Colorado Country Life October 2016 Mountain View

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[contents] 4

VIEWPOINT

5

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

6

COMMUNITY EVENTS

7

YOUR CO-OP NEWS

12

NEWS CLIPS

14

INDUSTRY

16

COVER STORY

20

RECIPES

22

GARDENING

24

OUTDOORS

25

ENERGY TIPS

29

FUNNY STORIES

30

DISCOVERIES

31

EDUCATION

OCTOBER 2016 Volume 47, Number 10

Cabin at Red Feather Lakes by Chip Padilla.

MORE WAYS TO CONNECT WITH US

coloradocountrylife.coop

FACEBOOK CHATTER

INSTAGRAM PIC OF THE MONTH

[cover] Ruth Wilson plays with Pongo Bobby and Lucky at their home in Yellow Jacket. Photo by Karlee Montgomery.

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE COLORADO RURAL ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION COMMUNICATIONS STAFF: Mona Neeley, CCC, Publisher/Editor; mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org Cassi Gloe, Designer; cgloe@coloradocountrylife.org ADVERTISING: Kris Wendtland, Ad Rep; advertising@coloradocountrylife.org Colorado Country Life (USPS 469-400/ISSN 1090-2503) is published monthly by Colorado Rural Electric Association, 5400 Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216-1731. Individual subscription rate: $9 per year for Colorado residents or $15 per year for out-of-state residents, taxes and postage included. Periodical postage paid at Denver, Colorado. © Copyright 2016, Colorado Rural Electric Association. Call for reprint rights.

Subscribers: Report change of address to your local cooperative. Do not send change of address to Colorado Country Life.

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

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.

EDITORIAL: Denver Corporate Office, 5400 Washington Street, Denver, CO 80216; Phone: 303-455-4111 | mneeley@coloradocountrylife.org | coloradocountrylife.coop | facebook.com/COCountryLife | Twitter. com/COCountryLife | Pinterest.com/COCountryLife | YouTube.com/ COCountryLife1 Advertising: advertising@coloradocountrylife.org | 303-902-7276 National Advertising Representative: National Country Market | 611 S. Congress Street, Suite 504 | Austin, TX 78704 | 800-626-1181

®

Colorado Country Life posted: Saw

this Grand Champion Market Beef sell for $62,000!!!! Aug. 30 at the Colorado State Fair's Junior Livestock Sale sponsored by Colorado's Touchstone Energy Cooperatives. So much fun to watch these electric co-op member kids reap the rewards of all their hard work.

Colorado Country Life posted: Love this watercolor by reader and Mountain View Electric member Cheryl Lafon, who painted this from the August cover of Colorado Country Life.

FAVORITE TWEETS

PINTEREST SNEAK PEAK

@ColoradoREA — Sept. 12

Sausage Potato Salad Skillet:

Get the recipe on our Pinterest page – COCountryLife

MONTHLY CONTEST

Enter to win one of three books we are giving away this month. Visit coloradocountrylife.coop and click on Contests for information on how to enter. We will choose three winners on Monday, October 17.

#Energy storage is now the topic at one breakout session at CREA's Energy Innovations Summit in Denver. http://fb.me/81mwtQwZv

[viewpoint]

THE COOPERATIVE BUSINESS MODEL

It’s all about putting people ahead of profits, serving the community not investors

BY KENT SINGER CREA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR KSINGER@COLORADOREA.ORG

S

Since you’re reading this column, the chances are pretty good that you are a memberowner of one of Colorado’s 22 electric distribution cooperatives. But do you really know how a cooperative works, what it means to be a member-owner and how co-ops are different from other electric utilities?

Kent Singer Since it is National Cooperative Month, it’s a good time for a short refresher on some of the important characteristics of the cooperative business model.

First, co-ops are owned by their members and not by shareholders like typical business corporations. Where for-profit business corporations exist to earn a profit for their shareholders, co-ops exist to provide a service to their members, such as the electricity provided by your local electric co-op. As nonprofit organizations, electric co-ops are motivated, not by making a profit on the sale of electricity but, by making safe, reliable and affordable electricity available to everyone in their service areas.

Second, your co-op keeps track of your patronage, that is, the amount of money you spend each month on your power bill. At the end of the co-op’s fiscal year, it will allocate any margins (known as profits in the forprofit world) the co-op has to each customer in proportion to his or her power bill. The co-op can then choose to refund some of

this “patronage capital” to its members depending on the financial position of the co-op.

Many co-ops issue an annual check to members at the end of the year.

Finally, every member of the co-op is an owner of the company and has a say in how the utility operates. If a co-op member wants to run for the board of directors and have a leadership role with the co-op, the member is entitled to do so as long as he or she complies with the co-op’s election policies. Co-op members also have the right to attend co-op board meetings and annual meetings and have an opportunity to let the board and management of the co-op know what’s important to them.

Electric co-ops, of course, are only one type of cooperative. Some of the other more well-known co-ops include the REI outdoor equipment company, Land O’Lakes, Ocean Spray and the Florida Orange Growers. These co-ops are known as “producer” co-ops since they comprise hundreds of individual producers that come together to market their products. Electric co-ops, on the other hand, are “consumer” co-ops that comprise members who use a product or service produced by the co-op.

Some people may argue that the co-op business model is a thing of the past, that it’s an old-fashioned way of doing business. On

the contrary, many people starting businesses in Colorado today have come to realize that if profit is not the primary goal of an organization, the co-op business model makes a lot of sense. An example is the Green Taxi Cooperative, the newest entrant in the Denver taxicab market. This new cab company is a cooperative owned by its members rather than by shareholders. The cab drivers themselves determine how the company is run and share in the profits and expenses.

Another example is the new Smoking River Studio Arts gallery in Meeker. Local artisans formed a co-op to sell their original art.

Electric co-ops got their start in life through the creation of the Rural Electrification Administration in 1936. With a kick start from the federal government in the way of startup capital, hundreds of electric co-ops sprang up around the country. Many of Colorado’s electric co-ops were founded in the late 1930s and early 1940s and continue to provide costeffective power to rural Colorado electricity consumers using the cooperative business model that has worked for over 75 years.

The co-op business model works because it’s all about putting people ahead of profits.

It’s all about serving communities, not investors. Colorado’s electric co-ops wouldn’t have it any other way.

Kent Singer, Executive Director

OCTOBER IS CO-OP MONTH

4

OCTOBER 2016

coloradocountrylife.coop

[letters] Gettysburg Leadership

I just read your Viewpoint (July ’16) and really enjoyed it. My hometown and where most of my extended family lives are just below the Mason-Dixon Line 40 minutes southeast of Gettysburg. In fact, the Confederate troops came through our town on their way to Gettysburg. Many a school field trip was to Gettysburg as I was growing up.

Like how you tied it all together.

Chris Shapard, executive director Colorado Cleantech Industries Assoc.

Shaved Heads Raise Money

Thank you to everyone at Grand Valley Power (Grand Junction) for the generous support of this year’s local fundraiser for childhood cancer treatment research and the recent coverage in Colorado Country Life. The brave men and women “shavees” stepped up to go bald for the cause and did a great job of raising funds. The company stepped up by matching the employees’ fundraising.

With the generous support we received from GVP and its employees (the number 2 fundraising team), we can confirm that we exceeded our $75,00 fundraising goal.

Donations are continuing until the end of the calendar year.

Jim Hamlin, volunteer event organizer

Colorado Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Cycling Team Thank you for pedaling 151 miles to help more Colorado families and seniors stay warm this winter!

F Raised more than $10,000 during the 2016 Pedal the Plains bike tour to support Energy Outreach Colorado’s affordable energy programs

Donate or get help at EnergyOutreach.org

Morton_CoCountryLife_10.16_Layout 1 9/1/16 4:09 PM Page 1

Love Just Fishing

I thoroughly enjoyed “The Everlasting Enjoyment of ‘Just Fishing’” (August ’16). It reminded me of my family’s summer trips to Rainbow Lake above Buena Vista where my father and I spent hours fly-fishing on the lake and along Cottonwood Creek. That was where I developed a love of fly-fishing.

As a side note, I recall that when my father snagged his ear with a fly, we drove in the evening twilight to what was then the railroad hospital in Salida. A kindly doctor clipped out the fly, administered a tetanus shot and sent us on our way without charge.

William McLeRoy Aledo, Texas

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[community events] [October] October 6-8 Denver “Spring Awakening” Theater Performance Eugenia Rawls Courtyard Theatre 7:30 pm • 303-556-2296 October 7 Buena Vista First Friday Wine Share: Oktoberfest Casa del Rio Subdivision Clubhouse 6-7:30 pm 1stfridaywineshare.com

October 8-9 Colorado Springs Reynolds Ranch Harvest Festival Western Museum of Mining & Industry 10 am-4 pm • 719-488-0880 October 8 Denver “Dancing With the Survivors” Fundraiser The Galleria of Stone 6:30-10 pm • galleriaofstone.net October 8-9 Georgetown Pumpkin Festival on the Train Georgetown Loop Railroad clearcreekcounty.org

October 7-8 Drake Storm Mountain Holiday Bazaar Big Thompson Canyon Association Building deb@peacefulridge.com

October 8-9 Longmont Pumpkin Pie Days: Antiques and Collectibles Show Boulder County Fairgrounds visitlongmont.org

October 8 Colorado City Car Show Greenhorn Valley Park 10 am-3 pm walker_dj@yahoo.com

October 8 Pueblo “Capitol Steps: What to Expect When You’re Electing” Theater Performance Sangre de Cristo Arts Center 3 pm • sdc-arts.org October 9 Cortez “Ride of the Ancients” Cycling Event Canyons of the Ancients National Monument rideoftheancients.com

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OCTOBER 2016

October 13 Cortez “The Hopi Connection to the Four Corners” Lecture Crow Canyon Archaeological Center 7 pm • crowcanyon.org October 15 Buena Vista Freedom Walk Forest Square Park a21.org/colorado October 15 Durango Bulb Sale Durango Public Library 9 am-3 pm durangobotanicalsociety.com October 15 Las Animas ’50s Sock Hop John W. Rawlings Heritage Center and Museum 7-9:30 pm • 719-456-6066

Denver Botanic Gardens at Chatfield, Littleton

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through October 30 Find your way through an eight-acre corn maze and take photo opportunities with life-size animal cutouts hidden throughout. Guests will also enjoy hayrides, barrel train rides, a giant jumping pillow, pony rides, hamster balls, food and drink, and a mini maze for younger children. For more information, visit botanicgardens.org.

October 21 Denver “Beatles to Bach IV” Concert Trinity United Methodist Church 7 pm • 303-839-1493 October 22-23 Beulah Fall into Christmas Craft Show Beulah Community Center 10 am-4 pm pjsmith1120@yahoo.com October 22-23 Greeley Howl-O-Ween Trick-or-Treat Centennial Village Museum 3-7 pm • greeleymuseums.com October 22 Pagosa Springs Art Activism Celebration Parelli Natural Horsemanship 5-8 pm • acvap.org October 22 Trinidad Western Ball A.R. Mitchell Museum of Western Art 5-11 pm • armitchellmuseum.com October 27 Greeley “RiffTrax Live: Carnival of Souls” Movie Cinemark Greeley Mall fathomevents.com October 28-30 Colorado Springs Colorado Springs Jazz Party Antlers Hotel csjazzparty.com October 29 Burlington Outback Coffin Run South 14th Street 10 am-2 pm • 719-346-5398

October 29 Denver “Historic Halloween” Trick or Treating History Colorado Center 11:30 am-2 pm historycolorado.org October 29 Pueblo Zoo Boo Pueblo Zoo 11 am-2 pm • pueblozoo.org

[November] November 3-6 Black Forest Arts and Crafts Fall Show and Sale Black Forest Community Center bfacg.org November 5 Akron Craft Show Akron Fairgrounds 9 am-3 pm • 970-345-2720

SEND CALENDAR ITEMS

TWO MONTHS IN ADVANCE TO: 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 and phone number/ website for more information. coloradocountrylife.coop

MOUNTAIN VIEW ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

Celebrate “The Cooperative Difference” During National Co-op Month

BY JIM HERRON | | CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER || HERRONJC@MVEA.ORG

A

As a member of Mountain View Electric Association, Inc. (MVEA), we invite you to join us in celebrating October as National Co-op Month. It is a month to celebrate “The Cooperative Difference” and the benefits of being a cooperative member. In a world that is influenced by global markets and large investorowned corporations, being a member of a cooperative means being part of something special — something Jim Herron local, something trusted. When you are a member of a cooperative, you are more than just a customer. You are a member-owner with an investment in an organization that is founded on the principles of community and integrity.

This year, MVEA joins over 30,000 U.S. cooperatives, serving more than 120 million people, in observing National Co-op Month. While the products and services may vary from coop to co-op, the “Seven Cooperative Principles” that are recognized industry-wide remain the same: Voluntary and Open Membership; Democratic Member Control; Members’ Economic Participation; Autonomy and Independence; Education, Training and Information; Cooperation Among Cooperatives; and Concern for Community.

These seven principles trace their roots back to 1844; yet, how we incorporate these principles into our business model during an era that is influenced by changes in rural communities, government regulations, and technology is more important than ever. We call this approach to governance and dedication to our members and community “The Cooperative Difference.” We take great pride in building partnerships and creating programs that provide our members with services that “traditional” utility companies do not regularly provide. National Co-op Month provides us with an opportunity to spotlight a few of the MVEA programs that benefit our members.

Capital Credits: As a member, your investment in the cooperative is returned to you in the form of capital credits. This is part of what distinguishes a cooperative from an investor-owned utility.

Since cooperatives do not earn profits, any margins that remain once all expenses are paid for the year are divided between all of the members based on their kilowatt-hour (kWh) use for that year.

Capital credits are refunded when the Board of Directors finds the cooperative financially capable of refunding this money.

Co-op Cares Energy Efficiency Rebates: When you participate in one of our energy efficiency programs, you not only use less electricity and save on your monthly electric bill, but you are also helping to reduce the overall demand for electricity within our co-op territory. Energy efficiency helps us all save. It is a team effort. And, it can start with something as small as a lightbulb.

MVEA members can apply for rebates by completing the Coop Cares Energy Efficiency Rebate form that is available on our website.

coloradocountrylife.coop

Green Power: MVEA offers our members a chance to purchase blocks of green power to help spur further development of renewable energy sources. The purchased green power blocks help offset the use of fossil fuel generated power. As the cost of research and development for renewable energy goes down, so does the cost to purchase green power blocks. MVEA started offering green power in 2000 at the cost of $2.50 per 100 kWh block. Today, the cost is only 10¢ per 100 kWh block.

Operation Round Up: MVEA started the Operation Round Up program in 2000 to assist non-profit organizations, communities with special needs and individuals who have suffered from loss, personal disasters or medical emergencies. Operation Round Up funds stay in the MVEA service territory. Members have given over $2.6 million to this program by rounding their bill up to the next dollar. The maximum contribution for the year is less than $12. It is a small price to pay for helping our communities.

Contact us or visit our website (www.mvea.coop) to learn more about the benefits of being a MVEA electric cooperative member and “The Cooperative Difference.”

Help Us Celebrate National Co-op Month

I

MY CO-OP

2016 MVEA Member Appreciation Days

Join Mountain View Electric Association, Inc. (MVEA) as we fire up the grill to cook you lunch! While you are enjoying your meal, make sure to pick-up your special MVEA Member Appreciation Days gift while experiencing the electric cooperative difference of being a member, not just a customer.

October 11, 2016 Limon Headquarters 1655 5th Street Limon, CO 80828

October 13, 2016

11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Falcon Operations Center 11140 E. Woodmen Rd Falcon, CO 80831

Free Lunch!

4

OCTOBER 2016

7

MOUNTAIN VIEW ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

MVEA Members Capture Colorado’s Beauty:

Announcing the 2017 Photo Calendar Contest Winners!

Every year Mountain View Electric Association, Inc. receives amazing photo calendar entries that capture the beauty of Colorado in our 5,000 square mile service territory. From sweeping views of Pikes Peak to long country roads and the creatures of the plains, MVEA’s members continue the tradition of providing snapshots of the seasons, people and landscapes of our territory for this annual calendar. This year more than 120 photos were submitted and reviewed for consideration.

Narrowing down the images to 36 for publication was no easy task!

Thank you to all of our members who participated in making the 2017 calendar truly beautiful. The top 13 winners (cover and months)

are shown below and will also be posted on our website at www.mvea.coop. A COVER — Sunset Boulevard — Kevin Wilson, limited number of Colorado Springs 2017 calendars will be available to our members in November at both MVEA offices. (Please limit one per household.)

The MVEA 2018 calendar contest will begin January 1, 2017, so start taking those photos now!

JANUARY — Chirp — George Starr, Colorado Springs

MAY — Colorado Eastern Plains Sunrise and Moonset — Vicky Seymour, Karval

SEPTEMBER — Paint Mines at Night — Ken Bates, Colorado Springs

FEBRUARY — Nice Winter Coat — Michael DeBaldo, Colorado Springs

JUNE — Wildflower Sunrise with Pikes Peak — Michael McMahan, Colorado Springs

OCTOBER - Grandpa’s Barn - Brandi Webster Calhan

MARCH — The Greater Your Storm, the Brighter Your Rainbow — Brandi Webster, Calhan

JULY — Small Town Summer — Kayla Garchar, Dolores

NOVEMBER — Gobble-Gobble — Patty Anderson, Colorado Springs

APRIL — Open Lines of Communication — Kevin Wilson, Colorado Springs

uiet Country Road — AUGUST — Q Patricia Hunnybunn, Colorado Springs

DECEMBER — Red Barn In Winter — Alana Thrower, Elbert

8

OCTOBER 2016

coloradocountrylife.coop

MOUNTAIN VIEW ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

WIN $100!* In MVEA’s 1st Annual...

MOUNTAIN VIEW ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION, INC.

Happy Little Holidays

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

All Ages

Joseph D. Martin, District 1, President

Art Contest

Barry Springer, District 6, Vice President Milton L. Mathis, District 4, Secretary/Treasurer

All Mediums & Photographs Deadline:

Nov. 1, 2016

Donna Andersen-Van Ness, District 7, Asst. Sec.

Help MVEA spread some holiday cheer when we send out our holiday cards this year! From crayons to watercolors, we are leaving the creativity up to you!

Send your digital entries to ricciardi-n@mvea.org.

Mail entries to MVEA, Attn: Nikki Ricciardi, 11140 E. Woodmen Road, Falcon, CO 80831.

*$100 Visa® Gift Card

Errol Hertneky, District 3, Director Photo Source:”Bob at Easel” by Bob Ross, Inc.

Only MVEA members, directors, employees and their family members are eligible. Artwork must be color, and capture what the holiday season means to you. Artwork must be approximately 8-1/2” x 11” in size – do not fold artwork.

Horizontal artwork preferred. Must be original artwork. One entry per person. Artwork becomes the property of MVEA and will not be returned. Questions? Call (719) 494-2657.

Rick L. Gordon, District 2, Director

B.D Paddock, District 5, Director

Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Junior Livestock Sale Honors Colorado’s 4-H & FFA Youth More than half-million dollars was raised for agricultural youth, thanks to Colorado’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives at the Colorado State Fair, Tuesday, August 30. The state’s electric cooperatives, including Mountain View Electric Association, Inc., came together to sponsor the fair’s 53rd Junior Livestock Sale. According to preliminary totals, the 2016 sale accumulated approximately $524,700 from generous buyers.

This year also set the record sale for grand champion market beef at $62,000 by Sam Brown & Family.

“Over the past 37 years, the Colorado State Fair Junior Livestock Sale has raised $9,794,289 for the youth involved in Colorado’s 4-H and FFA programs. This sale is a reflection of their dedication to the animals and the agricultural community,” said state fair General Manager Sarah Cummings. “I’d also like to thank the generous philanthropists who come out to support these amazing kids; the sale would not be possible without them.”

The sale is instrumental in supporting the future of Colorado’s agribusiness as it demonstrates the importance of raising quality livestock and the work required of those who pursue careers in agriculture. Preliminary totals for the sale are available at www.coloradostatefair.com. coloradocountrylife.coop

Limon Office 1655 5th Street P.O. Box 1600 Limon, CO 80828-1600 719-775-9513 [fax] Falcon Office 11140 E. Woodmen Road Falcon, CO 80831-8127 719-495-3014 [fax] Office Hours Monday — Thursday 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

719-495-2283 • 719-775-2861 800-388-9881 Visit our website www.mvea.coop

Follow us on social media!

www.facebook.com/MVEAInc Search for: Mountain View Electric Assn. Inc. www.twitter.com/MVEAInc Search for: Mountain View Electric Association, Inc.

4

OCTOBER 2016

9

MOUNTAIN VIEW ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION

Country Kitchen Gourmet

A FABULOUS TASTE OF FALL WILD RICE SOUP Fall is not just a time for pumpkin spice. As the air cools and the leaves start to change, few meals hit the spot like a warm bowl of hearty vegetable soup. October’s featured recipe was submitted by MVEA member Lida Bringe of Elizabeth. She says that this recipe is a great soup for a WFPBD (whole food plant based diet). Featured recipes submitted by members earn a $10 MVEA account credit. A big thank you to Lida for her recipe submission!

A quick note from Lida: Think about how you want the soup to look when deciding how to chop or shred the vegetables. Do you want it chunkier? Finer? Bigger chunks will stay firmer with this fast sauté cooking. Smaller pieces will, of course, cook faster. Try other vegetables and grains for variety or use what you have on hand.

INGREDIENTS 1 cup celery, chopped (2 stalks) 1 cup carrot, chopped (1 large) 2 cups onion, chopped (2 medium) 2 tablespoons olive oil for sauté (don’t overheat) 1 cup bok choy, chopped 1 cup greens, chopped (kale, swiss chard, etc.)

3 tablespoons flour (all purpose or whole wheat) 1 teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoon thyme 1 ½ cups cooked wild rice 1 cup cooked brown rice or quinoa (optional) 1 cup water 1 cube low sodium Not-Chick’n bouillon 1 cup unsweetened soy (or plain almond) milk ½ cup slivered almonds ¼ cup parsley, chopped fine

ay t s s E tes Con

Attention High School Juniors

Win a trip to Washington, D.C., or a week at Leadership Camp at Glen Eden Resort!

Deadline: November 18, 2016

Win a trip to Youth Tour 2017! For more than 50 years, electric cooperatives have sponsored high school students from across America to visit the nation’s capital and meet their members of Congress. During your all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., in June 2017, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with over 1,500 high school juniors from around the United States.

Students gain a personal understanding of American history and their role as a citizen by meeting their representatives and senators and exploring the sights around the nation’s capital.

“

What struck me, was the great scope of the different fields of work that electric co-op’s cover. There is almost always a place for your specific skill set in one of these cooperatives. The experience of a trip like this will last a lifetime!

”

Joseph, MVEA’s 2016 Youth Tour Winner

To enter, write a 500-word essay on the following topic: “The Power of Membership: In a cooperative you are a member-owner – not just a customer. Explain the difference this relationship makes.”

Second and third place essay contest winners are invited to attend Youth Leadership Camp at Glen Eden Resort, located near Steamboat Springs, for a week in July 2017. Join high school juniors from Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma and Wyoming in activities to improve personal goals while setting up and running your own cooperative. (There is plenty of time for swimming, barbecues, dances, rafting and a banquet during the week!)

You must meet the qualifications listed below. For more information, visit www.mvea.coop. Make sure to include an entry form with your essay and send it to MVEA, Attn.: Megan Morse — Essay Contest, 11140 E. Woodmen Road, Falcon, CO 80831 or to megan-m@mvea.org. Your parents or guardians must receive electric service from MVEA and you must be at least 16 years old by January 1, 2017. Questions? Call Megan Morse at (719) 494-2622. Entries must be received or postmarked by November 18, 2016.

______________________________________________ Student’s Name

Date of Birth

______________________________________________ Address

______________________________________________ DIRECTIONS Sauté celery, carrot and onion in the oil just a few minutes. Add bok choy and greens just to wilt. Stir in flour, salt, pepper and thyme. Next add in rice and liquids and bring to a boil. Turn heat to low and simmer 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in remaining ingredients and heat until hot but not boiling (just another minute or 2).

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OCTOBER 2016

City, State, ZIP

______________________________________________ Name of School

Graduation Date

Best Phone Number

Email Address

Parent or Legal Guardian

MVEA Account Number

______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ DIGITAL ENTRIES PREFERRED. Visit www.mvea.coop for more information and to complete an online entry form.

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[news clips]

Electric Co-ops Focus on Thriving in an Evolving Industry Today’s electric industry is adapting to new requirements, incorporating new technologies and researching future products and services that will help it provide the electricity needed today and on into the future. All of those topics were part of the Colorado Rural Electric Association’s one-day Energy Innovations Summit Monday, September 12 in downtown Denver.

Experts from all parts of the energy industry and all viewpoints came together on interesting panels to discuss micro grids and their challenges; what is new in energy storage and how it is helping in renewable energy integration; updates on small modular nuclear reactors and the ways they can provide emission-free electricity; carbon capture and storage and how it could cut the carbon footprints of readilyavailable fossil fuels; and how Colorado’s universities are bringing innovations to the energy market.

The more than 250 people attending the conference also heard about exciting, new, low-carbon sources of power from Walker Dimmig of NET Power, which is developing what is called Allam Cycle technology. This new, high-pressure, supercritical carbon dioxide cycle burns fossil fuels using pure oxygen rather than air and generates low-cost electricity while producing near-zero air emissions.

Dimmig reviewed the technology and the new demonstration plant NET Power is building in Texas. He also predicted a revolution in power production.

Part of that change may come from today’s students. A class of 12 students from Pagosa Springs High School attended the conference to learn more about the future of energy. CREA also honored two science students who won CREA’s EnergyWise Award at the Colorado Science and Engineering Fair last spring. They were all there to hear representatives of the University

of Colorado at Boulder, the Colorado School of Mines’ energy center and Colorado State University as they shared exciting developments in higher education. Innovations are coming in renewable energy, materials and the performance of current technologies.

Innovation permeates the electric industry and Colorado’s electric cooperatives. The Energy Innovations Summit was a great opportunity share these innovations with others in the industry. Next year’s event will be Monday, October 30.

THE COST OF NEW GENERATION

The cost to build new power plants can vary widely. Each type of generation carries a ballpark price tag. The costs shown below, based on each kilowatt-hour produced, take into account plant construction, fuel, operating and maintenance costs, operating performance assumptions, expected operating life, and general tax and financing assumptions.

2013 Cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) 0

Natural Gas CC Hydro Onshore Wind Coal Geothermal

5

10

4.9 5.8 5.1 8.6 7.0 14.5

Biomass Solar PV

20

4.1

Coal with CCS Nuclear

15

5.2

9.5

Solar Thermal

16.8

NOTE: Wind and solar generation are not directly comparable to other technologies because their power production varies based on weather conditions. These costs also do not reflect tax incentives or grid integration costs.

Source: Estimates developed by NRECA using U.S. Energy Information Administration data from 2015.

12

OCTOBER 2016

Electric Chocolate With Less Fat Who knew adding a little electric current to chocolate could make it less fattening?

Scientists announced this summer that they found a way to use electric fields to help chocolatiers use less fatty cocoa butter and still make delicious, rich chocolate.

The technique, called electrorheology, causes the solid particles of cocoa floating in the melted chocolate to clump into chains that then flow past each other more easily. This allows confectioners to use cocoa butter with a lower fat content without clogging the machinery.

It was found that the fat content of the chocolate could be reduced by 10 percent with no problems with thickening. And it still tasted delicious. coloradocountrylife.coop

[ news clips] ELECTRIC CO-OPS WIN CYBER SECURITY GRANT FOR STUDY

Last Chance to Support Pedal the Plains Riders There were 19 riders representing Colorado’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives pedaling from Ordway to Fowler to La Junta and back to Ordway September 16-18 as part of the annual Pedal the Plains bike tour.

The co-ops’ Powering the Plains bike team rode the 151 miles to raise money for Energy Outreach Colorado.

Riders and co-ops gathered financial support for the team. Readers are

still welcome to add to that total through Friday, October 14. Visit www. poweringtheplains.coop and click through to the donation form. You may send a check with the form or use PayPal to send your support.

The team also represented the state’s electric co-ops, which provide electricity to more than 100,000 people in southeastern Colorado.

New Legislation Eases UAV Flying Restrictions When it comes to providing our members with safe, reliable and affordable electric service, anything that helps electric co-ops get the job done more easily and efficiently is welcome news.

Recently, the Colorado Rural Electric Association received news from Washington, D.C., in the form of a new law governing the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, also known as UAVs or drones. Under the law, signed by President Barack Obama on July 15, electric co-ops and other utilities may use drones to more safely and efficiently respond to natural disasters and conduct routine maintenance with fewer restrictions than in the past.

Drone use is a significant issue for many co-ops, so it is a major priority for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the service organization that represents the interests in Washington, D.C., of the nation’s more than 900 electric co-ops.

NRECA reported the new law “will enable electric cooperatives to reduce risk for their employees, shorten outage times and save money for their member-owners” — a winwin for everyone.

Specifically, the law for the first time allows co-ops to fly drones beyond the line coloradocountrylife.coop

of sight and during nighttime hours to conduct utility activities that meet federal, state and local regulations and industry best practices, such as utility right-of-way inspections. Surveillance by drones equipped with cameras can speed safe recovery of power following severe weather by showing where and to what extent transmission lines are damaged.

Drones also can be handy tools in vegetation management and routine inspections of critical equipment.

Until now, electric co-ops were limited to using drones during daytime hours and within a direct line of sight. In addition, drone operators also were required to have a commercial pilot’s license, but that constraint was removed by the Federal Aviation Administration in June.

Operators now can obtain a license by passing a test at facilities approved by the FAA. The changes to drone use requirements have the potential to make a big difference in reliability and safety efforts. Fortunately, Congress and the president listened to electric co-ops’ concerns. Now, electric co-ops across the country can take advantage of this cutting edge technology if they find it will reap benefits for themselves and their members.

The electric co-ops’ national trade association just won a grant that will allow it to continue working on a cyber security solution for utilities that will monitor information technology networks for real-time cyber intrusions.

The program, known as REACT, is one of 12 projects receiving grants from the government through the U.S. Department of Energy. It was developed by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association in partnership with the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, Honeywell and Carnegie Mellon University. Under the new grant, the NRECA team will make this system available to utilities by incorporating it into commercially available products. These products will significantly enhance the security of smaller utilities by performing valuable monitoring and analysis of the utilities’ IT systems. It will then alert the utility to the possibility of intrusions.

“We built a powerful prototype in an earlier DOE project,” said Jim Spiers, senior vice president of business and technology strategies at NRECA. “It works. With this project, we can work with commercial partners to take it to production. We plan to improve the security of thousands of utilities.”

OCTOBER 2016

13

[industry]

LET ME TELL YOU A STORY… A cameraman films a San Miguel power truck coming up a mountain road.

Snowshoes have always been part of a mountain lineman's necessary equipment.

“Pioneering Power” Documentary and Co-op Month Go Hand in Hand

BY MARY PECK

For cooperative businesses, October brings more than all things pumpkin and masses of Halloween paraphernalia. October is National Cooperative Month, a 50-year-old tradition and time for co-ops across the country to reflect on their principles and share the value of cooperative membership with others.

This year, it also happens to be the month that the team at Durango-based film production company Inspirit Creative is putting the final touches on “Pioneering Power,” a documentary exploring the birth of electrical power generation in the mountains of southwestern Colorado and the formidable challenges faced by the people who changed history.

The enthusiasm Executive Producer and Director Jay Kriss of Durango brings to the project and its story of electric power’s western roots is unmistakable. “I find it fascinating that these guys were building wood flumes to shoot water down something that [Nikola]Tesla designed,” he said.

“Electricity as we know it started here. No one else can say it. We were the first.”

Immersing himself in his subject is key to the documentary-making process, Kriss 14

OCTOBER 2016

explained. When the film industry veteran is seeking a documentary idea, he looks for a major event, individuals to tell about it and a strong archival source to help bring the event to life. Kriss’ award-winning 2012 documentary “Harvesting the High Plains” centers around the story of two men and how their innovative farming practices developed during the Dust Bowl ended up creating one of the nation’s largest wheatfarming operations.

“Documentary films are different; the development process takes some time,” said Kriss. “I spend a lot of time reading and looking at the social implications, particularly in the West.” After a year of planning and research in places like the Washington, D.C., National Archives, Cornell University and the Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Kriss and Associate Producer and Co-Director Christina Knickerbocker launched production in August 2015.

The team traveled extensively for months, shooting more than 35 hours of footage at locations that included Idaho, Utah, Colorado and New Mexico. Some original structures and power lines,

built mainly to serve a booming mining industry, that are still in use today made the footage and re-enactments especially compelling. “When you think about our history, it’s so new, it’s almost frightening,” Kriss said.

In Colorado, the film crew trekked to sites like the historic Ames Hydroelectric Plant outside Ophir, Camp Bird Mine near Ouray, Bridal Veil Falls overlooking Telluride, the wooden flumes at Cascade Creek in LaPlata County and the Tacoma Hydroelectric Plant, which is accessible only via the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.

The 80-minute documentary will cover the work of industry heavy-hitters Thomas Alva Edison, George Westinghouse, Tesla and the Nunn brothers; the world’s first commercial alternating current, or AC, power station built in Colorado in 1891; and the monumental change that electric power generation and transmission brought to life in the West. The film’s journey culminates with the authorization of the Rural Electrification Act, which subsequently led to the formation of today’s electric cooperatives.

Not surprisingly, the cooperative spirit coloradocountrylife.coop

[ industry]

KJ Johnson and Tom McLeod of SMPA.

Alex Shelley of SMPA.

Cameraman, Jay Kriss, captures lineman KJ Johnson climbing a pole the way it was done in the early years of the industry.

played a role in “Pioneering Power.” Interviews, historic photos, archival film and realistic re-enactments are key elements of the project. When Kriss called on San Miguel Power Association for help, the electric co-op, whose service territory includes Silverton, Telluride and Nucla, was quick to answer. “We’re super excited and it’s a story well-worth telling,” said Alex Shelley, communications executive at SMPA. “This can really shine a light on what happened here.”

Shelley and several SMPA linemen donned 1930s-era clothes to help create authentic period scenes, including one filmed at the Idarado substation perched at an elevation of 11,000 feet on the top of Red Mountain Pass in Ouray County. The substation’s decades-old wood structure, built to power the Idarado Mine, was an ideal stage. “The fun part was going to these old lines we have,” said K.J. Johnson, a journeyman lineman at SMPA. “We have stuff still in use now that was built in 1926.”

Turns out Johnson is a man of many

talents. He is also a boot repairman and helped adapt the linemen’s boots to be historically accurate by putting leather soles on them. He did similar work for Quentin Tarantino’s Western movie “The Hateful Eight,” filmed near Telluride in 2015.

“It was fun working with Jay and Christina. He’s shot a lot of films and she knows a lot of the history,” Johnson said. “They were very organized and ran everything by us to make sure it was possible. I’m really excited for the premier.”

Along with SMPA, the support of HiLine Utility Supply, the Colorado Rural Electric Association, Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, Xcel Energy and viewer donations made through Colorado Public Television (CPT12) helped make “Pioneering Power” a reality. In large part, it’s an investment in education.

“Documentaries can be powerful teaching tools,” Kriss said. The project includes a shorter companion film titled “Power Today,” and features discussions with linemen and information on today’s wind, coal,

solar and hydroelectric power generation sources. The curriculum will accompany the film as a packet available through the Public Broadcasting Service.

“Pioneering Power” features the diverse talents of 60-75 people overall, an original music score written by composer Rob Pottorf and narration by television host Mike Rowe, best known for his work on the Discovery Channel series “Dirty Jobs.”

It is set to premier in Durango, followed by early showings in other locations that provided assistance. Its television premier will be presented by CPT12 during prime time in upcoming months. It will ultimately be seen nationally on PBS in more than 20 million households, followed by a home DVD release through PBS and will be available later on Amazon, Netflix and other outlets.

Mary Peck is a freelance writer with a history of working with and writing for Colorado's electric co-ops.

Learn more about the project at cpt12.org/local/production-partners/pioneering-power and facebook.com/pioneeringpower. coloradocountrylife.coop

OCTOBER 2016

15

Six pets that went from

Hopeless to Happy T

he connection we form with our pets is a special one.

They make us laugh with their silly antics, worry over their smallest malady and cheer up during our darker days. And nothing makes them happier than being able to sneak a slobbery kiss or give a gentle nudge of affection — it’s all in the name of love.

Whether you’re interested in adopting a dog, cat, horse or guinea pig, there are countless rescue organizations that can help you find your perfect match. But sometimes there’s

16

OCTOBER 2016

Compiled By Amy Higgins

no hope for an animal that is tossed away, so being in the right place at the right time is paramount. It can change the course of that animal’s life from demise to delight.

When we asked for stories about pets who were rescued or who “rescued” their new owners, we received scads of submissions, all of which were wonderfully heartfelt. The following are the winning stories. These, in particular, tugged at our heartstrings, and we believe they will tug at yours, too.

coloradocountrylife.coop

Bringing Pongo Bobby Home Ruth Wilson, Yellow Jacket

Lucky

A Lucky Day Diana Wilson, Yellow Jacket In July 2006, my brother, Tim, was disking wheat on our farthest field on the edge of a canyon, 10 miles from nowhere. The day before he noticed what he thought was a coyote on the edge of the field. When he saw it in the same place the next day, he took a closer look and discovered it was a husky type of dog that was left tied to a tree with a 5-pound bag of dog food and a dry water bowl.

This was the hottest part of the summer — around 102 degrees — in the middle of nowhere. Had my brother not noticed him, the dog would have died in a day. Tim gave the dog a gallon of water and moved him into the shade. When he finished for the day, he said, “Dog, would you like to go home with me?” and the dog got into his pickup truck.

When we found him, he was heartworm positive, had cigarette burns and his right leg had been broken from what our vet believes was a kick. He wouldn’t come in the house for two years — we think he had been abused inside — and didn’t trust men. Ten years later, Lucky (aka Plucky or Ducks) is living the life of leisure and is now the kindest dog I ever knew.

Finding him was our lucky day.

coloradocountrylife.coop

Pongo Bobby

“

“

He wouldn’t come in the house for two years — we think he had been abused inside — and didn’t trust men.

We looked for another dog ever since our beautiful dog, Henny, was killed by a speeder. I visited the local shelter several times but couldn’t seem to find the best fit. However, I knew the right dog would come at the right time.

A few weeks later I saw a picture of a big blue Australian shepherd in our local newspaper. Our family had four of that breed in the past, so I knew they were loyal with loving dispositions.

The next day I drove to the shelter just to sign paperwork and pay the fee. I was planning to return the following day to actually pick up the dog as my small vehicle didn’t have much room. But the shelter manager insisted I take Pongo that same day. He’d been there for some time and was considered an emotional risk since the original owners had moved away and left him in the yard. I really wanted this beautiful dog, so I squeezed him into the backseat where he didn’t sit down the whole way home.

I named him Pongo Bobby, as I thought he was a Bobby from the get-go. He and my sister’s dog, Lucky (see previous story), took to each other immediately, becoming fast friends. I found out later that, although the shelter where I found him is no-kill, when an animal is in residence too long, it is shipped to a kill shelter. As it turned out, it was the right time for both of us.

OCTOBER 2016

17

Simon’s Story of Survival Robert P. Steffens, DVM, Pagosa Springs

Simon

One Saturday morning, a young couple entered my veterinary clinic in Alamosa. The couple was distraught, holding a shoebox. Inside the box was an extremely small 3- to 4-week-old kitten.

The kitten was comatose, dehydrated and close to death with a serious front leg injury. The couple found this kitten and wanted the little animal to be disposed of because it seemed helpless to treat this stray.

The clinic wasn’t busy at the time, so the technician, Shane Sowards, and I treated the kitten for shock, pain and blood loss. The kitten responded, so we decided to amputate the injured front leg.

Lo and behold, the kitten made it through surgery and responded to the care we gave it.

Being a weekend, I took the kitten home to keep it warm and bottle fed. My wife, Karen, took excellent care of this kitten at home. It survived the weekend and seemed to have a desire to live.

Now we had to find a home for this handicapped kitten.

Needless to say, after four years he is still in our home. We named him Simon, and he turned out to be a beautiful Siamese cat.

Simon seems to know we saved his life. He is handicapped but does everything a four-legged cat does. He seems to show his appreciation to us daily, and we can’t imagine life without him.

Comforted by Colby Nancy Uldrikson, Colorado Springs

Colby

18

OCTOBER 2016

“

“

He seems to show his appreciation to us daily, and we can’t imagine life without him.

During the time my husband, Ron, and I were grieving the loss of our Catahoula cur dog, Colby, our son, Wade, found a dog. He was driving in the Arizona desert when he came upon a dead dog hanged in a hangman’s noose. Another dog was standing by a tree, starved to skin and bones. He was beaten so badly he was blind in one eye, his tail was chopped off and he was full of ticks, fleas and worms.

Wade asked him to get in the truck and he did. He took the dog to the vet where his wife worked and they helped the dog to recover. We decided to adopt him, so a friend gave the dog a ride to New Mexico. From there, we brought him home to Colorado.

Because he reminded us so much of the dog we lost, we decided to name our new dog Colby in his honor. We had Colby’s tail fixed right away, as it hurt when he wagged it. The vet took a joint out and that solved the problem. Colby’s blind eye started bothering him last year, so the vet had to remove it.

The new Colby is also a Catahoula cur; we’ve had him almost seven years now. He’s the smartest dog we ever owned. He’s lovable, playful and happy. He loves to play fetch and amazes everyone with the things he can do with only one eye. God blessed us with this dog; we definitely rescued each other.

coloradocountrylife.coop

Coming to the Rescue: Angel’s Account Barbara Gormally of Durango shares the story of Angel’s rescue through, what she feels was, her pup’s perspective:

Joey

Amazing Grace: Joey’s Journey Peggy Haynes, Colorado Springs For two decades I tried convincing my husband to get a goat. I finally gave up and decided it was for the best. They eat clothes off the line and jump onto car hoods or worse. But then, on a cold, windy, overcast Colorado afternoon in March, I was driving on our dirt road picking up litter, and I spotted a particular piece of trash. I stopped the car and what I thought was litter turned out to be a baby goat — cold, hungry, dehydrated and abandoned. It obviously was left in the field overnight.

I brought this little goat home. The baby goat accepted using a puppy bottle filled with warm milk, a heating pad and a dog kennel, and not only lived, but began to thrive.

I named her Annie, bought her a pink collar and began sorting through my goat cheese recipes. Three days later I took Annie outside and was shocked to learn she was a boy. I thought we should rename him Houston, as in, “Houston, we have a problem.” But my husband suggested we call him Joey, which means “God shall add” in Hebrew.

Spring is a time of beginnings, newness and even miracles. I am thankful I stopped to pick up that last piece of litter. Joey’s survival was yet another one of spring’s miracles. More than that, our little goat is a keeper.

On May 26, 2009, around 4:30 p.m., I have no clue why I was in the middle of Highway 550 in New Mexico near the exit to Angel Peak Recreation Area. I was only 4 months old. I was a puppy and knew I was in trouble. I had no food or water for quite some time and my puppy paws and legs Angel were exhausted from wandering around in the hot desert. I was alone and scared.

There were two yellow stripes on the highway that looked like a good place to lie down. Somehow, the heated pavement soothed my depleted body. It seemed like a safe place to rest, but after a while I could not take the sound of cars zooming by. I ran toward some of the vehicles to see if someone would stop and help me. I knew I didn’t have much time left; I would soon die.

I heard a woman calling, “Here puppy, here puppy.” I staggered toward her. She was kind and gentle as she ran her hands over my tired body. She said, “Girly, Durango, Colorado, is a better place for you.” I put my head on her knee and handed her my paw. Soon, I was in the passenger seat where I went into a deep sleep. I knew I was safe.

Today, I have a joyful life filled with gratitude, unconditional love and fun in this glorious location in Colorado. I am now called Angel Cinderella Peak.

Read More Great Stories This month, be sure to visit coloradocountrylife.coop to read more heartwarming submissions that came when we asked for stories of “Who Rescued Whom?” We at Colorado Country Life magazine were delighted to receive so many wonderful entries and are grateful to our loyal readers for sharing.

Amy Higgins is a freelance writer from Centennial where a guinea pig and two rescued basset hounds make her family complete.

coloradocountrylife.coop

OCTOBER 2016

19

[recipes]

Savoring the Season's Harvest Dig up your root veggies for fantastic, flavorful fare

BY AMY HIGGINS RECIPES@COLORADOCOUNTRYLIFE.ORG

Vegetable Overload If you can’t keep up with the sheer quantity of vegetables harvested from your garden, freeze them. You must, however, blanch them beforehand.

Different vegetables call for different blanching times.

Google has loads of advice on selection, preparation, packaging and use.

TIP

R

Root vegetables grow amazingly well in Colorado, no matter which corner of the state you reside. Just give them enough sunshine during the daytime and in a month or two, you will dig up gobs of goodness. An added benefit to growing root vegetables is they’re delicious in a variety of recipes, from entrees to desserts and appetizers. So, unearth those edibles and can them, pickle them or keep them fresh, then try your hand at one of these recipes.

Thyme-Scented Roasted Vegetables and Beets 1 jar (16 ounces) whole pickled beets, drained, halved 1/2 pound baby carrots 1 medium onion, cut through core into 1/2-inch wedges 8 ounces shallots, peeled, halved if large 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1 clove garlic, minced Heat oven to 400 degrees. Line 15- by 10-inch jelly roll pan with aluminum foil. Add beets, carrots, onion and shallots. Drizzle with oil; sprinkle with thyme, salt and pepper; toss to coat. Roast, uncovered, 15 minutes. Add garlic to vegetables; toss well. Return to oven and continue roasting 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender and lightly browned.

Source: Seneca Foods

Chip Flip While potatoes make great chips, so do most root vegetables.

Simply slice into thin circles or sticks, toss in olive oil and bake. Just be sure to turn them over halfway through the cooking process to ensure both sides crisp nicely.

Beet, Feta and Walnut Scones 1 jar (16 ounces) sliced pickled beets 2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/2 cup milk (2 percent or skim) 1/3 cup olive oil 1 egg, beaten 1/4 cup thinly sliced green onion 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary 1 small clove garlic, minced 2/3 cup crumbled feta cheese (not fat-free) 1/2 cup coarsely chopped toasted walnuts 8 rosemary sprigs Heat oven to 400 degrees. Drain beets well. Chop coarsely; set aside on paper towels. In large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt and pepper. In small bowl, whisk together milk, oil and egg. Stir in onion, rosemary and garlic. Add milk mixture to flour mixture.

Stir to combine. Gently stir in feta and walnuts, just until combined, then add beets and stir gently to combine.

Turn out onto lightly floured surface. Knead dough three to four times to smooth. Pat into 9-inch round on ungreased baking sheet. Cut into 8 triangles; do not separate. Lightly press rosemary sprigs into each scone.

Bake 20 minutes or until light golden-brown. Cool on wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Source: Seneca Foods

For more tasty root vegetable-based recipes, visit coloradocountrylife.coop. Click on Recipes.

20

OCTOBER 2016

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Big Pharma execs stand to lose billions as doctors and their patients abandon drugs like Nexium® and Prilosec®. Drug free remedy could put Big Pharma out of the digestion business.

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Especially after the FDA’s stem warning about long-term use of drugs classified as proton pump inhibitors like Prilosec®, Nexium®, and Prevacid®. In a nutshell, the FDA statement warned people should avoid taking these digestion drugs for longer than three 14-day treatment periods because there is an increased risk of bone fractures. Many people take them daily and for decades.

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Debilitating brain disorders are on the rise. New studies show PPI’s are linked to an increased risk of dementia. Cutting edge research shows that the health of your brain is closely linked by the state of healthy bacteria that comes from your gut. The things happening in your belly today might be deciding your risk for any number of brain conditions. Studies have been ongoing since the 1990’s. New studies suggest that taking PPI’s at both low and high dosage also disrupts a healthy human gut!

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Your Kidney extracts waste from blood, balances body fluids, forms urine, and aids in other important functions of the body. Without it your body would be overrun by deadly toxins. Aloe helps your kidney function properly. Studies suggest if you started taking aloe today you’d see a big difference in the way you feel.

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With this introductory offer the makers of the AloeCure are excited to offer you a risk-free supply. Readers of this magazine are pre-qualified for up to 3 FREE months of product with their order. Take advantage of this special opportunity to try AloeCure in your own home and find out how to test AloeCure for a full 90 days.

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THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. INDIVIDUAL RESULTS MAY VARY ALOECURE IS NOT A DRUG. IFYOU ARE CURRENLTY TAKING A PRESCRIPTION DRUG YOU SHOULD CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE USE. FOR THE FULL FDA PUBLISHED WARN LNG ON PROTON PUMP LNHLBITORS PLEASE VISIT HT TP://WWW.FDA.GOV/D0WNL0ADS/F0RCONSUMERS/CONSUMERUPDATES/UCM213307

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OCTOBER 2016

21

[gardening]

Laying the Groundwork for Winter Weather Chores that help your garden hibernate and benefit the birds

BY VICKI SPENCER MASTER GARDENER GARDENING@COLORADOCOUNTRYLIFE.ORG

O

October is when Coloradans make their annual pilgrimage to the mountains to view the changing of the aspen leaves. For gardeners, October is also the time of the year when we need to prepare for winter. If we take the time now, our gardens will be off to a much better start next spring. Here are some things you can do to get ready for winter.

If you have a lawn with a sprinkling system, the system needs to be drained and winterized by the middle of the month when we typically have our first frost. If you need to hire someone to get it done, schedule it as early as possible because the winterization companies get busy this time of the year.

Although garden cleanup does not sound like a glamorous job, it’s a good excuse to be outside enjoying the crisp fall air. The checklist on the right will make the job easier, and you will feel like you are making progress as you check off each item.

Cleaning the garden is important because insects and disease-causing microorganisms survive in garden debris. If you compost, you want to be sure that you do not compost any disease or insect-infested plant material.

Beckon the birds After finishing these chores, you might still find time for the birds. That is, you can think of ways to provide water for them over our typically dry winter. If you don’t want to purchase a birdbath, you can place a simple shallow dish in a location safe from predators.

Open spaces in the yard are perfect because the birds can spot the predators approaching and fly away before they are caught. Clean the bowl weekly with soapy water and provide fresh water throughout the winter. If the water freezes, replace it or purchase an inexpensive heating device at your garden center.

Black oil sunflower seeds are favored by many birds. Flickers, woodpeckers and chickadees like suet. The fun thing about feeding birds is that you can watch them all winter long when your flowers are dormant.

Don’t be disappointed if the birds don’t come right away; there is still a lot of natural food available in the fall. They will arrive when food becomes scarce.

If you follow these simple guidelines for fall garden cleanup, you will be surprised how much easier it will be to get your garden in shape next spring.

FALL GARDEN CHECKLIST __ Remove any diseased foliage from plants __ Remove dead annuals __ C ut back perennials that died down and divide herbaceous perennials __ C lip heads of cosmos and zinnias, dry on screens, then store in a cool, dry place in lightly sealed containers __ C ollect seeds to sow next year (four-o’clocks and morning glories save well) __ P ull weeds now or spot spray to avoid seeds spreading in the spring __ E nrich soil by adding organic materials and turning soil to mix it in well — Mow lawn and trim edges __ R ake leaves in grass and clean leaves out of garden __ S hred leaves and add around perennials to decompose over the winter __ W ater lawn, trees and shrubs if they are dry and continue about every three to four weeks throughout the winter

More Online

Read previous gardening columns at coloradocountrylife.coop.

Click on Gardening.

22

OCTOBER 2016

__ P rotect trunks of young fruit trees and prevent winter sun scald damage by covering trunks with tree wrap __ B ring in houseplants, such as geraniums, that have been outside coloradocountrylife.coop

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Benefits of the Marathon’s durable, non-metallic tank: • Lightweight for easy handling and installation • Does not corrode or rust which means no leaks • No anode required which eliminates ‘smelly’ water issues Additional benefits of the Marathon’s unique design: • Thick, 2-1/2” insulation provides very low stand by heat loss rate for great energy savings - more than any other water heater in its class • Titanium and copper elements resist lime buildup and operate more efficiently • Electric product that requires no venting for greatly reduced installation costs • Factory-installed T&P (temperature & pressure relief) safety valve and 4 feet of pipe insulation for increased energy savings included

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OCTOBER 2016

23

[outdoors]

HELP SUPPORT Colorado's Touchstone Energy Cooperatives Raise Funds for

Representatives of Colorado's Touchstone Energy Cooperatives pedaled the eastern plains of the state on September 16-18, raising money for Energy Outreach Colorado. EOC provides energy assistance for lowincome Coloradans. Nineteen riders pedaled 151 miles from Ordway to Fowler to La Junta and back to Ordway this year.

STILL ACCEPTING ENERGY OUTREACH COLORADO DONATIONS UNTIL OCTOBER 14.

To support the team with a donation, visit poweringtheplains.coop. Click through to the donation form. You may send a check with the form or use PayPal to send your support.

To learn more about Energy Outreach Colorado, visit energyoutreach.org

CREDIT CARD DONATIONS NOW AVAILABLE, VISIT POWERINGTHEPLAINS.COOP 24

OCTOBER 2016

Comrades Go Cuckoo for Brown Trout

Bone-chilling weather can’t stop two zealous fishermen

BY DENNIS SMITH OUTDOORS@COLORADOCOUNTRYLIFE.ORG

A

A few years ago, a friend of mine who moved to Alaska called to say he was flying back to Colorado to fish the autumn brown trout run on North Delaney Buttes Lake. He planned to be here the second week of October and wanted to know if I’d go along with him.

Personally, I thought he was nuts.

I couldn’t imagine anyone leaving Alaska to fly fish Colorado, but he had his reasons: He liked big browns and, I suspect, he was just a little homesick, too. “We don’t have any brown trout up here,” he said. “Plus, I really miss Delaney Buttes.”

Fair enough, I thought. I agreed to go.

As luck would have it, a nasty cold front came howling out of the Mount Zirkel Wilderness that week, and we found ourselves casting into bitter 25 mile-an-hour gusts of wind laden with sheets of stinging rain, sleet and snow. Skim ice formed in the shallows and freezing spray from the wind-whipped lake turned everything within 20 yards of shore into bizarre-looking ice sculptures.

“You’re definitely insane,” I said.

When we arrived, Colorado Parks and Wildlife biologists were there collecting eggs from the spawning browns. They told us we were crazy to be out in this weather, too, but they also said they saw good numbers of browns staging in the shoals along the north shore. Reaching them involved a quarter-

mile hike through a herd of cattle guarded by three monstrous range bulls who eyed us like we owed them money. We gave them wide berth, leaning hard into the wind all the way. I kept telling Byron he was crazy. He just laughed. Madman.

We were bundled in layers of wool, down, neoprene and Gore-Tex, so our bodies stayed warm, but our faces and fingers were numb as stones and we had to break ice from our line guides every two or three casts. We caught fish in spite of it all — some nice ones — and when Byron finally landed what we guessed was a 7-pounder on one of his big, ugly foo-foo flies, he was positively ecstatic.

“Still think I’m crazy?” he asked, splitting his frozen beard with a big, toothy grin.

“Absolutely.”

“Wanna leave?”

“Heck, no,” I told him. “I’m having too much fun.”

The oddest thing is I try to get back there every October now. Crazy.

Miss an issue? Catch up at coloradocountrylife.coop.

Click on Outdoors. coloradocountrylife.coop

[ energy tips]

Before adding insulation, be sure to inspect and seal air leaks.

THE MAGIC ISN’T ALWAYS on THE FIELD.

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When your home is not properly sealed and insulated, cold air sneaks in and heat escapes, making your heating system work harder and your home less comfortable. Sealing and insulating your home to efficient levels can cut your heating and cooling costs by an average of 15 percent — sometimes much more — all while making you more comfortable in your home.

Your attic is one of the first places you should consider insulating since it is usually accessible and easy to inspect for air leaks and insulation levels. Additionally, most homes do not have enough attic insulation. Insulation standards for new homes increased in 2012, and many homes built before then do not have the current recommended amount.

Insulation is graded by its “R-value” — the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. Your attic should have a minimum grade of R-38, or about 13-14 inches of insulation. In colder climates, R-49 is the minimum recommendation, or about 16-18 inches of insulation. More may be needed depending on your home and exact climate.

As a general rule, if the ceiling joists are visible on the attic floor, there is not enough insulation. Hiring a trained energy auditor is the best way to diagnose shortcomings with insulation or any other energy-related issue.

Check with your electric co-op to see if they offer energy audits or can refer you to a local energy auditor. Your co-op may also offer a rebate for adding attic insulation.

This column was co-written by Pat Keegan and Amy Wheeless of Collaborative Efficiency.

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OCTOBER 2016

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WINNERS Judges will select 3 winners from each catagory (blue, red, gold and white).

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[classifieds] TO PLACE A CLASSIFIED AD

Please type or print your ad on a separate paper.

Indicate how many months you would like your ad to run and which month to start. There is a minimum of 12 words at $1.63 per word/month.

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

5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216 phone: 303-902-7276 fax: 303-455-2807 email: classifieds@coloradocountrylife.org

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WANT TO PURCHASE mineral and other oil/gas interests. Send details to: PO Box 13557, Denver, CO 80201. (402-03-17)

VACATION RENTAL

WANTED: JEEP CJ OR WRANGLER. Reasonably priced. No rust buckets. 888-735-5337 (099-04-17)

KAUAI VACATION RENTAL, 2bdr, full kitchen. Minutes from beaches. $600/wk. 808-2456500; mokihana@hawaiian.net; kauaiweddings.com. (756-05-17)

WE PAY CASH for minerals and oil/gas interests, producing and nonproducing. 800-733-8122 (099-02-17)

Find hidden treasure in the classifieds Read through the ads and FIND the CCL classified explaining how to WIN a $25 gift card.

It’s easy. You could WIN. The classified ads September contest winner is Christian Hertneky of Ramah.

He correctly counted 30 classified ads.

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OCTOBER 2016

coloradocountrylife.coop

[ funny stories]

andsons of ah Gouveia , gr gs, Logan and No Colorado Sprin of r he ut So b Joe and De . yle st in s ga greet Las Ve

Jack Dixon of Eads rea ds the magazine while he is laid up.

Harold and Linda Yoder and Linda's sister Alice stand at the equator in Uganda .

of Berthoud take CCL Keith and Linda Henderson bbean Netherlands. scuba diving in Bonaire, Cari

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 a $25 gift card each month. The next deadline is Friday, October 14. This month’s winners are Keith and Linda Henderson of Berthoud. They visited the Front Porch dive site, where an old sunken 30-foot sailboat name Bakanal sits in about 75 feet of water.

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT & CIRCULATION 1. Publication Title: COLORADO COUNTRY LIFE 2. Publication No.: 469-400; 3. Filing Date: 09/22/2016; 4. Issue Frequency: Monthly 5. No. of Issues Published Annually: 12; 6. Annual Subscription Price: $9; 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; Contact Person: Mona Neeley; Telephone: 303-455-4111; 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor Publisher: Mona Neeley, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; Editor: Mona Neeley, 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; Managing Editor: Not applicable; 10. Owner Full Name: Colorado Rural Electric Association; Complete Mailing Address: 5400 Washington St., Denver, CO 80216; 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages or Other Securities: None; 12. Tax Status (For completion by nonprofit organization authorized to mail at special rates). The purpose, function, and nonprofit status of this organization and the exempt status for federal income tax purposes: Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months; 13. Publication Title: Colorado Country Life; 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below: September 2016; 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation - Average No. Copies Each Issue During Preceding 12 Months; a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run): 220,372; b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies and exchange copies): 219,075; (2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies): None; (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS: 671; (4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail®): None; c. Total Paid Distribution (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4)): 219,746; d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PS Form 3541: 95; (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541: None; (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail): None; (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means): 531; e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4)): 626; f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e): 220,372; g. Copies not Distributed: None; h.

Total (Sum of l5f and g.): 220,372; (i) Percent Paid (15c divided by 15f times 100): 99.7%. • No. Copies of Single Issue Published Nearest to Filing Date; a. Total Number of Copies (Net press run): 221,236. b. Paid Circulation (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies and exchange copies): 219,935.

(2) Mailed In-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies): None; (3) Paid Distribution Outside the Mails Including Sales Through Dealers and Carriers, Street Vendors, Counter Sales, and Other Paid Distribution Outside USPS®: 682; (4) Paid Distribution by Other Classes of Mail Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail®): None; c. Total Paid Distribution (Sum of 15b (1), (2), (3), and (4)): 220,617; d. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (By Mail and Outside the Mail): (1) Free or Nominal Rate Outside-County Copies included on PS Form 3541: 88; (2) Free or Nominal Rate In-County Copies Included on PS Form 3541: None; (3) Free or Nominal Rate Copies Mailed at Other Classes Through the USPS (e.g. First-Class Mail): None; (4) Free or Nominal Rate Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or other means): 531 e. Total Free or Nominal Rate Distribution (Sum of 15d (1), (2), (3) and (4)): 619; f. Total Distribution (Sum of 15c and 15e): 221,236; g. Copies not Distributed: None; h. Total (Sum of l5f and g.): 221,236; (i) Percent Paid (15c divided by 15f times 100): 99.7%. 16. We are not claiming any electronic copies on this form. 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership: If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed in the October 2016 issue of this publication. 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager or Owner: /s/ Mona Neeley Date: 09/22/2016 I certify that all information furnished on this form is true and complete. I understand that anyone who furnishes false or misleading information on this form or who omits material or information requested on the form may be subject to criminal sanctions (including fines and imprisonment) and/or civil sanctions (including civil penalties).

PS Form 3526, July 2014

coloradocountrylife.coop

At an appointment, I was describing to my dentist and his technician the crazy antics of my extremely active Labrador retriever puppy. As the dentist placed things in my mouth for the procedure on my teeth, he asked what my puppy’s name is.

With difficulty, because of the equipment in my mouth, I said, “Gracie Belle.”

“Crazy Bill,” he said. “Now that’s a cute name.”

Bobbie Abrahamson, Fort Collins My 2-year-old granddaughter, Emma, accompanied me to Mass for the first time and was mesmerized by the music and beautiful stained-glass windows. When it was time for communion, she held my hand as we walked up to the front of the church.

Since she was too young to receive communion, the eucharistic minister extended his open hand above her head to give her a blessing. Misinterpreting his gesture, she gave him a resounding "high five," exactly what she thought was expected. Fits of laughter made it difficult to continue.

Sue Zaloudek, Fort Collins My son, Andy, travels a great deal with his job. On a recent trip, he had an opportunity to take a picture with Miss America. When he got home, he shared the experience with his son, Xander. Being a typical 10-year-old, Xander took it all in, but then gave his father a quizzical look. “Dad?” he asked, “Is that Captain America’s wife?”

Paul M. Bennetts, Cortez A big bear caused a big stir when it ran across the school playground one fall day in our little mountain town. New problems generate new solutions, so here was the principal’s plan: If a bear is sighted nearby at recess time, the teachers on duty will ring the handheld bell. All students will enter the school quickly through the nearest entrance followed by the teachers. The highest paid teachers will enter last.

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

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

$15 OCTOBER 2016

29

[discoveries]

Tug to Tucker Them Out Peppy-pup owners will delight in Tuggo toys. These durable toys are weighted with water, giving your dog a challenge during playtime along with much-needed mental and physical stimulation. They're great for tug-of-war as well.

These toys are available in 10-inch size ($34.99) for dogs 40 pounds or more, 7-inch ($29.99) for less than 40 pounds, and 4-inch ($17.99) for the teensiest of dogs. For more information, visit tuggodogtoys.com.

See how it works: youtube.com/watch?v=rfSPXnwayzQ.

A Place to Call Home Charming, well-made and just the right size, Snaggs teepees are wonderful dwellings for kitties. Your feline will surely think these handmade houses are purr-fect. They’re also pleasing palaces for pups.

Cost is $150. To order, visit etsy.com/shop/snaggs.

A SET FOR YOUR PET’S SAFETY It’s important your pet’s identification and rabies tags are identifiable on its collar, but getting them on there can be a nightmare. A LINKS-IT pet tag connector makes it simple to attach tags and safeguards your fingers (and sanity) to boot. Just slide open the connector, unclasp the link to slide on the tag, attach it to the collar’s D-ring and then close the connector.

Combine your LINKS-IT with a Pawdentify pet tag and keep your pet’s information intact. Metal tags jingle and, over time, wear down the engraved information. A Pawdentify pet tag is made of polymer so it eliminates the clinking and keeps the engraving legible. And they’re cute.

Get a LINKS-IT and Pawdentify combo for $22. For more information, visit pawdentify.com.

BOOKS FOR ANIMAL LOVERS Rescue Your Dog from FEAR

by Peggy O. Swager Lyons Press, $16.95 lyonspress.com Unlikely Friendships: Dogs

By Jennifer S. Holland Workman Publishing, $13.95 workman.com

Safe at Last: True Stories of Horse Rescues

By Elaine Pease Filter Press, $12.95 filterpressbooks.com Visit coloradocountrylife.coop to find out how to win one of these great reads.

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OCTOBER 2016

STRIKE A POSE WITH YOUR PUP It’s maddening how often pets look away just as you’re ready to take a picture. The Pooch Selfie grabs your pet’s attention so you can get that special shot. Attach the Pooch Selfie to your smartphone and say, “Cheese!” Cost is $12.99.

For more information, visit poochselfie.com.

Watch it at work: youtube.com/watch?v=Zj_fHMzj1FA. coloradocountrylife.coop

[ education]

NOW IN DEMAND

College Applications Done With Finesse College acceptance has become so competitive that today’s parents and students react with anxiety at the thought of beginning a process that can seem so overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be.

Parents are a key support system, but it is crucial that the student be the one to kick it into high gear and steer toward his or her chosen goals. Parents can be the cheerleaders; kids need someone to say “you can do it.” Teenagers may balk at the amount of work required in this process, but they have to be the ones to do it. If the parent is the only one doing the work, it might be time to rethink choices or consider a “gap year.”

So, here are some tips FOR THE STUDENT to finesse those applications with confidence.

Meet Your Match Reflect thoughtfully on your own interests and learning styles, then set about finding the best fit for you. Do not force the fit. In this preliminary stage, it is important to keep an open mind, but be realistic and discuss financial parameters and geographic realities with your parents as they can limit your choices.

With the internet to facilitate your search, the facts are at your fingertips, so do your research. Your high school guidance department has lists of helpful websites for every phase of the search and application process.

If any college fairs are available, attend and take advantage of the opportunity to talk to school representatives.

Visit Schools Virtually & Actually What does each school have to offer you? Set aside spring break of your junior year for college visits, or visit in late August. Just be sure to go when the regular students are there so you will get a true picture of campus life.

Prepare questions ahead and take advantage of opportunities to talk with admissions representatives or university guides. Tour the buildings and grounds. Are they old, new, renovated, wired or WiFi capable? See a dorm room. Visit the library, the part of campus that will be your major concentration (if you know that already), the recreational facilities, and any other areas you might frequent — labs, for science majors, etc.

Breeze-through visits will not give you the true flavor… only the flavor that the admissions office wants you to taste. Look carefully at the school’s programs. It’s fine to be “undecided,” but if you can research a certain major, do so.

The Application Narrow your focus. Don’t apply to a long list of schools. Apply to five or six, and treat each college individually.

Successful applications will be customized. Show them that you are their match. This takes time but yields positive results. If a faculty member wrote a book that captured your interest, discuss it in your application. Show them you care enough to delve beneath the surface.

Use this rule of thumb for the five to six applications: one or two “safety” schools, two “reality” schools, and one or two “reach” schools. Timetables for applications vary, so check the options and formulate a checklist of deadlines. Have a viable Plan B in case your first choice does not work out.

Connect with Electric Utilities in Colorado during Careers in Energy Week • October 17-21 • Virtual Job Fair coloradovirtualjobfair.com/careersinenergyweek coloradocountrylife.coop

Industrial & Electrical Maintenance Careers

Higher earnings

MCC

www.MorganCC.edu

Get in, Get out, Get a JOB Get hands-on training in high demand fields like welding, diesel mechanics, heavy equipment operator, line technician and more!

Classes start January 16 With campuses in Trinidad and Alamosa trinidadstate.edu 1-800-621-TSJC OCTOBER 2016

31

IN CELEBRATION OF NATIONAL CO-OP MONTH Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association is proud to support cooperatives across Colorado. Together, we deliver reliable and affordable power to you. It’s a relationship built on cooperation, with a shared vision to support the rural communities we serve.

WWW.TRISTATE.COOP