as a state trooper. Pipe gripped firmly in his teeth; we passed every car on the highway. Mom read the map (remember those?). She could never get it straight, or folded right. And she’d say things like, “Why don’t we stop at such-and-such? It’s only an inch out of our way.” We never stopped at such-and-such. Daddy was hell-bent on arriving at our destination. I can’t count the number of Stuckey’s we’d pass. I always wanted to stop. But no. Mom had packed picnic lunches — which we ate as Daddy sped along the turnpikes. I caused a calamity as we arrived at my grandmother’s house. Granny’s nephew, Jack, was sitting at the table, eating a big steak. By his side was a large German shepherd named Husky. I bent down to kiss Jack hello and Husky, who thought I was grabbing his portion of the steak, bit me in the face. So, as soon as we got there, we were off to the hospital. Some vacation!

I hope your own family’s summer vacation is filled with better memories. Enjoy these wonderful times, when the whole family is together sharing an adventure. And I hope your adventure doesn’t include forgotten pistols and mauling by an angry German shepherd. But even those can be funny in retrospect. 

To order a copy of Margo’s “A Party of One,” call 540-468-2147 Mon.-Wed., 9 a.m.-5 p.m., or email therecorderoffice@gmail.com.

Look for the CL logo, like the one above, in the pages of this issue of Cooperative Living. Submit the page number where you found it along with your name, email and phone number to WherezIt, c/o Cooperative Living, P.O. Box 2340, Glen Allen, VA 23058-2340 or go online at co-opliving.com under “Contests.” Deadline is July 20. The winner will receive a $25 Amazon email gift card.

500 Graduates and Counting!

by Laura Emery, Staff Writer

SVCC’s Power Line Worker Training Program celebrates its 500th graduate

Southside Virginia Community College’s Power Line Worker Training School recently hit a major milestone by celebrating its 500th graduate. The ceremony was held at Pickett Park inside Fort Barfoot in Blackstone, Va.

During SVCC’s 11-week training program, trainees get classroom and hands-on training in safety, climbing techniques, electrical theory, aerial framing, rigging, operating utility service equipment, and commercial driver training. Those who complete the program also receive five credentials, including a commercial driver’s license.

It was in 2016 that the Power Line Worker Training School opened its doors to aspiring lineworkers in Virginia. The first of its kind in the commonwealth, the pre-training school was established through a public-private partnership between the members of the Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives; SVCC; the Virginia Community College System; the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education; and the Rural Virginia Horseshoe Initiative.

Seven years later, it is a highly reputable launching pad for a new generation of lineworkers.

The success of the program is evident in the numbers. The program has graduated 21 classes, totaling 501 students from 56 counties and 13 cities in Virginia, as well as seven

other states. Ninety-five percent of the students who graduated from this rigorous program now work for 71 different companies, with an astounding 90% of the graduates having received job offers before, or soon after, graduation.

“This program and its success would never have been possible without the support and strong partnership of the VMDAEC and their member electric cooperatives,” says SVCC President Dr. Quentin R. Johnson.

John C. Lee Jr., president and CEO of Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative, gave the commencement address at the program’s 21st completion ceremony in late April. He offered encouraging words to the graduating class and acknowledged the program’s significant milestone.

To a packed room, Lee said, “The graduates we honor today are shining examples of this program’s value and SVCC’s strong commitment to their success. Knowledge, embedded in skill sets and coupled with initiative, teamwork and other social skills, yields individuals such as these graduates who will begin their careers with a very competitive start … this school is generating potential employees who can immediately begin contributing to the bottom line of his or her employer.”

For more, visit southside.edu/power-line-worker.

“ The graduates we honor today are shining examples of this program’s value and SVCC’s strong commitment to their success.”

John

C. Lee Jr., president and CEO, Mecklenburg Electric Cooperative

SOUTHSIDE VIRGINIA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

PHOTO COURTESY MECKLENBURG ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

BUSINESS MARKETPLACE

FIREARM-RIGHTS RESTORATION. Call for free consultation: Attorney John Janson, 434-953-8794 (Virginia Bar #91236).

REAL ESTATE

ARE YOU PART OWNER OF A FARM OR INVESTMENT PROPERTY? With family members, partners or unknown parties? Do you want to separate or cash out your interest? Call today for a free consultation. (VSB #91236) Attorney John Janson at 434-953-8794. Johnmjanson@gmail.com.

SHENANDOAH COUNTY. 9.4 acres for sale in Mt. Olive. Off Keller Lane. $10,000. 540-746-0910.

AUCTIONS

CARWILE AUCTIONS INC. Follow on Facebook & Auction Zip. VAAR392. 434-547-9100.

RATES: Non-business: $70 per 25-word block plus $2.50 per word over 25; OR “Mini” ad – $5 per word (max. 10 words). Business, agent and broker ads: $130 per 25-word block, plus $5 per word over 25. Display Real Estate: $299 per block.

DEADLINE: July 7 for August issue; Prepayment required. Publisher reserves the right to designate classification or reject any ad. No personals, please.

Statement of Nondiscrimination

WANTED

CORVETTE 1953-1972 OR 1967-69. Camaro project car, barn find, wrecked or parts car. Any hot-rod parts. Will pay a fair price in cash. 804-943-2283.

ARROWHEADS. Buying all types of Indian artifacts. Any size collection. 757-373-3502.

AMERICAN WHISKEY AND BOURBON. Entire collections or single items, bottles or decanters. Sealed and unopened. The older, the better. Cash. Call 540-845-6107 or email at: majiddk@comcast.net.

FREE

STAY INFORMED ON CHURCH/STATE ISSUES – like religious liberty, a National Sunday Law coming soon. Send mailing address to tbsmads@yahoo.com, TBSM, P.O. Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. 888-211-1715.

FOR SALE

EASTERN RED CEDAR BOARDS for raised garden beds. 540-908-1295.

EVENTS

MADISON COUNTY FAIR – July 12-15. Every day: music, performing dogs, livestock, exhibits. Friday: rodeo. Saturday: demo derby. Madisoncountyfairva.com. 540-948-7073.

SUBMIT: We accept classifieds by email (classifieds @co-opliving.com), telephone (804-297-3429) or mail to: Classifieds, P.O. Box 2340, Glen Allen, VA 23058-2340. Please type or print your ad as you would like it to appear and how many months it should run. Include your name, address and prepayment by check made payable to Cooperative Living. To pay by credit card, use paypal.me/vmdaec. Ads with incomplete information or payment will be returned to the sender.

In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at http://www.ascr.usda.qov/complaint filing cust.html and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form.

To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by:

(1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410;

(2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or

(3) email: program.intake@usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

HIGHLAND COUNTY FAIR –Monterey, Va. Aug. 26, Aug. 30-Sept. 2. Highlandcountyfairva.com. NEVER MISS

SALTY

(who also goes by

enjoys the beautiful view.

RUFF

Seas!

Submit a photo for a chance to win a $15 Amazon gift card!

WE WANT TO SEE YOUR PHOTOS!

If your photo is published in this column, we will send you a $15 Amazon gift card credit via email. You can send your high-resolution .jpg files to saycheese@co-opliving.com with caption info. You may also mail your photo(s) to: Say Cheese, P.O. Box 2340, Glen Allen, VA 23058-2340. Do not send originals; photos cannot be returned.

ALL PAWS ON DECK

loves the boat and is very inquisitive.



Baxter and Cleo enjoy warm weather because they love boating on Lake Anna.

floating down the

by Laura Emery, Staff Writer

IT’S A-BOAT TIME!

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY PAMELA DUMONT

NAUTI BUOYS Bruno and Dexter enjoy

Shenandoah River. PHOTO SUBMITTED BY AMANDA TURNER

Trixie

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY ROB AND PAULA PELLICOT

DOGGY PADDLE Mykee enjoys a boat ride on the Nansemond River in Suffolk, Va.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY DEBRA CUTCHINS

DOG

Sgt. Cheeseypoof

“Poofy”)

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY DEBRA ISTRE