Colorado Country Life June 2020 Grand Valley

GRAND VALLEY POWER

JUNE 2020

Stay in &

Stream YouTubers Channel Colorado

PLUS MOUTHWATERING BBQ

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NATIVE PLANT GARDENING

22

FATHER’S DAY GIFT IDEAS

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Number 06

Volume 51

June 2020 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE COLORADO RURAL ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION COMMUNICATIONS STAFF Mona Neeley, CCC, Publisher/Editor mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org Cassi Gloe, CCC, Production Manager/Designer cgloe@coloradocountrylife.org Kylee Coleman, Editorial/Admin. Assistant kcoleman@coloradocountrylife.org ADVERTISING Kris Wendtland, Ad Representative advertising@coloradocountrylife.org | 303-902-7276 National Advertising Representative, American MainStreet Publications 611 S. Congress Street, 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.

Colorado Country Life (USPS 469-400/ISSN 1090-2503) is published monthly by Colorado Rural Electric Association, 5400 Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216-1731. Periodical postage paid at Denver, Colorado. ©Copyright 2020, Colorado Rural Electric Association. Call for reprint rights.

EDITORIAL Denver Corporate Office, 5400 Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216 mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org | 303-455-4111 coloradocountrylife.coop | facebook.com/COCountryLife Pinterest.com/COCountryLife | Instagram.com/cocountrylife Twitter.com/COCountryLife | YouTube.com/COCountryLife1 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.

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 $4.44 per year (37 cents per month), paid from equity accruing to the member. For nonmembers, a subscription is $9 per year in-state/$15 out-of-state.

POSTMASTER Send address changes to Colorado Country Life, 5400 Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216

On the

Cover JUNE 2020

Stay in &

Stream

These Coloradans enjoy the virtual world while sticking close to home during the coronavirus pandemic.

Photo by Chris Coleman.

YouTubers Channel Colorado

“ Yellow Bellied Marmot Mother and a Pup” by Kim Todd, a consumer-member of La Plata Electric Association.

4 VIEWPOINT

5 LETTERS

6 ASK THE ENERGY EXPERT

7 YOUR CO-OP NEWS

12 RECIPES

14 NEWS CLIPS

16 COVER STORY

COCountryLife pinned: Want to try something new in the kitchen? Check out the collection of recipes on our Kitchen Creations board for inspiration.

CHANNELING COLORADO 20 INDUSTRY 22 GARDENING

24 OUTDOORS

26 MARKETPLACE

27 CREATIVE CORNER

28 VIRTUAL ACTIVITIES

29 FUNNY STORIES

FACEBOOK CHATTER Colorado Rural Electric Association shared: Want more #TigerKing? Read more about this fellow #electriccoop consumer in this month’s #coloradocountrylife magazine, the co-ops’ magazine at coloradocountrylife.coop.

30 DISCOVERIES

Monthly Contest Father’s Day Giveaway Finding the perfect gift for dad isn’t always the easiest thing to do. Give Dad a gift card. Enter for your chance to win a $50 gift card.

Go to Contests at coloradocountrylife.coop to learn how to enter.

coloradocountrylife.coop

PINTEREST SNEAK PEEK

INSTAGRAM PIC of the month colorado_electric_cooperatives posted: Read how #electriccoops are #keepingthelightson during the pandemic in the Colorado co-op magazine. #itstartswithpower #poweron #ruralelectric #coloradocountrylifemagazine

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

3

VIEWPOINT

CO-OP ANNUAL MEETINGS

Missing those great local co-op get-togethers during COVID-19

BY KENT SINGER

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

O

ne of the unique characteristics of the electric co-op business model is the annual meeting of the consumer-members of the co-op.

Electric co-ops are controlled by the consumer-members they serve, and those consumer-members have an opportunity every year to attend the annual meeting and learn more about what’s happening with the local electric co-op. In Colorado, as in most states, annual meeting season starts in the spring and continues through the end of summer.

In the world of electric utilities, only electric co-ops have a meeting every year where the consumers of the utility can meet with the management and board.

These meetings are not only a celebration of your electric co-op, they’re also a celebration of the community served by the co-op. In many cases, co-op annual meetings include sharing a meal and/or some entertainment, but they always include great conversations.

As the manager of the Colorado Rural Electric Association, the statewide association that represents the interests of all of Colorado’s electric co-ops, attending co-op annual meetings is one of the best parts of my job. Every year, I attend many of the annual meetings of our member co-ops all over Colorado.

This year is different. With the limitations on getting together due to the COVID-19 pandemic, electric co-ops have made alternate plans. In some cases, the

4

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

annual meetings have been conducted via telephone town halls, other co-ops have hosted video presentations and some co-ops postponed or canceled their annual meeting for 2020. Co-ops realize that the most important consideration is the health of their consumer-members and they have had to put that concern foremost.

But I gotta tell you, I miss these get-togethers.

I miss hearing the national anthem.

I’ve heard the anthem sung by local high schoolers, by professional singers, by choirs and sometimes via audio and video recordings. Regardless of how it’s presented, when hundreds of people stand and sing the anthem, I get a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye.

I miss the reports from the Youth Tour kids. In case you don’t know, every year the co-ops sponsor high school kids on a trip to Denver and then on to Washington, D.C., where they learn how our state and national governments work. At the following year’s annual meeting, the kids give a report about what they saw and learned on the trip. My favorite quote from a Youth Tour attendee: “We stood on the step outside the Colorado Capitol that marks 1 mile high, you know, 14 thousand feet.”

I miss the entertainment. I’ve seen magicians, comedians, singers, bands, guitar players, scenes from plays acted out by students, you name it. “America’s Got Talent” has got nothing on Colorado’s electric co-ops.

KENT SINGER

I miss the co-op swag. Co-ops almost always provide a small gift to the members; as a guest I’m usually given the same gift.

I have collected insulated bottles, hats, picnic blankets, barbecue utensils and backpacks. My favorite? An ice cream scoop from Holy Cross Energy.

I also miss driving across this beautiful state to attend the meetings — from the eastern plains to the Great Sand Dunes, from the San Juan Mountains to Rocky Mountain National Park, from the Collegiate Peaks to Rabbit Ears Pass. Our electric co-ops serve the most spectacular territories anywhere in America.

But mostly, I miss you, Colorado’s electric co-op consumer-members. You are the folks who make the electric co-op program work. You are the backbone of not only our electric co-ops, but also of this great state and I know that you and your communities will come roaring back from our current challenges.

And when you do, your electric co-op will once again host a party, and I’ll be there to help you celebrate.

Kent Singer is the executive director of the Colorado Rural Electric Association and offers a statewide perspective on issues affecting electric cooperatives.

CREA is the trade association for your electric co-op, the 21 other electric co-ops in Colorado and its power supply co-op.

LETTERS

FROM THE EDITOR

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Relishing variety in recipes

Baking with friends because of COVID-19

BY MONA NEELEY

EDITOR

A

s the pandemic restrictions start to loosen, it feels good to get out and about more, to see friends (no closer than 6 feet), to visit with neighbors across a driveway or street, to get back to some of our routines. There are still face masks involved and we haven’t quite returned to “normal” but at least we’re not totally confined to our houses.

But, as we move into this new normal, there are some things from our “stay-athome” time that I want to bring with me and one of those is Saturday baking with friends.

With my church going virtual on Sunday mornings and my women’s group, like every other group across the country, canceling

its events, weekMONA NEELEY ends got long.

So, a group of us decided to “zoom” together and bake.

We selected a recipe, set up a video chat over the popular Zoom app and invited others. We got to peek into each other’s kitchens via our computer screens and laugh and talk as we followed that week’s recipe.

It was fun and I made some new friends.

It was something I would have probably never done if I hadn’t been “stuck” at home.

Mona Neeley is the statewide editor of Colorado Country Life, which is published in coordination with your local electric cooperative.

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Responding to the April letter writer: People have vegetarian diets for several reasons. I am not politically correct; I work in the cattle industry. I work with nutrition research cattle that ultimately will be used to study the best nutrition for beef cattle, including making beef healthier for human consumption. I enjoy my occasional beef meal, but you or someone you love may sometimes need an alternative diet.

Lynne Kesel, DVM, Fort Collins

I read with misty eyes your article about your father as a lineman. I substituted my husband’s name each time you wrote the word “father.” I remember those storms vividly. I tried hard for the children’s sake and my own when storms hit to remain calm and cool, but thanked God when my husband returned home unharmed.

Doris Canavan, Arizona Former Coloradan

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We have long felt it unfortunate that most recipes in the magazine include large amounts of meat and sugar. We were bemused by a letter writer (April ’20) upset that a recipe included no meat. But, being in our 70s, we were greatly flattered that he referred to us as “hipsters.”

W.C. Embrey, Bellvue Poudre Valley REA consumer-member

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On behalf of all us “hipsters,” we’d like to thank the magazine for including vegetarian recipes. Even meat eaters sometimes want a change and appreciate new ideas. There are numerous reasons people choose not to eat meat, some of which include health, morals, religion, conscience, cost and convenience.

Bill Williams, Dolores Empire Electric consumer-member

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I enjoyed the article about carousels, but you missed one. There’s a delightful one at the North Pole (near Colorado Springs). It has reindeer.

Elisa Keesey Mountain Parks Electric consumer-member

SEND US YOUR LETTERS Editor Mona Neeley at 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216 or at mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org.

Letters may be edited for length.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

5

ASK THE ENERGY EXPERT

Attics and Ventilation Protect your home with proper attic ventilation

BY JAMES DULLEY

A Start Saving Energy Today Saving energy is saving money and can be a fun activity to engage your friends and family. Tactics to save energy come in all shapes and sizes, including steps you can take today at no cost. Energy efficiency also increases the comfortableness of your home, and makes larger projects worth the investment. Visit these two sites to learn how you can take control of your energy use and save today.

adventure.touchstoneenergy.com energy.gov/energysaver TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR ENERGY USE TODAY.

dequate attic ventilation is extremely important to reduce utility bills and to avoid damage to the roof and attic structure. Having a vent in each side of the gable was the typical attic ventilation configuration in older houses, but today it is considered woefully inadequate for an efficient house.

The ideal ventilation flow comes in low over the insulation, keeping it dry and cool.

Some of it should flow up under the roof sheathing to keep it cooler and then exhaust out near the peak of the roof. This airflow out the roof peak keeps it cooler during summer and much colder during winter to minimize condensation and ice dam formation.

There are various attic venting options and all of them are better than gable vents. A combination of a ridge vent and soffit vents is most effective and not difficult to install yourself. Once you install proper new attic ventilation, block off the gable vents because they will interfere with the desired airflow. A good way to accomplish this is to staple extra attic foil over the gable vents.

The ridge vent is located at the roof peak where the hot attic air is least dense, so it naturally flows up and out. In addition to this, breezes over the top of the ridge vent cover create a low pressure area to draw even more air through the attic — the cool air is drawn in the soffit vents.

First, calculate how much ventilation you need. This is measured by the net free vent area of the particular vent product you select. The net free vent area is marked on the packaging.

It is always less than the actual area of the vent because of screening and other obstructions to the airflow inside the vent.

Measure the area of the attic floor to determine what is needed. A typical rule of thumb is 1 square foot of net free vent area for each 150 square feet of attic floor area. This amount of vent area should be divided evenly between the ridge vent and the inlet soffit vents. Check inside the attic to be sure the insulation is not blocking the soffit vents. Blockage can be solved by attaching small baffles.

James Dulley writes utility bill-cutting and general money-saving magazine articles and writes nationally syndicated $ensible Home and Cut Your Utility Bills columns for 200 newspapers and magazines.

LEARN MORE ONLINE Learn more about attic vents and how to install them by visiting coloradocountrylife.coop.

Click on the Energy tab and then Energy Tips.

6

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

THE PAIN OF UNCERTAINTY

BY TOM WALCH

F

YOUR CO-OP NEWS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

rank Maguire, one of the co-founders of Federal Express, was the brains behind the “when it absolutely, positively has to be there overnight” catchphrase that transformed courier and delivery services around the world. I heard him speak at a conference where he said that people prefer the certainty of pain to the pain of uncertainty.

This intrigued me, as it seemed counterintuitive. But when I thought about it, it made sense. The success of Federal Express proves it. People were willing to pay a premium cost for guaranteed delivery, rather than rely on the cheaper, but less dependable postal service.

Anybody who has ever bought insurance or signed a fixed-rate mortgage has chosen the certainty of pain over the pain of uncertainty.

There has also been a fairly recent study in which researchers recorded the reaction of volunteers potentially subject to a painful electric shock. Volunteers who were told that they would definitely receive a shock were more at ease and noticeably less agitated than those who were told there was a 50% chance they would be shocked.

We are constantly choosing between the certainty of pain and the pain of uncertainty, and we typically shy away from uncertainty.

Fortunately, most of those every day decisions do not involve serious pain —just additional expense, inconvenience or irritation.

With hundreds of thousands of deaths worldwide, and millions of infections, the COVID-19 pandemic has inflicted incredible pain and suffering. Thankfully not many of us here in Mesa County have been afflicted by the virus. But all of us — across the country and across the globe — are dealing with more uncertainty than many of us have ever seen.

Will we recover economically? Will we ever be able to work and socialize like we did in the past? Will our kids be able to go to school?

Will we be able to travel to visit friends and family? When will this be over?

Grand Valley Power faces uncertainty.

The financial challenges facing residential and business consumers produce uncertainty about whether those folks will be able to pay their electric bills. This risk is compounded because we are one of the few enterprises that provide our service on credit. We will not know the full economic impact until at least 45-60 days after the power we provide is consumed.

The novel coronavirus continues to impact the way we do business. As you may know, our office was closed to the public for eight weeks to comply with social distancing requirements. Many of our employees were able to work from home. Our operations team did a great job of keeping the lights on. We have reopened the office to the public. All of our team members are back to working full time, most of them here in the office.

Uncertainty remains regarding some of our business functions. As it stands right now, it is unlikely that we will be able to hold our annual member meeting in August.

But even if we can’t meet in person, we will find a way to get together virtually. We will provide the comprehensive business reports our members expect and deserve. Even if we cannot convene a quorum for the meeting, our bylaws allow us to conduct elections by mail balloting, so you can be certain that the democratic process for electing the leaders of our cooperative will be intact.

In these uncertain times, we need something we can be sure of. Our pledge from all of us at Grand Valley Power is to provide our members with certainty that we will be fiscally and financially responsible. We will do our best to limit the financial impact of the coronavirus on our consumers and our communities.

We will do our part to help consumers hit hard by the pandemic with programs like our Hometown Relief Fund. We will continue to lead and support our communities. And, most importantly, we will do everything we can to keep the lights on, the way we always have.

TOM WALCH

COMMENTS TO THE CEO You are a member of a cooperative and your opinion does count. If you have any questions, concerns or comments, write to Ask the CEO, P.O. Box 190, Grand Junction, CO 81502, or send an email to me at twalch@gvp.org. Check out our website at gvp.org.

BOARD MEETING NOTICE Grand Valley Power board meetings are open to the members, consumers and public, but due to current COVID-19 health concerns, this participation will be managed on a virtual platform. Please call 970-242-0040 if you are interested in attending our meeting remotely.

The June board meeting, originally scheduled for Thursday, June 18, per our February 2020 board meeting minutes, has changed. The June board meeting will be at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2020. Anyone desiring to address the board should let us know in advance to be placed on the agenda.

CONGRATS, Christmas!

Christmas Wharton GVP Communications Manager

Congratulations to GVP Communications Manager Christmas Wharton, for receiving the Edgar F. Chesnutt Award for Best Total Communications Program from NRECA. This award recognizes the hard work and

dedication that went into GVP’s enhanced metering program which is the largest upgrade the co-op has endured since 1936. Each year, hundreds of marketing professionals from co-ops across the nation submit their communications plan to be scored from three judges. “It has always been a dream of mine to win this award, but I never suspected my dream would come true this early in my career. I am truly overjoyed and blessed to bring home this award for Grand Valley Power,” Wharton said.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

7

YOUR CO-OP NEWS

GRAND VALLEY POWER 2020 SCHOLARSHIP AWARD WINNERS

Grand Valley Power is proud to announce the eight recipients

JACK

BROUGHTON UNIVERSITY

-

COLORADO

MESA

SCHOLARSHIP

WESTERN

COLORADO

COLLEGE

COMMUNITY

SCHOLARSHIP

of this year's scholarships.

Grand Valley Power has given over $195,000 in scholarship funds since 1996 to students continuing their education.

gvp.org/scholarshipprogram to learn more about

Visit

our 2020 winners and their Cassidy Lastine - Fruita Monument

future plans.

GRAND

VALLEY

POWER

SCHOLARSHIP

Chloe Nordstrom - Mesa Valley

GRAND

VALLEY

POWER

SCHOLARSHIP

Joshua Meyers -Plateau Valley

8

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

GRAND

VALLEY

POWER

SCHOLARSHIP

Hannah Piland - Plateau Valley

GRAND

VALLEY

POWER

SCHOLARSHIP

Katelyn Johnson - Fruita Monument

Anna Weiland - Fruita Monument GRAND

VALLEY

POWER

SCHOLARSHIP

Delaney Bruner - Mesa Valley

GRAND

VALLEY

POWER

SCHOLARSHIP

Kaylie Fuller - De Beque High

GFCI

Install Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets to all outdoor plugs.

Never extend the length of an extension cord by connecting an additional cord.

Do not operate a generator in an enclosed space this could cause CO poisoning & death.

YOUR CO-OP NEWS

Contact Grand Valley Power to discuss trimming trees within close proximity to power lines.

WHOLE HOME SAFETY – NATIONAL SAFETY MONTH

BY DANA POGAR

&

CHRISTMAS WHARTON

S

• DO NOT operate a generator in an enclosed space — generummer is almost here. Many of us are ready to start tackling ators rapidly produce high levels of carbon monoxide, which our outdoor and indoor projects around the home. It can be can cause death. easy to forget about lurking electrical hazards when we are • Keep your generator dry, free from debris and grounded on checking off items on our to-do lists. However, take a moment to a level surface. look around you. Are your outdoor outlets approved and weatherproof? Are your trees trimmed and a safe distance from overhead POWER LINE SAFETY • As you head outdoors, look up and check to see how close power lines? Be sure to follow these outdoor electrical safety tips to avoid any shocking accidents this season: your work may take you to overhead power lines and avoid contact with them.

ELECTRICAL OUTLETS • Inspect indoor and outdoor outlets for regular wear and tear.

• Call 811 before you dig — a professional will come to locate Replace loose-fitting outlets and ensure each outlet and/ any underground utility hazards that lie within your property. or switch has a properly fitted wall plate to cover electrical • Contact Grand Valley Power at 970-242-0040 if you are components. concerned with a tree on your property. We can assess the risk • Install ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) on all outdoor and trim trees that are within close proximity to power lines outlets. GFCIs are designed to stop the flow of power upon — NEVER attempt to trim trees near power lines yourself. detection of water or a fault in the electrical current.

Now, let’s take these tips and blossom into a safe summer • Install and test arc fault circuit interrupters (AFCI), which season. For more safety information and resources, visit gvp.org/ detect and shut down the electricity before a fire can start. safety-resources.

EXTENSION CORDS • DO NOT use an extension cord long term — extension cords are meant to be a temporary, short-term power solution.

• Check to make sure you’re using the right extension cord for indoor or outdoor purposes.

New Employee Spotlight Cords labeled “for outdoor use” are designed to be weather resistant and contain safeguards to prevent electrical accidents from Hi I'm occurring.

LINEMAN Ca le b • Never extend the length of an extension cord by connecting an additional cord — this can overA little about Caleb: load the circuit and trigger an I grew up in Fruita, Colorado and I'm a electrical hazard.

Fruita Monument High graduate. GO WILDCATS! GENERATOR SAFETY • Never plug a generator into a Before I came to GVP, I was working in home outlet without a transfer Craig, Colorado, as a journeyman lineman. switch — this could cause back-

Meet Caleb M.

feed in the power lines, which could electrocute anyone in contact with them, including lineworkers making repairs.

I have always wanted to work for GVP and decided to take the oppurtunity to come home and work for my hometown co-op.

I enjoy spending time outdoors riding four wheelers, camping, and fishing.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

9

YOUR CO-OP NEWS

SOLAR PANEL SAFETY

BY CHRISTMAS WHARTON

H

SAFETY NEAR SOLAR SAFETY NEAR SOLAR

Like any other source of electricity, solar panels can pose potential hazards.

Keep these safety tips in mind when you’re near solar panels.

Like any other source of electricity, solar panels can pose potential hazards.

Keep these safety tips in mind when you’re near solar panels.

arnessing the power of the sun to provide electricity to a home or business has become an increasingly popular trend. ' 10 With this in mind, we encourage you to keep safety in mind whether you already own or plan to install ' Stay at least solar panels for your home.

10 10 feet away from “A solar energy system can be a valuable longthe installation. term investment,” says Derek Elder, corporate and Stay at least 10 member service manager at Grand Valley Power. feet away from the ainstallation.

“But homeowners should research before leaping into buying system to ensure a return on investment and to know what to expect when it comes to maintenance and safety.”

One of the most common types of solar systems in the United States is a photovoltaic system. PV devices convert sunlight into electrical energy using both direct and scattered sunlight. Roof-mounted solar panels save space and easily access the sun. Make sure the roof ’s structure is strong enough to hold the additional weight of the solar panels. Because a correctly sized, sited, installed and maintained PV system is essential to maximize performance and minimize the chance of injury, a professional contractor should always do the installation.

Improperly installed PV systems increase the chance of a faulty unit, which could cause shock or fire.

Exposure to weather increases the aging process of solar panels.

According to the Fire Protection Research Foundation, heavy wind can stress the panels, hail can cause cracking, and snow and debris can affect the energy performance.

Perform periodic maintenance on your solar panels. The FPRF suggests the following maintenance procedures to help prevent fire or damage.

• Visually inspect the equipment and connections for signs of damage or degradation.

• Visually inspect electrical junction boxes to see if conductors are damaged and need to be repaired or replaced.

• Visually inspect string conductors to identify physical damage that is in need of repair.

Director Petitions Due June 22

There are three director seats up for election at Grand Valley Power’s annual meeting in August. Nominating petitions are currently available and can be obtained by calling the office at 970-242-0040. Signed petitions must be returned no later than close of business on June 22, 2020.

A couple of reminders for those running for the board: 1. To be eligible to become or remain a director, a person must be a Grand Valley Power member for at least 12 consecutive months prior to the election and receive electric service from Grand Valley Power at the member's primary residence.

2. A director cannot be engaged in a competing enterprise or in other businesses involving a conflict of interest. Grand Valley Power's bylaws provide in-depth information on director qualifications, terms, elections, meetings and officers.

3. We encourage physical distancing and increased hygiene measures during our Safer At Home public health orders. With this in mind, we have adapted the petition packet to adhere to safety measures in our county. This is detailed in the packet.

10

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

Never walk on solar panels.

Never cut any wiring to the solar panels.

Never touch broken or damaged solar panels.

Never walk on Never cut any Never touch solar panels. wiring to the solar broken or panels. damaged Note that all these tips involve visual inspections only. solar Never panels.

attempt to work on or repair a PV system yourself. This could do more harm than good, and it exposes you to electrical currents. If a solar panel needs service, call a certified professional. Other tips include: • Never step on, set items on or drop anything on the solar panels or wiring.

• If you have a roof-mounted solar panel, do not go onto your roof unless absolutely necessary. If you must, watch for overhead power lines, solar panels and other wiring.

• Read the manual to know how to shut down the PV system in case of an emergency, such as a fire. Remember to call 911 and turn off the system only if you can do so safely.

Most solar systems are designed to provide you with a portion of the electricity needed, but won’t provide 100% of your needs. At night and on cloudy days, and possibly at other high-energy use times, you’ll need more power than your PV system can produce. That means you’ll still be connected to your cooperative’s power lines. Because these systems are grid-connected, energy can flow both ways. At GVP, we set appropriate policies and rates for connecting PV systems to our lines (the grid) and for possibly purchasing any excess energy your system might provide. As you begin to explore solar systems, be sure you ask us about rate structures, interconnection, essential safety precautions and any other connection-related details.

If you are interested in renewable energy, go to gvp.org/ RenewableEnergy for more articles on what questions to ask your PV contractor, the on-site generation policy and more.

Election procedures for the board of directors are governed by Colorado Statute. The cooperative’s bylaws and election policy comply with statutory requirements. These bylaws and policies can be found on GVP’s website at gvp.org/director-elections. Upon request, these written documents can be provided to you.

Members Participation Requested! As a cooperative member, each Grand Valley Power eligible account holder or spouse has the right to vote. Members have only one ballot per election, regardless of the number of accounts with Grand Valley Power.

Ballots will be mailed during the month of July. Members can return these ballots by mail or they can be placed in the ballot box in the office lobby. The election will be held by mail balloting, even if a quorum is not present in person for the annual meeting.

At this time, the annual meeting is scheduled to be at Colorado Mesa University on August 6, 2020, at 5:30 p.m. However, GVP will continue to monitor public health recommendations and, if necessary, may move to an online or telephone only forum.

Please stay tuned and check the annual report for details on the final decisions.

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Popular French Diet Pill Goes On Sale Nationwide Clinical study shows active ingredients trigger weight loss in the abdomen without harmful side effects; guaranteed results or get 110% of your money back A compound that triggers weight loss in the abdomen has been used safely in France for years. It is now available in the United States without a prescription.

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Today marks the nationwide release of this pill in the United States. It’s being offered by the Applied Scientific Research Center in Colorado. The U.S. brand name of this pill is OxiTrim.

Clinical results show dieters can lose up to 5 inches from their waistline within just 8 weeks of daily use. That’s because OxiTrim works to enhance the body’s ability to burn a specific type of fatty acid found in the abdomen.

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France’s Weight Loss Breakthrough

In 2013, scientists announced a pill that facilitates weight loss in the abdomen.

It contains a combination of ingredients shown to enhance the metabolism’s ability to burn belly fat.

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Double Blind Clinical Results

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How It Works

The active ingredients in OxiTrim trigger weight loss in a way scientists have not seen before. Research shows they activate a protein in the body that breaks down fatty acids found in abdominal fat.

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Kenneth also said, “Dieters should know OxiTrim is made from natural plant extracts. It is not a drug. It does not contain any stimulants or dangerous chemicals either.”

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“OxiTrim is the most exciting

Sales Frenzy: The newly released OxiTrim pill from France is set to break sales records nationwide this week. In clinical studies, users taking the pill’s active ingredients lost up to 5 inches from their waistline in 8 weeks without strict dieting.

breakthrough in natural weight loss to date. It’s a proven pill for men and women who want to cut pounds of belly fat.” — Dr. M. Usman, M.D. “I have reviewed the research and have decided to recommend OxiTrim to overweight people. That’s because OxiTrim doesn’t just reduce weight, it helps maintain healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels, too.” — Dr. Ahmad Alsayes.

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How To Get OxiTrim

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A Regional Order Hotline has been setup for local readers to call. This gives everyone an equal chance to try OxiTrim.

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Initial supplies of OxiTrim are limited.

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THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. ALL DOCTORS MENTIONED ARE REMUNERATED FOR THEIR SERVICES. ALL CLINICAL STUDIES ON OXITRIM’S ACTIVE INGREDIENT WERE INDEPENDENTLY CONDUCTED AND WERE NOT SPONSORED BY THE MAKERS OF OXITRIM.

RECIPES

GRILL A MEAL THAT’LL MAKE ’EM SQUEAL Get your loved ones worked up for a mouthwatering, meaty meal

BY AMY HIGGINS

QUICK TIP FOR BEGINNERS

Jason Ganahl’s Tip for Beginner Barbecuers Buy an instant read thermometer There are a bunch of different types on the market, but the one that I like best is the one I have the most history using: the ThermoWorks Thermapen.

It’s important to use an instant read thermometer because when you open up the pit to check on your food, you want to make sure that you’re not letting all the heat escape. With a thermometer like the Thermapen, you can get in, check your temperature and get back to cooking right away without throwing off your entire cooking time.

The other great thing about the instant read is that you don’t have a lot of time to pull off a steak at a perfect medium rare. You have to get an accurate temperature quickly to make sure you pull the meat off of the heat at the right time.

LEARN MORE ONLINE Get more grilling tips by visiting coloradocountrylife.coop.

Click on the Recipes page.

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| RECIPES@COLOR ADOCOUNTRYLIFE .ORG

S

ummertime barbecues beckon family and friends to gather, gab and work up an appetite. And when you know you have something great on the grill, you can’t help but feel like you really could beat Bobby Flay. Jason Ganahl, owner of Colorado’s G-Que Barbeque restaurants, won his share of barbecue championships and offers up some crowd-pleasing recipes that will radiate aromas to get those stomachs growling. Check out the G-Que Barbeque website, gquebbq.com, to see what’s on the menu and to gather great advice and recipes from the “Maestro of Meat” himself. In the meantime, try one of these recipes:

“Maestro of Meat” shares barbecue secrets for backyard grilling success!

Luther Burger 6 slices bacon

Salt and pepper, to taste

Butter or ghee

2 slices cheddar cheese

2 (8 ounce) 70/30 patties

2 eggs

2 glazed donuts

Light some coals and add to one side of your barbecue and cover grill with a griddle.

While the griddle heats up, start cooking your bacon in a pan over a medium high heat until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Remove from the pan, but reserve the bacon grease for later use.

Once it’s piping hot, melt some butter or ghee on the griddle and lay the patties down on top of it. Press with a spatula for about 10 seconds for the best contact with the griddle and a good sear on the meat. Season with salt and pepper. Cook to your desired level of doneness, flipping once and reseasoning halfway through (about 3 minutes per side, depending on heat). Just before pulling the burgers off, top with a slice of cheese.

Crack two eggs into the pan with bacon grease and cook them sunny side up over indirect heat. As the eggs cook, spoon some of the bacon grease over the top to cook them from both sides while leaving the yolk intact. Slice your donuts in half and build your burgers starting with the bottom donut, patty, egg, bacon and top donut.

RECIPES

Smoked Sloppy Joes 2 pounds 80/20 ground beef

2 cloves garlic, minced

Kosher salt, to taste

1 1/2 cups ketchup

Black pepper, to taste

2 teaspoons mild yellow mustard

1 yellow onion, diced

2 tablespoons light brown sugar

1/2 red bell pepper, diced

Water

1/2 green bell pepper, diced

Brioche buns

In a large bowl, season the ground beef with salt and pepper, then mix in the onion, peppers and garlic until all ingredients are homogenized. Put the meat mixture into a foil pan and spread an even layer across the entire pan.

In a cup or bowl, mix together the ketchup, mustard and brown sugar to make the sauce.

Start a basket of coals in a drum smoker, add a strip of hickory wood and let it heat to about 300 degrees. Once it’s up to temperature, add the meat mixture to the drum and let it cook to an internal temperature of 140 degrees. Drain the grease out of the pan.

Add the sauce and a small splash of water to the pan, and mix well to combine. Put meat back into the pit and cook for another 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through. When the meat is nearly finished, toast your buns and then top with a heaping scoop of meat.

Nashville Hot Grilled Chicken Wings 30-40 chicken wings Salt and pepper, to taste Your favorite dry rub (optional) 3 tablespoons cayenne pepper 1 tablespoon brown sugar 1 teaspoon black pepper 3/4 teaspoon sea salt 1/2 teaspoon paprika 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 4 ounces melted lard Sliced pickles Set up your grill for two-zone cooking and let it heat up to 375 to 400 degrees while you prepare the wings. Traditional Nashville Hot Wings only use salt and pepper, but this recipe also calls for a dry rub for a little bit of variety. Season the wings liberally with salt, pepper and your favorite dry rub on all sides, whichever way you like.

Once it’s up to temperature, add the wings to the indirect heat side of the grill, leaving space between them for air flow. Cook to an internal temperature of 165 degrees, about 20 to 25 minutes.

While the wings are grilling, prepare the sauce by combining the cayenne pepper, brown sugar, black pepper, sea salt, paprika, garlic powder and lard, then combine with a whisk until consistent.

QUICK TIP / THE “BISCUIT TEST” If you’re cooking on a new grill, be sure to give it the “biscuit test.” It’s a simple, inexpensive way to see how it distributes heat. Watch the video at gquebbq.com/ how-test-new-grill-biscuits/ to see how it’s done.

Move wings to the direct heat side of the grill and turn every 15 to 20 seconds until the skin is crispy, then remove from heat.

Once all of your wings are fully cooked, toss in the Nashville Hot Sauce to coat.

Serve with pickles and enjoy.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

13

NEWS CLIPS

ELECTRICITY KEEPS FLOWING DURING CRISIS The electric power industry, including electric cooperatives across Colorado and the nation, are facing the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to deliver electricity reliably and safely, according to a report from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation, the nation’s grid watchdog.

Despite a heightened risk of disruption to the workforce and supply chains and new cybersecurity threats, the grid is operating effectively.

“The electric industry in North America is rising to the challenge, coordinating effectively with government partners and taking aggressive steps to confront the threat to the reliability and security of the bulk power system,” NERC said in its report. “At this time, NERC has not identified any specific threat or degradation to the realizable operation (of the grid).”

NERC attributed the industry’s preparedness in part to its longtime use of comprehensive emergency response drills, such as GridEx. Such tabletop exercises helped the power sector coordinate with key government agencies and “provided a blueprint to ensure that business continuity procedures are up to date and

Photo by Matthew Henry on Unsplash

comprehensive,” the report states.

The central threat to the grid is loss of critical staff needed to operate and maintain the bulk power system. Since March, Colorado’s electric cooperatives and their power suppliers have worked to ensure that their systems continue to meet the needs of consumer-members.

Every local distribution co-op office moved to operating virtually so that, even with office doors closed to the general public,

No Pedal the Plains in 2020 There will be no metro area bicyclists descending on the eastern plains of Colorado this fall for the annual Pedal the Plains bike tour. It has been canceled.

The annual tour, which brought about 1,000 riders and their supporters to various areas of eastern Colorado each September in each of the last 10 years, is overseen by The Denver Post Foundation through a partnership with the governor’s office.

The governor’s office, focused on the pandemic situation, does not want to shift that focus to provide its previous support.

There is also concern for the health and safety of the riders and the residents of the towns they would visit.

Ride the Rockies, the other bike event sponsored by the foundation, is also canceled for 2020.

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COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

consumer-members could still drop off payments, call for information and access accounts online. New protocols were put in place to keep employees safe while they continued to do their jobs.

Now that co-ops are reopening their doors, new procedures are in place to maintain the health of employees and consumers — and to keep the electricity flowing as the pandemic continues.

FEDERAL GRANT ADVANCES RESEARCH ON CARBON STORAGE A carbon storage research project in Wyoming received a step forward with a $15.2 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory.

Basin Electric Power Cooperative, which supplies electricity to Colorado co-op power supplier Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, the University of Wyoming School of Energy Resources and other partners are developing a site near Basin’s Dry Fork Station and the Wyoming Integrated Test Center to store over 50 million metric tons of carbon dioxide underground. The project is working to mitigate CO2 emission from the consumption of fossil fuels.

This has been a long process, according to project manager Scott Quillinan, and has demonstrated the feasibility of safely, permanently and economically storing CO2. Now the project is moving into final testing before pursuing commercialization and construction.

NEWS CLIPS

Conservation Award Winner Named The Collins Ranch of Kit Carson is the recipient of the 2020 Colorado Leopold Conservation Award®.

The Collins Ranch in K.C. Electric Association territory is owned and operated by the Toby and Amy Johnson family of Cheyenne County. The conservation practices that the Johnsons have implemented on their cattle ranch have improved the wildlife habitat, water quality, and grass and soil health.

The award, given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, recognizes ranchers, farmers and foresters who inspire others with their conservation efforts on private, working lands.

“The 2020 Leopold Conservation Award nominees and applicants showcase the diversity of agriculture in Colorado and the dedication farming and ranching families have to the lands they steward, their communities

Moving cattle at the Collins Ranch in Cheyenne County.

and their families,” said Erik Glenn, Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust executive director.

“The Collins Ranch demonstrates what’s possible through sound conservation efforts like rotational grazing and improved water distribution systems,” said Clint Evans, Natural Resources Conservation Service state conservationist in Colorado. “The NRCS appreciates the Johnson family for their dedication to conservation and their accomplishments as

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land stewards.”

Other finalists for the award included the LK Ranch of Meeker in Rio Blanco County and the May Ranch of Lamar in Prowers County.

The Leopold Conservation Award in Colorado is made possible by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, the power supplier for Colorado’s electric cooperatives and other ag-supporting organizations.

Electricity Demand Drops as Coronavirus Cuts Use by Business The demand for electricity dropped to a 16-year low the first week of April as offices shuttered and manufacturing slowed or stopped as the novel coronavirus COVID-19 spread across the country, according to the Edison Electric Institute.

Mild weather throughout the country had already contributed to lower heating demands. But, as the virus spread, electricity output fell further to 64,896 gigawatt-hours, down 5.7% from the same week in April 2019. That was the lowest demand since April 2004.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration projects the country’s virus-caused economic slowdown and stay-at-home orders to keep electricity consumption low for the coming months. Currently, EIA is predicting that U.S. power consumption will be down about 3% in 2020, compared to 2019.

FLA.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

15

Channeling

COLORADO YouTubers bring fun to small screens

BY MALIA DURBANO

“O

ur biggest surprise on this journey has been the friends from around the world that we have met,” explains Denise Knowles, one-half of the YouTube channel team, Colorado Martini. “We’ve made friends with people around our age who are into the same things.”

The 50-something couple, who live in Hygiene, a small Boulder County town, was looking for a creative outlet after serious day jobs — Patrick is a warranty manager for a construction company, and Denise works in information technology at the University of Colorado Boulder. Their friends were entertained at parties with Patrick’s ability to make flavored martinis — hence the name of the channel.

“Our friends were also amused by how we interact with each other, so what initially was an idea for a book became live videos.”

The Knowleses aren’t the only Colorado residents who enjoy contributing to this video-sharing internet platform. YouTube began on April 23, 2005, when the first video was uploaded by one of the founders, Jawed Karim. He and his partners, Chad Hurley and Steve Chen, sold the startup to Google in October of 2006 for $1.65 billion. Since then, the website has skyrocketed. Currently over 2 billion users visit YouTube each month and every day people watch over a billion hours of video generated by YouTubers like the Knowleses.

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COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

Finding a voice on YouTube It took a year for the Hygiene couple to find their voice and hone in on a few areas of interest after starting with a cocktail and lifestyles theme. Exploring new destinations, history and even the lore behind haunted buildings became their focus. Denise’s enthusiasm and passion for the topics are evident and contribute to why they were selected as a Top 30 Colorado YouTube channel

by Feedspot.com.

Denise, as a software engineer and geophysicist, performs the technical requirements for the channel. As an empty nester, Denise started making private videos about lifestyle to teach the world. With a graduate certificate in adult online learning, she now uses YouTube to “teach with a modern twist.” Husband Patrick assists with ghost-hunting technical gear, does all the driving and “makes us all laugh.”

Their passion for travel, as well as creating community and teaching, has evolved over the past four years into the creation of 107 videos and a virtual community of friends and followers from around the world.

One of their most watched segments is a walking tour of Deadwood, South Dakota, in the Black Hills. The small town was featured in an HBO movie, so Denise and Patrick went exploring.

Viewers learn that Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane visited the town, which traces its roots to 1874 when Gen. George Armstrong Custer arrived to establish a fort, where gold was discovered and a gold rush followed.

Another video with almost 3,000 views is her tour of the historic and elegant Brown Palace Hotel in downtown Denver.

Denise invites viewers along as she enjoys afternoon tea in the atrium of the unique, triangular-shaped hotel.

Their story of haunted Cheesman Park in Denver prompted a viewer to comment on what excellent storytellers they were.

Inspired by the praise, they produced a video on the presumably haunted Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, and have continued conducting paranormal investigations.

The Knowleses share their passion for travel in their YouTube channel Colorado Martini.

COVER STORY

Kerry Norman shares his love for the mountains in his YouTube channel Roaming 50.

Two-wheeled exploration YouTube acknowledges that its community keeps growing thanks to individuals who contribute worthwhile content for others to view. Another Colorado resident who does his part is Kerry Norman from Louisville.

Of course, when many people think of Colorado, hiking and mountain biking come to mind. The Roaming 50 channel was started in 2008 by this passionate rider, who moved to Colorado from the United Kingdom. He started as a hiker, but realized a mountain bike could help him get deeper into the wild and away from more people.

Norman admits that carrying cameras, batteries, a gimbal for stability and other audio and video paraphernalia on a ride can be cumbersome. And then there is the 10-plus hours of editing it takes to create a 20-minute, professionally-produced video.

But mountain biking changed his outlook on life and lifted him out of a depression. He finds it therapeutic and hopes that, by presenting new riding challenges and destinations, he, in turn, is helping other riders.

Since he likes to continually explore different terrain, he makes videos to expose riders to new trails. He prefers raw natural terrain over landscaped parks and provides educational content to share with new riders on what to expect when riding. He holds the audience’s attention by talking to them as if they are riding with him.

His day job provides regular income so Norman produces intermittent videos to indulge in his passion and to express his creative side. His true ulterior motive is to show his kids the cool stuff their dad used to do before he got too old.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

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COVER STORY They don’t have mountains like this back home, so I started documenting my climbs to share with friends, and it just took off from there.”

— Chad Richardson Hiking in Colorado YouTube Channel

The Fast Lane

Chad Richardson shares a view from the top of a Colorado peak. Take a hike with him on his YouTube channel Hiking in Colorado.

Hiking in Colorado Thirty-one-year-old Chad Richardson also started making videos to share his newfound love of the beauty of Colorado with friends from his small hometown in Pennsylvania. He moved to suburban Thornton in 2014 to start a new life. To get in shape and help his recovery from Lyme disease, he started hiking.

His first hike up the Flatirons in Boulder “was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.” But with the view from the top, he was hooked. “They don’t have mountains like this back home, so I started documenting my climbs to share with friends, and it just took off from there,” Richardson said. He’s since discovered that he loves creating moments in time that will be forever captured in videos.

Documenting hikes for the Hiking in Colorado channel, Richardson started out using his phone, but as viewership started growing he watched “tons of tutorials” on how to make great videos and invested in better equipment. The quality that comes from his Panasonic G 85 with a Rode VideoMicro must be why his channel was voted Top Colorado YouTube Channel and Top YouTube Channel for Hikers by Feedspot.com in 2018 and it continues with that designation.

The channel, which includes informative and articulate descriptions of hikes with detailed route conditions along with backpacking and camping related topics, has its 45 videos broken down into categories: tutorials, 13ers, 14ers and day hikes. With 44 Colorado 14ers and 26 13ers under his belt as well as more than 100 summits, including Mount Elbert, the highest mountain in Colorado, Richardson continues to be enthralled by the breathtaking beauty and unexpected history he learns about on his hikes.

“Stumbling upon old mining equipment feels like stepping back in time and getting a glimpse into the history of Colorado,” he says.

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COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

Boulder resident Roman Mica turned a perk from one job into a whole new career. As an on-air news reporter and member of the Press League, he had access to brand-new vehicles to review. What started out as a blog turned into a YouTube channel. His naturally curious mind and journalistic approach made him a natural reviewer for new automobiles.

There are two reasons why he loves what he has been doing for the last 10 years: 1) he gets paid to drive new cars and tell stories through videos and 2) he gets to use his creative side to produce something that is meaningful to others.

His TFLcar (The Fast Lane Car) channel has accumulated 423,996,077 views since March 26, 2009. Its mission: “To provide the latest automotive news, views and reviews with unflinching honesty, transparency and credibility.”

Mica tries to think of everything that could possibly be important to a consumer when reviewing a car. While pushing the button to open the back door of a Kia Telluride, he counts. When someone is holding a baby or a bag of groceries, seconds become important.

Knowing how strong engine torque is, how many cup holders and how many USB ports a vehicle has are all important to different potential buyers.

His team of 10 produces videos full time for five channels. They

race sports cars around a track and test the latest four-wheel drives on tough roads in the mountains of Colorado. Displaying everything from how much storage space an SUV offers, to how quickly and easily rear seats go down in modern crossovers, they provide thorough, detailed reviews.

The Fast Lane Truck channel has 116 videos and over 288,000 views. The team gets the latest heavy duty trucks and compares them on a famous stretch of Interstate 70 highway, known as the Ike Gauntlet. This 8-mile section with a 7% grade starts in Dillon and goes east, up and through the Eisenhower-Johnson tunnels. At over 11,000 feet, these trucks are tested for their towing capacity by pulling a 16,000-pound horse trailer. A recent video pits the 2020 Chevy Silverado HD against the 2020 Ram Cummins on the “World’s Toughest Towing Test.” Since it was posted on June 29, 2019, this video alone has 1,193,648 views, with many comments from their viewers saying they wish they could afford one of these trucks.

Mica calculates that viewership with all five channels combined: TFLcar, TFLclassic, TFLtruck, TFLoffroad and TFL — they accumulate over 30 million views a month. People love educational and well-produced segments on subjects that interest them.

Roman Mica and two of his team members work on a new video for TFLcar at the shop in Boulder.

Roman Mica takes a ride and films a review of a Corvette, one of many vehicles he and his team features on their YouTube channel.

Colorado Mountain Man Survival provides you with all the survival training you could want or need on their YouTube channel.

Exploring Virtually Coloradans from all over the state contribute to YouTube on numerous topics and have created many channels, such as Colorado Mountain Man Survival, AVA Rafting and Zipline, Colorado RedBeard Fishing, MoreJStu and the extremely popular LifewithMak, about teenager Makenna Kelly from Fort Collins.

And let’s not forget the Coloradans who also watch the millions of YouTube channels. A Durango resident, 28-year-old Jesse Shavel, watches inspirational content to educate himself on business and finance. He and his girlfriend watch live music and cooking shows together, but he is also an avid fan of UFC – the Ultimate Fighting Championships.

Another frequent viewer, Kathy Briggs, watches YouTube instead of television. After 9/11, the 61-year-old started watching conspiracy theory videos, which ended up on YouTube. Then, in anticipation of a trip to Mexico, she began watching travel videos. Kathy now enjoys watching travel accounts from places all over the world and can experience them from the comfort of her own home in Paonia. The owner of a health spa, she also watches educational videos on natural healing modalities.

YouTube has launched local versions in more than 100 countries and is available in 80 different languages. With billions of segments to choose from, no matter your interests, you’re sure to find something to watch while you are safe at home.

Malia Durbano started her freelance writing career in Durango, and now spends winters walking the beaches of Todos Santos, Baja California Sur, while also learning to speak Spanish.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

19

INDUSTRY

Assess Your Energy Situation

BY DERRILL HOLLY AND AMY HIGGINS | AHIGGINS@COLOR ADOCOUNTRYLIFE .ORG

S

taying at home can open your eyes to the changes that can benefit your castle — changes you may or may not have taken notice of before. Perhaps you’re noticing a draft around your windows and doors. Maybe you detected a hot spot in an area of your home that was previously overlooked. And with that, it’s conceivable that your electric bill is higher than it was last summer.

Better energy efficiency at home starts with savings, not sales, and an energy assessment conducted with help from a trained energy advisor from your electric cooperative can help you get there.

Some co-ops offer general assessments of the energy situation; some provide audits; all have expertise they can share. Co-ops are always there to answer questions about energy efficiency. In the past, some offered in-home assistance with energy questions.

Others offered answers over the phone or via their website. As we move into our new “normal,” each Colorado co-op is finding ways to help its consumer-members answer their energy efficiency questions.

“In my opinion the biggest benefit for a member having an energy [assessment] is knowing exactly where your energy is going — if you’re being the most efficient with your energy that you can possibly be,” said Andy

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COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

Molt, director of member services at Y-W Electric Association in Akron.

Co-ops provide this information because they are trusted energy advisors that are always working to help their members save energy and control their electricity costs.

“I’m usually looking for whatever problem the member has indicated, which could be high bills, a cold and drafty house or to check the efficiency of appliances,” said Alantha Garrison, energy use advisor at Gunnison County Electric Association in Gunnison, who has provided 535 assessments since 2010.

Members become frantic when they see a major increase on their power bill and want almost immediate answers as to why. In conjunction with experience and the ability to refer to meter data reports, the process of identifying major power consumption problems has been simplified and resolved in many instances.

Problems, such as poor insulation or air leaks from windows and doors, can be identified rather quickly using a thermal camera.

“I can actually look and see if there are voids in the insulation and walls with [a thermal camera],” Molt said. Interestingly, Molt said he not only finds insulation problems in older homes, but sometimes also finds “huge voids” in the insulation of newer homes.

Energy advisors are constantly receiving training, certifications and reading materials to hone their skills. During on-site assessments, energy experts use all their senses and teachings to find abnormalities, such as hot water line leaks, running well pumps or damaged power cords. Their close examination sometimes leads to identifying safety issues as well.

Amy Blunck, communications director at Fort Collins-based Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association, shared that during one walk-through assessment, they found an old, metal surge strip that was malfunctioning.

“It had burned a hole in the back of the strip, and it was arcing,” she explained. “This surge strip was in a barn sitting next to a pile of wood, and it could have burned the whole barn down if not discovered.”

Expert advice Many of the electric co-ops that provide energy advice support professional development for energy advisors that includes exposure to building science concepts.

Training focused on both new construction techniques designed to improve energy efficiency and retrofitting options for upgraded older housing are common.

Specialized training for multifamily units and manufactured housing are also common.

INDUSTRY “By providing a picture of how energy is used in the home, people can concentrate on what can save them the most energy,” said Eileen Wysocki, an energy auditor with Holy Cross Energy, headquartered in Glenwood Springs.

Wysocki starts with a baseload estimate of energy use based on meter data. Talking with the consumer-member, she learns about household size and behavior patterns, and considers seasonal factors like heat tape used to prevent water lines from freezing during winter months.

“We have many ‘second homes’ in our service territory,” Wysocki said, adding that even when those homes are empty, energy use continues. “Fan coil blower motors, whole house humidifiers, boiler pumps, ventilation systems, driveway snowmelt pumps, pool pumps, hot tubs, garage heaters, heated toilet seats and towel bars are using energy, regardless of occupancy.”

The co-op serves Colorado’s popular ski areas around Aspen and Vail, and is currently designing a new audit form. It will stress benefits members can receive through efficiency upgrades, including comfort, said Mary Wiener, energy efficiency program administrator for Holy Cross Energy.

While some co-ops provide assessments free of charge, especially when they are requested in response to high bill concerns, others may charge a small fee, offering rebates to members who implement some of the recommendations provided.

An energy advisor can help a member avoid ineffective upgrades or the purchase of outsized equipment that might not improve their comfort or produce savings through recoverable costs.

“For members, simply talking to us on the phone about their energy use or asking us to help them find the problem at their home or business often answers their questions, and they start to understand how much control they have over their own costs

“By providing a picture of how energy is used in the home, people can concentrate on what can save them the most energy,” — Eileen Wysocki, an energy auditor with Holy Cross Energy when it comes to their electric bill,” Blunck explained. “Understanding that something as simple as using a smart thermostat, where they can control the temperature so their kids aren’t constantly turning up the AC, or putting the donkey up in a corral, where he can’t get to the stock tank heater cord, can make a big difference in your electric bill.”

Offering solutions Most energy assessments are initiated following a request tied to high bill concerns, when members are really motivated to control their energy costs.

On average, members can reduce their energy use by about 5% if they follow the low-cost or no-cost advice given after an assessment. Additional savings of up to 20% can be achieved by addressing issues with big-ticket items, such as heating and

cooling replacement, adding attic insulation or major duct damage discovered during the assessment.

Improved energy efficiency not only helps the co-op control peak demand and wholesale power costs, it also provides opportunities to discuss services available to members. Those include rebates, weatherization programs and payment assistance.

So, what are the biggest benefits of having an energy review? “Finding areas to air seal; learning specific habit changes that can make a difference; learning when it’s most expensive to use power; learning how much energy different items use, so you know what to expect on your energy bill; learning about new co-op programs you might not have known about,” Garrison said, adding, “also, if you have a pet, I’ll probably take an infrared image of it to send to you, which people love.”

To learn more about energy assessments available to you, contact your local electric cooperative.

Derrill Holly writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

Amy Higgins has been writing for Colorado Country Life for nearly a decade focusing on the topics that make a difference in the lives of its readers.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

21

GARDENING

Natural Selections Be triumphant in your garden with native plants

BY VICKI SPENCER

W

hen you hear people talking about native plants, they are referring to those that existed in the United States prior to European settlement. The benefit of planting natives is that they are naturally adapted to the climate, soil and environmental conditions of their original habitat. This means they require less water, less fertilizer and less maintenance. What could be better than having more time to relax and enjoy your garden?

Recent interest in natives may have arisen because of the need to conserve water, but growing natives can have an even greater impact as biodiversity is being lost to increased development of open spaces.

Natives help prevent the introduction and spread of noxious weeds; they provide critical habitat for native insects that have a specialized relationship with them; and they are more resistant to diseases.

Indian blanket flower

To reap the benefit of natives, plant them in areas that best approximate their natural environment, or life zone. In Colorado, there are five life zones defined by different

22

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

Black-eyed Susan

MASTER GARDENER | GARDENING@COLOR ADOCOUNTRYLIFE .ORG

plant communities. The eastern plains are dominated by grasslands and riparian cottonwood trees. The foothills are defined

by Gambel oak and mountain mahogany.

The Upper Sonoran zone of western Colorado and the San Luis Valley is characterized by semidesert shrub lands and piĂąon pine-juniper woodlands. At 8,000 to 9,500 feet altitude, the montane area is defined by ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, lodgepole pine and aspen woodlands. Finally, the alpine zone above 11,500 feet is mostly treeless tundra. Consequently, a tree or plant that is native to the alpine zone would not be wellsuited to the low altitude eastern plains.

When selecting plants, you will want to consider microclimates in your yard. A south-facing area with strongly reflected heat might be suitable for dryland plants while a cooler, north-facing area with moist soil would be better suited for forest edge plants. Dryland or desert plants, such as Indian ricegrass, Indian blanket flower, yarrow and yucca, which require more sunshine and less water, flourish along the eastern plains and the southwest. Along the Front Range, bee balm will flower heavily in sunny areas with moist soil while pussytoes will provide a lush ground cover with pink flowers in dry, clay soil.

In montane areas, Rocky Mountain columbines, lupines and gentian thrive in cool, moist soils. Rocky Mountain penstemon (30 inches) or the shorter Blue

Mist penstemon (12 inches) are just two of more than 200 species native to Colorado that are well-suited to sunny or partially sunny areas. Mountain gardeners should avoid introduced penstemon hybrids as they are not as cold hardy. Lovely accents to mountain rock gardens include showy goldeneye, tansy aster and black-eyed Susan.

High-altitude gardeners may also enjoy golden coneflower with its double yellow flowers and mountain bluet flower with its striking thistle-like flower heads.

Blue mist penstemon

Consult with your local nursery about plants that are native to your life zone. If natives are difficult to find, you can reap similar benefits with nonnatives that have adapted to your specific life zone landscape.

Gardener Vicki Spencer has an eclectic background in conservation, water, natural resources and more.

LEARN MORE ONLINE Read previous gardening columns at coloradocountrylife.coop. Click on Gardening under Living in Colorado.

GARDENING

TAKE IT EASY IN YOUR GARDEN

BY DIANNA TROYER

W

hether it’s a swing, glider, rocking chair or hammock, garden design should include a place to rest and revive.

Pam Penick settles in an Adirondack chair in her back garden under the shade of oak trees. As she slowly designed a series of gardens and patios on her one-quarter acre, she was inspired to write two books about gardening more sustainably: Lawn Gone! and The Water-Saving Garden. She also shares ideas at her blog “Digging.”

“I created a garden with cat-like tendencies, meaning it doesn’t need my attention every day,” she explained. “It’s important to relax in the garden and not just tend to it. I love watching hummingbirds zip around, sipping from Turk’s Cap and Mexican honeysuckle.”

Dave Whitinger, executive director of the National Gardening Association and an avid gardener in rural eastern Texas, sometimes writes outside. He finds a spot surrounded by greenery with the background music of chirping birds and humming insects.

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“I love the fragrance of our flowering plants and watching wildlife visiting our gardens,” he said.

Resting among lush green plants has physical benefits, such as lowering blood pressure and sharpening cognitive skills, according to the American Horticulture Therapy Association.

“While working with people who have Alzheimer’s and other memory disorders, I’ve seen horticulture therapy help reduce levels of depression, anxiety and stress,” said Patty Cassidy, a registered horticultural therapist in Portland, Oregon, and author of Gardening for Seniors.

Houseplants can be therapeutic, too.

“As these health benefits are becoming widely acknowledged, more therapeutic gardens and green spaces are being built at elementary schools, hospital complexes, corporate campuses and even prisons,” Cassidy said.

No matter the size of your outdoor space, make a place where you can relax and absorb the beauty that surrounds you.

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OUTDOORS

The Finest Feathered Flies Colorado’s small businesses need your support now more than ever.

Colorado’s electric cooperatives support local businesses in their communities. One way they are doing that is focusing on the many small Colorado businesses that have been featured on the Discoveries page of this magazine and other similar businesses just trying to make it during this difficult time.

Visit coloradocountrylife. coop/support-coloradossmall-businesses to see the wonderful list of Colorado small businesses still open and needing your support.

HELP GROW SUPPORT Give a business a shout-out on social media. Leave it a review.

Like, share and post on social media; the extra virtual love is appreciated. Be sure to tag your posts using #CoOpsSupportCO

#CoOpsSupportCO 24

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

BY DENNIS SMITH

OUTDOORS@COLOR ADOCOUNTRYLIFE .ORG

D

ry flies float, wet flies sink and that’s pretty much the long and short of it. Well, mostly.

Either of them can be fished on or below the surface, depending on the whims of the angler — and the fish. But that’s a whole other story.

For some reason, dry fly fishing has generally been seen among the fly-fishing cognoscenti as “classier” than wet fly fishing: more difficult, more sporting, more demanding, more effective, more fun … blah, blah, blah. I will say this: It is definitely more exciting to watch a fish rise to a dry fly than it is to feel one bump an unseen wet fly beneath the surface.

Some anglers — dry fly purists — would rather slit their wrists than fish a sunken fly. I’m just not one of them. Don’t get me wrong: I think dry fly fishing is neat, it’s extremely effective under the right conditions and, as we mentioned, more visually gratifying, but I’ll fish wet or dry flies as the spirit moves me. I don’t really care. Fly fishing is fun however you choose to do it.

That said, I learned to catch bluegills, bass and eventually trout on soft-hackled wet flies when I was a kid and I’ve never lost my affinity for them. Maybe it’s because I learned to make my own from locally available chicken feathers, and something about that just appealed to me.

The special hackle feathers necessary to make dry flies come from the capes and saddles of genetically-engineered roosters, and not only were they rare in those days, they were also priced well beyond the financial realities of a 13-year-old boy whose gross annual income varied with the number of 50-cents-an-hour lawn-mowing jobs I could find in the summer.

Consequently, I couldn’t afford them, but the dairy farmer down the road kept a flock of laying hens plus a bunch of exotic breeds — Silkies, Brahmas, you-name-it — and their wonderfully soft, beautifully mottled feathers perfectly mimicked the wing and leg motions of water bound insects. Better yet, they were free. “Uncle George,” as he was known locally, was a jolly, Santa Claus-like character in denim overalls who supplied the neighborhood with fresh milk, butter, eggs and cream. He also allowed us kids to rummage through his henhouse for feathers to tie our flies with if we asked politely. We also used the feathers from wild game birds and fur from the squirrels and rabbits we hunted. I don’t think we fully grasped the symbiotic implications of that then, but there was something mysteriously gratifying about tying flies from materials we scavenged ourselves from the farm or in the wild.

Today, I have drawers full of commercially-purchased fly-tying materials, but I still prefer to tie with feathers from barnyard chickens and wild game birds the boys and I hunt.

Dennis Smith is a freelance outdoors writer and photographer whose work appears nationally. He lives in Loveland.

MISS AN ISSUE? Catch up at coloradocountrylife.coop. Click on Outdoors under Living in Colorado.

DRIVE ELECTRIC

The average electric vehicle can save a driver who drives 15,000 miles in a year about $850 annually on fuel. All-electric vehicles start to pay for themselves a long time before they reach the end of their expected lifespans, leading to significant savings over time.

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CREATIVE CORNER

READER POETRY Thoreau

You Caught My Soul

Doubt

I sit in golden bars of light waiting for a broken angel’s song.

Thoughts of Thoreau come to mind, I can now understand his trembling, insatiable urge to be lifted up toward the window, so that he may glimpse upon one, last, illuminating spring.

When I am dead I will still inhabit thee, beloved West.

Maybe then I can take you inside me as I long to do, be one with you in every molecule.

Be your icy clear water chuckling and cavorting down my rocky hillside.

Be your lofty white clouds and your deepest blue sky in the same space.

Do you ever wonder what life is all about?

Do you ever have a serious doubt?

What makes the mind so complicated?

A recorder of proud solitudes amongst a myriad of diversities, he remained true to his convictions and gentle to the environs’ tempo.

I walk along the border of my dream under an endless sun, traveling as if in anticipation of new symbols to be juggled in the breaking light of my imaginings.

The hours pass and I sit under soft bars of moonlight, waiting for the harmonies of night to somehow, render the day’s departure.

Scatter my ashes in this land over these mountains, in the icy streams, in the deepest snows.

You caught my soul from the first moment and I will never leave you.

Helen Williams, Walden Mountain Parks Electric consumer-member

Burt Baldwin, Bayfield La Plata Electric consumer-member

Business For Sale

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We will announce the winners in the September 2020 issue of Colorado Country Life!

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I want to think that life gets better sooner or later, but that’s a mystery I can’t seem to gather.

Sidney E. Slater, Pagosa Springs La Plata Electric consumer-member

DO YOU WRITE POETRY? Send us your best work; we’d love to read it.

Submission: Submit your poetry via email to: mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org or by mail to: Colorado Country Life 5400 Washington St. Denver, CO 80216

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VIRTUAL ACTIVITIES Since some Community Events are being canceled or rescheduled due to COVID-19, we at Colorado Country Life went on an online scavenger hunt to find ways to be entertained while social distancing. We hope you’ll enjoy our list of VIRTUAL SANITY SAVERS! (We are doing our best to keep the calendar up-to-date at coloradocountrylife.coop/community-events/)

Gardening

Online Learning with Denver Botanic Gardens botanicgardens.org/online-learning

Create a “Giving Garden”

Help feed the community by growing late-season vegetables to bring to the food pantry. gardeners.com/kitchen-garden-planner/preplannedgardens?id=Giving_Garden

Gardener’s Supply Company Online Lookbooks Thumb through the popular gardening supply company’s “Midsummer Gardening 2020” online lookbook for the coolest and newest products. gardeners.com/how-to/new-product-lookbook/9329.html

Books

WordFire Press Audio Books, Monument

The Colorado publisher has a variety of audio books for your listening pleasure. wordfirepress.com/wfp-books-on-audio-in-print

Storyline Online

Whether your aged 1 or 99, you’ll love listening to stories read by familiar famous faces. storylineonline.net

Create Your Biography Book

Get paired with your ideal writer who will interview you and help create your biography in a hardcover book. storyterrace.com

Classes

Fort Collins Museum of Discovery’s Daily Discovery Classes

The museum features a variety of crafty activities that are both educational and fun for most ages. fcmod.org/blog/category/daily-discovery

Master Class

Want to learn acting techniques from Samuel L. Jackson?

Singing tips from Christina Aguilera? Photography tips from Annie Leibovitz? Wow! Subscribe for unlimited access to more than 80 masters of their field. masterclass.com

Virtual Visits

Get a Great Glance of Grand Junction

visitgrandjunction.com/Roam-from-Home?utm_ source=newsletter&utm_medium=may&utm_campaign=roam_from_ home

Look Around the Louvre in Paris louvre.fr/en/visites-en-ligne

Sneak Inside the Great Wall of China thechinaguide.com/destination/great-wall-of-china

Travel 352 Million Miles to Mars accessmars.withgoogle.com

Check out the Roman Pharos at Dover Castle artsandculture.google.com/exhibit/egIS8Lcnz98KIg

Explore Space in Pictures with NASA

artsexperiments.withgoogle.com/nasasvisualuniverse

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COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

Go to the Zoo

Visit Zoo to You at the Denver Zoo. denverzoo.org/zootoyou

Cheyenne Mountain Zoo Virtual Animal Encounters cmzoo.org/events-programs/virtual-experiences/virtual-animalencounter

Pueblo Zoo Virtual Programs pueblozoo.org/virtualprograms

The Wild Animal Sanctuary Mobile Device Videos wildanimalsanctuary.org/mobile-videos

Entertainment

Watch Choreographer Corey Baker in a Dance Performance in Antarctica

randomacts.channel4.com/post/173221388111/antarctica-the-first-dancecorey-baker-leading

Live Nation’s Live From Home

Check regularly for live performances from a wide range of music artists. livenation.com

Comedy Works at Larimer Square

See clips of some of the comedy club’s best stand-up comedians. youtube.com/user/comedyworksvideo

Healthy Activities

Studio Share, Pueblo

Work out with the studio’s app or take an online fitness class. studiosharepueblo.com

Yoga Pod, Boulder

Choose from more than 70 yoga classes that you can do at home through Zoom. yogapod.com/boulder/livestream

Grand Junction Martial Arts

Get tougher with virtual kickboxing classes. grandjunctionmartialarts.com/program/fitness-kickboxing

Silver Sneakers

Become a member and take on-demand classes designed for seniors. silversneakers.com/learn/ondemand

Sangre de Cristo Arts Center, Pueblo

Get dance lessons through the art center’s Virtual Dance Studio. sdc-arts.org

Podcasts

Find these podcasts on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, online and/or other podcast platforms.

Fresh Scoop

Dr. Kelly Diehl, scientific advisor at Denver’s Morris Animal Foundation, discusses animal-related topics with researchers.

Chef or Death

Join Chef Eric Chiappetta, a native Coloradan, as he interviews icons of the food and beverage community.

A Hint of Fiction

Listen to three mysterious stories and decipher which one is false.

BiggerPockets

The podcast hosts perform interviews with a variety of investors with various backgrounds.

YOUR STORIES

READERS’ PHOTOS

FUNNY STORIES My soon-to-be 4-year-old grand-

daughter, Sadie, and I were about to play a children’s board game. I explained to her that the cards were to be kept “face up” during the game. As she began her first turn, I observed her with a puzzling look. Sadie was literally looking at the ceiling. HER face was up!

Jane Jacquart, La Veta

My 4-year-old granddaughter has

WINNER: Teresa Alcorn of Wellington travels to Costa Rica with her mother, Gloria Hopp of Nathrop who is celebrating her 90th birthday. CCL is happy to travel along. Teresa is a consumer-member of Poudre Valley REA.

cute dimples on both sides of her cheeks. One morning, I was commenting on them and how I wished that I had dimples, too. She asked me to smile so that she could see if, indeed, I did have any. So, I gave her a large grin and she closely inspected my face. She looked at me with her hands cupped on either side of my face. Seeing my smiles lines, she told me, “Grandma, you don’t have any dimples, but you have some scratches on your face!”

Raylean Furnish, Franktown

I retrieved my purse out of the car

from the blistering heat. I brought it into the house and said out loud, “I hope my lip balm didn’t melt.” To which my 5-year-old grandson asked, “What is a lip bomb?” I said, “You put it on your lips. Do you want some?” He replied, “Nooooo! I don’t want my lips to blow up!”

Barbara McDonald, Pagosa Springs

While I was reorganizing my large

Poudre Valley REA consumer-member Angel Sanchez on a cruise to Cartagena Island brings CCL on the trip.

John and Linda Fialko, Poudre Valley REA consumermembers, take Colorado Country Life to the Czech Republic.

Mountain View Electric Association consumermembers Bill and Ann Oakes visit Tasmania and mainland Australia with CCL.

Mike and Regina Mulligan, Yampa Valley Electric Association consumer-members, take CCL to Ljubljana, Slovenia.

It’s easy to win with Colorado Country Life. Simply take a photo of someone (or a selfie!) with the magazine (even while at home) and email the photo, your name and address to info@coloradocountrylife.org. We’ll draw one photo to win $25 each month. The next deadline is Monday, June 15. Name, address and co-op must accompany photo. See all of the submitted photos on Facebook at facebook.com/COCountryLife.

linen closet, my 4-year-old came up behind me and said, “I’m sorry I’m rude, Mom.” Without turning around, I said, “Oh, honey, you’re not rude! I love you.” He responded by shutting the door on me and turning off the lights. “See, Mom!” he said from the other side of the door.

“I am rude!” He’s going to be a blast as a teenager.

Jessica Fletcher, Falcon

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 2020 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.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

29

DISCOVERIES

MAKING FATHER’S DAY SPECIAL Shower dad with Colorado-made gifts

Reel in Dad’s Appreciation When it comes to reels and spools, Montrose-based Ross Reels manufactures real beauties. Ross Reels has won multiple awards of excellence over its nearly 50 years in the business with a team that intricately hand makes these sought-after reels and spools. The Colorado company exudes pride for its home base with models named after areas, such as San Miguel, Animas and Gunnison. Reels start at $295; spools start around $42. For more information, visit rossreels.com.

A Gift From the Heart(h)

Pack for the Peaks

As a 10th generation master blacksmith, Alpheus G. Rudd’s aptitude for firing up a forge and hammering out original artworks is ironclad. Although his main focus is on repair and restoration, the Buena Vista dweller can carefully craft creative and functional designs in the form of iron doors, tomahawks and harpoons, just to name a few. To say Dad’s Father’s Day gift would be unique is an understatement. Check out some of Rudd’s art for sale or send in a custom order at alfsblacksmith.com.

If Dad is a lover of the outdoors, take a look at the assortment of durable packing equipment from Peyton-based Mountain Ridge Gear. MRG products center around equine packing gear, yet any outdoor lover can find sturdy equipment that will benefit them when roaming the Rockies. From duffel bags to pommel bags, saddle panniers and pack saddles, MRG merchandise is functional, durable and proudly made in the USA by an Air Force veteran. For more information, call 719-749-2289 or visit mountainridgegear.com.

Grooming Gear for Guys Beards are growing everywhere, but beards become a shaggy mess without a little TLC. Denver-based True Grit Grooming™ products help tame the wildest facial hair with products like beard cleansers, balms, oils, combs, soaps and more. Want to shave it off? TGG has men covered with shave brushes and shaving gel. Be on the lookout for the grand opening of TGG’s Showroom and Grooming Lounge where men can get the meticulous look they long for. For more information, visit truegrit.co.

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COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE JUNE 2020

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Compare to Performax 2411-1 $17.99

1499

9

$ 99

Use Online & In-Store

ITEM 69645/60625 shown

1299

$

$ 49

* 54724471 * LIMIT 4 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54724471

Save $1799 59%

Save 66%

Compare to Valeo 25521 $14.99

ITEM 62434, 62426, 62433, 62432, 62429, 64179, 62428, 64178 shown

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

Use Online & In-Store

* 54727268 * LIMIT 4 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54727268

1 SELLING JACKS IN AMERICA

#

$

9999

Save $ 45

Save 65% Use Online & In-Store

* 54741578* 5 4 7 4 1 5 7 8 LIMIT 2 - Exp. 8/1/20*

Compare to Buffalo Tools HDFDolly $22.99 ITEM 60497/63095/63096 63097/63098 shown

1750 PSI Electric Pressure Washer

79

$

13

$

99

Save 28% ITEM 63124/61280 63145 shown

99

* 54779839 * LIMIT 4 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54779839

ITEM 63255/63254 shown

Save 75% Compare to Hampton Bay 84130 $32.97

Use Online & In-Store

* 54782139 * LIMIT 1 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54782139

*Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 8/1/20.

Use Online & In-Store

* 54740043 * LIMIT 4 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54740043

ITEM 63941/62533 64625/68353 shown

SUPER COUPON

Two Tier Easy-Store Step CustomerLadder Rating (1193)

1999

$

$

Save 40% Use Online & In-Store

ITEM 64033, 64722, 64031, 64721, 64059, 64720, 56429

* 54777951 * LIMIT 1 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54777951

Compare to Werner S322A-1 $33.88

SUPER COUPON

Customer Rating

(674)

12v LED Magnetic Towing Light Kit

99

34

ITEM 64282

(4150)

Save 46%

9

$ 99 $

99

Use Online & In-Store

* 54776957 * LIMIT 3 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54776957

ITEM 67514

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

Compare to Blazer C7300 $42.65

2999

Save $ 630

Compare to Snap-On Blue-Point KRBC10TBPES $830

$

1,000+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com

1249

239

Side tray sold separately.

22

9999

Compare to Briggs & Stratton 20600 $174.44

$

99

$

Save $ 94 Use Online & In-Store

7

$ 99

199

(5063)

$ 99 $

* 54745803 * LIMIT 4 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54745803

(4035)

99

SUPERCustomer COUPON Rating

(873)

9

7

$ 99

1099

Use Online & In-Store

SUPER Customer COUPON Rating 1-1/4 Gallon Home and Garden Sprayer

$

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

Solar Rope Light

YOUR CHOICE 30", 5 Drawer Mechanic's Cart OF 7 COLORS

8999

Use Online & In-Store

* 54698203 * LIMIT 4 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54698203

ITEM 90984/61524/63056 63057/63150/56668 63094 shown

(1474)

$

1239

Save 69%

Compare to Keeper 5505 $22.80

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

$

ITEM 56621/56622/56623 56624 shown

ITEM 63167/63166/96645 shown

* 54735922 * LIMIT 3 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54735922

(5860)

18" x 12" Mover's Dolly

Rapid Pump® 3 Ton Steel Heavy Duty Floor Jack

Compare to Powerbuilt 647593 $135.27

Use Online & In-Store

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating (463)

$

Compare to Husky HTHKSM14PCN $32.10

6

$ 99

2999

Mechanics Gloves

5

(4898)

4 Piece, 1" x 15 ft. Ratcheting Tie Downs

$ 99 Save 44%

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

(4525)

(279)

4-1/2" Angle Grinder

Limit 1 coupon per customer per day. Save 20% on any 1 item purchased. *Cannot be used with other discount, coupon or any of the following items or brands: Inside Track Club membership, Extended Service Plan, gift card, open box item, 3 day Parking Lot Sale item, compressors, floor jacks, power stations, safes, storage cabinets, chests or carts, trailers, welders, Admiral, Ames, Atlas, Bauer, Central Machinery, Cobra, CoverPro, Daytona, Diamondback, Earthquake, Fischer, Hercules, Icon, Jupiter, Lynxx, Poulan, Predator, Tailgator, Viking, Vulcan, Zurich. Not valid on prior purchases. Non-transferable. Original coupon must be presented. Valid through 8/1/20.

99

SUPERCustomer COUPON Rating

(5867)

Use Online & In-Store

*54670830 * 54670830

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

Heavy Duty Foldable 29 Piece Aluminum Sports Chairs Titanium YOUR CHOICE Drill Bit Set OF COLOR

$ 99

ITEM 69115/69121/69129 69137/69249/877 shown

59 ¢

(4737)

2

Compare to Blue Hawk BG8X10-Y $8.78

1

$ 79

Compare to Rayovac BRS9LED-B $2.97

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

(2004)

$ 99

Save 65%

ANY SINGLE ITEM*

WOW!

Save $ 11

Compare to Powersmart PS50 $126.10

20% OFF

3-1/2" Super Bright Aluminum Flashlight Customer Rating

(1137)

900 Watt Max. Starting 2 Cycle Gas Powered Generator

SUPER COUPON

Wireless Security Alert System

1499 Save 69%

Use Online & In-Store

* 54790606 * LIMIT 3 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54790606

Compare to First Alert SFA600 $32.99 ITEM 61910/62447/93068 shown

Use Online & In-Store

* 54793666 * LIMIT 4 - Exp. 8/1/20* 54793666

At Harbor Freight Tools, the “Compare to” price means that the specified comparison, which is an item with the same or similar function, was advertised for sale at or above the “Compare to” price by another national retailer in the U.S. within the past 90 days. Prices advertised by others may vary by location. No other meaning of “Compare to” should be implied. For more information, go to HarborFreight.com or see store associate.

CONCERN FOR

COMMUNITY If you’re familiar with electric cooperatives you know this is one of the guiding principles in our not-for-profit business model. It’s part of who we are proud to be. During these challenging times, our cooperative family is here for you. We are responsibly doing our part to help power you through the unknown. There are a million things on your mind, making sure the lights stay on, shouldn’t be one of them. Because whatever the future holds, we’ll power it.