How a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can change your life
Remember when…
Think about the things you loved to do that are dif cult today — going for a walk or just sitting comfortably while reading a book. And remember the last time you got a great night’s sleep?
As we get older, health issues or even everyday aches, pains and stress can prevent us from enjoying life.
So what’s keeping you from having a better quality of life?
Check all the conditions that apply to you.
Arthritis Dry Skin
Insomnia Anxiety
Diabetes Mobility Issues
Lower Back Poor Pain Circulation
Then read on to learn how a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can help. Feel better, sleep better, live better
A Safe Step Walk-In Tub lets you indulge in a warm, relaxing bath that can help relieve life’s aches, pains and worries.
A Safe Step Tub can help increase mobility, boost energy and improve sleep.
It’s got everything you should look for in a walk-in tub:
• Heated Seat – Providing soothing warmth from start to nish.
• MicroSoothe® Air Therapy System – helps oxygenate and soften skin while offering therapeutic bene ts.
• Pain-relieving therapy – Hydro massage jets target sore muscles and joints.
• Safety features – Low step-in, grab bars and more can help you bathe safely and maintain your independence.
• Free Toilet
GCEA 2024 Annual Report
Message from the president
By Michelle Lehmann Board President
Looking back at the past year, GCEA has been busy working on multiple projects to forward our strategic plan and ensure you as members are well taken care of with safe, reliable, and affordable power. Our employees are vital to GCEA and for most of this year we have had all positions filled. We welcomed some new employees and honored some that retired after many years of hard work with us. I credit our amazing employees for keeping GCEA strong and member driven.
At our last board meeting we looked at the highlights of 2024. It was a busy year.
Taylor River Hydro is producing 3% of our load with local clean energy. We are moving forward with two solar projects that will add even more local renewable energy. Staff analyzed our aging infrastructure and we have a plan to systematically replace old lines to ensure you continue to receive reliable power. We are applying for grants to help reduce rate impacts whenever possible.
We have worked hard to analyze and develop a new rate strategy. I want to acknowledge the staff and board members who have spent countless hours working to find the best option to have a rate plan that helps ensure our fixed costs are covered and members are billed fairly and have options to help control their bills.
At present, your GCEA bill reflects a two-part rate structure that combines the energy used — kilowatt-hours — and the demand placed on
the electric grid — kilowatts. However, starting January 1, 2026, we will shift to a more refined three-part rate structure. This structure includes a service availability charge which covers a large portion of the fixed costs of grid maintenance, an energy charge, and a new peak demand charge specifically for peak hours, 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
Peak demand refers to the maximum power consumed at a single point in time and is measured in kilowatts. Think of it like your car speedometer, indicating how fast you’re consuming energy at a given moment. In comparison, energy — kWh — is like your car’s odometer, representing the total energy used over time. Both metrics are crucial, but demand significantly influences how much stress your usage puts on the electrical grid. This shift creates a fairer billing model, directly linking costs to usage patterns.
This change may seem daunting at first, but it empowers you with more control. By becoming aware of your demand patterns, you can strategically adjust your consumption during peak hours to lower your bill. It’s like choosing to avoid rush hour traffic by traveling at off-peak times. By looking at your patterns, watch for options such as delayed start on appliances, make sure you take advantage of timers for car charging and block heaters on equipment and trucks that need to be plugged in.
Look for more information soon to better understand the new rate structure and find ways to control your costs. More Power To Ya!
ON THE COVER
The Taylor River Hydro facility was completed in 2024 and is producing 3% of GCEA’s energy with clean, renewable sources.
Photo by Justin Hulick, Gunnison Journeyman Lineman
Who makes your world brighter?
As we think ahead to the season of shorter days and twinkling lights, we’d like to make space to appreciate the people who bring light into our lives.
Has someone helped you through a hard time with a kind word, a warm meal, or just by being there? Maybe it was a friend who made you laugh when you needed it most, a neighbor who stepped in when you were struggling, or a stranger whose simple act of kindness stuck with you.
We’d love to hear your story for our December 2025 issue. Keep it short and heartfelt — we’re looking for the everyday stories that remind us how powerful a little light can be. Content may be edited for space and clarity.
• Deadline: September 20
• Word count: 200–300 words
• Submit by:
• Email: editor@coloradocountrylife.org
• Online: coloradocountrylife.coop/light-in-the-dark
• USPS: Colorado Country Life, Attn: Editor 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216
Let’s shine a little light together.
The Colorado Room
About seven years ago, we started looking for new slipcovers for an old sofa. Our family room had been through three rounds of baby spit-up, leaky toddler sippy cups, and grubby little-kid hands. Long story short, that internet search for a simple couch refresh set us on a six-month journey of selling our house and moving.
During the housing search, we saw countless suburban homes. After a while, houses started to blur together, and it was tough to keep track of all the features and layouts. We resorted to nicknaming the various options on the market at that time: “Long Entry Cat House,” “Smokehouse Ranch,” and “Dog Slobber Kokopelli” were a few that made it to the “We’ll pass” list.
Late in the search, our agent scheduled a showing and mentioned that this particular house had a Colorado room, which was just a fancy name for a covered back deck.
Our journey brought us to an unexpected place and I’m grateful we landed at “The Colorado Room House.”
The covered back deck turned into my happy place. It’s sunny in the morning and cool and shaded in the heat of the afternoon. It is lovely in the fall, and you can even find me perched under a blanket in my chair on a chilly winter day.
On page 11, writer Becky Jensen offers practical tips for creating an outdoor oasis. There are simple steps you can take to create a space where you can enjoy fresh air, sunshine, backyard birdwatching, and maybe even a s’more or two on a warm summer night.
STAFF
Cassi Gloe, Publisher cgloe@coloradocountrylife.org
Kylee Coleman, Editor kcoleman@coloradocountrylife.org
Melinda Taylor, Editorial Assistant mtaylor@coloradocountrylife.org
SUBSCRIBERS
Report change of address to your local cooperative. Do not send change of address to Colorado Country Life. Cost of subscription for members of participating electric cooperatives is 30 cents per month, paid from equity accruing to the member. For nonmembers, a subscription is $15 per year in state/$20 out of state.
ADVERTISING
advertising@coloradocountrylife.org 720-407-0712
National advertising representative: American MainStreet Publications 611 S. Congress St., Suite 504 Austin, TX 78704 | 800-626-1181
Advertising Standards
Publication of an advertisement in Colorado Country Life does not imply endorsement by any Colorado electric cooperative or the Colorado Rural Electric Association. Colorado Country Life (USPS 469-400/ ISSN 1090-2503) is published monthly by Colorado Rural Electric Association, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216-1731. Periodical postage paid at Denver, Colorado. ©2025, Colorado Rural Electric Association. Call for reprint rights. View advertising and editorial policy terms and conditions online at coloradocountrylife.coop.
EDITORIAL
Denver Corporate Office 5400 Washington St. Denver, CO 80216
info@coloradocountrylife.org 303-455-4111
Editorial opinions published in Colorado Country Life magazine shall pertain to issues affecting rural electric cooperatives, rural communities, and citizens. The opinion of CREA is not necessarily that of any particular cooperative or individual.
By Kylee Coleman Editor
2024 Annual Report
CEO Message
By Mike McBride Chief Executive Officer
In the first decades of GCEA’s existence, there was a great deal of similarity in the way people used electricity — at least much more so than there is today. This led to the creation of a simple retail rate structure, which was mostly based on how much one used.
Over the years, as different uses of electricity and different usage patterns emerged, we have been gradually increasing the monthly service availability charge to more fairly recover costs. In 2026, GCEA will add a third rate component: a peak demand charge. This change will promote fair cost recovery among members, give members a new way in which to control their monthly bill, and send a clear signal to members about actions they can take to help GCEA save money and keep rates as low as possible.
To be clear, this new rate component will not create additional revenue for GCEA. As a not-for-profit cooperative, GCEA operates at cost. This new charge will be phased in over five years to facilitate a smooth transition and because we will collect some of our revenue through this charge, the energy, or kilowatt-hour charge will be less than it would have otherwise been.
GCEA ended 2024 in a strong financial position, but we saw negative growth of 0.7% in kilowatt-hour sales compared to 2023. Kilowatt-hour sales have typically grown year over year for GCEA, but over the past decade, GCEA’s growth has been below average compared to other rural electric cooperatives in Colorado. This downturn in sales is driven primarily, if not entirely by weather, but growth can help GCEA keep rates down. With so many ways for members to save money and benefit the environment by switching to electricity, we are hopeful that growth is in our future.
After decades of research and work, GCEA completed a hydro generation project at Taylor Dam and that facility is now generating approximately 3% of GCEA’s power requirements at a cost savings for our members.
In related news, we expect to begin construction on two local solar projects that together will produce about 3.4% of GCEA’s power supply at no additional cost to members. The remainder of our power supply from Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association continues to become more renewable and less carbon intensive without additional cost from the transition.
In our ongoing efforts to maintain reliability at an average of 99.97%, a rebuild/upgrade of 11 miles of overhead power line along Highway 149 will be completed this year and it appears that we will receive $5 million in federal assistance for this three-year, 33-mile project.
I join Board President Lehmann in recognizing our exceptional team; each person is needed to take advantage of the opportunities before us and every one of which has risen to the challenge again and again. I cannot say enough about the excellent work and dedication of our entire team.
Thank you for being a part of GCEA and for allowing us to serve you. We will continue to make good things happen for you in the coming year. We hope you will join us for our upcoming annual meeting and other events throughout the year.
Back L-R (Greg, Polly, Morgan, Frank)
Front L-R (Darcie, Tom, Michelle)
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
District 1: Greg Wiggins
District 2: Morgan Weinberg
District 3: Darcie Perkins
District 4: Michelle Lehmann
District 5: Tom Carl
District 6: Polly Oberosler
District 7: Frank Stern
REBATES
499 Rebates
• 1,396 items (includes LEDs)
328 members
$142,530.56 given out in rebates
• $58,866.38 from GCEA PowerWise Pledge
$83,664.18 from Tri-State
2024 Highlights
STUDENT OPPORTUNITIES
GCEA has offered student opportunities for decades, thanks to unclaimed capital credits. Washington DC Tour & Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp. In 2024, GCEA sent six local students on a week-long, all expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C. We also sent one student to the Youth Leadership Camp in Steamboat Springs.
Scholarships: 108
Donations: $15,433 in donations to local community nonprofits
Sponsorships: $4,000 in sponsorship to local community partners
RESAP SAFETY AWARD
The Rural Electric Safety Achievement Program inspection was completed at the beginning of September and GCEA passed with flying colors. Safety matters at GCEA.
ON-BILL REPAYMENT PROGRAM
In June 2024, GCEA launched the Electrify and Save® On-Bill Repayment program. This program allows members to make energy-efficient upgrades to their homes with no upfront costs, no credit checks, and low-interest financing. It has generated a lot of excitement and hope among our members. To date, 80 members have expressed interest in the program, and six projects have already been completed. We look forward to completing more projects in 2025.
HEAT PUMP PROJECT
A successful installation of a cold climate air-source heat pump at a home in Gunnison County was made possible in part by donations from GCEA and Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association. The heat pump will offset the usage of the furnace that has been expensive to operate — the family will save $1,200 to $2,400 per year in heating costs. As a bonus, the heat pump can run in reverse and provide cooling in the summer.
TAYLOR RIVER HYDRO PROJECT
After many years of research and discussion, GCEA and the Uncompahgre Valley Water Users Association are happy to announce that the Taylor River Hydro project was finished in the fall of 2024. This marks the beginning of a new era of hydro power in the Gunnison Valley. The Taylor River Hydro facility generates 3% of GCEA’s energy from clean, renewable sources. With support from Tri-State and partnership from UVWUA, GCEA is excited to offer this clean energy to its members without raising electric rates.
Youth Tour delegates (left to right): Luca Meyer, Elise Hanna, Josie Feier, Annie Harvey, Dakota Sahagun, and Priya Hartman.
A successful cold climate air-source heat pump installation at a home in Gunnison County.
LAKE CITY LINE REBUILD GRANT
GCEA was selected by the U.S. Department of Energy to receive a $5 million in grant funding to replace 30 miles of aged, overhead lines between Gunnison and Powderhorn. The funding will help improve grid reliability and reduce maintenance costs for Gunnison County residents. We are eager to get this project started and to boost resiliency for Hinsdale County residents.
LIGHT UP NAVAJO
On June 9, 2024, Linemen Justin Hulick and Mike Pendy, along with apprentices Zach Bever and Kevin Fox, volunteered in Chinle, Arizona, for Light Up Navajo. They brought electricity to parts of Navajo Nation that have never had it. In Chinle, they connected 1 mile of line to a home without electricity for 40 years. GCEA lineworkers are proud to support this important project. We look forward to sending a new group of linemen this summer to continue the work.
This is just a snapshot of our successful year and with the momentum gained in 2024, there is great potential for even more productive years ahead. We appreciate your membership in GCEA and the opportunity to serve you. We remain committed to creating reliable and affordable electricity for you, our valued members. To learn more about these amazing projects, visit gcea.coop.
TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025
TUESDAY, JUNE 24, 2025
The Taylor River Hydro Project was completed in the fall of 2024. GCEA linemen Kevin Fox, Justin Hulick, Mike Pendy, Zach Bever, and Navajo resident.
GCEA Financial & Statistical Information
GCEA Financial & Statistical Information
Statement of Operations
How to Create an Outdoor Oasis
Expert tips for getting started
By Becky Jensen
One of the greatest joys about living in Colorado is our state’s natural beauty. That, and its glorious weather. The outside beckons year-round, offering abundant fresh air and sunshine to help us unwind and recharge.
A good way to get a daily dose of outdoor therapy is to create a relaxing oasis in your own backyard. But where to begin?
“Whether you do it yourself, or hire a pro, it all starts with a thoughtful design,” said Kira Koldeway, general manager of design for HighCraft Builders, a custom home and remodeling company in Fort Collins. “Start by envisioning how you’d like to use your backyard, then focus on your must-haves — like a grilling station, entertainment lounge, raised garden beds, or open space for family games.” Whether you tackle it all at once, or in phases, Koldeway said an outdoor design plan can guide you, keep you on budget, and help you feel less overwhelmed.
“A plan also helps you avoid costly mistakes and wasted time,” added Clint Lucas, owner of Fort Collins-based Detailed Landscape. “There’s nothing more frustrating than having to redo work.”
When designing a backyard oasis, Koldeway and Lucas suggested the following to get started:
DEFINE THE SPACE
Whether it’s a cozy hammock for solo naps, or an outdoor entertainment area for gathering with friends, the key is to create an intimate space that echoes your favorite indoor room. Anchor furniture on weather-resistant rugs to define spaces. Install metal or wood screens for added privacy, and plant grasses, trees, or vines for another layer of seclusion once they mature.
MAKE IT SAFE, COMFORTABLE, AND INVITING
Pick outdoor seating for your patio that encourages relaxation. Choose colors and fabrics that draw you in and make you want to stay. Use café or landscape lighting for a soft glow and welcoming atmosphere. To create shade, opt for a tension sail, pergola, awning, or retractable canopy. To add warmth, position chairs around a central fire feature — be sure to check local restrictions if burning wood. For added safety and comfort, ensure activity areas are spacious enough for guests to easily move between activities and around furniture.
BE MINDFUL OF MATERIALS AND WATER
Select durable materials, finishes, and plants that can handle Colorado weather extremes — especially our freeze-thaw cycles, and exposure to UV rays and high winds. Before purchasing any plants, develop a realistic budget, and make sure you’re prepared to care for whatever you put in. Give all plants, especially trees, enough room to grow, and keep them away from your foundation.
To be water wise, reduce turf grass and incorporate drought-tolerant plants. When installing a sprinkler system, include drip lines and rain-sensing technology to conserve water. If adding a water feature, choose a self-circulating sculpture versus a pond or river option.
“Consider your outdoor oasis an investment — one that will bring you joy, support your wellbeing, and will likely increase the value of your home,” Lucas suggested.
If the thought of creating a backyard retreat seems daunting, “Start small,” Koldeway recommended. And if you still feel like you’re in over your head, contact a professional for advice.
Becky Jensen is a writer who lives and works in a little cabin on a big river in Northern Colorado. She’s also a proud member of Poudre Valley REA. You can find her at beckyjensenwrites.com
Photo by Cassihise Photography
One Marmot at a Time
By Dennis E. Smith
We were fishing for brook trout on a little meadow stream somewhere in the Medicine Bow Mountains when we heard a short, high-pitched whistle coming from the rock-studded hillside above us. At first, we thought it might be a bird or maybe a person trying to get our attention, but there were no birds or people in sight. We shrugged our shoulders and went back to fishing. A few minutes later we heard it again, this time from a different place on the hill. Still, we could see nothing. But then, a flash of movement caught our eyes, and there, in a cluster of moss rock and wildflowers, perched a yellow-bellied marmot. It was staring directly at us. Within a few minutes, we spotted several more.
The largest members of the ground squirrel family, marmots are fascinating creatures. They are found primarily in mountainous regions across the Northern Hemisphere from the Rockies to the Himalayas. They usually live in colonies of up to 20 critters, somewhat like our eastern prairie dogs, and they have an affinity for rocky fields, which probably explains why they are sometimes referred to as rock chucks. The piercing, high-pitched sound they use to communicate with each other is likely the reason for their other nickname, whistle pig.
There are 14 species of marmots, and while they all appear to be similar, one is distinctly unique. All of them are herbivores and winter hibernators, but the eastern woodchuck — or groundhog as it is more commonly known — differs in size, social order, geographic distribution, habitat preferences, and diet.
Yellow-bellied marmots are typically smaller than woodchucks, seldom exceed 11 pounds, and live in colonies. Woodchucks can weigh up to 13 pounds and are solitary creatures except during the breeding season when they seek the company of others … for obvious reasons. Yellow-bellied marmots prefer open, rocky fields at high elevations in remote areas; woodchucks can be found in lowland river bottoms, agricultural fields, cow pastures, woodlands, and even suburban subdivisions. All marmots dine almost exclusively on grass and insects common to their local habitat, and woodchucks, though also herbivorous, eat fruits, herbs, flowers, and garden vegetables where available — a trait that does not endear them to farmers or backyard gardeners. But only one marmot (and a groundhog, at that), Punxsutawney Phil, has achieved legendary status as a nationally recognized weather forecaster. I guess you could call that one a “meteorologist marmot.”
Dennis Smith is a freelance outdoors writer and photographer whose work appears nationally. He lives in Loveland.
by Dennis
Photo
Smith
Co-ops Ramp Up Fire Prevention
By Jim Hight
Nothing provokes nightmares for electric co-op staff like a wildfire does. Fires can melt power lines, burn utility poles, destroy equipment, and knock out power to co-op members. And fire risks in Colorado are increasing due to lower humidity, more forest diseases, and more human settlement and activity in fire-prone areas. “When there are red flag warnings due to dry and windy conditions, I have trouble sleeping at night,” said San Miguel Power Association Chief Operating Officer Jeremy Fox. SMPA serves southwestern Colorado and is based in Nucla.
Co-ops are standing up to this evolving challenge with greater usage of traditional methods like trimming trees near power lines, wrapping wooden poles with fire-retardant material, and educating their members about fire-safe landscaping. They’re also deploying advanced grid technology that is more responsive to fires. And some — including SMPA and Glenwood Springs-based Holy Cross Energy — use sophisticated camera systems to detect and locate fires quickly.
At strategic locations across SMPA’s service territory, four Pano AI cameras scan for smoke 24 hours a day. When a camera recognizes signs of smoke, Pano’s software and human observers determine if it’s from
a wildfire or something benign like a campfire. Then, two or more cameras triangulate the fire’s location and alert local fire departments.
When cameras detected a fire near Nucla last year, Pano AI notified firefighters so quickly that crews were on their way before the first 911 call came in. “So much of wildland fire protection is about early detection, and that’s exactly what the Pano system does,” Telluride Fire Protection District Chief John Bennett said.
SMPA also gets notifications from Pano about fires, and the co-op uses this real-time information to initiate its mitigation plans, which may include rerouting power flows or de-energizing parts of their grid as necessary to avoid additional ignitions.
More than 300 miles east of SMPA, Falcon-based Mountain View Electric Association has a multipronged fire-risk mitigation strategy developed with help from two consulting firms. Fort Collins-based EDM and Michigan-based Atwell “helped us assess our overall fire risk and identify our most at-risk distribution circuits,” said MVEA Junior Planner and Distribution Engineer Kevin Dimmett.
With this refined understanding of its fire risks, MVEA is replacing certain reclosers and substation relays — components that detect and manage faults —
Wildfire
risks will always be a part of life for electric co-ops. By taking proactive and innovative measures, co-op leaders will sleep easier knowing they’re doing what they can to keep their communities safe.
with newer versions that are more sensitive to fire and weather conditions. It is also wrapping wooden poles with fire-retardant materials.
The co-op’s most expensive measure is replacing about 3 miles of its 6,242 miles of power lines with underground conductors. “We’re investing in this solution in our highest fire-risk areas,” Dimmett said. MVEA partially funds these measures with a $771,000 U.S. Department of Energy grant obtained through a national consortium of co-ops.
Funding, of course, limits how much any co-op can invest in reducing its fire risks. SMPA, for example, is devoting a significant portion of its fire mitigation budget to help fund the Pano AI network, sharing costs with the Telluride Fire Protection District. “We’d like to expand that network, and we are working with other interested parties on grant proposals to do that,” Fox said.
To address a threat from trees that were growing too close to power lines, Sangre de Cristo Electric Association’s board voted in 2021 to add a monthly surcharge to its members’ bills. The Buena Vistabased co-op was already engaged in extensive wildfire risk-mitigation efforts — a necessity in the mountainous terrain it serves. But this wasn’t enough, it determined. “Without this surcharge, it would take us more than 20 years to clear potentially dangerous trees
FIVE STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO PREVENT WILDFIRES
1. Properly extinguish campfires. Always douse your campfire with water, stir the ashes, and ensure everything is cool to the touch before leaving the area.
2. Don’t burn on windy days. Avoid outdoor burning when it’s windy or dry, as embers can easily spread and ignite surrounding areas.
3. Clear vegetation and debris. Maintain a defensible space around your home by removing dry leaves, dead branches, and other flammable materials.
4. Use equipment safely. Tools like lawn mowers or chain saws can spark fires. Use them during cooler times of the day and keep them in good working condition.
5. Follow local fire regulations. Always check for burn bans or restrictions in your area before burning anything or using open flames outdoors.
For more information on wildfire prevention and preparedness, visit redcross.org
from our electric wires,” SDCEA Manager of Operations Ryan Doke said.
SDCEA felt a growing urgency to act after Colorado experienced three of the five largest wildfires in its history in 2020. “We’d also had the Decker and Hayden Creek fires nearby, and we knew our region was potentially at risk for more wildfires,” said SDCEA Manager of Communications Chris McGinnis.
SDCEA’s surcharge, known as a “rate rider,” is currently $8 per month and will sunset when the board determines it’s no longer necessary. While the cost is not trivial for some co-op members, SDCEA and its members prioritize community safety and well-being, according to McGinnis. “Investing in preventive measures to help protect our service territory is not just a cost but a necessary step to safeguard lives, property, co-op assets, watersheds, and the environment.”
Wildfire risks will always be a part of life for electric co-ops in Colorado. But by taking proactive and innovative measures like those described here, co-op leaders will sleep easier knowing they’re doing what they can to keep their infrastructure and communities safe.
Jim
Buena Vista, Colorado, where he is a grateful member of Sangre de Cristo Electric Association.
Hight is a writer, research analyst, and consultant based in
Power Trip
EV scenic byways bring adventure and fun
By Irene Middleman Thomas
An electric car? I had never driven one, nor had I even considered doing so. But I was intrigued when I learned of the Colorado Electric Vehicle Byways program. Off I went to have my first EV experience.
Driving a rented Subaru Solterra — I called it my ‘“spaceship” due to its uber-modern design — felt quite similar to a gas-powered car, except that it was silent. No sound is emitted when the car turns on, nor when it turns off. Another big difference, I found, is the need for careful planning. Those who already own EVs know this; but if you have only used your EV locally, there is much to learn and to do.
In 2023, the Colorado Scenic & Historic Byways Commission prioritized the electrification of all 26 byways as an initial milestone for the state to reach its greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. There are now 17 recognized Colorado Electric Scenic Byways. To be designated as an electric byway, dual-port DC fast charging stations must be located at least every 100 miles within the start and finish of the byway. When byways are less than 100 miles, a dual-port DC fast charging station must be available within 15 miles of the start or end of the byway. The Colorado Tourism Office has partnered with the Colorado Department of Transportation and the Colorado Energy Office to assist in installing charging infrastructure
in communities along the 26 Colorado Scenic & Historic Byways.
For my EV scenic byway adventure, I chose two in southern Colorado: the Highway of Legends and Santa Fe Trail. They intersect in the town of Trinidad, making a loop. Both boast stunning and unique scenery and are dotted with small- to medium-size towns offering plenty of art, culture, and charm. I traveled in late summer, hoping that I might see some of the first male tarantulas on their annual early autumn mating trek near La Junta.
I was advised by my EV-owning friends to fully charge the car before departing, as one never knows if charging stations along the way will be operational. Since I don’t have a charging station at home, I headed to a nearby gas station, which my PlugShare app informed me had chargers. At the one open port, I lifted the pump handle and was surprised by its heaviness. I couldn’t figure out how to connect it, but fortunately an Uber driver who charges his car there daily offered to help. It was simple once he demonstrated. Thanks to my EV-owner friends’ advice, I had brought a book along to pass the charging time, which was about an hour. Charging times vary greatly according to whether the stations are fast or slow chargers. Charging times on the trip ranged from one hour to six hours.
At the end of her trip along the Highway of Legends and the Santa Fe Trail in southeastern Colorado, Irene charges her rented Subaru Solterra EV in Lamar, before returning home to Denver through eastern Colorado.
Photos on pages 16–17 by
Irene Middleman Thomas
HIGHWAY OF LEGENDS EV SCENIC BYWAY: WALSENBURG TO TRINIDAD
From Denver, I drove south on I-25 to exit 52 U.S. Route 160 west, toward Walsenburg, where I picked up the Highway of Legends Electric Scenic Byway — Colorado state Route 12. The car was still adequately charged, I was relieved to note, so there was no need to find a charging station yet. Without stops, driving the byway takes two hours, traveling through the San Isabel National Forest , crossing the nearly 10,000-foot Cucharas Pass and the 11,000-foot Cordova Pass.
I had been through Walsenburg before but hadn’t ever stopped to look around. I was advised to stop for coffee at Walsenburg Mercantile, a 1904 brick building housing an array of more than 70 purveyors, including local crafts and jewelry makers, baked goods, and the unique menu of the popular RegalBurg Deli.
Walsenburg, with about 3,000 residents and sitting at just over 6,000 feet altitude, is the launch point for the Spanish Peaks region. Folks in this old mining town are very friendly to those from other parts. As I walked through the small, mural-adorned downtown streets, two older men chatting on a park bench tipped their Western hats to me with a cheery “hello.”
I spent an hour perusing the remarkable Museum of Friends and its eclectic variety of some 1,600 works of art, in both permanent and rotating exhibits. The Spanish Peaks Country Welcome Center offers assistance and literature to travelers.
Upon embarking on the 82-mile trip to reach Trinidad, I was mesmerized by the Spanish Peaks, part of the Sangre de Cristo range; it’s the spectacular backdrop for the Highway of Legends. The twin East and West peaks rise over the lush green valley, standing at 12,708 feet and 13,623 feet, visible from up to 160 miles away.
Stopping in the artsy, funky town of La Veta on the eastern side of La Veta Pass, I was enchanted by the combination of ranch country-boho vibe. A certified Colorado Creative District with only about 800 people, La Veta is known as the art hub of Spanish Peaks country, with many galleries and the world-renowned Shalawalla Gallery — a batik school with exquisite, intricate batiks for sale and on display.
I happily discovered that the delightful La Veta Inn has an EV fast charger conveniently located on premises and charges just $10 for guests. The inn’s front desk attendant told me that at least one patron uses the charger each week.
Here, the Francisco Fort Museum — the only original adobe fort still standing in the state — offers
Highway of Legends
La Veta’s Francisco Fort Museum is the only original adobe fort still standing in the state.
Trinidad’s Temple Aaron, circa 1883, is the oldest continuously operating Jewish synagogue in the mountain West.
View of the Spanish Peaks from Highway 12.
EV SCENIC BYWAY: WALSENBURG TO TRINIDAD
One of Walsenburg’s many murals with the courthouse in the background.
Santa Fe Trail
HISTORIC
Spanish, Native American, and pioneer artifacts from the region, along with a one-room schoolhouse and a saloon from Old La Veta with its bullet-riddled bar.
My next stop was Trinidad, which has an unusual and quite varied history. Today its popularity is due to its expansive red brick streets, dating from the long-gone town brickyard, and to its well-preserved historic buildings including the impressive Temple Aaron, circa 1883 — the oldest continuously operating Jewish synagogue in the mountain West. Equidistant from Santa Fe and Denver, Trinidad is the cultural, social, and economic hub of southeastern Colorado. High-quality art and jewelry is found in several galleries, particularly the Purgatoire River Trading Company
From the exceptionally friendly welcome center, I took the free open trolley ride for an hourlong tour of Trinidad and a bit of the surrounding area. It included a stop at Mount San Rafael Hospital to admire an enormous, three-dimensional ceramic mural created by Sister Augusta Zimmer over a four-year period in the 1970s, that depicts the history of Trinidad.
SANTA FE TRAIL SCENIC & HISTORIC BYWAY: TRINIDAD TO LAMAR
After the trolley tour, which is offered from May to Labor Day, I embarked on the Santa Fe Trail Scenic & Historic Byway, en route to La Junta. The route was the famed 19th-century transportation route that connected Missouri to Santa Fe. The 188-mile scenic byway takes four hours without stops to drive from Trinidad to Lamar on U.S. Highways 350 and 50.
I passed through the enormous, 400,000+ acre Comanche National Grassland, and took a side trip to Bent’s Fort , a well-restored and operational former trading post. This route is mostly bucolic prairie and flat farmlands, with very little traffic. The Picket Wire Canyonlands, south of La Junta, feature the largest dinosaur track site in the United States, with more than 1,400 prints in 100 separate trackways. Vogel Canyon is the best spot to view the tarantulas in the autumn. And yes, happily, I did spot two of them, even though it was just early September.
La Junta is home to a quirky and delightful KOA Journey Campground where I spent two nights in a tiny house. The campground is famed for its authentic, very charming, 1928 AT&SF railroad caboose, for which reservations are recommended. The campground is next to a Village Inn with four EV charging stations, and I spent a couple of hours enjoying a hot fudge sundae and several coffees while the car fully charged.
30–60 minutes south of La Junta and the byway, you can see dinosaur tracks and tarantulas.
The scenic Comanche National Grassland along the Santa Fe Trail.
Bent’s Fort was a significant trading post and gathering place on the Santa Fe Trail.
Photos on this page by Getty Images, with the exception of the tarantula photo, which is by Irene Middleman Thomas
SCENIC &
BYWAY: TRINIDAD TO LAMAR
Highway 50 east of La Junta, near Bent’s Fort, leads you through farm and ranch country to the eastern plains.
To conclude my EV byway adventure, I had a sophisticated meal at the excellent Tavern 1301 in Lamar’s Cow Palace Inn to fortify myself for the drive home through rural eastern Colorado. Whether in an EV or a gas-operated car, southern Colorado and its scenic byways offer so much history, beauty, art, wildlife, and peace.
Irene Middleman Thomas is a Denver-based writer who thrives on telling underdiscovered and untold stories from all over the world. She is especially proud to promote the lesser-known adventures, people, and destinations in her own state of Colorado.
CHARGING RESOURCES
In addition to the built-in resources available in many EV models that provide information about charging locations along a route, mapping resources such as PlugShare, ChargePoint, and A Better Route Planner can help EV drivers locate nearby chargers. These tools show the location of public EV chargers and whether the chargers are currently operational, although it was not always accurate in real time. Try to keep a close eye on your mileage and range. Additionally, the charger you are seeking might be occupied. When renting an EV, ask the car rental company about resources to find operational EV chargers.
PREPARATION IS KEY
To avoid range anxiety, EV owners and renters must plan and be flexible. Also, if there are no Level 3 fast chargers, it may take several hours for the car to charge sufficiently to make it to the next stop. If Wi-Fi is needed to download apps, be sure to download them before you leave home. Remote areas don’t always have open Wi-Fi access or reliable cell service.
LEARN MORE ABOUT SCENIC BYWAYS AND EV CHARGING STATIONS
More information on scenic byways can be found through the Colorado Department of Transportation, including maps and weather guides. Plan your routes with COtrip.org to get the latest road conditions, and mark your routes using MyScenicDrive.com.
PlugShare is the world’s largest EV driver community. Users contribute station reviews and photos to help drivers make the most informed charging decisions possible. There are publicly available chargers in Trinidad, La Veta, La Junta, Lamar, and Walsenburg, as well as in towns and cities on the way.
The author’s Subaru Solterra rental car in front of the Tarabino Inn in Trinidad.
Photo by Irene Middleman Thomas
An EV charging station at the La Veta Inn. Photo by Irene Middleman Thomas
Choosing the Best Replacement Windows
By James Dulley
Q: I want to replace my original windows. How can I compare the various window design and material characteristics?
A: Selecting the best replacement window is not only dependent on the design characteristics, but also your specific house and family’s lifestyle.
The three main criteria to consider when selecting replacement windows are the frame material, style of window, and glass type. For energy efficiency, the glass type and style of window are more important than the frame material. Various frame materials have a greater impact on functionality, durability, maintenance, and appearance.
The typical frame materials for residential windows are vinyl, fiberglass, wood, and clad wood; there are advantages to each. Vinyl window frames are energy efficient and virtually maintenance-free. They also are made to the precise dimensions of the window opening instead of having to shim out standard sizes.
To attain adequate rigidity, the vinyl frame extrusions have many internal chambers inside. These chambers create natural insulation, improving energy efficiency. For even greater efficiency, choose ones with foam insulation injected inside the chambers.
Vinyl frames for large windows, especially dark colors in hot climates, should have internal steel reinforcement. When vinyl gets hot in the sun, it loses strength.
Fiberglass window frames are very strong and can be painted any color to match the interior or exterior. Since the primary component of fiberglass is glass, these frames expand and contract at about
the same rate as the glass panes. This minimizes stresses between the glass and frame as the temperature changes.
This characteristic is an advantage for dark frame colors exposed to the sun, which can create a substantial temperature range throughout the day and night. The strength of fiberglass frames is also an advantage for smaller windows because narrower frame cross sections are acceptable. With other frame materials, a thicker frame reduces the glass area too much.
The best window style depends on the appearance and features you desire more than its efficiency. People often select double-hung windows because they can be tilted in for easy cleaning. Windows that close on a compression seal — such as casement and awning windows — tend to provide the best longterm airtight seal. Casement windows also can catch cross breezes for better natural ventilation.
The glass type is the key to the efficiency of a window. Double-pane glass with low-emissivity coatings and inert gas (krypton or argon) in the gap between the panes is adequate for most climates. Triple-pane glass makes sense for very cold climates but is more expensive and heavier.
If you decide to replace your home’s windows, there are many options that fulfill different preferences. Get quotes from several companies on the varying styles so you can make the best choice for your home.
ADVENTURE JUST WENT green
Explore the Highway of Legends with confidence, knowing EV charging stations are conveniently located along the way. From breathtaking mountain passes to historic towns, your adventure stays fully powered, so you can focus on the journey, not your battery level.
Alamo
Gulnare
Cuchara
El
PROTECTING THE PRESENT TO POWER THE FUTURE
There’s strength in choosing the rural way of life— rising early, working hard, and building something that lasts. At Tri-State G&T, we share that commitment and are working with our members to protect your way of life and power what’s next.
Our, year-round wildfire mitigation program uses data-driven monitoring to identify and mitigate risk to protect critical infrastructure, and support the communities we serve— ensuring reliability and resilience at competitive rates.
That same focus drives how we plan our diverse energy mix—solar, wind, natural gas, hydro, and batteries— so we can weather any storm and meet the growing energy needs of the West. Now that’s reliability.
WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS, WE’LL POWER IT.®
Learn more about Tri-State
Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad
With fresh and colorful ingredients, salads can be a staple summertime meal. And though some prep is needed, they’re relatively easy to throw together. This tasty salad can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a protein option. Enjoy this recipe excerpted from Kait Welch’s blog, Habits of a Modern Hippie. Find more healthy recipes in Welch’s cookbook, Cooking Mindfully.
INGREDIENTS
4 cups shaved Brussels sprouts
2 cups chopped red cabbage
1 cup grated carrots
½ cup chopped green onion
¼ cup chopped cilantro
For the dressing:
¼ cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp shallot
½ tsp ginger salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Shave the veggies, using a grater for the carrots, a food processor for the Brussels sprouts, and a knife to chop the cabbage, green onion, and cilantro.
Add all ingredients except for the dressing into a large bowl.
For the dressing, finely mince the shallot and ginger.
In a small bowl, whisk together the ginger, shallot, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Drizzle the dressing on the salad and mix well.
Recipe by Kait Welch | Photo by Ty Pierce Photography
Popular CoQ10 Pills Leave Millions Suffering
Could this newly-discovered brain fuel solve America’s worsening memory crisis?
PALM BEACH, FLORIDA — Millions of Americans take the supplement known as CoQ10. It’s the coenzyme that supercharges the “energy factories” in your cells known as mitochondria. But there’s a serious flaw that’s leaving millions unsatisfied.
As you age, your mitochondria break down and fail to produce energy. In a revealing study, a team of researchers showed that 95 percent of the mitochondria in a 90-year-old man were damaged, compared to almost no damage in the mitochondria of a 5-year-old.
Taking CoQ10 alone is not enough to solve this problem. Because as powerful as CoQ10 is, there’s one critical thing it fails to do: it can’t create new mitochondria to replace the ones you lost.
And that’s bad news for Americans all over the country. The loss of cellular energy is a problem for the memory concerns people face as they get older.
“We had no way of replacing lost mitochondria until a recent discovery changed everything,” says Dr. Al Sears, founder and medical director of the Sears Institute for Anti-Aging Medicine in Palm Beach, Florida. “Researchers discovered the only nutrient known to modern science that has the power to trigger the growth of new mitochondria.”
Why Taking CoQ10 is Not Enough
Dr. Sears explains, “This new discovery is so powerful, it can multiply your mitochondria by 55 percent in just a few weeks. That’s the equivalent of restoring decades of lost brain power.”
This exciting nutrient — called PQQ (pyrroloquinoline quinone) — is the driving force behind a revolution in aging. When paired with CoQ10, this dynamic duo has the power to reverse the age-related memory losses you may have thought were beyond your control.
Dr. Sears pioneered a new formula — called Ultra Accel Q — that combines both CoQ10 and PQQ to support maximum cellular energy and the normal growth of new mitochondria. Ultra Accel Q is the first of its kind to address both problems and is already creating huge demand.
In fact, demand has been so overwhelming that inventories repeatedly sell out. But a closer look at Ultra Accel Q reveals there are good reasons why sales are booming.
Science Confirms the Many Benefits of PQQ
The medical journal Biochemical Pharmacology
reports that PQQ is up to 5,000 times more efficient in sustaining energy production than common antioxidants. With the ability to keep every cell in your body operating at full strength, Ultra Accel Q delivers more than just added brain power and a faster memory.
People feel more energetic, more alert, and don’t need naps in the afternoon. The boost in cellular energy generates more power to your heart, lungs, muscles, and more.
“With the PQQ in Ultra Accel, I have energy I never thought possible at my age,” says Colleen R., one of Dr. Sears’s patients. “I’m in my 70s but feel 40 again. I think clearly, move with real energy and sleep like a baby.”
The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and Dr. Sears receives countless emails from his patients and readers. “My patients tell me they feel better than they have in years. This is ideal for people who are feeling old and run down, or for those who feel more forgetful. It surprises many that you can add healthy and productive years to your life simply by taking Ultra Accel Q every day.”
You may have seen Dr. Sears on television or read one of his 12 best-selling books. Or you may have seen him speak at the 2016 WPBF 25 Health and Wellness Festival in South Florida, featuring Dr. Oz and special guest Suzanne Somers. Thousands of people attended Dr. Sears’s lecture on anti-aging breakthroughs and waited in line for hours during his book signing at the event.
Will Ultra Accel Q Multiply Your Energy?
Ultra Accel Q is turning everything we thought we knew about youthful energy on its head. Especially for people over age 50. In less than 30 seconds every morning, you can harness the power of this breakthrough discovery to restore peak energy and your “spark for life.”
So, if you’ve noticed less energy as you’ve gotten older, and you want an easy way to reclaim your youthful edge, this new opportunity will feel like blessed relief.
The secret is the “energy multiplying” molecule that activates a dormant gene in your body that declines with age, which then instructs your cells to pump out fresh energy from the inside-out. This growth of new “energy factories” in your cells is called mitochondrial biogenesis.
MEMORY-BUILDING SENSATION:
Top doctors are now recommending new Ultra Accel Q because it restores decades of lost brain power without a doctor’s visit.
Instead of falling victim to that afternoon slump, you enjoy sharp-as-a-tack focus, memory, and concentration from sunup to sundown. And you get more done in a day than most do in a week. Regardless of how exhausting the world is now.
Dr. Sears reports, “The most rewarding aspect of practicing medicine is watching my patients get the joy back in their lives. Ultra Accel Q sends a wakeup call to every cell in their bodies… And they actually feel young again.”
And his patients agree. “I noticed a difference within a few days,” says Jerry from Ft. Pierce, Florida. “My endurance has almost doubled, and I feel it mentally, too. There’s a clarity and sense of well-being in my life that I’ve never experienced before.”
How To Get Ultra Accel Q
This is the official nationwide release of Ultra Accel Q in the United States. And so, the company is offering a special discount supply to anyone who calls during the official launch.
An Order Hotline has been set up for local readers to call. This gives everyone an equal chance to try Ultra Accel Q. And your order is backed up by a no-hassle, 90-day money back guarantee. No questions asked.
Starting at 7:00 AM today, the discount offer will be available for a limited time only. All you have to do is call TOLL FREE 1-888-358-9926 right now and use promo code COUAQ625 to secure your own supply.
Important: Due to Ultra Accel Q recent media exposure, phone lines are often busy. If you call and do not immediately get through, please be patient and call back.
FORT MORGAN
By Melinda Taylor
by Talia
Photos
Siens
Colorado Country
The brainchild of northeastern Colorado radio station 97.5 BOB FM, Bobstock Music Festival is a jam-packed weekend tradition in Fort Morgan. It originated in 2008 and takes place around Glen Miller Park during the second weekend every July. When asked about her favorite part of the weekend, festival host Lindsey Bruntz stated, “The entire festival is free to attend and has been since year one.”
What began with four bands and a single stage has grown to a grand community event spread over six blocks with five stages, three beer gardens, and 20 musical acts. This year’s headlining musical guests are Uncle Kracker, Molly Hatchet, and April Wine. What helps make the event successful and free is Bobstock’s devoted partners. One stage is sponsored by the local electric co-op and its power suppliers. Morgan County REA Director of Communications Maddie Pollart said, “Bobstock has always been about making big-city entertainment available to anyone who likes awesome music. Morgan County REA is happy to be part of it.”
For more information, visit bobstockmusicfestival.com.
DITCH THE DRIVE
Come for the weekend and stay in Fort Morgan for the ultimate Bobstock experience. The Best Western Plus Overland Inn is the sponsoring hotel for the event, and walkable options include Hampton Inn, Terrace Park Inn, and Central Motel.
COME HUNGRY
This year there will be more than 25 food vendors across the six-block festival. You can find something for everyone and every taste imaginable. Local favorites include Pabst German Pockets and Sugar Beet Treats
FUN FOR ALL AGES
As in previous years, an arcade bus will be a popular spot for kids, and InFunity Events will host inflatables, obstacle courses, and carnival games. Bands are asked to keep their performances family friendly so all can enjoy.
Scrumptious
Colorado Sodas
By Gaylene Garcia Granger
It’s no surprise that many Coloradans have traded in the usual brand-name sodas for something better and more flavorful. The craving for tasty and enjoyable refreshment is real — and Colorado has bubbled to the top of the class. This month, we’re popping by to introduce you to Coloradocrafted sodas you’ll want to get your hands on for summer.
ROCKY MOUNTAIN SODA
Rocky Mountain Soda offers 15 unique, hand-crafted soda flavors including elderberry, prickly pear, huckleberry, sarsaparilla, and peaches & cream — all are made with cane sugar. This family-owned business also introduced two sparkling waters — lavender lemon and citrus. These refreshing new additions are sugar-free, lightly carbonated, and deliver a delicate yet sophisticated taste. Founded in 2009, Rocky Mountain Soda has stayed true to its roots — making high-quality, small-batch sodas with care. Order online at rockymountainsoda.com.
ZUBERFIZZ
Durango’s Zuberfizz takes the time to enhance the craft soda experience. Using cold carbonation creates a soda with smaller bubbles and a smoother taste. At Zuberfizz, you’ll discover delicious and unique flavors like strawberry rhubarb, chocolate cream soda, and key lime sweetened with cane sugar. They also bring a playful twist to their packaging with a bottle cap spelling game: Underneath every cap is a letter, and if you collect enough to spell “Z-u-b-e-r-f-i-zz,” you win a T-shirt — shipped right to your door, in your size. Order online at zuberfizz.com/shop
SAN LUIS VALLEY BREWING COMPANY
Sodas from the San Luis Brewing Company in Alamosa have delighted customers since 2005, when owners Scott and Angie Graber first introduced their personal favorite flavors: root beer and black cherry cream soda, “a classic with a twist” according to Scott. Much like the brewery’s beer, the soda is served on tap. But first, it’s crafted in large kegs using San Luis water and then force carbonated with carbon dioxide. Once carbonated, it’s transferred to 15 1/2-gallon kegs and chilled for serving. For nearly two decades, the rich and flavorful sodas have been especially popular with kids and lovers of nonalcoholic craft beverages. These sodas are served by the glass at the brewery and are available to take home in 64 oz. growlers. To learn more, visit slvbrewco.com.
Grand Valley Power members
Mountain View Electric member Julie
travels with her copy of the magazine to Glenorchy, New Zealand, a filming location for “The Lord of the Rings” movies.
DON’T FORGET TO PACK CCL FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP!
Show us where you enjoy CCL for a chance to win! Take a photo of someone (or a selfie!) with the magazine and share it with us on our website at coloradocountrylife.coop. Each month we’ll draw one photo to win $25. See all the submitted photos on our Facebook page, @COCountryLife
Mark Garcia is grateful to have family time together and create lasting memories with his wife, kids, and grandboys on a Caribbean cruise. Here the San Isabel Electric members stop for a photo with the magazine before exploring St. Kitts.
Roslie, a Mountain View Electric Association member, travels through Turkey in April and pauses her adventure to take a photo with her magazine in the ancient city of Ephesus. The building behind her is the Library of Celsus.
Mountain View Electric Association member Larry Painter enjoys the magazine along the Mississippi River during a river cruise.
The Scott and Clark families — Poudre Valley REA members — enjoy CCL at the Toa Luau at Waimea Valley on the north shore of Oahu in March.
Knuth
Erika
Cheri and Randy Scott board the Amtrak Crescent line in New Orleans, Louisiana, with their CCL magazine on their way to Philadelphia. The Scotts are members of Grand Valley Power.
Y-W Electric member Mindi Segelke and her sisters Susan Watson and Mitzi Taft enjoy CCL at Tambor Beach in Costa Rica.
Mountain View Electric members Kevin and Sherri Bornhoft visit Mount Vernon, Washington, during the Skagit Valley Tulip Festival in April. They are celebrating 40 years of marriage!
Donald and Carol Leche bring CCL to an active volcano in Arenal, Costa Rica.
The 30 Days of June Only
1Subject to availability. Get $1,995 off windows with a minimum purchase of 4, $1,995 off patio doors with a minimum purchase of 2, and $1,995 off an entry door combined with a sidelight and/or transom. Patio door or entry door may be counted as window to reach purchase minimum. Limited to one $1,995 discount per window, patio door and entry door product category. Cannot be combined with other offers. To qualify for discount offer, initial contact for an appointment must be made and documented on or before 6/30/25 with the purchase then occurring on or before 7/10/25. Products are marketed, sold and installed (but not manufactured) by Renewal by Andersen retailers, which are independently owned and operated under Window Warmth, LLC d/b/a Renewal by Andersen of Colorado. CO Lic. # 244783. NM Lic. # 399874. See complete information and entity identification at www. rbaguidelines.com. ©2025 Andersen Corporation. ©2025 Lead Surge LLC. All rights reserved. 2Plan 4521. Subject to credit approval. Rates range from 14.26% - 21.19% APR (interest rates range from 15.99% - 24.99%). Loan amount and rate will vary based on your income and creditworthiness. Monthly payments are not required