Colorado Country Life September 2020 Yampa Valley

YAMPA VALLEY ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION, INC.

SEPTEMBER 2020

PETS THAT MAKE YOU

PLUS GLUTEN-SENSITIVE BREAD RECIPES

12

FALL GARDENING IDEAS

22

GIFTS FOR YOUR FOUR-LEGGED FRIEND

30

ROAD-TRIPPING? Electric vehicle growth is expected to continue to rise across the U.S. There are also plans to install thousands of additional charging stations across the country. With the infrastructure in place, people will soon be able to drive electric from coast to coast with plenty of options to plug in along the way. Let’s ride. –Advanced Energy

CONTACT YOUR LOCAL CO-OP FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Volume 51

Number 09

September 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.

4 VIEWPOINT

5 LETTERS

6 ASK THE ENERGY EXPERT

7 YOUR CO-OP NEWS

12 RECIPES

14 NEWS CLIPS

PINTEREST SNEAK PEEK

16 COVER STORY

COCountryLife pinned: Gluten-sensitive or simply cutting carbs? Give this palate-pleasing Irish Soda Bread recipe a try. Get the recipe on the CCL Pinterest page.

PETS THAT MAKE YOU SMILE

20 INDUSTRY 22 GARDENING

24 OUTDOORS

26 MARKETPLACE

Colorado Rural Electric Association posted:

28 COMMUNITY EVENTS

On the

29 YOUR STORIES

Cover

30 DISCOVERIES

Youth Leadership Camp, usually held in mid-July near Steamboat Springs, was canceled this summer.

However, students still had the opportunity to hear from keynote speak Craig Zablocki during a virtual webinar.

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

SEPTEMBER 2020

“Fall Sunset” by Cindy Schafer, a member of San Isabel Electric Association.

FACEBOOK CHATTER

PETS THAT MAKE YOU

James Skeen of Loveland works with his llamas.

Photo by Chris Coleman.

Monthly Contest Enter for your chance to win one of two dogs collar (size S/M or M/L) from Leashes by Liz. Read more about this Colorado company in Discoveries on page 30.

For official rules and how to enter, visit Contests at coloradocountrylife.coop.

coloradocountrylife.coop

INSTAGRAM PIC of the month cocountrylife posted: Watching the sun set on July and an evening storm in Brighton.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

3

VIEWPOINT

ELECTRIC CO-OP INGENUITY

New ways to meet the ever-changing needs of consumer-members

BY KENT SINGER

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I

’m sitting on my back patio on yet another beautiful Colorado morning intermittently throwing a Frisbee to our border collie Ella, contemplating the subject of this column. Ella loves to catch the Frisbee, but rather than dropping it at my feet where I can reach it, she often drops it just out of my reach so I have to get up, take a couple of steps, bend over, throw it again and sit back down. Until, of course, like any advanced hominid, I figured out that I can use a branch of the forsythia bush my wife just trimmed to reach over and drag the Frisbee over to me without leaving my chair or iced tea. As the saying goes, “Necessity is the mother of invention.”

In its simplest terms, this old maxim just means that when humans have needed to find ways to survive and even improve their lives over the millennia, they invented better ways of doing things: From the spear to the wheel to microprocessors to Twitter, invention has generally improved our lives.

(I’m not so sure about Twitter.)

For Colorado’s electric cooperatives, the necessity we face as modern electric utilities is the desire of many of our consumer-members for a new approach to electricity delivery. Whether it’s new ways to communicate with the co-op, new services that improve consumer-members’ lives, new thinking about power generation and delivery, or just a new attitude about customer satisfaction, all of these demands have led us to invent, engineer and innovate like never before.

4

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

This innovation is happening at all three levels of the traditional power delivery system: generation, transmission and distribution.

At the generation level, co-ops (and other utilities) are rapidly transitioning from coal-fired power plants to renewable resources backed up by natural gas plants.

This is the result of not only policy decisions by the Colorado legislature, but also decisions made by utilities, including electric co-ops, based on the significant decline in the costs of wind and solar power over the last several years.

Regarding transmission, we continue to advocate for the creation of a regional electricity market (also called a “regional transmission organization” or RTO) that would pool the transmission assets of multiple utilities in the Rocky Mountain West and enable the more efficient exchange of power across multiple states. Co-ops and other utilities would benefit from the creation of such a market and would be able to integrate higher percentages of renewable energy from a wider array of resources than is currently possible.

And while innovation at the generation and transmission levels is ongoing, the real action today is at the distribution level. Electric co-ops are developing and deploying new products and services at a dizzying rate. Mountain Parks Electric in Granby and Yampa Valley Electric Association in Steamboat Springs have adopted “Electrify Everything” programs

KENT SINGER

that encourage consumer-members to save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by switching to electric vehicles and using electric heat pumps instead of propane. Holy Cross Energy in Glenwood Springs was an early supporter of the community solar garden model, and today community solar gardens have blossomed in many electric co-op service territories.

Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association, United Power and Intermountain REA have integrated large-scale solar arrays into their power supply mix, and IREA also recently completed a parking structure covered with solar panels.

These are just a few examples of the transformative thinking and doing that is propelling Colorado’s electric co-ops into their role as 21st century electric utilities.

But rest assured that this evolving approach is also paired with the traditional values of the cooperative movement: a commitment to the communities that the co-ops serve and a desire to improve the lives of the consumer-members at the end of the line.

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

Magazine covers: Not all concepts work

BY MONA NEELEY

EDITOR

D

on’t you love the llamas on the cover? Photographers Chris and Kylee Coleman did a way better job of bringing our cover concept to fruition than I did years ago with alpacas.

I could picture the cover in my head exactly as I wanted it. I had a pen of young alpacas and I had my adorable 3-year-old son, Zach. I could just see the cover featuring him with his chubby little hands out, feeding the baby alpacas.

Didn’t turn out quite that way.

I failed to consider that I was putting my young son, who had been raised in the suburbs, in the middle of a bunch of farm animals he’d never seen before. They were babies, but they were taller than him and evidently quite scary.

He was ok as MONA NEELEY long as I was with him. I’d get him positioned with an alpaca. (They actually cooperated well.) Then I’d move back to take the photo, but it was almost as if there was an elastic band attaching my son to my leg. As soon as I stepped away, there he was, arms around my leg staring back at the alpacas, which he called “pockets.”

I never did get the shot, just an adventure with my son. The Colemans did much better with llamas.

Mona Neeley is the statewide editor of Colorado Country Life, which is published in coordination with your local electric cooperative. Its goal is to provide information from your local electric co-op to you, its consumer-members.

NOW OPEN FOR ENTRIES

2021

Photo Contes t Read full rules and enter online at

coloradocountrylife.coop

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Aviatrix keeps her age a secret

I enjoyed your story on Marvel [Crosson] (August ’20), but I’m a little confused. In the beginning, you place her in 1917 as 13 years old, but she died in 1929 at 29 years old.

Dick Mumma, Falcon Mountain View Electric consumer-member

EDITOR’S NOTE: This was a note from one of our eagle-eyed readers about this discrepancy in the story.

And it was not a typo, as I first suspected. The confusion stems from historical records. Turns out that they don’t agree. Marvel was born in either 1900 or 1904, depending on the record being reviewed. She died in 1929; she was either 25 or 29 years old. Again, records don’t agree. I apologize that we didn’t clarify the situation before publishing the August story.

Too much wasted energy

I was saddened to see yet another way to encourage people to waste fossil fuels and drive “overland” into the backcountry (July ’20). There seems to be not much difference between car camping and overlanding except that overlanding means more people not willing to hike and, perhaps, driving places it is best that vehicles not go.

I wonder why Americans are obsessed with motorized vehicles and not good old-fashioned, healthy, hear-the-birds walking?

Name Withheld by Request

Bird watchers paradise

I enjoyed “Just Passing Through” (Outdoors, July ’20) . We are at 5,450 feet in elevation and it’s interesting to see some of the differences in bird behavior. We rarely see the mountain tanager, but the mountain bluebirds exhibit the same behavio r. B u llo ck ’s orioles and the lazuli buntings are permanent summer residents, raising young every year. The last few years we have seen a blue grosbeak; it stays longer each year and this year it looks like it may be around for the summer.

Bruce Spence, Masonville Poudre Valley REA consumer-member

SEND US YOUR LETTERS Editor Mona Neeley, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216 or mneeley@ coloradocountrylife.org. Include name and address. Letters may be edited for length.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

5

2020

LAST CHANCE TO ENTER

BEST

of

COLORADO

PRESENTED BY COLORADO COUNTRY LIFE MAGAZINE

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE CENTENNIAL STATE? This is your last chance to vote for your favorite: Cross Country Ski Trail:

Colorado-Made Wine (red):

Colorado-Made Wine (white):

Bed & Breakfast:

Burrito:

Colorado-Made Jam/Jelly:

Country Store:

Coffee Shop:

Golf Course:

ASK THE ENERGY EXPERT

THREE WAYS TO WINTERIZE YOUR MANUFACTURED HOME

BY PAT KEEGAN AND BR AD THIESSEN

I

n difficult times like these, it’s more important than ever to ensure the money we spend yields the results we need. Make your manufactured home more energy efficient with one of these tips. Some are quick, easy and cheap, but others may require more money than you want to spend. Choose the approach that works best for your home and budget.

Another fairly simple fix is to insulate the first several feet of the hot water pipe where it exits the tank. If there is room around your water heater, you could also wrap the tank with an insulation jacket, which can be purchased from a home supply store for about $20. If the water heater uses gas or propane, be careful not to restrict the air needed for combustion or install insulation too close to the exhaust flue.

1. Furnace It doesn’t cost anything to lower your thermostat in the winter. Clean or replace the furnace air filter as often as recommended.

Manufactured homes that are heated with an electric or propane furnace can likely reap dramatic savings on heating costs by installing a heat pump. Ductless heat pumps are efficient and eliminate the problem of leaky furnace ducts. If you don’t have the budget to make this an out-of-pocket investment now, you may qualify for a loan.

It’s quite possible that your energy savings would cover the loan payment.

2. Water heater One simple way to lower costs is to lower your water heater’s thermostat. Make sure it’s set to medium: between 120 and 140 degrees.

3. Ducts Leaky furnace ducts are often a major source of energy loss. A simple first step is to make sure all supply and return registers are open and not covered by furniture or rugs.

Closed registers can really take a toll on a heating and cooling system. You could also save energy by sealing the ducts at the floor registers. The biggest leaks, however, are likely under your manufactured home and could require the services of a contractor to locate and seal. Check with your local electric co-op to see if it can recommend local contractors who can provide this service.

With these simple steps, you can look forward to a cozier and less-costly winter.

Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen are from Collaborative Efficiency, which partners with electric co-ops to develop energy efficiency programs.

Setting your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit will save energy and keep the water at a safe temperature. Photo Credit: Scott Akerman

Mail entries to: Colorado Country Life magazine 5400 Washington Street, Denver CO 80216

LEARN MORE ONLINE Visit coloradocountrylife.coop to learn more about how you can save on your home energy costs. Look under the energy tab.

6

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

YAMPA VALLEY ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION SEPTEMBER 2020

MAILING ADDRESS 2211 Elk River Road Steamboat Springs, CO 80487

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS SERVICE CENTER 2211 Elk River Road Steamboat Springs, CO 80487

ph 970-879-1160 tf 888-873-9832 fax 970-879-7270 web www.yvea.com

CRAIG SERVICE CENTER 3715 East US Highway 40 Craig, CO 81625

ph 970-824-6593

tf 888-873-9832

fax 970-824-7134

facebook.com/ YampaValleyElectricAssociation

@YampaValleyElec

instagram.com/ yampavalleyelectriccoop

Yampa Valley Electric Association is a cooperative that provides value to its consumer-members by delivering safe and reliable electric service in an environmentally and financially responsible manner.

YAMPA VALLEY ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNIT Y PROVIDER AND EMPLOYER.

YOUR CO-OP NEWS

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD

BY STEVE JOHNSON,

GENER AL MANAGER & PRESIDENT

T

here’s an old political saying: “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.” This adage is the perfect answer to the question, “why vote?” It’s a blunt description of what happens when you don’t engage in the political process.

If you don’t vote, you’re not only missing the opportunity to support a candidate that shares your views and concerns, you’re allowing others to chart a course that impacts your future. That’s why we’re encouraging all Yampa Valley Electric Association members to recognize National Voter Registration Day on September 22, 2020. Whether you’re registering yourself or others to vote, or helping members of our community get organized, there are many ways to get involved. This year, YVEA’s Annual Meeting coincides with “National Voter Registration Day,” which is especially appropriate as this is where we will be announcing the results of our annual director elections.

Your vision, your vote While local elections may not be as exciting as the high-profile presidential election, they are just as critical. Local elections have a direct impact on your community and your quality of life.

Like the national level, local elections represent who we are as a community and, more importantly, where we want to go.

Whether it’s an election for a mayor, sheriff, state representative, school board, or your local YVEA electric cooperative board member, your vision for the community in which you live is tied to your vote.

Voting keeps elected officials accountable. Elections are a direct and tangible source of feedback. For example, YVEA board members provide fiscal responsibility and strategic direction for the

STEVE JOHNSON

co-op and how it serves the membership and local communities. Local board members embody the voice and identity of the community. YVEA’s directors are each elected for a three-year term by the members of the association. Each member of the association is entitled to a single vote in the election of all directors, excluding appointments. Members who have multiple meters are also entitled to one vote. Ballots were mailed on Friday, August 21, 2020. To be valid and counted, each ballot must be signed by the member whose name is on the label and the ballot must be received at the location of the third-party ballot counter

by Thursday, September 17, 2020. Members may also vote in person at the YVEA annual meeting September 22, 2020, in Baggs, Wyoming, at the Valley Community Center.

The results of the election will be announced at this annual meeting. (Based on State and County requirements for COVID-19, the meeting may be held virtually.)

Staying in sync with the community Ultimately, the role of the co-op board is fiscal oversight and governance. While day-to-day decisions are made by our employees, bigger decisions are made jointly by management and the board, whose mission is to look out for the vitality of the co-op and the members we serve. YVEA board members provide their perspective on community priorities, thereby enabling COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

7

YOUR CO-OP NEWS us to make more informed decisions on long-term strategies and investments.

We depend on you and your neighbors to vote so that we can stay on course, keep running smoothly, and ensure that we are in sync with the communities we serve.

A strong voter turnout shows investment in the community and ensures that a diverse number of views are represented. The whole

community benefits when more people participate in the process, because greater numbers reflect a consensus on the direction of the future and the will of the people.

By voting in national, state and local elections, you are serving as a role model for your family, friends and colleagues. The act of voting demonstrates your support for the community and helps officials chart a

course for the future.

Democracy is not a spectator sport. We encourage you to research candidates, learn about the issues that are on the ballot and get out and vote!

To learn more about National Voter Registration Day or to get involved, visit www.nationalvoterregistrationday.org.

It’s Because We Care: Stay back and stay safe

W

orking with electricity can be a dangerous job, especially for lineworkers. In fact, USA Today lists power line repairers and installers among those having the most dangerous jobs in the United States.

That’s why for us at Yampa Valley Electric Association, safety is the number one priority. This is not empty talk. Over time, we created a culture of putting our crews’ safety and that of the community above all else.

Our mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable energy to you, our consumer-members. Yes, we strive to deliver affordable and reliable electricity to you, but getting our employees home safely to their loved ones at the end of the day is equally important. This requires ongoing focus, dedication, vigilance — and your help.

DISTRACTIONS CAN BE DEADLY While we appreciate your kindness and interest in the work of our crews, we ask that you stay back and let them focus on their task at hand. Even routine work has the potential to be dangerous, and it takes their full attention and that of their colleagues, who are also responsible for the team’s safety.

Distractions can have deadly consequences. If a lineworker is on or near your property during a power outage, for vegetation management or for routine maintenance, please allow them ample

8

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

room to work. These small accommodations help protect our crews — and you.

If you have a dog, try to keep it indoors while lineworkers are on or near your property. While most dogs are friendly, some are defensive of their territory and can’t distinguish between a burglar and a utility worker. Our crews work best without a pet “supervising” the job.

We recognize, for your family’s safety, you want to make sure only authorized workers are on or near your property. You will recognize YVEA employees by their high-visibility shirt emblazoned with the YVEA logo, and the service trucks with our name and logo on them. You may also recognize our lineworkers because they live right here in our local community.

YVEA crews repair broken pole after car/ pole incident on RCR 129.

SLOW DOWN AND MOVE OVER In addition to giving lineworkers some space while they are near your property, please follow state law and move over and slow down when approaching a utility vehicle on the side of the road. This is an extra barrier of safety to help those who help all of us. There may be times where traffic is limited to one lane or the road is closed completely. Please help us out by finding an alternate route or waiting for us to complete our work. A little patience goes a long way for our employees who are trying to complete their task safely and get off the road to get you on your way.

Check our website for more information and a video interviewing utility workers who had close calls while working when drivers were distracted: www.yvea.com/ electrical-safety.

YOUR CO-OP NEWS

YVEA POLE TOP RESCUE TRAINING

P

ole top and bucket rescue is an annual training requirement for all employees in the YVEA line department. This training simulates a coworker that has had either a medical emergency or made contact with energized lines.

The purpose of this training is to rescue the employee as safely and as quickly as possible. The maximum time they have for a rescue is 4 minutes. The reason behind this is to start CPR and first aid as quickly as possible to the injured employee.

Once someone receives an electrical shock and needs CPR, for every minute they are not cared for, their chance of survival drops approximately 10%.

The average time YVEA employees performed pole top and bucket rescue is approximately 2 minutes equating to approximately an 80% chance of survival. The goal is for this to be a tool in our tool belt and never have to use it because of safe work practices we perform day in and day out.

YVEA is a proud sponsor of the Moffat and Routt County fairs.

Unclaimed Capital Credits Yampa Valley Electric Association will be posting on September 25 in local newspapers a list of names from 2017 who have patronage capital refund checks that were either returned by the postal service as undeliverable or have remained uncashed for more than three years.

These refunds must be claimed within 30 days after the published notice. You may claim your refund by calling Yampa Valley Electric Association at 970-879-1160 or toll free at 888-873-9832, or by emailing capitalcredits@yvea.com. You will be asked to identify yourself, provide your current mailing address and telephone num­ber and verify the years and/or location of your service with YVEA. We strongly encourage you to contact us and update your information so that future funds may be distributed without delay. You may also visit www.yvea.com/what-are-capitalcredits for a complete listing of unclaimed capital credits.

The Luminate Difference Say goodbye to slow telephone DSL and cable company internet. Luminate is rapidly growing, delivering voice and broadband services over fiber optics. Fiber opticsbased broadband service isn’t just a catchy phrase; it is fundamentally superior to other networks including old legacy copper (telephone company DSL) and clunky coaxial (cable company) networks, which are outdated, overutilized, lack appropriate maintenance, and are inferior to the shortand long-term capability of fiber. (More about wireless in an upcoming edition.)

While fiber is the term we hear most often, the measurable differences are speed, capability, reliability, sustainability and overall performance — characteristics that set Luminate apart. Moreover, Luminate’s pricing is arguably better than any other area provider while providing impeccable service and increased overall bandwidth.

We are local, we care and our network is ready for your data — ditch overpriced cable television, stream your service of choice, game without guilt and work without worry with Luminate. If we aren’t in your area yet, know the team is working hard to get it there. Check us out today at luminatebroadband.com and register your interest so we know where to build next. Internet the way it should be.

Introducing Green Choice Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) Program

G

reen Choice is an attainable renewable energy program that allows our local community to set renewable portfolio goals that are reachable within a short period of time.

For more information on Green Choice, visit www.yvea.com/ green-choice-program.

OFFICES CLOSED SEPTEMBER 7 FOR LABOR DAY COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

9

YOUR CO-OP NEWS

Stay in the Know: Let us Contact You At Yampa Valley Electric Association, we are constantly striving to improve our operational efficiency so we can provide the most reliable electric service possible for you, our consumer-members.

We rely on data for nearly every aspect of our operations, which is why we need your help. By making sure we have your most current and accurate contact information, we can continue to provide the high level of service that you expect and deserve. Accurate information enables us to improve customer service and enhance communications for reporting and repairing outages. It also allows co-op members to receive information about other important programs, events and activities.

We want to emphasize that in providing your contact information to the co-op, we will never share this information with any third parties. It is only used by us to send important information to you. Please take a moment to confirm or update your contact information by emailing billing@yvea. com, logging into your SmartHub account, going to www. yvea.com/contact-us or calling member services at 970-8791160. To sign up for a free SmartHub account, visit www.yvea. com/download-smarthub-app. By doing so, you will help us improve service and efficiency so we can better serve you and all members of the co-op.

Operation Round Up

A

ttention nonprofits: The grant application deadline is October 15.

Non-profit organizations within the YVEA territory that continue to provide much needed programs and projects that are important to our communities are encouraged to apply for Operation Round Up funds. Applications are accepted two times per year, May 15 and October 15. For application and more information visit www.yvea.com/operation-roundup.

New Residential Level 2 Electric Vehicle Charger Rebate YVEA has a new rebate for residential level 2 EV chargers. Visit www.yvea.com/ rebates for more information.

YVEA Contractors Working Throughout Our Territory YVEA works year-round to keep your power flowing. As part of its 2020 construction work plan, YVEA will have several contractors working in the service territory.

• Intermountain Electric Service, Inc. has completed the work in Baggs and Dixon, Wyoming.

• Work in the Craig area around Pizza Hut, McDonalds and Centennial Mall is almost complete.

• Work in Steamboat Springs in the areas of Meadow Lane, Delta Queen, Highland Way, Natches Way, Robert E. Lee Lane, Anglers Drive, Apres Ski Way, Alpenglow Way, Melrose Lane, Val D’Isere, Anthony’s Circle & Laurel Lane will continue through September.

• Work on Glacier Ridge will be held off until late summer.

If you have any questions, please visit our website or contact Dan Trevithick at YVEA at 970-871-2253.

The contractor crews will be wearing yellow safety vests and hats emblazoned with “Yampa Valley Electric Association Contractor” on them. For the public’s safety and the safety of its crews, YVEA asks that you use caution near contractors’ worksites. YVEA wants you and its contractors’ crews to get home safely.

For more information, please visit www.yvea.com/current-construction or follow YVEA on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

10

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

2020 Annual Meeting is on September 22 The YVEA 2020 Annual Meeting is scheduled for September 22, 2020 at the Valley Community Center, 255 W. Osborne Street, Baggs, Wyoming.

Based on state and requirements for COVID-19 in the fall, the meeting may be held virtually. Members may RSVP on their ballot or call 970-8791160 to RSVP. Attendees will be required to follow COVID-19 social distancing regulations. Masks are required.

The election process remained the same for petitions for nominations of directors being returned to YVEA by May 8, 2020. Ballots were mailed on August 21. To be valid and counted, each ballot must be signed by the member whose name is on the label and the ballot must be received at the location of the third-party ballot counter by Thursday, September 17, 2020. If the meeting is held virtually, the director election will be complete by mail in ballot process only. For updated information please visit www.yvea. com/board-directors-information.

RECIPES

BE GOOD TO YOUR BREADBASKET

WIN

A BAG FULL OF GOODIES

When it comes to beneficial bread, the secret is in the dough

BY AMY HIGGINS

| RECIPES@COLOR ADOCOUNTRYLIFE.ORG

Palate-pleasing, healthy, grain-free recipes

W

Enter our September contest for a chance to win three autographed cookbooks written by Elana Amsterdam and a bag of almond flour in a beautifully-designed bag. Click on Contests at coloradocountrylife.coop for details on how to enter.

hether you’re gluten-sensitive or simply cutting carbs, it can be challenging finding grain-free recipes that not only accommodate your diet, but are also palate-pleasing. And bread? Forget about it, right? On the contrary, Boulder denizen and blogger Elana Amsterdam — who also has celiac disease — started creating recipes years ago that support diets that are gluten-free, reduced-carb, paleo and more. Best of all, they taste great. Amsterdam is a cookbook author, wellness expert, researcher and entrepreneur — to list a few accolades — and her bread recipes are flavorful, filling and delicious. In addition, she has a slew of recipes for several other diets, and shares recipes for desserts, pastries, soups and more on her blog Elana’s Pantry: at elanaspantry.com. Be sure to check them out, but first try baking this beauty below.

Low-Carb Lemon Rosemary Zucchini Bread 2 1/2 cups blanched almond flour (not almond meal) 2 tablespoons egg white protein powder 1/2 teaspoon celtic sea salt 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 4 large eggs 1/4 cup maple syrup 1/4 teaspoon vanilla stevia 1 tablespoon rosemary, minced 1 tablespoon lemon zest 8 ounces zucchini

FACT GLUTEN’S IMPACT ON AMERICANS Beyond Celiac, an organization that advocates for enhanced research for treatments, diagnoses and a cure for celiac-disease patients, reports that 18 million Americans have gluten sensitivity.

12

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

In a food processor, combine almond flour, protein powder, salt and baking soda. Pulse in eggs, maple syrup, stevia, rosemary, and lemon zest.

Remove s-blade, replacing with grater attachment. On a scale, weigh out 8 ounces of zucchini.

Push zucchini through food processor to grate over batter.

Stir in zucchini by hand. Transfer batter to a greased 9-by-5 inch loaf dish. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-55 minutes. Cool for 1 hour, then serve.

Looking for another great lowcarb bread recipe? Try Elana’s Pantry Keto Cornbread .

Get the recipe at coloradocountrylife.coop.

The Best Offense is a

Strong Defense Be prepared this fall with these immune support supplements Your immune system is your body’s best line of defense, and Life Extension® nutritional supplements are scientifically formulated to support a healthy immune response, encourage whole-body health and more.

Supports the body’s natural immune defenses Item #01813 • 50 mg 90 vegetarian capsules

6

$ .75

#1 Rated

Multivitamins 7 Time Winner!* *Ratings based on results of the 2020 ConsumerLab.com survey of supplement users.

High potency multi More information at www.ConsumerLab.com/survey.

with vitamins, minerals and nutrients, including 25 mg of zinc Item #02314 • 120 capsules

18.00

$

Vitamin D supports healthy immune response, bone health & more

Easily absorbed antioxidant promotes immune and respiratory health

Item #01713 • 125 mcg (5000 IU) • 60 softgels

Item #01534 • 600 mg 60 capsules

7

10.50

$ .50

$

SAVE

Citrus-orangeflavored lozenges support immune health Item #01561 60 vegetarian lozenges

$

6.75

SAVE $5

+ FREE Shipping on orders of $25 or more

Must Use Code

GET5

40% Vitamin C plus ultra-absorbable quercetin for immune support Item #02228 60 vegetarian tablets Price: $7.50

Sale: $4.50

*Ratings based on results of the 2020 ConsumerLab.com survey of supplement users. More information at www.ConsumerLab. com/survey | Offer expires October 12, 2020. FREE standard shipping (regularly $5.50 USD) to any U.S. mailing address, excluding U.S. territories and wholesalers. To receive the $5 discount, your purchase must total at least $25 in a single order. Premier Rewards program fees, gift cards, and Life Extension Magazine® subscriptions do not apply to the $25 order total. Discounts available for nonstandard and international shipping. Copyright ©2020 Life Extension®. All rights reserved.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

MKAQAV200704 • CO

Call toll-free 1-877-354-6517 or visit LifeExtension.com

NEWS CLIPS

Redistricting Commissions Seek Applicants

I

n 2021, two new redistricting commissions will redraw Colorado’s U.S. congressional and state legislative districts. Redistricting takes place after each decennial Census and is mandated by the U.S. Constitution and U.S. Supreme Court.

Theoretically, redistricting is simple. The process is designed to equalize the population of Colorado’s seven (soon to be eight) congressional districts, 35 Colorado Senate districts and 65 Colorado House districts.

In practice, redistricting is political. When one party controls the process, it seeks to pack as many of the opposing party’s voters into as few districts as possible in order to make the rest of the districts more favorable to its own candidates. This is called gerrymandering.

In 2018, Colorado voters, wary of gerrymandering, passed Amendments Y and Z to the state constitution, creating two politically-balanced commissions to redraw districts using neutral criteria, such as minimizing splits to cities, counties and communities of interest. One commission redraws congressional districts and the

other redraws state legislative districts.

Each commission will consist of four Republicans, four Democrats and four unaffiliated voters.

These new commissions only work if fair-minded Coloradans of all political stripes apply for the commissions. Applications for the Legislative Redistricting Commission and the Congressional Redistricting Commission are available on the Colorado legislature’s website at https://redistricting.colorado.gov.

In early 2021, there will be a random selection of 300 Republicans, 300 Democrats and 450 unaffiliated applicants. Then, a panel of retired judges — no more than one of any given party — will vet the applications and narrow the field to 50 Republicans, 50 Democrats and 50 unaffiliated applicants. A random selection of two Republicans, two Democrats and two unaffiliated voters will then begin the process of composing the 12-member commission.

The application deadline is November 10 and rural applicants are encouraged.

LISTEN IN FOR THE CO-OP POINT OF VIEW Enjoy podcasts? Searching for something to listen to? Try streaming the electric cooperative podcasts at electric.coop/podcast.

In August’s 30-minute program, representatives of the national co-op trade association, a local electric co-op and the U.S. Forest Service talk about how partnerships among co-ops and regulatory agencies can help mitigate wildfire risks.

Previous topics for the podcasts include engaging co-op consumer-members in the 2020 elections, how co-ops work together when storms cause system damage, communicating in times of crisis, changing expectations for co-ops, battery storage and new technology, and more important topics from across electric co-op country.

14

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

Help Promote a Business You Love Colorado Country Life is sponsoring a first-ever Best of Colorado contest.

This is a great opportunity to nominate a favorite local business, product or venue and get it some great publicity while we are in this challenging business climate.

Simply visit www.coloradocountrylife. coop/best-of-2020-nominations and fill out the form. Make nominations in at least four categories and you’ll be entered in a drawing for one of three $100 gift cards.

Then watch for the Best of Colorado to be announced in the January issue of the magazine.

NEWS CLIPS

Electric Co-ops Focus on Electricity’s Benefits Electric cooperatives have long been advocates of energy efficiency and cost savings for their consumer-members. That continues today as promotions for beneficial electrification come to the forefront. Beneficial electrification is the deployment of electric-powered devices where at least one of the following goals is met without adversely impacting the others: consumer savings, reduced pollution, grid resiliency, improved products and quality of life.

Last year a national Beneficial Electrification League (BEL) was formed. Colorado’s co-op power supplier, Tri-State Generation and Transmission, is a leading member of the league, as well as the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and the Natural Resources Defense Council. Tri-State, along with CREA, which represents Colorado’s electric cooperatives, helped create BEL-CO, the first BEL state chapter. Then Tri-State expanded two of its key staff positions in late 2019 to focus on beneficial electrification.

Matt Fitzgibbon went from relationship manager to beneficial electrification manager, and Shaun Mann Tuyuri is now senior manager of beneficial electrification and research and development at Tri-State.

The title change has “helped us be more effective communicators of beneficial electrification,” said Fitzgibbon, as he noted that the power supplier’s energy efficiency program has always had an “underlying [goal] of beneficial electrification.

“Before in R&D, we were already doing that work in technology development, such as demonstrating heat pumps that work in extreme cold,” Mann Tuyuri said. Now there is “business innovation and how to drive consumer adoption of beneficial electrification.”

“Beneficial electrification is extremely important, especially as we move forward with plans for more renewable energy and a cleaner grid,” Fitzgibbon said.

TIPS TO

SAFELY

CHARGE YOUR ELECTRONICS

S ale

Don’t buy cheaply made, off-brand charging cubes and cables. They can be potential fire hazards, cause electrocution, or damage the device.

Throw away charger blocks and cords that are worn or damaged and make sure they are not hot when charging devices.

NOT IN BED

Only charge devices on a hard, flat, noncombustible surface to allow for adequate ventilation.

Do not touch any electronic devices that are charging when you are wet or standing in water.

Learn more at

Cathy Cash is a staff writer at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

15

COVER STORY

PETS THAT MAKE YOU PET STORY CONTEST WINNERS Pets are priceless. They’re our confidants, comrades and comforters — and the feeling is mutual. Known for nuzzling their humans for a touch, treat or trek around town, pets bring joy even in the most difficult times.

When we asked for entries to our 2020 Pet Story Contest, we weren’t surprised to receive a flood of fantastic narratives about our readers’ pet pals. Some told of animals that saved the day, while others noted their flippant behavior. All of the stories reported the myriad personalities of your pets. While every entry evoked emotion, the following stories brought about particular responses that declared them the winners. We hope you love them as much as we do.

The first place story was written by James Skeen of Loveland about an elk-llama stampede. Second place went to Margaret Schwab of Westminster and her intuitive Lab-golden retriever. The third place story was written by Debbie Wilson of Cotopaxi about a crime-solving cat. This issue also includes a few runners-up and there are more at www.coloradocountrylife.coop.

1ST PLACE WINNER

ANIMAL ANTICS

By James Skeen, Loveland Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association

O

f all the ways I imagined I might die one day, I never conceived of dying in an elk-llama stampede, but as the elk and my llamas careened toward each other, the impossible was looking possible.

In 2008, following a grueling mountain hike, I told my friend Brian I was going get some llamas to backpack with. My friend smirked and asked, “What do you know about llamas?”

“Nothing,” I said, “but I’ll learn.”

Now, for 11 years I’ve owned, trained and loved my llamas; they are backpacking buddies, protectors, friends, garden fertilizers (llama poop is great) and bike riding pals.

When I got my first llamas and wanted to accelerate their conditioning, I started taking them on bike rides. Me on a bike with two llamas running behind me is a bit of a spectacle, but my neighbors got used to the routine. That routine almost ended catastrophically one day.

Coming over the rise of the dirt road with my llamas Kona and Star trailing my bike, I could see 18 bull elk in my pasture.

With visual enjoyment, I continued pedaling toward my house.

James Skeen laughs as he recalls the time his llamas almost tangled with some elk.

16

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

COVER STORY I’m not sure who began sprinting first: the elk or my llamas. Either way, they started speeding toward each other on a collision course. My llamas, which had been lazily running behind me, were now pulling me at Mach speed. Likewise, the elk were tearing toward the road as if their lives depended on crossing before we passed. My 9th grade geometry skills calculated the possibility of collision and it wasn’t looking good! Just as it appeared that impact was imminent, my llamas pulled up. Eighteen hell-bent elk passed just feet in front of us.

I never imagined I might face my fate in an elk-llama stampede, but 20 years ago I never would’ve imagined having six wonderful llamas as pets.

SAVED BY GRACIE

By Margaret Schwab, Westminster Sangre de Cristo Electric Association

Y

ears back I spent a year undergoing chemotherapy for lymphoma.

Gracie, my Lab-golden retriever mix, was 6 years old at the time and quite energetic, except when I went for a blood draw or chemo. After a procedure she would meet me differently. Normally she was exuberant and bouncy, but as I exited the facility she was happy yet subdued, gently walking inches away from my leg and matching my slow pace.

One day I became concerned with Gracie as she was drooling profusely and wouldn’t leave my side. I called a friend at work to come help me take Gracie to the vet.

When my friend noticed my flushed face and perspiration, she said she was taking me to the emergency room, not Gracie, and I was immediately admitted.

While at the hospital we had a neighbor check on Gracie — no drooling at all. She was fine and resting peacefully at home.

Evidently she was trying all day long to let me know something was wrong with me.

Gracie turned 12 years old in July and she still gives me daily “pet scans.” What an amazing companion!

3RD PLACE WINNER Pooh the cat has gone from stray to home protector.

CORNERED BY A CALICO

By Debbie Wilson, Cotopaxi Sangre de Cristo Electric Association

T

he town we lived in was quiet with nice wide streets and houses with huge backyards. Crime was nonexistent, and kids and pets ran freely. We were lucky to live next door to the Connelly family and their cat named Pooh. Pooh was a calico with four white paws — a stray that was adopted by the Connellys.

Pooh was incredibly smart with a wide vocabulary of mews to communicate with us humans. He had a great life and we all felt lucky to know him. We did not realize just how lucky until late one summer day when we invited the Connelly family over for a late lunch at our house.

We just finished eating when Pooh came running flat out to where we were gathered in the backyard. He was mewing frantically.

He started running back toward his house and stopping, looking back at us. It was obvious he wanted us to follow him, so we did, more out of curiosity than fear.

Rounding the corner, we saw a truck parked in the Connellys’ driveway. As we headed toward their front door, a man ran out and jumped in the truck. He gunned it down the driveway and tore out into the street, almost hitting us in his haste to get away. We barely managed to call 911 and were afraid to go in the house, so we remained outside until the police arrived.

Inside, the police found garbage bags containing items to be stolen. Pooh the cat stopped a robbery and was rewarded with much affection as well as gourmet cat food and all the treats he could ever want.

2ND PLACE WINNER

Gracie, a Lab-golden retriever mix, helps keep her owner, Margaret Schwab of Westminster, healthy.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

17

COVER STORY

MISADVENTURES OF LEAVING LOMA

By Denise Copple, Loma Grand Valley Power

O

ur cat Diva was a kitten under the age of 1 when she had an eventful experience that probably cost her some of her cat lives.

We live in the rural Colorado city of Loma and my husband commutes daily to Orchard Mesa for work; this is an approximate 20-mile, one-way trip. He went to work that morning but left midday to go to the nearby grocery store to pick up something for a potluck at work. He came out of the grocery store and saw a kitten resembling ours walking a short distance from his truck.

RUNNERUP

RUNNERUP Leo, a German shepherd, came to the rescue of owner Sweetie Marbury when a bear got too close.

He is not a cat fan, so he thought about getting in his truck and leaving. His guilty conscience got the best of him though and he called out, “Here, kitty, kitty, kitty. Here, Diva.” The kitten immediately responded by coming toward him. My husband scooped her up and brought her home.

The reality of her adventure is that Diva got up underneath his Ford F350 truck and rode the 20 miles to his work. She probably was so traumatized that she did not get out from under the truck until he left work.

At that point, she probably said enough is enough and had her second ride for the day … inside the cab of the truck this time. If she could only talk and tell us of her tale.

Today, Diva is a healthy cat of 13 years and we love her and her diva-like attitude.

She doesn’t venture far from home these days.

LEO THE WARRIOR ON WEST SECOND

By Sweetie Marbury, Durango La Plata Electric Association

I Diva sticks close to home after taking a ride in the engine compartment of a pickup.

18

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

t was 11:30 p.m. on a cool summer night in Durango. The old apple tree was blooming but there was no peace in the still air — the summer brought bears every night into the alley behind my house.

Leo, my coal-black German shepherd, was always on guard duty. I kept pots and pans

on the deck to bang at the bears as they haughtily strolled past my fence. But on this night, all would change in a heartbeat.

I heard the crash and saw a black streak dashing out the doggy door. I ran and picked up the pots and pans and began yelling at the invader. In a flash, a 600-pound male bear was in the yard and Leo was attacking him.

Towering more than 8 feet tall, the intruder stood up to get a better view of Leo the Warrior. He swung at Leo and then came down on all four of his massive legs — Leo was in pursuit. The bear was now coming directly at me, but Leo, my faithful protector, would have none of it.

Leo growled and howled deeply, loudly and threateningly, and then darted up the stone steps, charging the bear repeatedly. The bear roared powerfully; I screamed emphatically. Leo put himself between the bear and me, and then drove the trespasser through the crumpled fence and out of the yard.

I didn’t sleep that night and neither did Leo. At attention on the deck, my warrior awaited the next attack; protecting his home was his duty. Leo, my gentle giant, kept watch as the stars turned into blue sky.

COVER STORY PANDORA SAVES THE TURTLE

By Don Small, Fraser Mountain Parks Electric

E

veryone knows that Labradors like to retrieve, and our 9-year-old dog, Pandora, who looks and acts like a black Labrador even though she’s a mix, is no different. She loves to play fetch and can hold three lacrosse balls in her mouth at once. She even runs down the driveway and gets the newspaper for us every morning, which we appreciate, especially when it’s raining.

We have a small stone pond outside our front door. Among the many inhabitants is a water turtle, named Shelly by our granddaughter, that swims over to me when I wave to it and feed it.

Pandora is always curious and likes to watch me feed Shelly.

“Pandora, that’s a turtle,” I’ve said to her many times.

The pond has a slow leak, and from time to time I have to add water to it. One day last summer, I accidentally left the hose running in the basin when I went to bed. The next morning I realized the pond was overflowing its walls, releasing Shelly into the yard. My wife and I walked around the property searching for her, looking in the flower beds and the grass.

Eventually my wife gave up and I was about to do the same when, on a lark, I said to Pandora, “Go find the turtle, Pandora!”

She ran off and I continued to search. Suddenly I turned around and found Pandora standing proudly next to me, gently holding the turtle upside down in her mouth.

Shelly was none the worse for her big adventure and quickly returned to perching on her favorite spot in the pond. Of course we gave Pandora some treats as a reward for rescuing Shelly. That day we learned her retrieving skills went far beyond balls and newspapers. She is amazing.

Pandora, a black Lab, proved she can find more than tennis balls when she fetches a pet turtle.

RUNNERUP

RUNNERUP Carrie Eskew with mama Shine and baby Jam. Photo by Lane Eskew.

A LABOR OF LOVE

By Lane Eskew, Fort Collins Poudre Valley Rural Electric Association

I

’m not a doctor or a nurse, but here I knelt next to a struggling mother donkey who depended on me to save her life.

Shine, a miniature donkey, had a sweet disposition throughout her pregnancy — she never changed behavior like many other pregnant donkeys do. She was overdue and in the same sweet and stoic mood, so my family had to monitor her closely for any signs of labor. Finally, one clear dawn morning, we saw the telltale white “water balloon” (amniotic sac) emerging from Shine. But we also should’ve seen the baby’s front feet in the sac; it was empty. This was a bad sign.

Shine had no strength left to stand, so she laid down in exhaustion.

I had read about having to manually deliver a foal in an emergency, so my daughter quickly called our vet. He coached me through the process and told me to reach in and pull the front hooves out. “What?! With these big hands?” I questioned.

The vet assured me that my hands were no bigger than the foal that was trying to come out, so I boldly went for it. The front legs were jammed and turned, hindering the baby from emerging. When Shine went into another contraction, I maneuvered the tiny hooves in the right direction and soon the baby slid out. He twitched with life a couple of times as I wiped his face and he took his first breath. Life prevailed!

Shine looked back at her newborn, and her shiny brown eyes widened with loving surprise as she leaned back and smelled the foal — and they immediately bonded.

Today, the little jack and mama are as healthy as ever. After our experience, it wasn’t difficult to name the new boy: Jam!

Read more stories online at coloradocountrylife.coop.

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

19

INDUSTRY

The Little Blue Logo that Changed Efficiency Standards

BY PAUL WESSLUND

T

he little blue (and sometimes black) logo with the star inside that you see on all sorts of appliances and electronics has changed the way we view savings through more efficient products.

The Energy Star® program claims credit for reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and for saving Americans $30 billion in energy costs. Analysts credit Energy Star with innovating the energy industry, as manufacturers set goals of making more energy-efficient products than their competitors.

What the Energy Star logo does is make it easy to know whether a product you’re thinking about buying is more energy efficient than other models. Essentially the program looks at the average energy use of each type of product and awards the Energy Star rating to top performers based on different criteria — a refrigerator needs to be 9% more energy efficient than the minimum efficiency standard; a computer needs to use 25% less electricity than conventional models and include a power-saving mode option when it’s not being used.

So, if the appliance or electronic device you purchase includes the Energy Star logo, you know it’s among the most energy-efficient products available. That simplicity is

20

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

The Environmental Protection Agency uses several specifications to determine if products such as dishwashers meet the Energy Star standard.

the secret to the success of the program that is run by the federal Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency.

The program’s effectiveness comes from a complex process of making sure the Energy Star logo is accurate and trusted — and the numbers show it is trusted. Americans bought more than 300 million Energy Starrated products in 2017 alone, and an Energy Star study found that three-fourths of U.S. households say the Energy Star label influences their purchases.

Today, more than 500 certified labs in 25 countries around the world test nearly than 2,000 products a year — along with surprise inspections — to manage a list of 60,000 product models. Energy Star runs seminars on how to meet its standards. Those standards require that televisions must use

3 watts or less when switched off; lightbulbs must use two-thirds less energy than standard incandescent bulbs; Energy Star home furnaces must be between 4% and 15% more efficient than standard furnaces.

Energy Star tests also require quality standards in addition to energy efficiency.

In general, products must have popular features, such as internet connectivity for smart televisions. Lightbulbs must last up to 15 times longer and produce 70% to 90% less heat than conventional bulbs.

In 2018, Energy Star tested 1,792 models, disqualifying 59 of them. Of the 858 different kinds of lighting and fans tested that year, 51 were disqualified. Of the 35 televisions tested, two were disqualified.

Energy Star caught on because it has something for everybody — ways for consumers to save money; ways for businesses to promote their efficient products; online calculators for those wanting deep dives into finding the ideal energy use; and for the rest of us, a simple little logo that tells us we’re buying one of the most energy-efficient products available.

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

Advertisement

Make your home more comfortable than ever

“To you, it’s the perfect lift chair.

To me, it’s the best sleep chair I’ve ever had.”

— J. Fitzgerald, VA

NOW

also available in Genuine Italian Leather (and new Chestnut color)

Three Chairs in One Sleep/Recline/Lift

ACCREDITED BUSINESS A+

Pictured: Leather chair chestnut color. Chestnut color also available in Duralux fabric

You can’t always lie down in bed and sleep.

Heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches– and dozens of other ailments and worries. Those are the nights you’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in: one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises your feet and legs just where you want them, supports your head and shoulders properly, and operates at the touch of a button.

Our Perfect Sleep Chair® does all that and more.

More than a chair or recliner, it’s designed to provide total comfort. Choose your preferred heat and massage settings, for hours of soothing relaxation. Reading or watching TV? Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment

and promotes back pressure relief, to prevent back and muscle pain. The overstuffed, oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort.

Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage.

White glove delivery included in shipping charge.

Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of Genuine Italian leather, stain and water repellent custom-manufactured Duralux with the classic leather look or plush microfiber in a variety of colors to fit any decor. New Chestnut color only available in Genuine Italian Leather and long lasting Duralux. Call now!

The Perfect Sleep Chair®

1-888-515-9282

REMOTE-CONTROLLED EASILY SHIFTS FROM FLAT TO A STAND-ASSIST POSITION

Please mention code 113456 when ordering.

Chestnut

Genuine Leather Chestnut

Tan

Chocolate

Blue

Burgundy Cashmere Chocolate

Indigo

DuraLux II Microfiber

Because each Perfect Sleep Chair is a custom-made bedding product, we can only accept returns on chairs that are damaged or defective. © 2020 firstSTREET for Boomers and Beyond, Inc.

46547

Footrest may vary by model

Burgundy

Long Lasting DuraLux

GARDENING

AUTUMN AMBIENCE WITH COLORFUL UNDERTONES Keep color in your garden until winter freeze sets in

BY VICKI SPENCER

MASTER GARDENER | GARDENING@COLOR ADOCOUNTRYLIFE .ORG

S

eptember’s cooler evenings are refreshing after a hot summer, both for us and our gardens. It’s a good time to walk around your garden to see where you might add some seasonal color.

As long as the soil remains warm, the roots of many transplants will take hold and they will grow until the ground freezes. A special bonus of adding plants in the fall — at least in normal years — is that garden centers offer bargains to reduce their inventories.

Not only can you find lovely annuals, but spring-blooming bulbs, perennials, trees and shrubs may also go on sale. The question is: What can you plant to add fall color?

Sedum Autumn Joy (stonecrop)

Sedum is a favorite border plant and rock garden staple. Different varieties bloom in different seasons. Sedum Autumn Joy (stonecrop) has thick leaves with clusters of red flowers that appear in late summer.

It flourishes in sun and partial shade and requires little moisture. Unlike other perennials, it doesn’t require deadheading. The flower heads provide great interest during

22

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

the winter, but you should remove any accumulated debris to discourage damaging insects staying over the winter. You can pair Sedum Autumn Joy — which typically grows 18 inches — with flowering shrubs, roses and other perennials like coneflowers, crotons and celosia.

It’s best to plant coneflowers in the spring, but if you find transplants, they will bloom in the fall. Crotons also bloom during the fall, and their vein patterns are striking on their fall-colored leaves. Both require well-drained soil and six hours of sunlight to continue blooming until the first frost.

Celosia adds great fall color with its red, orange or yellow flowers. Varieties grow from 6 inches to 3 feet tall, so chose one depending upon placement in your garden.

Celosia thrives in full to partial shade but is hearty enough to handle cooler temperatures. Its spike-shaped blooms contrast nicely with sedum and coneflowers.

Chrysanthemums, or mums, also offer wonderful fall color, but should not be paired with sedum because of different water requirements. While both plants enjoy full sun and well-drained soil, chrysanthemums’ shallow roots require more water. Fall-blooming chrysanthemums are particularly eye-catching when other flowers begin to fade away. Plant varieties that grow only a few inches tall along borders and taller versions further back.

Although it’s fun to add fall flowers

Chrysanthemums (or mums)

to your garden, pinks and purples from nonedible, leafy vegetables are also stunning. It’s difficult to describe the dramatic effect of ornamental kale with green leaves wrapped around purple leaves, which, in turn, embrace pinkish-white centers.

Ornamental cabbage is similarly striking with its green and purple leaves. Both ornamentals grow best in full sun and welldrained soil, but hold up well in cooler fall temperatures. Keeping with this color scheme, you could add purple, pink and blue asters.

Regardless of your color preferences, there are many options available to create a garden that remains colorful throughout the fall.

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.

ADVERTISEMENT

Now available in the U.S. without a prescription!

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.

The pill contains ingredients that not only burn belly fat... but... also help maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Plus, at just two dollars per daily dose, it’s very affordable.

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.

OxiTrim does not contain stimulants or dangerous chemicals. The active ingredients have a track record of safety showing no harmful side effects.

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.

Since then, it has become a popular diet pill in France and Germany. Sales continue to climb as new people discover how well the product works.

Michael Kenneth, President of the Applied Scientific Research Center is not surprised by the popularity. He says, “The pill is safe. It’s effective. It works fast. Plus, it costs less than a cup of coffee per day.”

“And now, we’re making it available in America under the new brand name OxiTrim. We can’t wait to receive feedback from first time users. We know dieters are going to love this pill,” he added.

Double Blind Clinical Results

The findings were then published in the Journal of Medicinal Food... and... the Obesity Journal.

Participants were given either a placebo... or else... OxiTrim’s active ingredients twice per day for 8 weeks. They then ate a normal 2,000 calorie diet and walked for 30 minutes, 5 days a week.

The results were stunning.

Those who took the active ingredients lost almost 4 times more weight than the placebo group. Even more exciting was the quantity of inches they lost from their waistline.

The group taking OxiTrim’s active ingredients lost almost 5 inches of belly fat. That’s equal to 2 pants sizes for men... and... 4 to 6 dress sizes for women.

The pill even helped maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels.

This is especially good news for anyone who is overweight, given the health risks they often face.

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.

“You can think of OxiTrim as a match that lights the fuse in belly fat,” said Kenneth.

“This fuse effects metabolic rate which results in enhanced fat loss around the mid section and other parts of the body, too.”

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.”

“Plus, unlike a lot of other diet pills, OxiTrim won’t increase your heart rate or make you anxious. In fact, you won’t even know you’re taking it until you begin to see a slimmer waistline,” he added.

Approved By Top Doctors

“The advanced ingredients found in A double blind clinical study was OxiTrim have been used successfully in conducted on OxiTrim’s active ingredients. France for years. The clinical trials show The study was reviewed and analyzed by they can burn fat fast for those with a few scientists from the University of California, extra pounds to lose.” — Dr. Ana Jovanovic.

Davis.

“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.

110% Money Back Guarantee

Amazing feedback from users of OxiTrim has generated a wave of confidence at the company. So much so that they now offer OxiTrim with a 110% money back guarantee.

The company’s president, Michael Kenneth says, “We’ve seen how well it works. Now we want to remove any risk for those who might think OxiTrim sounds too good to be true.”

Simply take the pill exactly as directed.

You must enjoy fast and impressive weight loss. Otherwise, return the product as directed and you’ll receive 100% of your money back plus an extra 10%.

How To Get OxiTrim

Today marks the official nationwide release of OxiTrim in America. And so, the company is offering a special discount supply to every person who calls before inventory runs out.

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

The Order Hotline is now open. All you have to do is call TOLL FREE 1-888-3080191 Then provide the operator with the special discount approval code: OTD20.

The company will do the rest.

Initial supplies of OxiTrim are limited.

Those who don’t call soon may have to wait until more inventory is produced. This could take as long as 6 six weeks.

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.

OUTDOORS N O R T H A M E R I C A’ S

1 Walk-In Tub

#

1500 OFF

$

PLUS A FREE SHOWER PACKAGE! FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

1-800-361-5469 www.BuySafeStep.com

“ MO” THAN WE EVER ANTICIPATED

Remembering a canine sidekick that seemed to know everything

BY DENNIS SMITH OUTDOORS@COLORADOCOUNTRYLIFE.ORG

Smith’s dog Bailey.

B Ballots arrive in mail ~Aug 22nd As an engineer in the new energy economy for 20+ years, I believe that YVEA can and should help shape our community’s energy future.

I will be a voice for balance between fiscal responsibility and the need to expand our local energy options.

Norm4YVEA.com

SECOND HOME OWNER?

YOU MUST RESPOND FOR ALL PROPERTIES! www.2020census.gov or 844-330-2020 How to fill out the census form: 1. Who lived there on April 1, 2020?

No one (0) 2. SUBMIT

24

All done!

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

y some incredibly serendipitous twist of fate, the first hunting dog the boys and I ever owned turned out to be one of those uniquely talented, once-in-a-lifetime retrievers every duck hunter dreams about. He was a remarkably gifted black Lab we named Moses, whose eagerness to please and innate ability to find and retrieve downed waterfowl under the most extremely challenging conditions bordered on the supernatural.

We bought him as a pup from an old farmer on the west side of Loveland who told us straight up, “This here pup ain’t gonna be no cutesy-pie show dog or field trial champ. He’ll be a feisty, big-boned rascal with webbed feet, lungs like a race horse and a heart to match.

He’s got a lot of Newfie in his blood and he was bred to hunt. Period. He’s only 8 weeks old but he probably already knows more about duck huntin’ than the three of you put together.

You can teach him to sit, stay and come if you like, but when it comes to fetchin’ ducks just stay the hell out of his way. Learn to trust his instincts; he’ll know exactly what to do and how to do it.”

The old farmer’s words proved to be astoundingly prophetic. In time, we learned Moses could tell when ducks were on the horizon long before we could see them; that he would brave blinding snowstorms, sleet, rain, howling winds and icy whitecaps to make a retrieval and love every minute of it; and that he could swim underwater in pursuit of diving ducks if that’s what it took to bring home the prize.

Moses has been gone for over three decades now, but the boys and I still talk about him.

In fact, not a waterfowl season goes by that we don’t find ourselves dredging up our favorite memories of “Ol’ Mo,” as we sometimes called him: “Remember the time Ol’ Mo retrieved his first goose? Damned thing was twice as big as he was, but it didn’t scare him none. How ‘bout the time we saw him dive underwater to retrieve a bufflehead in that vicious November storm on Simpson Ponds and then lost sight of him in the swirling snow?”

We were horrifyingly certain he had drowned in the raging whitecaps, but then he showed up back at the blind 20 minutes later, dumped the duck at our feet and stood there looking at us like we owed him money. We were properly stunned — and thankful beyond measure that he actually survived. Moses, of course, was unfazed by it all.

Recently, three more Labs have come into our lives. Sisters from the same litter, they share the natural Labrador instinct to hunt, but one of them, Bailey, is so excessively intense, driven and crazy to retrieve that we sometimes wonder if she could be related to Ol’ Mo. Dennis Smith is a freelance outdoors writer and photographer whose work appears nationally. He lives in Loveland.

Advertisement

Cruising To Victory

Denver Broncos Woody Wagon

e l a c S 1:a1su8res 10¾" Long!

Me

Team logos decorate this sculpted 1937 Woody Wagon on all sides and hood — making it a tribute football fans will love!

Honor Your Favorite Denver Team!

Cruise down the open road and celebrate your #1 team with the “Cruising To Victory Denver Broncos Woody Wagon” — a FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND tribute that’s sure to score a touchdown with all who love great American classics!

Handsomely detailed with official graphics!

Officially licensed by NFL Properties LLC, this 1:18-scale tribute packs lots of muscle with its flared fenders, whitewall tires, wood-look elements and full-color graphics. Plus the official team logos and colors enhance this woody wagon from bumper to bumper! It measures a BIG 10¾ inches long and arrives at your MAIL TO:

home hand-numbered with a matching numbered Certificate of Authenticity.

Send no money now to reserve it today!

Mail your coupon today and we’ll reserve it for three low installments of only $33.33*; with just your first payment billed prior to shipment.

Your satisfaction is guaranteed for one full year or your money back! Reply today!

FOLLOW US ON

Fastest way to order:

HamiltonCollection.com/BroncosWagon

09-09351-001-BI

Name______________________________________________________________________ (Please print clearly.)

Address____________________________________________________________________

YES!

Please accept my order for the “Cruising To Victory Denver Broncos Woody Wagon” tribute as described in this announcement. *Add a total of $14.99 for shipping & service, and sales tax; see HamiltonCollection.com.

All orders are subject to product availability and credit approval. Limited to 95 casting days.

Allow 6 to 8 weeks for shipment after your initial payment.

©2020 HC. All Rights Reserved. Officially licensed by NFL Properties LLC.

Removable hardtop offers an up-close view

City_______________________________________State____________Zip______________ of the well-appointed interior.

Email (Optional)______________________________________________________________ Signature___________________________________________________________________

Send No Money Now!

09-09351-001-E40001 COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

25

MARKETPLACE Buying anvils—blacksmith tools— cast iron (Griswold & Wagner). Old toys – colored pyrex – cowboy hats, boots, & spurs. Will come to you & we buy whole estates!

970-759-3455 or 970-565-1256 Stop feeding prairie dogs.

We’ll rent hunting rights from you.

Seriously looking for duck & goose habitat.

Encourage young sportsmen by providing safe, private access. You make the rules.

303-460-0273

Wanted: Jeep CJ or Wrangler.

Reasonably priced.

No rust buckets.

888-735-5337

Want to work from home?

Tired of the scams?

We are a legitimate work from home company Call Carrie 303-579-4207

Live Healthy Retire Younger www.LiveHealthyRetireYounger.com

Bob’s Clock Shop

Clocks of all kinds repaired Watch Batteries 970-247-7729 ClockRepairAndRestoration.comDurango

WE PAY CASH

for minerals and oil/gas interests, producing and non-producing.

800-733-8122

www.EverybodyNetworks.com

I want to purchase mineral and other oil/gas interests.

Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201

POLE BARNS

Protective Sleeves: 100% Guaranteed

America’s Barn Builders

Proud supporter of our military.

Serving the Entire State of Colorado

Business For Sale

Very Fine RETAIL GUN OPERATION COLORADO ROCKIES CONTACT: christina.li1967@gmail.com

Advertise in MarketPlace and everyone will know your BUSINESS. Contact Kris Wendtland for information 303-902-7276 coloradocountrylife.coop

26

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

• Prevents Cuts & Scratches • Durable Soft Leather • Adjustable Air-Flow

armchaps.com • 651-492-4830

Stay Home

Aspen

and take our Factory and Model Home Tours online.

See for yourself - a better way to build with our offsite construction system.

Better, Faster, More Efficient, More Enjoyable

Watch our Tour Online & Follow Us on Facebook @heritagehomesofne

1320 E 7th Street, Wayne, NE 402-375-4770 | hhofne.com

Advertisement

N OR TH AMER I CA’S

NE

WP

1 Selling Walk-In Tub

#

Featuring our New

R OD

UC

T

Exclusive Shower Package

Now you can finally have all of the soothing benefits of a relaxing warm bath, or enjoy a convenient refreshing shower while seated or standing.

Introducing Safe Step Walk-In Tub’s exclusive NEW Shower Package! ✓ First and only walk-in tub available with a customizable shower ✓ Fixed rainfall shower head is adjustable for your height and pivots to offer a seated shower option ✓ Durable frameless tempered glass enclosure available ✓ High-quality tub complete with a comprehensive lifetime warranty on the entire tub ✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service, all included at one low, affordable price

Now you can have the best of both worlds–there isn’t a better, more affordable walk-in tub!

Call today and receive exclusive savings of

$1500 OFF PLUS A FREE SHOWER PACKAGE! FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY

Call Toll-Free 1-800-262-5220

www.BuySafeStep.com With purchase of a new Safe Step Walk-In Tub. Not applicable with any previous walk-in tub purchase.

Offer available while supplies last. No cash value.

Must present offer at time of purchase.

Call Today for Your Free Shower Package

1-800-262-5220 FINANCING AVAILABLE WITH APPROVED CREDIT

CSLB 983603 F13000002885 13HV08744300

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

27

COMMUNITY EVENTS Due to COVID-19, some of these events may be canceled, modified or rescheduled. Please contact the host of the events if you have any questions.

September 2020 Throughout September Canon City

Daily Train Rides Royal Gorge Route Railroad royalgorgeroute.com

Throughout September Online

Denver Botanic Garden’s Fall Plant & Bulb Sale botanicgardens.org

Now Through November 28 Pueblo “Difficult History: Owning the Western Myth” Exhibition Sangre de Cristo Arts Center 719-295-7200 • sdc-arts.org

Saturdays Through September 12 Aspen

Drive-In Movie Night Aspen Snowmass’ Buttermilk Parking Lot • Advance Reservations Required aspensnowmass.com

Wednesdays Throughout September Fort Collins Museum of Discovery’s Facebook Live

“Night Skies of Fort Collins” Presentations • fcmod.org • facebook. com/FOCOMOD

Thursday Through Sunday Until September 13 Dillon High Alpine Adventure Aerial Adventure Park at Arapahoe Basin • Advance Reservations Required arapahoebasin.com

Thursdays Through September 24 Snowmass Brews, Bands & Bingo Snowmass Base Village and Snowmass Mall 5-7 pm • gosnowmass.com/events

Saturdays Through September 26 Copper “Retro Reels” Drive-In Movie Copper Mountain’s Center Village Parking Lot Advance Reservations Required coppercolorado.com

Friday-Sunday Through September 27 Winter Park

Guided Cirque Hike Winter Park Resort Advance Reservations Required winterparkresort.com

September 5 Kremmling

“Walk for Life” 5K Run and Family Walk Middle Park Fair & Rodeo Grounds 970-887-3617 pregnancyresourceconnection.org

September 9 Pueblo

Sensory Friendly Morning Sangre de Cristo Arts Center Advance Reservations Required 10 am-12 pm • sdc-arts.org

September 12-13 Castle Rock

Artfest Downtown Castle Rock 303-688-4597 • castlerock.org

September 12 Colorado Springs

“Be Bear Aware!” Presentation and Hike Bear Creek Nature Center Prepaid Registration Required 9:30-10:45 am • elpasoco.com

September 12-13, 19-20 and 26-27 Golden “Day Out With Thomas™” Train Ride Colorado Railroad Museum Advance Tickets Required 866-468-7630 dayoutwiththomas.com

September 12 New Raymer

Friends of Raymer Car Show Downtown New Raymer 10 am • friendsofraymer.com

September 15 Virtual

SEND CALENDAR ITEMS 2 MONTHS IN ADVANCE Calendar, Colorado Country Life, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; fax to 303455-2807; or email calendar@ coloradocountrylife.org.

Please send name of event, date, time, venue, brief description, phone number, a photo, if you have one, and email and/or website for more information.

September 26 Fruita

“So, Just What is a Democracy Anyway?” Virtual Lecture 7 pm • h-co.org/democracy-lectures

National Alpaca Farm Days Open House 2034 J Road 10 am-3 pm • 970-858-8866

September 18 Durango

September 26-November 1 Loveland and Online

“Colors of the West” Artist Reception Sorrel Sky Gallery 5-7 pm • sorrelsky.com

September 19 Colorado Springs

Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day Fox Run Regional Park Preregistration Required 9-11 am • 719-520-6977

September 25-27 Breckenridge

oktober-FEAST Various Restaurants Advance Reservations Required gobreck.com

Governor’s Art Show Loveland Museum governorsartshow.org

September 26 Nationwide

National Public Lands Day Free Admission National Parks Nationwide nps.gov

September 30 Fountain

First Aid, CPR and AED Classes Fountain Creek Nature Center Preregistration Required 6-7:30 pm • 719-520-6977

SMART START: Savvy tips to kick off a new school year Returning to learning may bring more new experiences this fall than anyone ever imagined. Regardless of the learning environment, here are two quick tips that can make it easier on the whole family to restart curriculum.

#1

Don’t Overlook Organization

Staying organized during school season is a goal for many families, and one of the best ways to do so is with an option like ClosetMaid Mini 6 Cube Organizers, which are refreshed versions of old favorites.

Use these organizers — also available in matching offset designs — on flat surfaces or mounted on the wall to store, organize and display any number of small items. Find more solutions for the school year at closetmaid.com.

28

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

#2 Make Lunchtime Easy

You can make lunchtime fun, flavorful and easy for your little learner with Sabra Singles, a plant-based snack perfect for kids. Pair with classics like carrots, cucumbers, tortilla chips or pretzels. They’re available in varieties like classic and roasted red pepper hummus and allow kids to help themselves and make lunchtime a cinch. Find more inspiration at sabra.com.

YOUR STORIES

READER POETRY

FUNNY STORIES

On Memorial Day Surrender to my shadow,

and I’ll run my fingers

through the smoke

of your passage:

two wraiths

in the midnight quiet.

My birthday is 9/11, so my sons

Under pale disguises,

the moon tricks

our lips into almost touching;

our eyes speaking volumes

across this cold stone

that ripples gently

with your name …

Judy-Suzanne Sadler, Cortez Empire Electric consumer-member

DO YOU WRITE POETRY? Send us your best work; we’d love to read it. Submit your poetry via email to: mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org or by mail to: Colorado Country Life, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216

READERS’ PHOTOS

always try to make it extra special. Their dad took both boys shopping and my 10-year-old knew exactly what he wanted. They went to Zales, bought it and then took me out for dinner. Our 5-year-old was so excited about the present that he couldn’t wait any longer.

At the end of dinner he blurted out, “We got you a necklace, Mommy!”

His older brother was quite indignant and chastised, “No! It’s a surprise — you’re not supposed to tell!” Then, trying to figure out how to recover the situation, my elder son looked at me and smirked, “But you don’t know how many pictures it holds!”

Val Crockett, Pagosa Springs

I had just planted a brand-new

lavender plant in my large backyard only to discover the following morning that my dog, a large hound, had scraped at the earth around it and deposited, with great precision, a single, very large poop precisely on top of it. When I rang my daughter and told her, she said, “Oh, he was just trying to make ‘poo’ pourri!”

Susan H. Merl, Pueblo West

I was visiting my 98-year-old

brother in the nursing home when an aide walked by and said, “Hello, mister.” My brother asked if she called him “stupid” and I told him she said “mister.” He then whispered, “Oh, I was afraid they found out!”

Terry Wallace, Springfield Grand Valley Power consumer-member Leona Koti enjoys her copy of CCL while visiting the San Juan River Scenic Overlook at Pagosa Springs.

Sangre de Cristo consumer-member Christina King visits Hagerman Tunnel near Turquoise Lake.

SHARE WITH US YOUR FUNNY STORY

Mountain View Electric consumer-member Chris Rosenblad reads Colorado Country Life while undergoing her first chemo treatment.

WINNER: Pamela Flowers of Pagosa Springs, a La Plata Electric Association consumer-member, enjoys her copy of CCL under the Colorado sun.

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

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 SEPTEMBER 2020

29

DISCOVERIES

It’s All About Our Pets Discover the local go-to item for your four-legged friend

Walk this Way

Alleviate Animal Ailments It’s agony when anxiety, disease and old age pain our pets. But CBDs (cannabinoids) are gaining ground with humans and animals alike and, when made properly, can help ease several ailments.

Wheat Ridge-based Suzie’s CBD treats is passionate about its oils and treats for canines, felines and equines, and assures customers that each product is organic, human grade and full spectrum, meaning they contain all the naturally occurring parts of the plant. And pets love them. For more information, call 720-576-8151 or visit suziespettreats.com.

Doggie Delicacies Picky pooches like Max, Colorado Country Life’s Production Manager Cassi Gloe’s pup, chooses Smart Cookie Bakery treats every time. The Golden-based company offers its customers handcrafted treats made “using real ingredients, in a real kitchen by real people.” Ingredients like duck, rabbit, carrots, blueberries and barley are baked to perfection and ready to get your doggy drooling. For more information, call 720-466-9878 or visit smartcookietreats.com.

30

COLOR ADO COUNTRY LIFE SEPTEMBER 2020

Leashes by Liz hand makes leashes, collars and harnesses using durable paracord sourced in the United States. The Strasburgbased company offers its braided accessories in sizes from extra small to extra large and in a wide range of colors. It details them with sturdy links, snaps or clips. The products are mold and mildew resistant, chew resistant and sealed with more than 1,000 degrees of heat to prevent breakdown.

For more information, visit leashesbyliz.com.

Figures for Your Imagination Joan Cabarrus began creating customized sculptures of pets in 2018. “I wanted to help people who are grieving from pet loss,” the Golden resident says. The sculptures look like miniature versions of the pets and include special details such as a favorite toy or treat — and can even include a hidden urn, at the customer’s request. Since the onset of COVID-19, Cabarrus began focusing on writing book tutorials to help her and others find creative ways to stay busy at home. Find out more about Cabarrus’ books and sculptures at jfcrn.com.

W ON O OUP SAVE 88%

10 Masks per Pack

(6155)

12" x 12" Microfiber Cleaning Cloths Pack of 4

20 Gallon, 135 PSI Oil-Lube Air Compressor

4

$ 99

164

$

WOW!

69¢

99

• Breathable • Comfortable, Lightweight • Single Use • Non-Medical

In-Store Only

ITEM 57593

While Supplies Last

2

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating (1245)

900W Max. Starting 2 Cycle Gas Powered Generator

109

$ $

Save $ 85

Compare to Porter-Cable 118903799 $249.99

3

Save 65% Use Online & In-Store

* 69679433* 69679433

ITEM 63024 63025 shown

LIMIT 1 - Exp. 10/16/20*

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

Use Online & In-Store

Compare to Blue Hawk BG8X10-Y $8.78

* 69680186* 69680186 LIMIT 4 - Exp. 10/16/20*

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

Heavy Duty Foldable Aluminum Sports Chairs

19

$

10 ft. x 17 ft. Portable Garage

29

$

Blue

Green

ITEM 63066 62314 shown

Use Online & In-Store

* 69683426* 69683426

LIMIT 4 - Exp. 10/16/20*

99

74

* 69685168* 69685168 LIMIT 1 - Exp. 10/16/20*

4

Use Online & In-Store

ITEM 68998 64263/63248 64080 63091 shown

* 69686933* 69686933 LIMIT 3 - Exp. 10/16/20*

ITEM 64284 69955/42292 shown

59

7999

$ Use Online & In-Store

* 69688788* 69688788

LIMIT 4 - Exp. 10/16/20*

$ Use Online & In-Store

* 69686058* 69686058 LIMIT 3 - Exp. 10/16/20*

Compare to K Tool KTI63094 $151.42 ITEM 64552 64832/64980 64545 shown

7999

Save $ 39

Compare to Worx WG309 $99.98

LIMIT 2 - Exp. 10/16/20*

(6317)

(4982)

18" Working Platform Step Stool

1999

$

2999

$

Compare to Ironton 61451 $19.99 ITEM 69645 60625 shown

Save 50% Use Online & In-Store

* 69687007* 69687007 LIMIT 4 - Exp. 10/16/20*

Compare to Neocraft 60635 $39.99

Use Online & In-Store

* 69687753* 69687753

ITEM 62515 66911 shown

LIMIT 3 - Exp. 10/16/20*

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

3/8" x 14 ft., Grade 43 Towing Chain $ 99

1999 39

$

Use Online & In-Store

* 69688841* 69688841 LIMIT 1 - Exp. 10/16/20*

1,000+ Stores Nationwide • HarborFreight.com *Original coupon only. No use on prior purchases after 30 days from original purchase or without original receipt. Valid through 10/16/20.

(3480)

(1286)

Save 69%

Save $ 91

ITEM 56808/68862 63190/62896 shown

Use Online & In-Store

* 69686344* 69686344

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

99

8F T. 1 0"

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

(1660)

$

Save 83%

ITEM 5889 62281 61637 shown

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

.

Compare to Schumacher Electric SC1 $30.41

5999

$

9

Rapid Pump® 1.5 Ton Lightweight Aluminum Floor Jack

$ 99 $ 99 9

6F T. t o

Save 50%

(3886)

®

(7091)

7 AMP Electric Pole Saw 9.5" Bar

$ 99 14

Compare to Anvil A137HOS $66.39

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating Automatic Battery Float Charger

LIMIT 1 - Exp. 10/16/20*

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

(4980)

4-1/2" Angle Grinder $ 99

99

Save 54%

LIMIT 1 - Exp. 10/16/20*

* 69680875* 69680875

SUPERCustomer COUPON Rating

3999

* 69686825* 69686825

ITEM 60395/62325 62493/61523 shown

29

Side tray sold separately.

Use Online & In-Store

ITEM 56391, 56393, 64818, 56392, 56390, 56394

1099

(3820)

$

Use Online & In-Store

LIMIT 4 - Exp. 10/16/20*

29 Piece Titanium Drill Bit Set

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

Save $ 46 Compare to Max Load 38028 $121.47

* 69680278* 69680278

Compare to Dewalt DW1369 $68.14

Use Online & In-Store

ITEM 62859/63055 62860 shown

$

9999

Use Online & In-Store

.

Compare to Shelter Logic 76377 $290.75

(2870)

99

Compare to Snap-on Blue-Point KRBC10TBPC $880

1899

300 lb. Capacity ATV/Lawn Mower Lift 130 Piece Tool Kit with Case

$

ITEM 64723 64189 63922 shown

Save $ 730

Save 83%

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

$

Compare to Promier SW-SWITCH-12/24 $4.99

$

Save $ 120

ITEM 56719

Save 50%

.

$

199

$

99

Compare to Coleman 635394 $39.99

16999

$

99

19999

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating (1864)

YOUR CHOICE OF COLOR

$

Save 60%

SUPER COUPON Customer Rating

(4984)

14999

$

$ 99

.

Save $ 16

Exp. 10/16/20*

$ 99

.

Compare to PowerSmart PS50 $126.10

* 69679217* 69679217

1

2

12499

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 10/16/20.

Use Online & In-Store

SUPER COUPON SUPER COUPON SUPER COUPON Customer Rating Customer Rating Customer Rating (5952) (2261) 200 Lumen LED (1190) 7 ft. 4" x 9 ft. 6" Super Bright All Purpose/ 30", 4 Drawer Tech Cart Flip Light YOUR CHOICE OF 6 COLORS Weather Resistant Tarp

$ 99 $ 99 4

99

ITEM 63358 63925/57162 63363 shown

LIMIT 1 - Exp. 10/16/20*

Use Online & In-Store

*69678606 * 69678606

Compare to ProElite AZC0AB $5.99

LIMIT 3

Use Online & In-Store

* 69678819* 69678819

ITEM 56241 64857 shown

ANY SINGLE ITEM*

$ 89

18999

$

20% OFF

Customer Rating

WSUPER C

Shop When You Need To Online & In-Store NO COUPON REQUIRED SUPER Customer RatingCOUPON Less Than (674) 3-Ply Disposable Face Masks 50¢ Per Mask

SUPER COUPON

Compare to Mibro 426920 $64.99 ITEM 60658 97711 shown

Use Online & In-Store

* 69689621* 69689621 LIMIT 4 - Exp. 10/16/20*

6.5 HP (212 CC) OHV Horizontal Shaft Gas Engine

99

$ 99 $ 11999 Compare to Honda GX200UT2QX2 $329.99

ITEM 60363/69730 shown ITEM 68121/69727 CALIFORNIA ONLY

Save $ 230

Use Online & In-Store

* 69689761* 69689761 LIMIT 1 - Exp. 10/16/20*

Pricing, promotions, and availability may vary by location and at www.harborfreight.com and are subject to change without notice. We reserve the right to limit quantities. “Compare to” advertised 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. Although we make every effort to assure that our prices and products are advertised as accurately as possible, we are only human and in the event an error is made, we reserve the right to correct it.

By 2024 we’re bringing over 1 gigawatt of wind and solar resources online, meaning 50% of the energy our cooperative family consumes will come from renewables.

Projects coming online by 2024 Niyol Wind | 200 MW Logan and Washington Counties, CO

Dolores Canyon Solar | 110 MW Dolores County, CO

Crossing Trails Wind | 104 MW Kit Carson County, CO

Axial Basin Solar | 145 MW Moffat County, CO

Spanish Peaks II Solar | 40 MW Las Animas County, CO

Escalante Solar | 200 MW McKinley County, NM

Coyote Gulch Solar | 120 MW La Plata County, CO

Spanish Peaks Solar | 100 MW Las Animas County, CO

To learn about how we are increasing clean energy, visit www.tristate.coop/responsibleenergyplan