Colorado Country Life April 2016 KC

April 2016

FOCUS ON WINNING PHOTOS

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[cover]

[contents]

April 2016 Photo contest winner – first place, summer: Stephanie Stuckman, Mancos, Empire Electric Member.

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16

4 Viewpoint

21 Recipes

5 Letters

22 Gardening

Solar power surges throughout Colorado’s electric co-op territories

Scrumptious smoothies add great taste, nutrition to a spring day

6 Calendar

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24 Outdoors

Co-op News

11 NewsClips 14 The Next Generation

of Lineworkers

Turkey tomfoolery leads to more laughter than hunting

25 Energy Tips

Over the next five years, electric utilities expect to hire 15,000 people

29 Funny Stories

16 Focus On Our Beautiful State

A pint-size garden can still provide big results at harvest

30 Discoveries

Winning photos capture the four seasons in Colorado

1970

the year the first Earth Day was celebrated.

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Extra content:

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This month’s online extras ➤ FIND more events to enjoy this spring listed in the online calendar ➤ ENJOY a variety of photos of Colorado’s seasonal beauty HECK OUT the additional smoothie ➤C recipes ➤D ISCOVER more about what it takes to be an electric co-op lineman ➤ L EARN more about organic cleaning products from a Colorado company

April 11

is National Lineman Appreciation Day

5-30%

possible savings on your energy bill for taking action based on your energy auditor’s recommendations.

The official publication of the Colorado Rural Electric Association || Volume 47, Number 04 COMMUNICATIONS STAFF: Mona Neeley, CCC, Publisher/Editor@303-455-4111; mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org Cassi Gloe, Designer; cgloe@coloradocountrylife.org ADVERTISING: Kris Wendtland@303-902-7276, advertising@coloradocountrylife.org; NCM@800-626-1181 SUBSCRIPTIONS: info@coloradocountrylife.org

EDITORIAL: Denver Corporate Office, 5400 Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216; Phone: 303-455-4111 • Email: mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org • Website: coloradocountrylife.coop • Facebook: facebook.com/COCountryLife • Twitter: @COCountryLife Colorado Country Life (USPS 469-400/ISSN 1090-2503) is published monthly for $9/$15 per year by Colorado Rural Electric Association, 5400 N. Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216. Periodical postage paid at Denver, Colorado.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Colorado Country Life, 5400 N. Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216 Publication of an advertisement in Colorado Country Life does not imply endorsement by any Colorado rural electric cooperative or the Colorado Rural Electric Association. 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.

[viewpoint]

Power From the Sun

Solar power surges in Colorado’s electric co-op territories

BY KENT SINGER

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CREA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

KSINGER@COLORADOREA.ORG

How will the continuing dethat electricity. cline in the cost of solar powMany states er impact Colorado’s electric are re-evaluating co-ops and other electric how utilities are utilities? That’s an important required to comquestion and one that was pensate customers addressed at the 2016 Solar with onsite genPower Colorado conference eration, such as March 7-9, an event hosted solar panels. Some by the Colorado Solar Enutilities have sucKent Singer ergy Industries Association. cessfully argued I was there to learn about the that net-metered customers should latest developments in solar power pay a fee for the right to interconnect and network with solar advocates, to utility facilities since the utility is developers and vendors. Electric essentially acting as a battery for the co-ops are integrating a variety of customer, and there is value associsolar power projects across Coloated with that service. Other utilirado, and the Colorado Rural Electies increased their monthly service tric Association makes a concerted charges to their customers to make effort to stay on top of this dynamic up for the fact that they are no longer element of the power industry. collecting all of their fixed costs with The CoSEIA conference grew the reduction of kilowatt-hour sales. over the last several years with this Many of the folks attending the year’s attendance exceeding 500 CoSEIA conference argued against people representing all aspects of any kind of “barrier” to the installathe solar ecosphere. The conference tion of solar panels, such as the fees this year featured several speakers described in the preceding parawho addressed issues including net graph. But from the cooperative permetering policies, new utility models spective, this is a matter of fairness. and trends in community solar.

We support rooftop solar installaThere was discussion during tions by our member-owners, but we the conference about net metering have an obligation to all of our memand how different states are adjustbers, including those who cannot ing their net metering policies. If afford the solar installations, to make you recall my column in January, I sure that system costs are allocated described in some detail how net me- in a fair manner. We also have an obtering works. Basically, the Colorado ligation to minimize overall systems law relating to net metering requires costs, and in many cases that means co-ops to give their member-owners that community solar arrays are more credit for the renewable power cost effective than rooftop solar. generated on the member-owners’ There is no question that the premises (usually from rooftop solar decreasing costs for solar power panels). When the electricity from generation are impacting power the member-owner offsets electricsupply decisions by all utilities, ity consumption, the member-owner including electric co-ops. One of our receives the full retail value of the members, Tri-State Generation and electricity generated; in the event Transmission Association, recently of excess electricity, the co-op has announced the addition of a secflexibility to determine the value of ond utility-scale solar project to its

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portfolio. Tri-State will purchase the entire output of the Alta Luna Solar Project, a 25-megawatt solar farm in southwestern New Mexico. This is in addition to the 30-MW Cimarron Solar facility that is already generating electricity for Tri-State. Tri-State also recently announced another power purchase agreement for the 30-MW San Isabel Solar Project to be constructed in southern Colorado.

In addition to these utility-scale projects, a group of Colorado co-ops (Delta-Montrose Electric Association, Gunnison County Electric Association, Holy Cross Energy, San Miguel Power Association and Yampa Valley Electric Association) agreed to partner with the Colorado Energy Office in support of community solar arrays that will benefit low-income co-op member-owners. Following on the success of the Grand Valley Power project, a nonprofit called GRID Alternatives is working with the CEO and the co-ops to build separate community solar projects to reduce costs for customers who spend more than 4 percent of their income on utility bills. We’re glad to work with these partners on a program that will benefit those who would otherwise not be able to afford a solar installation.

Rooftop, community, utilityscale: Solar generation resources are being added by Colorado’s electric co-ops at a record clip. And while our number one job is to maintain a system of power supply and delivery that serves our memberowners reliably and affordably, we are looking to the future and how we can better utilize the power from the sun as part of the co-op story.

Kent Singer, Executive Director

coloradocountrylife.coop

[ letters] Yeah for Co-op Connections

I wish to express my gratitude for the Co-op Connections Card from Mountain View Electric Association.

Over the past 18 months, Meridian Dental of Falcon and Calhan has done a lot of major dental work for me. They honor our MVEA discount card and granted me a discount of nearly 40 percent.

— Peggy Patzkowsky, Rush

Lights Out Memories

I found the article “Lights Out” (February ’16) bringing me back. I know exactly where I was in November 1965 during the blackout. We were eating supper in Ransomville, New York, when the phone rang. Dad was called back to work at the Robert Moses Power Plant in Lewiston, New York. He worked as an operator then. Later, we found out that a switch stuck at the Sir Adam Beck Power Plant on the Canadian side, which caused the blackout.

— Marsha Detter, Loveland

Looking for the Light Side

As a potato fan, I was looking forward to using the recipe that would “stimulate taste buds” presented in the March ’16 issue (Creamy Chorizo-Spiked Potato, Cheese Enchiladsa). I did not find any information on the number of servings but based on the number of baking dishes listed, I assume the recipe was for 12 servings (with two enchiladas in each serving). However, as I read through the ingredient list, I was saddened to see that a total of 12 quarter cups of oil and cheese — and that’s not counting the fat from sausage and whole milk — were key parts of the recipe. Potatoes are yummy, but I was hoping for a recipe that was tasty but won’t clog my arteries to such an extent.

— Eleen A. Baumann, Fort Collins

Send your letter to the editor by mail or email. You must include your name and address to be published. Letters may be edited.

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APRIL 2016

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[calendar]

[April] Through June 18 Fort Collins “China’s Imperial Treasures: Art & Artifacts” Exhibit Global Village Museum 970-221-4600 • globalvillagemuseum.org April 5-16 Durango Creativity Festivity: Designing the Future Durango Arts Center 970-259-2606 • durangoarts.org April 8-9 Breckenridge Breckenridge Beer Festival 100 and 200 Blocks of Ridge Street • spring.breckenridge beerfestival.com April 8-10 Durango Four Corners Quilt Gathering First United Methodist Church 5:30 pm • 970-247-9704 April 9 Beulah Self-Renewal Yoga and Nature Day Retreat Mountain Park Environmental Center 10:30 am-4:30 pm • 719-485-4444 April 9 Fort Collins Meet the Animals Fort Collins Museum of Discovery 10 am-1 pm • 970-221-6738 April 10 Longmont 9Health Fair Longmont Front Range Community College 7 am-12 pm • 9healthfair.org April 11 Denver “The Buffalo Bill Experience” Reenactment History Colorado Center 1-2 pm • historycoloradocenter.org April 12 Buena Vista Celtic & Old Time Music Jam Creekside Gathering Place 6:30-8:30 pm • 719-395-6704 6

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April 14-16 Denver “The Tempest” Theater Performance Eugenia Rawls Courtyard Theatre 7:30 pm • ahec.edu/boxoffice April 14-15 Parker “Paquita” Ballet Performance PACE Center 303-805-6800 • parkerarts.ticketforce.com April 21 Boulder “The Tender Land” Opera CU Boulder Imig Music Theater 7:30-9:30 pm • 303-492-8008 April 21 Durango Spring Friendraiser Durango Rec Center 5:30-8 pm • 970-749-5642 April 21 Palmer Lake “Spinning in the Western Region” Presentation Palmer Lake Town Hall 7 pm • palmerdividehistory.org April 21 Pueblo Brew at the Zoo Pueblo Zoo 5-7:30 pm • pueblozoo.org April 22 Golden Colorado Rails and Cocktails: Writing on the Rails Colorado Railroad Museum 6:30-8 pm • 720-274-5147 April 23-24 Monument Pine Forest Spring Show and Sale Lewis Palmer High School tlwc.net April 23-24 Grand Valley “Barrel Into Spring” Wine Tasting Various Wineries 970-464-5867 • grandvalleywine.com April 23 Winter Park Springtopia Winter Park Resort playwinterpark.com

Sage-Grouse Viewing and Slide Show April 8-9 and 15-16 Western State Colorado University’s Hurst Hall, Gunnison

Gunnison sage-grouse.

Observe the Gunnison sage-grouse in its natural habitat at the Waunita Watchable Wildlife site, and learn more about it through a one-hour slide presentation on the ecology and conservation of this acclaimed bird. Viewing: April 9 and 16 at 4:30 am.

Presentation: April 8 and 15 at 6:30 pm. Free, but reservations are required. For more information, call 970-641-3959 or write to patrickmagee90@gmail.com.

April 28-May 1 Black Forest Arts and Crafts Spring Show and Sale Black Forest Community Center 719-495-3035 • bfacg.org April 28-30 Paonia Paonia Film Festival Paradise Theatre paradiseofpaonia.com April 28 Pueblo Ballet West II Sangre de Cristo Performing Arts Center’s Center Stage 7:30 pm • 719-295-7200 April 29-30 Denver “Cult Following” Improv Show Denver Center for the Performing Arts 7:30 pm • 800-641-1222 April 30 Colorado City Valley Backpacks’ Tea Event Valley Community Church 2-4 pm • 719-489-2701 April 30 Limon Bingo Hub City Senior Center 2-5 pm • joyjohnson2012@ gmail.com

[May] May 1 Grand Junction Salut Salon German Female String Quartet Grand Junction High School 7:30-9:30 pm • communityconcerts grandvalley.org

May 3 Trinidad Drop City at 50 Exhibition Reception A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art 1-4 pm • armitchellmuseum. com May 6-7 Denver Spring Plant Sale Denver Botanic Gardens 8 am-5 pm • botanicgardens. org May 6-7 Durango Narrow Gauge Days Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad 888-872-4607 • durangotrain. com May 7 Burlington Spring Fling Burlington Community Center 9 am-3 pm • 719-346-8918 May 7 Estes Park Duck Race Festival Various Estes Park Locations 11 am • epduckrace.org

SEND CALENDAR ITEMS TWO MONTHS IN ADVANCE TO: Calendar, Colorado Country Life, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; fax to 303-455-2807; or email calendar@coloradocountrylife.org.

For more information on these activities, visit coloradocountrylife.coop. Click on Events and discover what’s happening. coloradocountrylife.coop

K.C. ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

[Country News] Critical Connections Behind the Power

BY DAVID CHURCHWELL | | GENERAL MANAGER

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Electric Association employApril 11, 2016, is National ees but also for the general Lineman Appreciation Day, so public and our member-owners. it is appropriate that we take Working with electricity is an a moment to recognize the inherently dangerous task, and people who often work in brutal helping to foster a culture of weather conditions to ensure we safety for all workers is a major all have safe and reliable power. priority. Members can count on In fact, linemen are often first the operations department for responders during storms and David Churchwell everything from lighting, heatother catastrophic events, working to cooling and so much more. ing to make the scene safe for other public responders. Today (and every day) please Calling for energy efficiency take the time to personally thank them for The customer service representatives anthe work they do. swer calls and questions about billing and However, while linemen work in highly energy use. They work with members to visible settings, there are many behind the identify high-use periods and discuss ways scenes who also labor tirelessly to help keep to save on the monthly bill. The member the lights on. They do so with little or no services department is responsible for public recognition or acknowledgement. ensuring that you are treated appropriately, While linemen can do their job out in the and it all starts at the time you sign up open — whether it is restoring power after for membership. This department is also a natural disaster, maintaining the lines or responsible for the co-op’s annual meeting building new service — there is a lot more and special outreach to community organiwork taking place behind the scenes. zations, including schools, and communications, such as this newsletter. (Larry Eastin The power behind your power Acct# 213300000) The linemen out in the field work with thousands of volts of electricity high atop Delivering timely savings power lines 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, The accounting and finance department is to keep electricity flowing and maintain responsible for the financial well-being of the energy infrastructure. There are also a number of highly trained and hard-working K.C. Electric. This includes billing, collections and overseeing the long-term financial employees in the Hugo and Stratton offices viability of K.C. Electric while meeting who are part of our team who strive to both long-term and short-term goals. As provide our members with safe and reliable you know, the co-op generates an electric service at the lowest cost possible. bill that we send to you through the mail.

We use National Information Solutions Promoting a culture of safety Cooperative to ensure we can apply the latThe operations department ensures that est technology, help lower your energy costs the overall system is well-maintained. This and send timely, accurate bills to you. team is responsible for planning ahead for While we are a member-owned cooperafuture needs and continually monitoring tive and operate differently than investorexisting equipment and resources. Their owned utilities, we are still a business. As top area of focus is safety for not only K.C.

coloradocountrylife.coop

such, the accounting department ensures that revenue collected from the membership slightly exceeds our expenses, and this margin is allocated to you (our memberowners) on an annual basis and given to you in the form of a capital credit check. Typical expenses include the money we pay for electric power, equipment, new technology, upgrades to the infrastructure, employees and other expenditures.

Continual learning and training for co-op employees is crucial to having a skilled workforce that helps keep the co-op operating at an optimal level. All of our apprentices must complete an extensive apprenticeship program, which includes book work and on-the-job training, before they can advance to become a lineman. This learning element is also one of the co-op’s seven cooperative principles and extends to our members. For example, K.C. Electric sponsors youth scholarships and an educational trip to Washington, D.C., and Glen Eden Resort as part of the co-op’s Youth Tour and Leadership Camp programs each summer.

Staying in sync Many different people and departments work closely together to serve you because you, the member, are at the heart of everything we do. Unlike other types of businesses, as a cooperative our concern for community is one principle that sets us apart from other businesses. The electricity we provide literally powers our communities. And it takes every person in the co-op to deliver on this promise. Across the country, K.C. Electric together with 900 other electric cooperatives provide safe, reliable and technologically advanced service to 40 million Americans while maintaining a unique consumer-focused approach to business. (Victor Bergquist Acct# 447350010) APRIL 2016

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[Country News]

Water Heater Wisdom

BY BEN ORRELL || MEMBER SERVICES SPECIALIST

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Recently one of our members called and said that he had a water heater that was leaking in a rental property. It was a Marathon and was sold by K.C. Electric. Since Marathon water heaters are guaranteed to not leak for life, I assured him that he could pick up a new one immediately. He did. He also did something else that interested me, and I thought perhaps it might interest you. He did an autopsy of the faulty water heater.

When the faulty water heater reappeared here at K.C. Electric, it was stripped of its foam insulation and cut into three pieces. What the member found was undoubtedly caused by corrosion from the minerals in our water. The top of the water heater where the cold water goes in and the hot water comes out was where the leakage occurred. That is one of the few parts of the Marathon water heater that is metal. Those metal fittings corroded so much that leakage was possible.

Next, we looked at the heating elements. They, too, were corroded but were replaced yearly so were still usable. No leakage occurred around the elements.

Inside the water heater is a plastic tube that goes from the cold water input to the bottom of the tank. (You cannot see this under normal conditions.) This tube ensures that cold water coming into the tank goes to the bottom, thus ensuring a more even heating pattern. Warm water will rise to the top. On this particular autopsy we found that the plastic tube was seriously damaged. This allowed the cold water to enter the tank at the top rather than at the bottom as designed. That tube can be replaced by taking off the cold water valve and pulling the tube out. More on that later in troubleshooting.

Finally, this autopsy revealed a huge amount of mineral buildup in the bottom of the tank. This was from a tank that was drained on a yearly basis to prevent that buildup. The water heater being examined was in a home that did not have a water softener. The individual who did the testing said he has a water softener in his personal home, and when he drains it annually there is little to no mineral buildup. The water softener is doing its job.

Preventing problems Two things can help prevent problems. First is to have a water softener. Second is to turn off your water heater annually and drain its tank.

Troubleshooting For most of us the easiest thing to do is call a plumber or electrician if our water heater malfunctions. If, however, it happens on a weekend or holiday, there are some things you can do yourself.

If your water heater stops heating, begin troubleshooting at the fuse or breaker panel. Check the fuse or breaker to ensure that you have current flowing to the water heater. Next, remove the top thermostat cover and, using a volt or ohm meter, check for current on the thermostat terminals marked L1 and L2. If you have current

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there, push the red button labeled “Reset.”

Next, check for current on the heating element. If the water in the tank is cold, you should have current there. If the water is cold and there is no current, then you have a bad thermostat. If the thermostat is good, turn off the electricity at the fuse or breaker panel and remove the wires from the heating element.

Using your ohm meter, test for continuity through the element itself by touching your test leads to both element screws at the same time. If you have no continuity, the element is bad. However, if you do have continuity, you still need to do one more test.

Check each screw separately by touching one lead to the screw and the other to the water tank. You should have no continuity this way, unless the element is shorted out and you are reading through the water.

If you find all of the upper components in working order, reattach the wires to the element and replace the top cover. Then turn the electricity back on and perform these same checks on the lower components.

When you find the offending component, replace it. If it’s an element, you’ll need to drain the water tank.

If your water heater is more than 10 years old and is not a Marathon, I recommend replacing it. The efficiency of a new one will save you big bucks on your electric bill.

Finally, I mentioned the tube that directs incoming cold water to the bottom of the tank. If that is faulty (which, I might add, is extremely rare), you might notice a higher electric bill. I contacted the Marathon experts and asked about this situation. They responded: “Thank you for your email. Depending on how the dip tube is broken, the main sign will be how long the hot water will last. The shorter the dip tube, the less hot water the heater can provide to a fixture. If you have further questions, you are welcome to call our toll-free tech line at 800-432-8373. Have the model number and serial number of your water heater handy and call seven days (a week) from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Central Daylight Time.” (William Willis Acct# 939300015)

coloradocountrylife.coop

[Country News] CLEANING A MARATHON TANK Listed below is the factory directive for cleaning your water heater. This is taken from the Marathon website.

Without a water softener and/or water filters, sand, dirt and hard water scale accumulate in the bottom of water heaters, even self-cleaning water heaters. A frequently asked question on the tech service line is how to clean a Marathon tank. Yes, there is a drain valve at the bottom of the heater, but this sometimes cannot remove all the debris.

Most consumers don’t clean their water heater on a regular basis. Most only do it when they are forced to change the lower heating element. This is where the wet-dry vacuum method comes in handy. With the lower element port open, debris can be vacuumed out.

Instructions 1. Turn off power at circuit breaker panel to the Marathon water heater.

2. Close the valve that supplies water to the water heater tank.

3. Always remember to open a hot water faucet or two when draining or refilling a Marathon. This will allow air into the tank while draining and let air out of the tank when filling, speeding the process and preventing equipment damage. Drain the tank through the tank drain valve at the base of the water heater. Make sure a

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drain hose is connected or the tank being drained is in a contained area to prevent water damage.

Remove lower element covers. Double check that the power is turned off. Use a circuit tester, meter, etc. to be certain power is off.

Remove lower element wire leads (two).

Remove lower element using element wrench.

Assemble universal adapter to vinyl hose.

Attach adapter assembly to wet-dry vacuum.

Insert vinyl hose into lower element hole.

After cleaning is completed, reinstall element wiring and covers as described in steps number 6, 5 and 4 above.

Close drain valve.

Open water supply valve to tank. Always remember to open a hot water faucet or two when refilling a Marathon. (This will let air out of the tank when filling, speeding the process and preventing damage.)

When tank has completely filled, reset circuit breakers to restore power to water heater. Never restore power to an empty or partially filled tank. Upper element will fail if tank is dry fired. The Marathon water heater is equipped with a fused upper element that will have to be replaced if unit is dry fired. (Lucas Hohl Acct# 627220004)

Don’t Put Safety on Autopilot While Farming

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GPS (global positioning system) devices with automatic guidance allow drivers to have their hands off the steering wheel as the tractor maneuvers itself through the field. Thanks to this technology, farmers can more easily and efficiently maintain accuracy even during poor light conditions, which enhances productivity. While a GPS device can help with driver error, it does not mean that safety can be put on autopilot.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health still consistently lists farming among the most dangerous industries and tractor incidents as the leading source of death and injury on farms. Between 2003 and 2011, farm tractors accounted for the deaths of 1,533 people.

Making safety a priority requires alertness, focus and knowledge of potential hazards and appropriate safety steps. Varying pass-topass accuracy levels (sub-meter, decimeter or centimeter) and potential issues, such as power poles not being correctly plotted in the system, reinforce the need for drivers to stay focused on the location of the tractor and its equipment while in the field and to be ready to take action themselves if necessary.

Keep the following electrical safety guidelines in mind: I t is easy for farming equipment to hit power lines because of large size, height and extensions. Use a spotter when operating large machinery near lines. A driver’s vantage point from the cab may not be sufficient.

• K eep equipment at least 10 feet from lines at all times, in all directions.

• L ook up and use care when raising any equipment, such as ladders, front-end loaders or augers.

• I nspect the height of the farm equipment to determine clearance.

• A lways remember to lower extensions to the lowest setting when moving loads.

• N ever attempt to move a power line out of the way or raise it for clearance.

• I f a power line is sagging or low, contact K.C. Electric Association.

If your equipment does make contact with a power line, do not leave the cab. Immediately call 911, warn others to stay away and wait for the utility crew to cut the power.

The only reason to exit equipment that comes into contact with overhead lines is if the equipment is on fire, which is rare. However, if this is the case, jump off the equipment with your feet together and without touching the ground and vehicle at the same time. Then, still keeping your feet together, hop to safety as you leave the area.

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For more information on electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org. coloradocountrylife.coop

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[Country News]

STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION

THE COUNTRY KITCHEN

K.C. Electric Association is the recipient of federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The USDA prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, veteran status and any other status protected by law, reprisal or because all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program.

(Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.)

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD). This association is an equal opportunity provider and employer. If you wish to file a civil rights complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form found online at http://www. ascr.usda.gov/complaint_ filing_cust.html or at any USDA office or call 866-632-9992 to request the form.

You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter by mail to U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax to 202-690-7442 or by email to program.intake@ usda.gov.

RITZ CRACKER SALAD 60 Ritz crackers, crushed ¼ cup butter, melted 1 cup sugar 1 small can frozen orange juice, partly thawed 1 can sweetened condensed milk 1 small can mandarin oranges, drained 1 9-ounce tub whipped topping Mix together crushed crackers, butter and sugar to make crust. Press all but 1 cup into bottom of 9- by 13-inch pan. Mix juice with milk, then add mandarin oranges. Fold in whipped topping, then spread mixture on top of crust. Top with remaining 1 cup of Ritz crumbles. Refrigerate.

Ethel Ferris, Haswell

VANILLA CREAM CARAMELS 2 cups sugar 2 cups corn syrup (white) 1 cup real butter 2 cups real cream

CLAIM YOUR CREDIT ON YOUR BILL

In heavy pan combine sugar, corn syrup, butter and 1 cup cream. Cook over medium heat stirring constantly until mixture boils then reaches 244 degrees.

Remove from heat and add remaining 1 cup cream. Return to medium heat and cook to firm ball stage (244 degrees).

Sometimes it is hard to get the temperature up to 244 degrees again. If so, let it stand about 1 hour after adding in the last cup of cream and then return to heat. Once it reaches 244 degrees, pour the mixture at once without further stirring into a buttered jelly roll pan or cookie sheet with 1-inch sides.

When firm, about 3 hours later, invert the candy on to a wooden board and cut into squares with a thin-bladed knife using a rocking motion. Squares should be cut about 1½- by 1- inch each.

Wrap each in a 4- by 4-inch piece of waxed paper right away or the candy will run back together again. (WIN Steve Miller Acct# 1132510001)

Each month, K.C. Electric offers consumers a chance to earn a $10 credit on their next electric bill. If you recognize your 10-digit account number in this magazine, call 719-743-2431 and ask for your credit. It couldn’t be easier.

In February, David Hogerhuis of Bethune, Joshua Fehrenbach of Stratton and Veva Noel of Seibert called to claim their credit.

Get acquainted with your account number, read your Colorado Country Life magazine and pick up the phone.

That’s all the energy you’ll need to claim your energy bucks.

You must claim your credit during the month in which your name appears in the magazine (check the date on the front cover).

Judy Beeson, Stratton 10

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coloradocountrylife.coop

ELECTRIC CO-OPS PRACTICE FOR CATASTROPHE

[newsclips]

BY DAN RIEDINGER

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What if an ice storm damaged or destroyed parts of Colorado’s electric system? What if a computer hacker took out a major transmission system? How would electric co-ops recover and get the lights back on?

Those were the questions when more than 3,000 people from 350 organizations convened for a two-day exercise to help utilities prepare for these sorts of disasters.

Called “GridEx III,” the event simulated physical and cyber attacks on the nation’s power systems, destruction of communication systems and damage from explosive devices and shootings.

A few hundred staffers from 14 electric co-op generation and transmission utilities as well as four distribution co-ops participated in this biennial exercise, which was spearheaded by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation. NERC said the exercise was designed to “enhance coordination of cyber

and physical security resources and practices within the industry, as well as communication with government partners and other stakeholders.”

“Simulated exercises such as these allow co-ops to practice contingency and response plans, improve them and hone our skills to be prepared for potential future events,” said Duane Highley, one of the electric co-op CEOs involved in the exercise. “This also gives us the opportunity to improve our coordination capabilities with multiple industry sector partners at the local, state and federal levels.”

Colorado’s electric co-ops understand how important reliable power is to our members. That’s why they are now reviewing and applying the lessons coming out of GridEx III. Dan Riedinger writes for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Survey Says: Electric Co-op Members Read Colorado Country Life Last fall, randomly-selected readers of Colorado Country Life received a survey asking them about their reading habits and their use of this magazine, which is sent to you by your local electric cooperative. Thank you to everyone who filled out the survey and sent it back.

The results are in. More than 80 percent of the nearly 219,000 issues of the magazine that are sent out each month are read by those receiving the magazine. And more than half of those who read the magazine pass it on to others to read.

Now that the official, scientific survey is complete, we’d love to hear more about what you like and don’t like about the magazine. Send your comments to info@coloradocountrylife.org.

Thank a Lineman

This month, electric cooperatives throughout Colorado will honor their lineworkers for the work they do. Some co-ops will concentrate their appreciation on Monday, April 11, which designated as National Lineman Appreciation Day by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Board of Directors. Others will take the week or the full month of April to honor these crews who are the first responders when the lights go out.

Lineworkers work around the clock on highvoltage lines. Conditions can be dangerous and the weather, whether is it hot and windy or cold and icy, can be its own challenge. But Colorado’s lineworkers power through whatever the situation is to ensure reliable service for electric co-op members. This April is a chance to say thanks.

Visit the Colorado Rural Electric Association’s Facebook page at facebook.com/ColoradoREA and write a post about what you appreciate about co-op lineworkers using #thankalineman.

People who get their electricity from co-ops aren’t “customers” but “members.” They have a say in how their local utility operates.

Local Lights America’s Electric Cooperatives

coloradocountrylife.coop

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[industry]

The Next Generation of Lineworkers

BY JUSTIN LABERGE

NATIONAL RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION

Lineworkers learn their trade at Mesa Hotline School in Grand Junction.

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Over the next five years, America’s electric cooperatives expect to hire nearly 15,000 people to fill jobs ranging from information technology specialist to lineworker. Investor-owned utilities, municipal power systems and private power line contractors will also need thousands of skilled workers to keep our nation’s energy grid running safely and reliably.

Despite high demand, good pay, excellent benefits, opportunities to advance and a stable long-term outlook, America is facing a shortage of lineworkers.

To address this looming shortage, energy companies, including America’s electric cooperatives, teamed up to cre-

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ate the Center for Energy Workforce Development. Even celebrities took notice. Mike Rowe, who gained fame as host of the Discovery Channel’s series “Dirty Jobs,” created a foundation to raise awareness of the great career opportunities offered by skilled trades that are too often overlooked by guidance counselors and eager parents.

Trade groups and celebrities can raise awareness of an issue, but it takes more than awareness to keep the lights on.

Training programs are the vital link to help motivated individuals become our nation’s next generation of lineworkers.

No “typical” student

In Colorado, we have some notable lineworker training programs, such as Mesa Hotline School and Western Colorado Community College, both in Grand Junction, and Rocky Mountain Lineman School in Trinidad.

At lineworker school, students learn about safety, underground and overhead procedures, installation, repair, operation of equipment, pole climbing and more important aspects of this skilled profession.

A common thread through these programs is that they attract students from all walks of life. Many are coloradocountrylife.coop

young people who recently graduated from high school. Others are older and have more experience.

The older students tend to be a mix of individuals looking for a better job with advancement opportunities, workers who were laid off from manufacturing jobs and veterans who recently completed their military service. No matter their background, all students in these programs must love the outdoors and have a strong work ethic.

The tuition assistance options for lineworker programs are almost as diverse as the students themselves. For apprentice lineworkers already employed by co-ops, the tuition for these programs is often paid in full by the co-op. Returning veterans can use GI Bill funds, and many states have additional programs to help veterans enter the civilian workforce. Manufacturing workers who lost their jobs to companies overseas might be eligible for job-retraining funds.

In addition to these specialized types of financial assistance, lineworker training programs typically qualify for all the traditional education funding sources, including scholarships, grants and student loans.

Even those who rely on loans and their own funds to pay for their lineworker education will benefit from the much lower costs of community colleges as compared to four-year schools and private, for-profit colleges.

[industry]

LINEMEN TRAINING PROGRAMS •

Northwest Lineman College – California, Idaho and Texas

•

Mesa Hotline School – Grand Junction, the first two weeks of May

•

Trinidad State Junior College – Trinidad or Colorado Springs

•

Western Nebraska Community College – Alliance, Nebraska

•

Western Colorado Community College – Grand Junction

•

Wyoming Electrical JATC – Casper, Wyoming

Becoming a lineman involves years of training and experience.

Genuine opportunity

In a September 26, 2015, column published by Education and Career News, Mike Rowe wrote: “Every day, millions of people looking for work fail to consider a host of genuine opportunities, in part because they don’t appear on our collective list of ‘top jobs.’ Job satisfaction is important, but ultimately, vocational happiness has less to do with what you do than with who you are. In other words, character — like opportunity — won’t be found on a list.”

Few organizations value character as much as America’s not-for-profit, member-owned electric cooperatives, and lineworker is just one of the many “genuine opportunities” they offer.

Justin LaBerge writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. coloradocountrylife.coop

APRIL 2016

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On Our Beautiful State

BY MONA NEELEY, PUBLISHER/EDITOR

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a. 3rd Place – Winter Windmill on the Plains Steve Hanchett, Colorado Springs

b. Runner-up – Summer Nellie Creek draining Uncompahgre Peak Mike Thompson, Cortez c. Runner-up – Fall Kayakers on the Animas River Rod Gardner, Bayfield

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f. 3rd Place – Fall Untitled Robert E. Kissel, Lakewood

d. Runner-up – Fall Glacier Creek in Rocky Mountain National Park David Dahms, Windsor

g. 3rd Place – Spring Lupines and La Platas David Lee Reineke, Dolores

e. 3rd Place – Summer Bear Cub Playing in Flowers George Turner, Boulder

h. Runner-up – Summer Marmot Lookout Leah Wzientek, Durango

APRIL 2016

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Photographers from throughout the state did an amazing job of focusing on Colorado’s beauty for this year’s annual Colorado Country Life photo contest. More than 550 photos of spring, summer, fall and winter in the Centennial State were entered in the contest last fall. First place winners received $150, second place received $75 and third place received $50. The winners are: Spring: First place – Logan Myers, a Sangre de Cristo Electric Association member from Buena Vista for an Easter sunrise photo of Dominguez Falls. Second place – Jerry Clark, a Gunnison County Electric Association member from Houston, Texas. Third place – David Lee Reineke, an Empire Electric member from Dolores.

Summer: First place – Stephanie Stuckman, an Empire Electric Association member from Mancos for her photo of a fox on the hunt. Second place – John Mumaw, an Empire Electric member from Cortez. Third place – George Turner, a Sangre de Cristo member from Boulder.

Fall: First place – Janele Husband, a Yampa Valley Electric Association member from Craig for a photo of a mystic morning. Second place – Preston Somers, a La Plata Electric Association member from Durango. Third place – Robert Kissel of Lakewood.

Winter: First place – Rod Gardner, a La Plata Electric member from Bayfield for a photo of a great horned owl. Second place – Linda Cannistra, an Empire Electric member from Dolores. Third place – Steve Hanchett, a Mountain View Electric Association member from Colorado Springs.

All winners and runners-up, as well as other favorites, are included on the magazine website at www.coloradocountrylife.coop.

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coloradocountrylife.coop

a. 1st Place – Winter Great Horned Owl in Blue Spruce Rod Gardner, Bayfield

b. 1st Place – Spring Easter Sunrise at Dominguez Falls Logan Myers, Buena Vista

c. 1st Place – Fall Mystic Morning Janele Husband, Craig

d. 1st Place – Summer Summer Hunt Stephanie Stuckman, Mancos

e. 2nd Place – Winter McPhee Reservoir Linda Cannistra, Dolores

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APRIL 2016

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f. 2nd Place – Summer Clear Lake Sunrise John Mumaw, Cortez

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g. 2nd Place – Spring Sunset Over Paradise Divide Jerry Clark, Houston, TX

h. 2nd Place – Fall Autumn Reflections Preston Somers, Durango

coloradocountrylife.coop

[recipes]

Scrumptious Sipping, Smooth-ie Sailing Smoothies offer great taste, convenience and a burst of nutrition

BY AMY HIGGINS

Blissful Belly Adding yogurt to your smoothies will make your digestive tract happy. It is packed with “good bacteria” your intestines want, making digestion more comfortable.

RECIPES@COLORADOCOUNTRYLIFE.ORG

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In a fast-paced world, it’s a relief when simplicity surfaces. Throw your fixings in a blender and you’re all set.

That’s what you get with a smoothie. You can also put a little pep in your step, satisfy a sweet tooth and fulfill your hunger, depending on the ingredients you choose. Have a picky eater? Sneak in some veggies with those sweet fruits and he’ll never know the difference. Next time you need to eat on the go, try one of these simple smoothies.

Watermelon Kiwi Smoothie

2 cups seedless watermelon chunks 2 kiwis, peeled and chopped 2 cups vanilla yogurt 1 cup ice 2 liters ginger ale 3 sprigs fresh mint Blend watermelon, kiwi, yogurt, ice and ginger ale in a blender until smooth. Garnish with a sprig of mint.

TIP Blender Splendor Cleanup is a breeze when you fix food in a blender. Just fill it halfway with hot water, add dish soap and blend for about 30 seconds. Rinse and you’re done.

Source: National Watermelon Promotion Board

Butter Lettuce Papaya Smoothie

1/2 papaya, peeled (plus slices from remaining half for garnish) 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped fresh cilantro 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger root 2 tablespoons honey 1 head butter lettuce (chopped, cleaned and root removed) 1 cup almond milk 1/4 cup water 1 lime, peeled Apple and/or pear slices for garnish (optional) Using a traditional, compact or hand blender, mix all ingredients for 30 seconds or until smooth. Garnish with slices of papaya and apple or pear, if desired.

coloradocountrylife.coop

Chocolate Berry Blast Smoothie 1 cup low-fat chocolate milk 1 cup frozen mixed berries 1 tablespoon golden flaxseed meal

In blender, combine chocolate milk, frozen mixed berries and flaxseed meal. Blend until smooth and frothy.

Source: TruMoo

For more tasty smoothie recipes, visit coloradocountrylife.coop.

Click on Recipes.

APRIL 2016

21

[gardening]

Plant a Pint-Sized Garden

Small outdoor spaces can help you harvest big results

BY VICKI SPENCER

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MASTER GARDENER

Patio or container gardening is not a new concept. It’s always been a wonderful way to showcase flowers and enjoy their sweet fragrances while relaxing outside. But research and new plant varieties have expanded container options beyond the traditional flower box. No longer do you need to sacrifice a passion for fresh vegetables just because you don’t have a large garden area. You can transform any sunny spot in your yard into a vegetable garden, regardless of the size, as long as you have a container.

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GARDENING@COLORADOCOUNTRYLIFE.ORG As I get older, I find it’s much easier to plant and maintain vegetables growing in pots or raised beds than in a traditional garden plot. No more bending down or kneeling to cultivate the soil or eliminate weeds. With a container garden, I no longer have to deal with heavy clay or rocky soil.

Instead, I fill my pots with exactly the right mix for the plants I am growing. Watering is so much easier, too.

Having a garden close to the house also means you can easily monitor it.

If there is going to be an unexpected freeze, no problem. Just step outside, cover the plants and then step out again to uncover them when it warms up.

Patio gardens make pest control easier. On more than one occasion, I have glanced out the kitchen window just in time to catch a critter before it had a chance to fill its belly.

Some of the best benefits of a patio or container garden come at harvest time. I love to watch my vegetables grow, and when I want some fresh salad greens, tomatoes or herbs, all I need to do is take a few steps out my door.

This beats running across the yard to collect that one essential ingredient that was forgotten until I became engrossed in cooking. And anyone who has grown zucchini knows how they magically seem to double in size within moments. By growing them in containers, or along the patio border, you can catch the zucchini while they are still small and tender.

There are so many ways to get creative with your patio or container garden. You can select plants based on a variety of shapes, colors and tastes.

Imagine a window box with purple basil, lemon verbena and chives. Or, you could plant a tea garden in a box. Mint, rose geranium, pineapple sage and lavender would make a beautiful container, and a delicious cup of morning tea.

You can be creative choosing your container. I found all kinds of inexpensive and unusual containers for my plants at yard sales. I planted flowers and vegetables in “antique” milk cans, bushel baskets, fruit crates and ceramic frogs. An old shoe rack can hold a variety of herbs planted in small pots. If you don’t want to go to yard sales, explore your local garden center for ideas instead.

Remember, you need to select containers that will fit into your space, but will also be appropriate for the plants you want to grow. I found small pots are perfect for peppers, greens, kale and herbs. For a beautiful combination of texture and color, try planting a hearty tomato variety, such as Early Girl Bush, which stands on its own, with Tumbling Tom or Tomato Mountain Magic, which will spill over the side of the container. Or you could plant a large green bell pepper surrounded by colorful smaller varieties, such as Sweet Pepper Mini Bell Mixed. With a patio or container garden, there is no end to where your imagination can take you.

Love gardening?

Read previous gardening columns at coloradocountrylife.coop.

Click on Gardening.

coloradocountrylife.coop

[outdoors]

We’re Talking Turkey Tomfoolery Young jakes strutting turn into comedy show

BY DENNIS SMITH

A

A reader emailed me a while back asking for advice on turkey hunting in Colorado. Specifically, he wanted to know if there were any decent sized flocks of wild turkeys in the hills or farms near Fort Collins. I had to confess that I never hunted turkeys in Colorado and that, in fact, I never hunted turkeys at all until last April when the boys persuaded me to go with them to photograph their archery hunt. (Secretly, I think they just wanted me to help with the food and motel bills, but that’s another story.)

They wanted to hunt the Platte River basin in eastern Colorado but failed to draw turkey tags for that area, so they hunted just across the state line in western Nebraska where there are lots of turkeys and my grandson could get an over-thecounter, nonresident, youth turkey tag for six bucks. The terrain is essentially the same in both places: fertile bottomlands thick with grasses, forbs and gobs of ground cover for nesting and feeding, and miles of giant cottonwood trees for roosting. Colorado, Nebraska: Makes no difference really, when it comes to hunting river bottom turkeys. Done right, it can be more fun than turning a wagon load of drunken monkeys loose in a day care center. Well, it was for us anyway.

The primary subspecies here is the Merriam’s, though the Rio Grande and hybrids are possible. Regardless, the hunting techniques are similar for both species. Ideally, you locate roosting birds in the evening and come back early in the morning to insert yourself between them and their likely daytime strutting and feeding grounds in hopes of calling a dominant male — sometimes called gob-

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blers, toms or long beards — within bow or shotgun range.

Easier said than done. Luring a lovecrazed tom turkey away from a flock of amorous hens at the height of mating season is like trying to drag a fourth-grader from an ice cream shop on an August afternoon. It can be done, but it can be hilariously exasperating, too.

Early one afternoon we were hidden in a makeshift blind of brush and camouflage netting, scratching out seductive yelps of a lonesome hen on a cedar box call. We were trying to draw in a big tom.

One looked our way, but was obviously more interested in staying with his harem than chasing off after some wayward floozy.

Suddenly, three jakes (yearling males) came rushing in, all puffed up and pirouetting like a trio of barnyard peacocks. Acting goofier than a gang of pubescent freshman boys who sneaked into the senior prom, they fussed and strutted around our hen decoy just out of bow range, scared motherless, apparently, of getting too close to the beckoning temptress. Fifteen minutes later they finally wandered off, bragging to each other about their imaginary conquest. We collapsed on the ground laughing hysterically, then wiped our eyes, packed up our gear and headed back to the motel for an early dinner, laughing all the way.

Miss an issue? Catch up at coloradocountrylife.coop.

Click on Outdoors. coloradocountrylife.coop

[outdoors]

We’re Talking Turkey Tomfoolery Young jakes strutting turn into comedy show

BY DENNIS SMITH

A WiseSavers

Clean your clothes dryer vent regularly. The removal of lint build-up will make your dryer run more efficiently, which will save dollars on your energy bill.

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APRIL 2016

A reader emailed me a while back asking for advice on turkey hunting in Colorado. Specifically, he wanted to know if there were any decent sized flocks of wild turkeys in the hills or farms near Fort Collins. I had to confess that I never hunted turkeys in Colorado and that, in fact, I never hunted turkeys at all until last April when the boys persuaded me to go with them to photograph their archery hunt. (Secretly, I think they just wanted me to help with the food and motel bills, but that’s another story.)

They wanted to hunt the Platte River basin in eastern Colorado but failed to draw turkey tags for that area, so they hunted just across the state line in western Nebraska where there are lots of turkeys and my grandson could get an over-thecounter, nonresident, youth turkey tag for six bucks. The terrain is essentially the same in both places: fertile bottomlands thick with grasses, forbs and gobs of ground cover for nesting and feeding, and miles of giant cottonwood trees for roosting. Colorado, Nebraska: Makes no difference really, when it comes to hunting river bottom turkeys. Done right, it can be more fun than turning a wagon load of drunken monkeys loose in a day care center. Well, it was for us anyway.

The primary subspecies here is the Merriam’s, though the Rio Grande and hybrids are possible. Regardless, the hunting techniques are similar for both species. Ideally, you locate roosting birds in the evening and come back early in the morning to insert yourself between them and their likely daytime strutting and feeding grounds in hopes of calling a dominant male — sometimes called gob-

blers, toms or long beards — within bow or shotgun range.

Easier said than done. Luring a lovecrazed tom turkey away from a flock of amorous hens at the height of mating season is like trying to drag a fourth-grader from an ice cream shop on an August afternoon. It can be done, but it can be hilariously exasperating, too.

Early one afternoon we were hidden in a makeshift blind of brush and camouflage netting, scratching out seductive yelps of a lonesome hen on a cedar box call. We were trying to draw in a big tom.

One looked our way, but was obviously more interested in staying with his harem than chasing off after some wayward floozy.

Suddenly, three jakes (yearling males) came rushing in, all puffed up and pirouetting like a trio of barnyard peacocks. Acting goofier than a gang of pubescent freshman boys who sneaked into the senior prom, they fussed and strutted around our hen decoy just out of bow range, scared motherless, apparently, of getting too close to the beckoning temptress. Fifteen minutes later they finally wandered off, bragging to each other about their imaginary conquest. We collapsed on the ground laughing hysterically, then wiped our eyes, packed up our gear and headed back to the motel for an early dinner, laughing all the way.

Miss an issue? Catch up at coloradocountrylife.coop.

Click on Outdoors. coloradocountrylife.coop

[energy tips]

ENTRIES DUE

August 1

WHO RESCUED WHOM? amazing rescue pet stories

Energy auditors inspect indoor and outdoor systems.

Photo Credit: United Cooperative Services.

Home Energy Audit Lessons

BY PATRICK KEEGAN AND AMY WHEELESS

S

Do you have a fascinating story about how your pet became a member of your family?

TELL US ABOUT IT! Enter today:

Go to COLORADOCOUNTRYLIFE.COOP to download an entry form Selected stories will be published in the October 2016 magazine and winners will receive a $25 gift card.

Spending a few hundred dollars on an energy audit now can save you thousands of dollars over time. A home energy audit is a detailed assessment of your home that can give you a road map for future energyrelated investments.

An auditor may do some or all of the following tests: • Blower door test: Windows are often the suspected cause for air leaks in the home, but there are usually larger and less obvious sources; a blower door test measures how airtight your home is and identifies where the air leaks are.

• Duct blaster: Ducts move the warm and cool air around your home; duct testing can measure whether your ducts are leaking.

• Thermographic imaging: Thermographic imaging is one way to identify where more insulation is needed.

Infrared images show “cold” spots in a home’s envelope.

• Health and safety testing: Energy auditors are also trained to spot safety problems, such as a missing smoke detector or an appliance that could cause carbon monoxide issues. Some auditors can also test your home for radon.

Your electric co-op may be able to help you get started with your energy audit.

Some co-ops even offer discounted audits or a list of qualified energy auditors in the area. Be sure whomever you hire is willing to answer questions, and plan to be home during the audit. It is a great opportunity to learn what makes your home tick and how you can make it even better.

Visit coloradocountrylife.coop to learn more energy-saving tips. Look under the Energy tab for Energy Tips.

coloradocountrylife.coop

APRIL 2016

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[marketplace]

SOLAR

COMPATIBLE

®

Automatic Gate Openers

OPEN YOUR GATE WITH THE PRESS OF A BUTTON

www.SolarMade.com 800-246-7012

2807 North Prospect • Colorado Springs, CO 80907

STAY CONNECTED WITH

COLORADO COUNTRY LIFE Enter Monthly Contests

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mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org funnystories@coloradocountrylife.org CONTACT US

5400 Washington Street Denver, CO 80216 303.455.4111

APRIL 2016

27

[classifieds] TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD

Please type or print your ad on a separate paper.

Indicate how many months you would like your ad to run and which month to start. There is a minimum of 12 words at $1.42 per word/month.

Be sure to include your full name and address for our records. Check MUST accompany this order or call to pay by credit card. Send your ad to: mail: Colorado Country Life

5400 N. Washington St., Denver, CO 80216 phone: 303-455-4111 fax: 303-455-2807 email: classifieds@coloradocountrylife.org

ANTIQUE RESTORATION CHAIR CANING Hand caning, machine caning, fiber rush caning. Pueblo West, 719-547-0723. chaanita@q.com (858-10-16)

ANTLERS

ANTLER CHANDELIERS made only from REAL antlers. We are the manufacturer and we sell all of our products at wholesale prices; save as much as 60% from store prices.

Many other antler products and mounts, including 56” elk mount, giant moose paddles, and elk antlers.

Showroom now open year ’round in Granby, CO. 18 years at this location, over 900 satisfied customers!

Designers: We can provide you a single item or a whole houseful.

Call ! (970) 627-3053. (085-09-16)

ART

HANDMADE METAL ARTS: Doors, fine art, backsplashes, bar fronts, mantles… LarsMetalArts.com 303-249-3218. (286-05-16)

BOOKS/CDs/DVDs

CHANT OF A CHAMPION: Auctioneering DVD from World and International Champion Auctioneer John Korrey. Let John show you how to improve all aspects of your auctioneering chant. Order online at www. chantofachampion.com (210-04-16)

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

(These opportunities have not been investigated by Colorado Country Life.)

HEALTH FOOD STORE & DELI: 2 turnkey businesses in one. Strong income/customer base. Colorado mountains (970-641-5175), leave name & number. (252-04-16)

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CLOCK REPAIR & RESTORATION

www.clockrepairandrestoration. com DURANGO AREA. CLOCKS of all kinds repaired. Antique and modern. Clocks bought and sold. bob.scott@usa.net Call Robert 970-247-7729. (109-04-16)

FOR SALE

CHILD’S JOHN DEERE riding pedal tractor with pull-behind wagon. Cast iron 1964 model.

Excellent condition. $325.00 Call (970) 686-8799. (291-04-16) MAJESTIC WOODBURNING COOKSTOVE with oven. Great condition. 35”L, 51”H, 32”W. $1,000.

719-846-4600, Trinidad. (290-04-16) OXYGEN CONCENTRATORS - $380 with warranty. Also sell portable concentrators and oxygen supplies.

Repair and service of equipment. Aspen Concentrator Repair Service 719-471-9895 (040-04-16) SELLING 60A & 60B (used, good condition) Hesston Stakhands and parts. Stan 719-8294425 or clineherefordfarms@ gmail.com (292-06-16)

FREE

FREE BOOKS/DVDS. Soon the “Mark of the Beast” will be enforced as Church and State unite! Let the Bible reveal. The Bible Says, POB99, Lenoir City, TN 37771. thebiblesaystruth@yahoo. com 888-211-1715. (814-04-16)

HEALTH

REAL ESTATE

HELP WANTED

DEER/ELK HUNTERS – Timeshare, Avon, CO, between two National Forests. Covers any rifle season. Below market price.

970-224-4439. (287-04-16)

LOOK GREAT, lose weight, gain energy, feel better. Contact me www.advocare.com/14123779 Lifestyle Wellness Nutrition Program. Endorsed by Major League Players. 970-630-4393. (281-05-16)

LEGITIMATE WORK AT HOME opportunity. No sales, investment, risk. Training/website provided.

Monthly income plus bonuses, benefits. Call Carrie 303-5794207, www.workathomeunited. com/ourabundance (932-02-17)

IMPROVEMENTS & REPAIRS

I CAN MAKE YOUR LOG HOME like new! Chinking, caulking, staining, log repairs. 30 years experience. References available.

970-389-0995 (285-06-16)

MACHINERY & PARTS

www.sawmillexchange.com SAWMILL EXCHANGE: North America’s largest source of used portable sawmills and commercial equipment for woodlot owners and sawmill operations. Over 800 listings. THE place to sell equipment. 800-459-2148. (267-09-16)

POULTRY & GAMEBIRDS

FREE COLOR CATALOG. 193 varieties, Cornish Cross, standard breeds, fancy chicks, ducks, geese, turkeys, bantams, guineas, pheasants, quail, supplies, video. 417-532-4581. PO Box 529, Lebanon, MO 65536. www.

CackleHatchery.com. (876-08-16)

REAL ESTATE

40 ACRES, 15 MILES WEST of Walsenburg, CO on CR520. All fenced, prime grazing. Small 2-Bedroom recently upgraded trailer on property with tenant.

8-10 gal./min. domestic well, registered. $81,500 OBO (price reduction). Owner may carry with at least 25% down. ptapia. healthtrac@gmail.com or 719-2511131; 719-989-0850. (207-04-16)

BAYFIELD / VALLECITO – Beautiful mountain retreat, 4bd, 3ba, approx. 3436sf on 1.2 acres, well water, septic, 5 minutes from Vallecito Lake. $467,900.

970-884-9324. (163-08-16)

DUPLEX plus eleven lots in Wiggins, Co. Great investment opportunity. $382,500 or best offer.

Let’s talk. Frank, 303-503-9210 or fsmith070@gmail.com. (275-04-16) OWN PROPERTY? NEED INCOME? We’ll rent exclusive hunting rights from you. Looking for antelope, goose, duck, coyote, & prairie dog habitat. Encourage young sportsmen by providing safe, private access. You make the rules. 303-460-0273 (069-04-16) READY TO RETIRE? +-13 acres near Mancos, Co. Trout-stocked canyon lake, commercial greenhouse, gardens, lots of water, passive solar timber frame home. $525,000. Jim, 970-7691391, for pictures. (282-04-16) SANTA FE FIVE STAR EASTSIDE CONDO - very private, weekly rates. 970-570-0320 (293-05-16) VERO BEACH, FLORIDA, CONDO. Incredible views. One block to beach. 970-570-0320. (293-05-16) WE BUY LAND and/or mineral rights. CO TX NM KS. 1-800-316-5337 (099-03-17)

VACATION RENTAL

BAYFIELD ATTIC INN – A vacation rental in downtown Bayfield, Colorado. bayfieldatticinn.com 970-759-6957, bayfieldatticinn@gmail.com (263-09-16)

VACATION RENTAL

COME STAY on SHADOW MOUNTAIN LAKE! Charming, cozy, all season cabin. VRBO. com #699584 (274-04-16)

REAL ESTATE

KAUAI VACATION RENTAL, 2bdr, full kitchen. Minutes from beaches. $600/wk. 808-2456500; mokihana@hawaiian.net; kauaiweddings.com. (756-05-16

WANTED TO BUY

BUYING AUTOGRAPHS (all kinds), sports cards (pre-1980).

Vintage sports and music collectibles (albums, etc.). Cash paid.

Established dealer since 1986.

Mike 720-334-0206, mmunns1@ hotmail.com (245-05-16) NAVAJO RUGS, old and recent, native baskets, pottery. Tribal Rugs, Salida. 719-539-5363, b_inaz@ hotmail.com (817-06-16) OLD COLORADO LIVESTOCK brand books prior to 1975. Call Wes 303-757-8553. (889-08-16) OLD COWBOY STUFF – hats, boots, spurs, chaps, Indian rugs, baskets, etc. ANYTHING OLD! Mining & railroad memorabilia, ore carts!

We buy whole estates. We’ll come to you! Call 970-759-3455 or 970-565-1256. (871-05-16) OLD GAS AND OIL items: Gas pumps, advertising signs, globes, etc. Pieces, parts, etc. considered. Also 1932-34 Ford cars and trucks, parts and pieces, too. Any condition. Brandon, 719-250-5721. (519-11-16) OLD POCKET WATCHES – working or non-working and old repair material. Bob 719-859-4209. (870-12-16) WANT TO PURCHASE mineral and other oil/gas interests.

Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201. (402-03-17)

FIND HIDDEN TREASURE IN THE CLASSIFIEDS Read through the ads and FIND the CCL classified explaining how to WIN a $25 gift card.

It’s easy. You could WIN.

The classified ads March winner was Priscillo Siano of Fort Collins.

She counted 34 classified ads.

coloradocountrylife.coop

[funny stories] WANTED TO BUY

WANTED: An April classifieds winner. Enter for CHANCE to win $25 gift card. Email the number of ads on these pages to classifieds@coloradocountrylife.org with “APRIL $25” as the subject. Deadline: April 15.

WANTED: JEEP CJ OR WRANGLER. Reasonably priced. No rust buckets. 888-735-5337 (099-04-16) WE PAY CASH for minerals and oil/gas interests, producing and nonproducing.

800-733-8122 (099-02-17)

ADVERTISE IN COLORADO COUNTRY LIFE CLASSIFIED SECTION GET AHEAD OF THE CROWD! Call Kris at 303-902-7276 or email advertising@ coloradocountrylife.org

My husband and I were discussing how we slept after a lightning storm in the night. “I slept good and right through it,” my husband said.

“How did you sleep, Sam?” he asked our 2-year-old grandson.

Matter-of-factly, Sam said, “Lying down.”

Cindy Richards, Kirk

David snapped a photo while visiting one of the U.S. most visited aviation museums at the heart of Pearl Harbor!

Photo taken at Praia de Rocha, Portugal, of Shiltin Coffin, daughter of Jim Coffin and Karen Hayes.

Shiltin is backpacking around Europe for three months.

My friend’s 16-year-old niece had a Friday night sleepover at her house with four of her best friends, two of whom were identical twins.

Another friend and her 4-year-old granddaughter came to their house the following morning. The older girls loved the 4-year old, especially when she said, “Oh, look! She has two of the same friend!”

Nancy Bowers, Fort Collins

APRIL’S WINNER IS BILL MORELAND FROM BOONE, CO. BILL IS A SOUTHEAST ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC. MEMBER.

Take Your Photo with Your Magazine and Win! March was vacation month and lots of readers took their magazine when they travelled. Thank you! Check our Facebook page at facebook.com/COCountryLife to see all of the photos.

The randomly drawn winner of the $25 gift card was Bill Moreland of Boone, CO. He took his magazine to the beach in Roatan, Honduras, while on a Caribbean square dance cruise in February.

And, because we had so many great entries this month, here are a few more randomly selected photos of readers with their magazines.

Make sure to enter this month’s contest. Take a photo of you, friends or family with the magazine at some fun place or maybe just at home. Send it and a name and address to info@coloradocountrylife.org. We’ll post it on Facebook and on April 15 we’ll draw a winner from among the submissions. The winner will receive a $25 gift card. coloradocountrylife.coop

My husband, 3-year-old son and I were going to Leadville to interview for teaching jobs. As we entered town, there were some nuns walking down the street. My son said, “Look, Dad! Leadville has penguins!”

Jane Trainor, Buena Vista My 5-year-old grandson hurriedly put on his boots and headed out the door. His mother said, “Kase, you have your boots on the wrong feet.”

He turned and said, “But Mom, these are the only feet I have!”

Carol Shalberg, Sheridan Lake We pay $15 to each person who submits a funny story that’s printed in the magazine. At the end of the year we will draw one name from those submitting funny stories and that person will receive $200. Send your 2016 stories to Colorado Country Life, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216 or email funnystories@coloradocountrylife.org.

Don’t forget to include your mailing address, so we can send you a check.

$15 APRIL 2016

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Eco Friendly Funkins As Americans we are getting more acclimated to recycling the waste that collects in our homes, but every year billions of pounds of paper towels and napkins make their way to the landfill. Funkins is addressing this issue with whimsy.

Funkins are cute, reusable cloth napkins that double as place mats. They come in an assortment of patterns that parents can pick according to their child’s personality or by special occasion. Have an aspiring gymnast, football player or scientist? How about an animal lover or flower fan? Funkins can accommodate these personalities and more.

Funkins cost between $3 and $10 and are available at myfunkins.com.

Good for You Goo If you’re unnerved reading the list of ingredients for skin products, Green Goo could be what you’re looking for. Using natural, organic ingredients, such as vitamin E, sage and lavender oil, Green Goo, a Lyons-based company, promises to relieve dry skin, reduce signs of aging, heal cuts and scrapes, soothe the sting of insect bites and more. Several Green Goo products target a number of needs, so you can toss those other products that aren’t delivering on their promises and are taking up much needed space.

Products are available in a wide range of sizes, prices and uses. Visit the website at sierrasageherbs.com to learn more.

See what Green Goo is all about: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qVE70akkCYI

ALTERNATIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Thames and Kosmos puts a spotlight on renewable energy with a variety of fun, educational science kits. Watch young ones light up when they create light and electricity with the company’s Hydropower kit. Your budding scientist can harness this energy from moving water by building different devices, such as a waterwheel and a giant turbine, and putting them to the test. With 12 experiments in all, these kits provide entertain-

ment and education for kids age 8 and older.

The Hydropower science kit costs $49.95. For more information and to see the entire renewable energy selection, visit thamesandkosmos.com.

Clean Green

Get your home squeaky clean while being kinder to the Earth. The materials in NatureZway™ cleaning products are rayon made from bamboo — a renewable, sustainable source — so you will feel confident knowing you’re making a greener choice when scrubbing away. NatureZway™ products are durable and effective, and the perforated towels you can rinse and reuse up to 100 times. Additional products include floor wipes, sponges and all-purpose cleaning cloths. For more information, visit naturezway.com.

Enter to Win a Science Kit

Colorado Country Life is giving away three Thames and Kosmos educational science kits.

Go to coloradocountrylife.coop/april-contest for instructions on how to win one of the three kits.

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