Editorial Assistant Melinda Taylor mtaylor@coloradocountrylife.org
EDITORIAL
Corporate Office
455 S. Pierce St., Lakewood, CO 80226 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.
POSTMASTER Send address changes to Colorado Country Life at 455 S. Pierce St., Lakewood, CO 80226.
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.
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 rural electric cooperative or the Colorado Rural Electric Association. Call for reprint rights. View advertising and editorial policy terms and conditions online at coloradocountrylife.coop.
Powering Forward
Electric co-op
leaders meet to conduct business
By Kent Singer Executive Director
Every fall the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, of which the Colorado Rural Electric Association and Colorado’s electric co-ops are members, hosts regional meetings for the purpose of considering member resolutions and conducting other business. The resolutions adopted by electric co-ops around the country guide the policy direction of our national trade group and reflect the bottom-up approach to governance.
This year’s Regions 7&9 Meeting (Colorado is in Region 7) was held in beautiful Bellevue, Washington. At this meeting, delegates representing states in these two regions heard presentations from a variety of different experts in the energy industry as well as updates from co-op leaders and other affiliated companies that support electric co-ops.
One of the main objectives of the meeting is to have the regional delegates consider proposed new resolutions and amendments to existing resolutions. This year, electric co-op leaders voted on two new resolutions. The first encourages NRECA to lobby for reliable postal service. As you may have experienced, postal service has been deteriorating in rural Colorado, in some cases impacting the delivery of this magazine and other communications from your co-op. Electric co-ops and their members depend on reliable postal service, and we will continue to let our members of Congress know that the recent problems are unacceptable.
The second new resolution encourages NRECA to support the development of artificial intelligence technology that could benefit electric co-ops. While co-ops, in many cases, are challenged to provide the power necessary to support AI data centers, there are also AI use cases that can improve the efficiency of co-ops.
Other resolutions that were considered at the regional meeting related to reducing the risk of wildfires, providing for voluntary membership in regional transmission organizations, and setting a reasonable time frame for the industry to incorporate more renewable energy.
When it comes to considering the new resolutions or amendments to existing resolutions, NRECA has a very thorough process that encourages member participation and input. I chaired the Region 7 resolutions committee as well as the vote that took place the next day to approve the resolutions. Every NRECA member who attended the regional meeting had the right and opportunity to suggest changes to any of the resolutions that govern NRECA’s lobbying activities.
At the regional meeting, I also counted votes for a director election to the board of directors of CFC, one of the banks that provides capital to electric co-ops. We checked and double-checked the votes to make sure we arrived at the same outcome each time.
Everyone associated with the electric co-op program takes voting and elections very seriously, and we do our best to make sure the results are accurate. You can rest assured that this responsibility is also fulfilled by your local electric co-op whenever there is an election for board members or other business.
Kent Singer is the executive director of CREA and offers a statewide perspective on issues affecting electric cooperatives. CREA is the trade association for 21 Colorado electric distribution co-ops and one power supply co-op.
Photo by Erman Gunes/iStock
STILTZ HOMELIFTS COME TO DENVER
THE MODERN SOLUTION
A Stiltz Homelift is a safe, attractive, & affordable alternative to stairlifts. It requires no special machine room, and no supporting walls.
ECONOMICAL & FLEXIBLE
A Stiltz Homelift can fit just about anywhere in your house. It has a compact footprint, similar in size to a small armchair. A Stiltz Homelift plugs into a standard home electrical outlet, using less power than a coffee maker.
YOUR FOREVER HOME
Avoid the expense and distress of relocating, or the disruption of adapting
your home for downstairs living. A Stiltz Homelift helps you live safely and independently in the home you love.
IT’S NEVER TOO SOON
Some Stiltz customers need a Homelift immediately. But others want to “future-proof” their homes for when the stairs become a challenge.
HOMELIFT SPECIALISTS
Stiltz is a world leading Homelift manufacturer, so you’ll be in good hands. Your elevator will be installed and maintained by Stiltz trained professionals who truly care about your freedom.
“I can’t imagine what we’d do without it. I wish we had installed our Stiltz Homelift several years ago!”
Mr. James, Lakewood, Colorado
Affordable
Small Footprint
Full Safety Features
Clean, Quiet Operation
Low Power Consumption
Freestanding Design
Wheelchair Accessible
Carry Laundry or Pets
Fast Installation
Full Warranty
Our new Stiltz Inc owned operation covers the entire state of Colorado. Join the tens of thousands’ of American’s who have installed a Stiltz Homelift since 2011 so they can stay put.
Stiltz Denver
What Feeds Us in Fall
By Kylee Coleman Editor
There is something about the chill of November and the short days of fall that makes me crave the kind of food you can’t rush — a chuck roast and red potatoes in the slow cooker, an apple pie that wraps the whole house in a sweet cinnamon perfume, a cheesy casserole that feeds a crowd. Amid the holiday rush, these are my favorite excuses to slow down.
Food does more than feed us. It nourishes relationships and fuels community at football stadium tailgate parties, potlucks, holiday dinners, friendly cookie exchanges, and chili cook-offs. Maybe you volunteer at a local soup kitchen or food bank and serve neighbors facing food insecurity. Tastes differ, but food unites us in the moments we share.
What is your favorite fall recipe or cooking tradition? Share with us a dish that simply tastes like home, or your go-to meal you bring to a neighbor after a new baby or a loss. Go to coloradocountrylife.coop/submit-your-recipe, or email me directly at kcoleman@coloradocountrylife.org. I can’t wait to see what brings you comfort and joy.
Monthly Giveaway
Colorado skies grow dark early this time of year. Enter to win a Nite Ize rechargeable LED dog leash to help keep your nighttime walks safe and bright. Find pet-friendly home tips on page 11
To enter, visit us online at coloradocountrylife.coop or send a postcard with your name, phone number, mailing address, and the name of your electric co-op to 455 S. Pierce St., Lakewood, CO 80226. Contest closes November 20.
Photo courtesy of Nite Ize.
Why Your Electric Bill is Rising
By Jon Beyer CEO
As your member-owned electric cooperative, we’re committed to providing safe, reliable service at the lowest possible rates.
Like many of you and many of our local businesses, we are also facing higher expenses, and our board has taken the step of increasing our rates as of January 1, 2026.
We think it’s important for you to know exactly why your costs for electricity are changing. This column will break down the factors driving the increase in power delivery costs. For our residential members we have a two-part rate. We have the Service Availability Charge and the kWh or energy charge.
SERVICE AVAILABILITY CHARGE INCREASE
The monthly Service Availability Charge for Residential Rate 1 customers (which includes most SDCEA accounts) will increase by $3.85 per month. This adjustment was approved by SDCEA’s Board of Directors in 2023 as part of our long-term financial plan for projected costs.
The Service Availability Charge increase varies by rate class. You may view updated rates for all rate classes and projected Service Availability Charge increases through 2027 by visiting our Bylaws, Rates, and Policies section on our website. Please note that these projected increases are subject to annual review.
WHAT THE SERVICE AVAILABILITY CHARGE COVERS
Your Service Availability Charge helps fund essential services that keep your electricity flowing reliably, including:
• Infrastructure maintenance and upgrades to ensure safe, dependable service
• Operational costs including materials, taxes, and labor
• Consumer services such as outage response and system software
• Compliance with regulatory requirements to meet safety and reliability standards
By covering these fixed costs, the Service Availability Charge guarantees that our system is ready to deliver power to your home or business 24/7 and that our crews are ready to respond to outages immediately.
ENERGY CHARGE ADJUSTMENT
The second adjustment is an increase in our energy charge due in part to increased costs from our wholesale power supplier, Tri-State Generation and Transmission. The Energy rate increase will be from 0.13485 to 0.14370 per kWh.
SDCEA purchases 95% of the electricity we deliver to you from a wholesale power provider, Tri-State Generation and Transmission.
In early September SDCEA was notified that Tri-State is implementing a 7.5% overall increase in energy costs, which will affect SDCEA and the rest of its 39 member co-ops in Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico and Nebraska. Tri-State has worked diligently to control costs and has made significant adjustments to its 2026 operating budget. However, not all costs are controllable. The increase is being passed along in part due to:
• Increased maintenance on aging power plants
• Ownership costs related to new solar facilities coming online in late 2025
• Higher market and purchased power costs
• Raising tariffs
• Changes to clean energy tax credits
TOTAL EXPECTED INCREASE
For the average home in our area, we estimate that the $3.85 increase in the service availability charge, along with the energy rate adjustment, will lead to an average monthly bill increase total of $7.83 for accounts using 450 kWh of electricity, $10.04 for accounts using 700kWh, and $12.70 for accounts using 1000 kWh. This represents an overall average increase of 7.55%. Your actual bill may vary depending on your electricity usage. If you’d like assistance calculating your usage or specific details based on your billing history, please contact us. The updated 2026 rates will be available on our website in November.
UNDERSTANDING THE UPWARD PRESSURE ON RATES
Electric cooperatives across the nation are facing unprecedented cost increases for power delivery. These aren’t isolated incidents but industry-wide challenges affecting all utility providers. As a cooperative, we have absorbed many of these costs over the past five years. However, to maintain the reliability and safety of your electric service, rate increases are necessary to meet our current revenue requirements.
KEY FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO CURRENT RATE PRESSURE
Rising Equipment and Material Costs, Modest Sales
As shown in the accompanying graphic, the cost of essential equipment has increased dramatically. Supply chain disruptions, material shortages, and widespread inflation have driven up prices for everything from transformers and wires to poles and bucket trucks. These infrastructure investments are not optional; they are crucial for maintaining a safe and reliable electrical grid.
For example, SDCEA is investing in the maintenance and improvement of our infrastructure to meet our members’ demands for energy, as well as providing the most reliable power possible. Our work plan includes creating redundancies within our distribution system to provide options for switching on the grid during outages. These are expensive investments but are designed to improve service for our members.
To build these projects, it is necessary for SDCEA to borrow money. This is to spread costs of such projects over their 30-year projected lifespans, and not incur large costs up front. This in turn keeps your electricity rates stable as we pay this investment back over time. Interest rates have increased overall, making it more expensive to borrow these funds.
SDCEA’s sole business purpose is providing electricity to our members. Our primary source of revenue is from selling electricity to our members at the rates we establish. SDCEA’s sales of power are generally flat due to several factors, including our relatively mild climate, which doesn’t see significant seasonal air conditioning or heating sales except for a couple of winter months. To maintain our system amidst rising costs, we must adjust our rates accordingly to meet those costs.
Costs Spread Among our Rural Population
It is expensive to provide power in SDCEA’s fivecounty area, given our rural, rugged location spread across 2,000 square miles. Maintaining electric infrastructure through our rocky, mountainous terrain is a more expensive proposition than in many parts of
the country. We must also continually reinvest in our infrastructure to maintain reliable, safe power.
The costs of maintaining our system and providing power are shared by relatively few people, given our population and small business sector. For instance, SDCEA’s expenses are shared by about 8 members per mile of line. In Colorado Springs, it’s shared by 48 customers per mile of line. In a more populated area like Colorado Springs, that might also include costs shared with multiple big-box stores or manufacturers, which helps offset costs even more.
However, we do have exciting opportunities in our future. Central Colorado is experiencing a surge in development. Housing builds and other construction projects continue to reshape our region. While this expansion introduces challenges like increased traffic and larger crowds in once-quiet spaces, it also presents potential opportunities from a utility perspective in the long run, particularly once new commercial development and housing units come online. Growth has the potential for more cost sharing in the future when it comes to your electric bill. As our membership base grows, we can distribute utility costs more broadly.
HOW WE HAVE CONTROLLED COSTS
We are also looking for ways to cut costs at SDCEA. For 2026 we have made changes to our employee benefit program along with education and training budgets. We are prioritizing our maintenance schedules and finding efficiencies within these efforts. We will be reducing our borrowing, which will have a positive impact on interest expense in the coming years. And we are committed to delivering safe and reliable service to the membership while maintaining current staffing levels.
OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU
We are dedicated to providing you with reliable and affordable electricity. We will continue to navigate these industry-wide challenges, working diligently to manage costs while maintaining the high standard of service you expect.
We invite you to review our rates and policies on our website. If you have questions about your bill or our rate structure, please contact us. We also encourage you to explore our energy efficiency and rebate programs, which can help you find ways to reduce your energy use and save money on your bill.
As a cooperative, we are accountable to you, our member-owners. We take that responsibility seriously and will always strive to balance affordability with reliability.
New Level III EV Charging in Chaffee County
Sangre de Cristo recently energized a new state-of–the-art Level III electric vehicle charging station at Love’s Travel Center in Buena Vista at its US Hwy 24 location.
Level III charging provides rapid charging capabilities, significantly reducing wait times for electric vehicle owners, compared to standard charging options.
Electric Era designed the charging system, which was installed by Sturgeon Electric of Denver. The battery storage component of the system represents
a forward-thinking approach to energy management. By storing energy during off-peak hours and releasing it during high-demand periods, the system helps keep demand on the local electrical grid consistent while ensuring reliable charging for users.
The charging station’s ideal location makes it an easy stop for local residents and travelers passing through Chaffee County. It has accessible features and offers highly competitive charging rates.
$ Rate Workshop $
Ever wonder how your electric rates are determined? We’d like to give you a look into the process!
Join us for lunch and a free educational workshop where you can learn exactly how SDCEA sets rates and explore what future rate options might look like. This is a great chance to get your questions answered directly by our team.
The workshop is free and open to all SDCEA members. We hope to see you there!
Location: Cliff Lanes, 25 Main St., Westcliffe
Date: November 13
Time: 12 p.m.
(Session previously held Oct. 9 in Buena Vista)
Creating a Pet-Friendly Space
Five ways to set up a safe, cozy home for cats and dogs
As much as you love your pets and work hard to make them part of the family, they are also a big responsibility. Part of that responsibility includes setting up your home so it is equal parts stylish for you and functional for Fido. Show furry friends a little love beyond the walks and snuggles by making your home more pet friendly.
SET UP THEIR SPACE NEAR AN ENTRY
It is common for pet owners to desire a dedicated space to keep all their furry friends’ belongings and avoid clutter. Ensure convenience and cleanliness by establishing an area near the door where you can store leashes, collars, toys, and more. Consider keeping a towel or two nearby for wiping wet or muddy paws after going outside. You can also keep your pets’ beds, food, and water bowls in this space so it feels like their own little home when returning from a walk or when they go to sleep at night.
CONSIDER STAIN-RESISTANT FABRICS
Avoiding fabrics that attract pet hair is a no-brainer for pet owners looking to escape a constant mess. Silk and velvet are virtual magnets for fur, while alternatives like leather or microfiber offer more practical choices that are easier to clean.
INSTALL RESILIENT FLOORING
Reduce your fear of zoomies causing damage to your floors by installing resilient flooring focused on reducing wear. Resilient floors are a great solution to address muddy paws, often only requiring the mud to be easily wiped away, without using harsh cleaning products.
DON’T FORGET ELECTRICAL SAFETY
Electrocution is the most common type of electrical injury for household pets. Be sure to push plugs fully into outlets. Partially plugged-in cords can expose metal prongs, which curious noses, paws, or tongues might touch — leading to a dangerous shock. Puppies and cats love to chew on electrical cords, including holiday light strands and extension cords, so keep all
cords out of sight or hidden with a cord cover. Do not leave your pets unattended around potential burn sources such as space heaters or curling irons. And discourage them from sleeping near or behind electronics such as televisions or speakers. Many pets are attracted to the warmth these emit, but this can be a fire hazard.
PAWS, PLAN, AND PREPARE
Assemble an emergency kit for your pets in case you must evacuate your home. Your pets will appreciate having familiar comforts during a stressful time. Take time before an emergency to note your pet’s favorite hiding spots around the house so you can find them quickly during emergencies. Include these essential items in your pet’s emergency evacuation kit:
• Food and water: Pack several days’ worth and store in waterproof containers.
• Medicine: Include an extra supply of your pet’s daily medication.
• ID tag and gear: Add a backup leash, collar, ID tag, and pet registration.
• Carrier: Secure a sturdy travel crate or bag for each pet.
• Sanitation: Include a litter box and litter, paper towels, and trash bags.
• Photo: Take and save a picture of you with your pet for easier identification if you become separated during an emergency.
• Comfort items: Gather toys, treats, and bedding.
Sources: Family Features, Safe Electricity, and Beautifully Responsible.
Nordic Skiing
Skip the lift lines and glide on the trails
By Eugene Buchanan
Let’s just say my first-ever Nordic race over three decades ago was a tad embarrassing. My wife, a former collegiate racer for the University of Montana, talked me into it. This was right when Bill Koch first brought skate skiing into the limelight, There wasn’t skate skiing gear at the time, just heavy telemark equipment — complete with leather boots and three-pin bindings — so I raced in that. I didn’t set any speed records, even after swallowing my pride and taking a shortcut or two.
Flash-forward 30-some years and I’m a Nordic convert. Of course, it helps when you live in a place like Steamboat Springs, which is home to more Olympians — many of them Nordic — than any other town in the country. But I love it for its versatility, exercise, and ease of entry. Simply gear up and go — no lift lines, expensive tickets, parking issues, or crowded slopes. Choose from conventional classic cross-country where kick wax or fish scales let you stride and glide straight forward, or skate skiing, where you push off to the side herringbone style for propulsion. Classic lets you take to groomed trails or venture off-piste, while skate skiing restricts you to manicured trails.
I’ll go early in the year up on Rabbit Ears Pass, when Bruce’s Trail offers some of the earliest skate skiing in the country, and kick and glide on trails meandering across Rabbit Ears and Buff Pass. Local trails around town — as well as four different Nordic centers — offer escapes from crowded midwinter slopes, and then springtime serves up its own special category of “crust” skiing. That’s when you don’t need groomed trails at all; the diurnal freeze/ thaw temperatures Zamboni meadows smooth and hard, letting you color outside the lines on a canvas where you can skate wherever your heart — and heart rate — takes you.
This ski season, forego those locked-down Alpine bindings and elbow-room-only resort slopes. Free your heel and free your mind by giving Nordic skiing a whirl, whether you’re out on your own or with friends and family. Skating or striding, that hot chocolate afterward will never taste better.
Eugene Buchanan is a former reporter for the Denver Business Journal and 14-year publisher and editor-in-chief of Paddler magazine. His freelance articles have been published in The New York Times, Men’s Journal, Outside, National Geographic Adventure, Forbes Life, and more.
NORDIC SKIING OFFERINGS TO GET YOU STARTED
SUMMIT COUNTY
The Breckenridge Nordic Center offers 28 kilometers of groomed trails for all abilities, as well as rentals, lessons, and guided tours. Located at the Breckenridge Golf Course, the Gold Run Nordic Center offers 30 km of groomed ski trails and lets you bring your dog along — look for the dog symbol on the map. The Frisco Nordic Center offers 30 km of ski trails, with mountain vistas along Lake Dillon. The Keystone Nordic Center serves up 17 km of groomed trails and backs up to 40 km of White River National Forest backcountry trails. Accessed from the Frisco Nordic Center/ Ball Field parking lots or Summit High School, the Winter Rec Path is a free, groomed path, extending 12 km from Frisco to Breckenridge, with dogs allowed on a leash.
GRAND COUNTY
Named the No. 1 Cross-Country Ski Resort in North America by USA Today, Devil’s Thumb Ranch near Winter Park offers 120 km of trails at the base of the Continental Divide, complete with lodging and fine dining. Snow Mountain Ranch/ YMCA of the Rockies lets you glide on 82 km of groomed Nordic trails — including 40 km of pet-friendly trails — through pine forest and open meadows, with a variety of affordable lodging options and other activities.
BOULDER COUNTY
Eldora Nordic Center has 40 km of trails through old-growth forests and alpine meadows for classic skiing, skate skiing, and snowshoeing, plus rentals, instruction, and a retail store. But give yourself some time after eating that breakfast burrito as it’s a bit hilly.
Keep Colorado Wild
cpw.info/KeepColoradoWildPass
Botón de traducción disponible en la página web
Jay Moore, artist Roxborough State Park
Strength in Service
Electric co-ops unite to restore power after wildfire
By Jim Hight
The worst of the Elk and Lee fires had been contained, but smoke still wrapped the hills of Rio Blanco County in northwestern Colorado when six linemen from Grand Valley Power arrived to help White River Electric Association rebuild its devastated grid and restore power to members.
After a WREA lineman told them where to deploy, they loaded their trucks with poles and wires and drove into a scene from a disaster movie. “Everything was burned black, and the wind was blowing ash everywhere,” recalled Preston Dillingham, GVP line foreman. The hillside was so steep, they couldn’t use their digger derrick to replace burned poles but had to improvise with an excavator.
This was the first morning of what turned into a grueling week of 14-hour days pulling wires by hand, climbing poles when their bucket truck couldn’t access remote terrain, and avoiding electrocution when a de-energized power line came alive with induced voltage from a high-voltage transmission line overhead. They rushed through meals and bunked in shared rooms at a motel in Meeker.
Yet, Dillingham and his crew would do it again in a heartbeat.
“This was a special opportunity for them to serve in an emergency, to work in challenging conditions without the equipment they’re used to, and to build camaraderie,” said Grand Valley Power CEO Tom Walch.
“The days were long, but it was really cool how everybody came together as a team,” agreed Dillingham. “And we all have stories to tell for years.”
For White River Electric Association, Colorado’s smallest electric co-op with just 27 staff, the tale of how Grand Valley Power and other cooperatives and affiliated groups rushed to its aid last August after fires destroyed about 400 poles and thousands of yards of electric conductors will no doubt be an enduring one as well. “It was pretty wonderful to receive the help that we did,” said Brett Berthelson, operations manager at WREA.
“For starters, we were low on certain materials. So, the crew from Holy Cross Energy brought poles and other hardware,” he said.
Nearby Yampa Valley Electric Association responded as soon as it had repaired the fire damage sustained by its own infrastructure. “We got our damaged poles and wires replaced within 36 hours, then we sent a four-man crew to White River with three trucks,” said John Cromer, YVEA operations manager.
In all, about 30 linemen showed up to help repair the fire damage on WREA’s widely dispersed territory. “Every crew that showed up just dove in headfirst and got to work doing pole replacements,” Berthelson said. Some stayed as long as three weeks.
The cooperatively owned Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association sent a team to rebuild high-voltage lines. And the Colorado Rural Electric
Association Director of Safety and Loss Control Curt Graham was there doing everything from advising on safety matters to delivering lunches. “This is what the cooperative spirit is all about,” Graham said. “No questions asked, we show up. I received calls from most of the co-ops in the state that asked, ‘Curt, do they need any more help?’”
CREA helps coordinate the mutual aid program that enabled resources and personnel from other co-ops to stream quickly and efficiently into WREA’s remote corner of the state.
The Colorado electric co-op mutual aid agreement includes information on resources each co-op can provide — a feature that was exceptionally useful to YVEA when it was hammered by an intense snowstorm in 2023.
“We lost a lot of wire and poles, and we didn’t have the equipment to travel across snow that was 4 to 8 feet deep,” Cromer recalled. However, the mutual aid system enabled YVEA to reach out to a co-op that was accustomed to operating in severe winter weather: Mountain Parks Electric in Granby, where temperatures are below 0 degrees nearly 80 nights each year. “They brought in their snowcats so we could repair the damage,” Cromer said.
“Knowing that your nearby co-ops — and any co-op in Colorado — will be there when you need them gives us a sense of security,” Cromer continued. “Co-ops are a family, and we all take care of each other.” And as Cromer pointed out, Cooperation Among Cooperatives is one of the seven guiding principles of electric co-ops.
Mutual aid is not free, however, and WREA is responsible for covering the salaries and other costs incurred by the co-ops that helped restore its grid. WREA will receive funding from FEMA if the federal government approves the state’s request for a major disaster declaration to fund recovery efforts in Rio Blanco County. (It was pending when this issue went to press.) In the meantime, the co-op has established a line of credit with its lending institution. “We anticipate the costs will be large,” said Berthelson.
All the repairs on WREA’s distribution system serving homes, businesses, schools, and other institutions are complete. Its high-voltage transmission lines — with which the co-op powers oil and gas operations in its service territory — still need to be repaired. “We’re currently feeding the oil and gas operators with our last contingency backup, a 138-kilovolt transmission line from the west,” Berthelson said.
Costs aside, Berthelson reported that WREA staff, board, and community are extremely grateful for the help extended by neighboring co-ops in their time of need. “The crews who came to our aid were truly incredible,” he said. “They understood what we needed and worked really hard until the job of repairing the distribution system was done.”
Jim Hight is a writer, research analyst, and consultant
Colorado.
This is what the cooperative spirit is all about. No questions asked, we show up. I received calls from most of the co-ops in the state that asked, ‘Curt, do they need any more help?’”
— Curt Graham, CREA Director of Safety and Loss Control The crews who came to our aid were truly incredible. They understood what we needed and worked really hard until the job of repairing the distribution system was done.”
— Brett Berthelson, WREA operations manager
based in Buena Vista,
Photo at left: A Grand Valley Power linecrew travels to work with White River Electric Association crews to rebuild after wildfires devastated the Meeker-based co-op’s infrastructure. At right: Remote and hilly terrain requires linemen to climb poles to string power lines.
Healing Hearts and Souls
Rocky Mountain Honor Flight celebrates veterans, helps with closure
By Becky Jensen
Jim Adams waited outside a gathering hall where lunch was about to be served to 30 military veterans, including Jim. He looked fit and healthy and offered a firm handshake as he introduced himself. It was hard to imagine that nearly 60 years had passed since Jim was drafted to fight in the Vietnam War.
“I was only 17 when I went to boot camp,” he said. Growing up in a military family, he had been proud to leave for basic training and ready to serve his countr y back then.
Once he deployed to Vietnam, Jim reported to an Army intelligence unit in the 23rd Infantry Division. He saw combat during his tour in 1968 and 1969 and lost several close friends in the horrors of jungle warfare. When Jim finally came home, he landed in San Francisco at the height of the anti-war movement. He never received a hero’s welcome — was never thanked for his service. Instead, he was met with disgust and
called a baby killer.
“We were just kids when we went over,” he said of his platoon, most of them fresh out of high school. “We all did our duty and lost our childhood innocence in the process. We tried to make some semblance of a normal life when we came back home.”
But nothing was normal for Jim after Vietnam. Wracked by survivor’s guilt and battling severe PTSD, the experience scarred him for life.
“There’s been a hole in my heart, an abyss so deep, I thought nothing would ever bridge it,”
Jim said of his invisible war wound — a pain compounded by the death of his first wife, his childhood sweetheart. “I thought I would never heal. That’s the only way I know how to describe it, as having a hole in my heart.”
Jim spent his entire adult life living like this.
But in recent years, with the love and support of his children and second wife, he began look-
Photos in outer margin by Andrew Garner
ing for ways to heal. Jim became a member of the honor guard for American Legion Post 22 in Northglenn, providing military funeral honors for veterans at Fort Logan National Cemetery. It was a way to show his respect and give back to veterans and their families, he explained — to find a modicum of peace. But with each flag he folded at a burial, Jim couldn’t help but think about his own mortality.
“The reality is, I’m in the twilight of my life now,” he said. Time is precious, and something still felt unfinished to the Vietnam veteran.
When Jim heard about Rocky Mountain Honor Flight — a Denver nonprofit that takes veterans to visit military monuments and memorials in Washington, D.C. — he thought it might be the answer.
He had been to D.C. before, but he would never go to the wall, Jim said of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. “It was too hard to see the names of my friends there.”
Yet, his need to honor them, to say a proper goodbye, eventually overruled any lingering hesitation. In 2024, he applied to Rocky Mountain Honor Flight to finally face the wall and his past and redefine his concept of “tour of duty.” After a year on the waitlist, Jim was offered a seat on a 2025 flight.
When asked what the upcoming trip to D.C. would mean to him, Jim looked away, his
eyes welling with tears. He took a moment to compose himself.
“It’s time,” he said, clearing his throat. “It’s time to visit some old friends.”
ON A MISSION
Founded in 2007, Rocky Mountain Honor Flight provides veterans with an all-expenses-paid trip to the nation’s capital as an expression of gratitude for their military service and sacrifice. As one of 130 hubs in the national Honor Flight Network, Rocky Mountain Honor Flight celebrated its 50th flight in April, which represented over 1,500 veterans served in its nearly 20-year program.
Terry Garner was never in the military, but his father served in World War II, so veterans’ causes have always been close to Terry’s heart. After his dad died, Terry applied to become a guardian — chaperone — for Rocky Mountain Honor Flight. He was on a mission to help other veterans make this trip of a lifetime — a trip his dad was never able to take.
Volunteer guardians and medical personnel ensure a safe journey for veterans on each Honor Flight. The program covers all meals, lodging, and travel, including round-trip airfare and
Above: WWII, Vietnam War, and Korean War veterans leave Denver International Airport to travel to Washington, D.C., to visit war memorials as part of an Honor Flight. Photo by Chris Coleman
chartered bus service while in Washington, D.C. All funding comes from individual and corporate donations and grants.
Terry said he was so impressed by how the organization ran its business, how things went on that first trip, and what they did for the vets that he vowed to become more involved with the nonprofit. Today, he’s treasurer of Rocky Mountain Honor Flight and a member of its board.
“Our mission is to give veterans the recognition and the thank-yous they’ve earned. That’s our whole reason for existence,” Terry said.
Rocky Mountain Honor Flight serves veterans from practically anywhere, not just the Denver area. “We’ve taken vets from all over Colorado, and from Wyoming, Nebraska, even South Dakota,” Terry said. “And they don’t need to have combat experience to apply.”
The nonprofit can accommodate 30 veterans per trip, four flights per year, with priority given to WWII, Korea, and Vietnam veterans and the terminally ill.
The program is so popular that there are two other Honor Flight hubs in Colorado: High Plains Honor Flight in the Fort Collins-Greeley area, and Honor Flight of Southern Colorado based in Colorado Springs. Each has its own unique trip format, Terry explained, and veterans can apply to a hub that’s closer to home or that offers a program that’s right for them. Which-
When we left Denver, and landed in Maryland, we were greeted by so many people … It was the welcome home I always wish I had.
It healed the hole that’s been in my heart since Vietnam.
I finally walked out of the jungle, into a calm clearing, after this trip.”
— Jim Adams, Vietnam War Veteran
ever hub a veteran chooses, older veterans are encouraged to apply sooner than later. “We add you to our list in the order received.”
Terry said Honor Flights are more than just thanking veterans. “A great part of the program is that vets can connect with other vets who have walked in their shoes. They can tell their own stories and share experiences. That’s where a lot of the healing comes from.”
MAKING MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS
That’s a big reason why Liz Fiddes, former director of member services and education for the Colorado Rural Electric Association, volunteers her time with Rocky Mountain Honor Flight. She’s seen healing and connection happen firsthand.
“When I worked for CREA, I would take a group of high school students from our co-op service territories to Washington, D.C., every year. We’d spend a week in D.C. where the kids could meet their members of Congress, learn about government, and visit museums and memorials,” Liz explained. “During these trips, we would run into Honor Flight [veterans] from time to time at the military memorials.”
One experience at the World War II Memorial stood out for Liz. “We saw some Honor Flight vets coming toward us. The kids lined up on both sides of the walkway and just clapped for
An emotional moment at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., to honor friends lost in the line of duty.
Photo by Andrew Garner
Photos in outer margin by Andrew Garner
United States Army veteran Jim Adams.
Photo by Chris Coleman
Our mission is to give veterans the recognition and the thank-yous they’ve earned. That’s our whole reason for existence.
A great part of the program is that vets can connect with other vets who have walked in their shoes. They can tell their own stories and share experiences. That’s where a lot of the healing comes from.”
— Terry Garner, Rocky Mountain Honor Flight board member
these guys as they came through.” The emotional encounter left a lasting impression on the students, the veterans, and Liz.
“Our kids got down on their knees to talk to the guys in wheelchairs. It just did my heart good to see the connection.” She’s been volunteering with Rocky Mountain Honor Flight since retiring from CREA two years ago.
FINDING CLOSURE
Home from his recent trip to D.C. with Rocky Mountain Honor Flight, Jim was exhilarated.
“It was excellent,” he said of the experience. “Quite the emotional trip, but in a good way.”
When asked if he would recommend Rocky Mountain Honor Flight to other veterans, Jim replied, “100%, especially for veterans left with a bad taste in their mouth from their time in the military. I was a lucky guy to get to go on this trip.”
He added, “When we left Denver, and landed in Maryland, we were greeted by so many people who cared — all wishing us well. It was the welcome home I always wish I had.”
The changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery was another highlight for Jim and his fellow travelers. “Every time they walked past us vets, they clicked their heels as a sign of respect.”
When he described his time at the Viet-
nam Veterans Memorial, Jim struggled to put it into words.
“I used to ask, ‘Why them, not me?’” he said of his fallen comrades. “But I’m learning to put that behind me now.”
The trip with Rocky Mountain Honor Flight surprised Jim in more ways than one. “I thought I was visiting my old friends for the last time,” he said of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. “I took a picture of their names. But when I look at those photos now, back home, I can see the reflection of me in the wall with my friends. They are with me, I’m with them.”
That time of reflection in D.C., and back home in Colorado, did something else Jim doubted would ever happen. “I feel healed, as much as I can be,” he said. “When I came home, my wife saw a lot of change in me for the better.”
He paused in thought, wanting to get the words right. “It healed the hole that’s been in my heart since Vietnam,” he said in a hopeful voice. “I finally walked out of the jungle, into a calm clearing, after this trip.”
To learn more about Rocky Mountain Honor Flight, make a donation, or apply to be part of a future trip to Washington, D.C., go online to rockymountainhonorflight.org
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.
Honor Flight veterans watch the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. Photo by Andrew Garner
Rocky Mountain Honor Flight board member Terry Garner (left) visits with veterans at the airport before their Honor Flight to D.C. Photo by Chris Coleman
Prep Now for Winter Savings
By Miranda Boutelle
Q: What can I do now to manage my winter energy bills?
A: You’ll be thankful you prepared in the fall for colder weather when you receive your first winter energy utility bill. The following steps can be taken now to use less energy at home before the winter chill sets in. They also help lower the strain on the electric grid during extreme winter weather when energy use is at its peak in your community.
Consider your home’s layers. Just like layering your winter flannels, fleeces, and down jackets with waterproof, wind-stopping shells, gloves, and hats, your home needs layers too. Air sealing and insulation protect your home from the elements while locking in the warm air to keep you cozy.
To offset the costs, federal tax credits for energy efficiency upgrades are available through December 31, 2025. Homeowners can claim a total of 30% of the cost of installation, up to $3,200. Tax credits are available for insulation, heat pumps, air conditioning systems, and more. There’s even a tax credit for electrical panel upgrades, which might be needed to accommodate new energy-efficient equipment.
There’s also a $150 tax credit for an energy audit, which allows a professional to help determine what your home needs and how to prioritize potential projects. Visit energystar.gov for more information.
When it comes to do-it-yourself projects, there are a few upgrades you can take care of. Lock in savings with window cleaning and maintenance. Make sure sash locks and window cranks are in good working order and are clear of any dirt and leaves so they
close snugly. I find the crevice tool attachment on my vacuum cleaner, combined with a small, dry scrub brush or an old toothbrush, works great. The locks should pull the top and bottom window sashes together tightly. For casement windows, the locks should pull the window tightly to the frame.
Although it might not seem like a significant difference, reducing airflow through and around windows can make your home more comfortable in the winter. Replacing broken or nonfunctional sash locks can be a reasonable DIY project, but it is best to avoid doing it when winter winds are blowing. Also, use caulk to seal all gaps around the window trim. If you have operable storm windows, make sure they close.
If you have a forced-air heating or air conditioning system, replace the filter. First, turn the system off to check it. If your filter is dirty, leave it in place until you have a replacement. Running your system without a filter can send any dust or dirt in the ductwork directly into the components and damage your equipment. Make a note of the filter’s size on your shopping list or take a picture of the filter with your phone so you can reference it when you’re out running errands.
This fall, look for opportunities to protect your home from the elements and maintain your equipment before the cold of winter.
Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company. She has over 20 years of experience helping people save energy at home.
Durango: Find Adventure
By Robin Bradfield
Durango was established in 1880 with the development of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, built specifically to transport ore, freight, and passengers. Today, Durango continues to celebrate its vibrant history with a year-round train service and a historic downtown area featuring 86 buildings that showcase the architectural charm of its early years. Durango is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of adventures throughout every season.
FESTIVE MOUNTAIN JOURNEY
The historic Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad operates year-round but transforms into THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride from November 21 to January 3. It has evolved into a cherished annual tradition for many, and wearing pajamas is encouraged to fully capture the holiday spirit.
The Strater Hotel, a proud fixture in downtown since 1887, features a blend of Italianate, Romanesque, and Renaissance architectural designs. Reserve one of the 88 unique rooms, complete with Victorian-style furnishings. One particular room is named after the author Louis L’Amour, a frequent guest. Free tours are offered three days a week.
Reservations: strater.com
BARGAIN GEAR
The nearby San Juan and La Plata mountains offer a fantastic playground for jeeping, zip lining, skiing, as well as hiking and mountain biking. For anyone looking to explore a new outdoor activity without breaking the bank, Durango Outdoor Exchange could be the perfect solution. The store offers a space for consignors to sell their gently used gear, alongside a selection of new equipment for purchase. Get gift cards, buy, sell, and more: durangooutdoorexchange.com
Photo courtesy of the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad
Photo courtesy of the Hotel
Photo courtesy of the Exchange
Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction
Centuries ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear.
On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.
We found a limited supply of turquoise from Arizona and purchased it for our Sedona Turquoise Collection . Inspired by the work of those ancient craftsmen and designed to showcase the exceptional blue stone, each stabilized vibrant cabochon features a unique, one-of-a-kind matrix surrounded in Bali metalwork. You could drop over $1,200 on a turquoise pendant, or you could secure 26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise for just $99
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you aren’t completely happy with your purchase, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.
The supply of Arizona turquoise is limited, don’t miss your chance to own the Southwest’s brilliant blue treasure. Call today!
Jewelry Specifications:
• Arizona turquoise • Silver-finished settings
Sedona Turquoise Collection
A. Pendant (26 cts)
$299 * $99 +s&p Save $200
B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 +s&p
C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw)
Complete Set**
$299 * $99 +s&p Save $200
$747 * $249 +s&p Save $498
**Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings.
now and mention
*Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.
26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise ONLY $99
C.
Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color
Celebrate the Harvest with Stuffed Squash
By Mary Peck
Acorn squash is a fall favorite in Colorado. Its mild, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor complements hearty fillings like savory sausage, grains, and cheese. Thanks to its sturdy walls and round shape, acorn squash is easy to stuff and makes a satisfying main dish. Choose acorn squash that is heavy for its size, with a dark-green rind and stem that is dry and firmly attached.
STUFFED ACORN SQUASH
Makes 2-4 servings
INGREDIENTS
2 medium acorn squash
1 tbsp olive oil
½ pound ground Italian sausage
½ cup chopped onion
1 cup chopped cremini mushrooms
1 cup cooked brown rice
4 oz chopped fresh spinach or kale
½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese, divided
½ tsp salt
⅛ tsp black pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 F
Prepare the squash: Scrub before cooking. Set the squash on a thick towel and use a heavy, sharp knife to carefully cut it in half from the stem to the base. Scoop out and discard the seeds.
Place the halves cut side down in a baking dish. Add ½ inch of water to the dish and cover with foil. Bake until tender, 45 to 55 minutes.
Remove and let the squash halves cool, leaving the oven on.
Prepare the filling: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage and use a wooden spoon to break into pieces. Cook thoroughly until golden brown, then remove it from the pan to a plate lined with a paper towel. Drain all but about 1 tablespoon of the fat.
Add the chopped onion to the hot skillet and cook over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the mushrooms and spinach or kale, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes, until tender and fragrant. Remove from heat and mix in the cooked sausage, cooked brown rice, and ¼ cup of the Parmesan cheese, combining thoroughly.
Turn the squash halves cut side up and season with salt and pepper. Spoon the filling evenly into the squash cavities and top with the remaining ¼ cup of cheese.
Return the baking dish to the oven and bake uncovered until heated through, about 15 minutes.
WE WORK YEAR-ROUND TO REDUCE WILDFIRE RISK
Wildfire risk is an undeniable part of living in the rural West, but it’s a fight we’re facing head-on.
At Tri-State G&T, we deploy data-driven monitoring and wildfire mitigation strategies to identify and mitigate risk to protect our communities and the critical infrastructure they rely on. We’ll do anything within our power to protect the people and places our members call home.
WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS, WE’LL POWER IT.®
Scan to learn how we are combating wildfire risk:
Leave a legacy for future generations, nothing embodies this sentiment quite like the enduring gift of gold from American Gold Reserve. With its intrinsic value and historical significance, gold represents stability and prosperity across generations, making it a cherished asset to pass down. Secure your family’s future with a gift that stands the test of time, ensuring a legacy of financial security and enduring value.
American Gold Reserve is releasing Government issued $5 Gold American Eagles completely free of dealer markup for only $369 each. These beautiful $5 Gold American Eagles are a perfect way to enter the gold market. They are set for immediate public release and will sell out fast
• Teach the importance of wealth preservation.
• Great way to pass on wealth to children and grand children.
• A symbolic act of the commitment to your family.
• Gold provides your children and grandchildren with a built-in safeguard during times of financial instability.
Explore Holiday Markets Shop handmade this season
By Gaylene Garcia Granger
Shopping takes center stage this month, and one way to enjoy it is at a holiday market. With steaming peppermint cocoa in hand and carols in the air, community holiday markets are the best place to look for the one-of-a-kind ornament you’ve been seeking. Bring your shopping bag and your nice list — it’s time to check off some names.
DOLORES CHRISTMAS CRAFT BAZAAR
Dolores Community Center | December 6 and 7 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Across two days, you will find 60-80 vendors selling everything you need for Christmas at the Dolores Christmas Craft Bazaar. Julie McGuire, the market’s organizer for the last three years, boasts that there are a lot of homemade goods including jewelry, ceramics, baked treats, and wood crafts. She says, “There are different vendors each day and it’s really festive. Santa also comes on Saturday around 11 a.m.” Of course, all that shopping works up an appetite, and there are plenty of delicious holiday goodies. Find information at facebook.com/DoloresCommunityCenter
FRUITA HOLIDAY ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR
Fruita Community Center | December 13 | 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Fruita Holiday Fair is one of the most festive events you’ll find. The market has 62 vendors of unique goods in all varieties including jewelry, textiles, candles, soaps, and exquisite artisan-crafted blown glass. The amount and variety of handcrafted items is extensive. If you’re looking for a gift for someone special, this is the place to be. The vendors are hand selected by the market review committee to ensure you are getting something truly unique.
Visit eventeny.com/events/holiday-arts-and-crafts-fair-2025-22213 for more information.
FREIGHT’S MOTHERLODE HOLIDAY MARKET
Leadville | December 12-14 | 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Under the warm embrace of massive wooden trusses and custom chandeliers at FREIGHT event venue, this holiday market has over 30 vendors selling handmade pottery, jewelry, toys, hats, skin care items, decorations, and teas. Shoppers will find unique goods and artisans including Whistle for Dixie Pottery and Craftionistas. “We have high-quality vendors from the area selling high-quality goods,” FREIGHT Operations Manager Amber Winter said. “It can be a quick stop in or a whole day activity with family and friends.” The event has a variety of live bands playing each day to help bring holiday cheer, Santa and Mrs. Claus will be available for photo opportunities, and the outdoor courtyard will host food vendors. Visit freightleadville.com/leadville-co-events to learn more.
Photos courtesy of each event
Oh, SHELL NO
Poudre Valley REA members Roger and Deanna Hebbert bring CCL to Scotland in September to visit Outlander filming locations, to tour the Eilean Donan Castle on the Isle of Skye, and as pictured here, to walk the West Highland Trail northwest of Glasgow.
Harriet Jan Scoggins, a San Isabel Electric member, brings her copy of the magazine to Dodge City, Kansas, to convince Doc Holliday about the benefits of an electric co-op.
Show us your adventures with the magazine for a chance to WIN $25.
Upload your photo with CCL at coloradocountrylife.coop. Find more reader photos on Facebook @COCountryLife and Instagram @cocountrylife
Sangre de Cristo Electric members Art and Linda Wilson bring CCL to visit the east side of Greenland. The only town they saw was Ittoqqortoormiit, and they also enjoyed seeing animals and big ice!
Morgan County REA member Judy Busch and her sister, Joan Bengford, visit the Shrine to Our Lady of Fatima in Portugal during a trip to Portugal, Spain, and France. Thank you for bringing CCL along!
and Lauri Echer, members of
Corey Humphreys, a Highline Electric Association member, brings CCL to El Yunque National Park in Puerto Rico.
San Isabel Electric members Scott and Alison Jones bring CCL to visit Beachy Head chalk cliffs near Eastbourne, England.
Dennis
Grand Valley Power, bring CCL to the University of Notre Dame for a football game.
Sangre de Cristo Electric member Karen Isham is with CCL on top of Mount Mojanda in Ecuador.
Kim and Rick Krueger, Grand Valley Power members, bring CCL on a cruise to Alaska with a stop at Skagway.
Colorado Country
2026 PHOTO CONTEST
It’s time to share your best photos for the annual Colorado Country Life photo contest.
Categories
• Scenic Landscapes
• Animals
• Plants & Flowers
• People
Winning Tips
13 Winners | 13 Prizes
• $150 cover
• $150 first place
• $75 second place
• $50 third place
1. Use the highest resolution setting on your digital camera.
2. Capture scenes full of vivid color.
3. Make us feel something with your photo (awe, happiness).
Rules
• Enter up to two photos per category.
• Digital JPEG photos only.
• Photos must be at least 300 dpi at 8" x 10".
• All vertical photos entered will be considered for the cover photo. If you have a photo you think will make a perfect cover of CCL, it must be at least 300 dpi at 9" wide x 13" tall.
• Winners will be announced and published in a spring 2026 issue.
• The contest is open for entries through Sunday, November 30, 2025.
Read full rules and enter online at coloradocountrylife.coop/photo-contest-2026
Photos from previous photo contests. Photographers (top to bottom): David Dahms, Connie Chamberlain, Glenn Rivera, and Lynnae King
