Rural Electric Nebraskan - 02/15

February 2015

The washing machine doesn’t do the laundry.

Power does.

Power works tirelessly around the house. It helps us do the things we need to do — and lets us do the things we want to do. To that end, electric cooperatives across the West are working hard to make sure that power is reliable, affordable and responsible. With their power supplier, Tri-State, co-ops are innovating to help homeowners, farmers and ranchers, and businesses use power wisely. In doing so, members of electric co-ops save money and make better use of resources. Learn more at PowerWorksForYou.coop.

Volume 69, Number 2, February 2015

“The Rural Voice of Nebraska”

Staff Editor Wayne Price Editorial Assistant Kathy Barkmeier

Published by the Visit us at www.nrea.org General Manager Troy Bredenkamp President Randy Papenhausen, Cedar-Knox Public Power District Vice President/Secretary Ron Jensen, Loup Valleys Rural Public Power District

Contents Features

Striking a Balance The Nebraska Rural Electric Association works hard to be a voice for the operational realities of the generation and distribution of electricity in Nebraska without being perceived as being antirenewable energy. Because we must consider the delivery of a reliable and affordable electric supply while also meeting all environmental regulations, we understand that a balance can be achieved.

Meet Your State Senator

Advertising in the Rural Electric Nebraskan does not imply endorsement for products by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association. Correspondence should be sent to Wayne Price, Editor, Rural Electric Nebraskan, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501.

The Rural Electric Nebraskan is printed by Quad Graphics, 2300 Brown Ave., Waseca, MN 56093.

Form 3579 should be sent to the Rural Electric Nebraskan, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501.

Periodicals postage paid at Lincoln, Neb. POSTMASTER: send address changes to the Rural Electric Nebraskan, 1244 K Street, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501.

Publication numbers are USPS 071-630 and ISSN 0193-4937.

Rates: $10 for one year; $15 for two years; $20 for three years, plus local and state tax.

February 2015

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The first session of the 104th Nebraska Legislature convened on Wednesday, January 7th in Lincoln. Eighteen new senators join the ranks of the one-house lawmaking body for the 90-day session. Stay in touch with your state senator using this helpful guide.

Treasurer David Keener, Niobrara Electric Association, Inc. Published monthly by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association, 1244 K Street, Box 82048, Lincoln, Nebraska 68501, (402) 475-4988.

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Departments EDITOR’S PAGE

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SAFETY BRIEFS — Murphy

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CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS by James Dulley

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RECIPES

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MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS

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On the cover Light fills a hallway in the Nebraska Capitol, which was designed by Bertram Goodhue and constructed between 1922 and 1932. Photograph

by Wayne Price

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EDITOR’S PAGE

Making the electric grid faster, better, smarter ou might not notice when you flip a light switch or plug in your iPhone charger, but the nation’s electric grid is undergoing a revolution – a digital revolution. Recent advances in technology are transforming how we make and move electricity, and over time, these changes will greatly improve the efficiency and reliability of electric power.

Rural electric utilities have been helping lay the groundwork for this transformation with a $68 million “smart grid” research project funded in part by the Department of Energy. A group of 23 rural electric utilities in 12 states deployed an array of new technologies and installed more than 270,000 pieces of equipment.

Four years later, we have a better understanding of how we can move forward to modernize our electric system. Despite the relatively small size of most public power districts and electric co-ops, we are adopting these new technologies at a faster rate than the larger utilities – in part, because we stand to gain more.

Serving rural areas brings special challenges. Rural electric system service territories cover 75 percent of the nation’s landmass, and public power districts and electric co-ops serve some of the country’s most rugged and remote regions. New automation software, however, can minimize these difficulties by enabling the utility to manage parts of the system remotely, saving the utility – and consumers – a lot of money.

Rural electric utilities are becoming more involved in powering our vehicles. Electric motors are as much as three times more efficient than internal combustion engines, which makes electricity as a fuel far cheaper per mile traveled than gasoline or diesel. Cars powered by electricity are becoming more common every year. From December of 2010 through September 2014, Americans purchased more than 255,000 plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs)—cars with batteries that can be recharged with power from the grid.

Nebraska is following the trend and is seeing an increase in the number of electric cars sold. So, what does this mean for public power districts and electric cooperatives? Electric

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by Wayne Price

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utilities become the ‘gas station’ for PEVs. Custer Public Power District, for example, has an electric vehicle charging station at their office in Broken Bow, Neb. The charging station is available anytime and was installed when Custer PPD remodeled their office.

Here are some of the benefits these upgrades will offer Nebraska’s rural electric consumers: Reliability. New digital meters can send information about outages back to the utility’s operations center. Armed with this information, linemen won’t have to spend nearly as much time looking for the cause of an outage, and restoration times will decrease.

In addition, new “smart feeder switching” can enable rural electric utilities to reroute power during certain outages, thereby minimizing the number of consumers who lose power.

Efficiency. Digital meters can provide consumers with new data about their energy use. Consumers have discovered broken appliances, safety hazards and other problems using data supplied by their meter.

More frequently, however, the data gives consumers a better idea of how they are using electricity – and how they can lower their bills.

Digital meters can send electric use data to the utility, eliminating the need for meter reading, which saves money. In the case of public power districts and electric cooperatives that estimate use or have their consumers report their own use, digital meters will improve consistency and accuracy in billing. New technologies can also help the utility reduce the amount of electricity lost in transmission.

In the longer term, smart grid technology will change how we use electricity. Armed with more information, consumers will have more control. They will be able to generate and store their own electricity, and use that electricity more efficiently!

So in the future, when you use your phone to see if you remembered to turn off your iron, remember that your rural electric utility helped bring about the revolution that made that feat possible.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

From the Mailbox hen readers write letters to the editor, we will often publish them so that others might get a glimpse of other reader’s opinions. In the December 2014 issue I asked for readers to share their stories of the Adult Pen Pal Service, which was brought to an end after 24 years.

It was nice to receive a couple

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letters from folks that actually used the Adult Pen Pal Service to meet their spouse. It is a true testament to the success of the service, which was started by Rural Electric Nebraskan Editor Jack Merritt.

I would encourage readers to send us mail when there is an article you enjoy or when you have a different view point.

Dear Editor, I am writing this letter in response to the notice you had about the “Adult Pen Pal Service.” This was such a very good idea. I didn’t think of it at all as possibly meeting “bad” people as some times could happen in other situations. Folks receiving the magazine pay electric bills!

I sent in a small article about myself back in April of 2003 and received seven letters from respectable men.

One stood out for me especially and was sent from “Kearny,” Arizona. I couldn’t figure out how that could be, but he owned a cabin here at the lake that he spent summers at. During our phone conversations (as I did call him) I found out we knew a lot of the same people as he was originally from Kearney, Neb. He invited me to come to his cabin for the July 4th fireworks and we have been together since then. And last Sunday (Nov. 30, 2014) we decided it was time to tie the knot. We had a very nice, simple wedding at the Methodist Church in Elwood, where we attend. Dale is 79 and I am 78 - a perfect match. We love to fish and do a bit of gambling once in a while.

Thank you so much for bringing us together.

Sincerely, Sharon Kuhl-Huddleston Johnson Lake, Neb. Dear Editor, Jack (Merritt) should be commended for helping isolated people communicate with others. I never used it myself, but always looked for and read the ads. I will miss it!

I usually read the Rural Electric Nebraskan cover to cover, enjoy the articles about rural Nebraska and it’s people. You do a good job of educating people about the systems and the business. I appreciate your fighting to keep our electricity as affordable as possible. Keep it up!

Not very many people read anymore. Makes me wonder how long you will be in business.

Thank you, T. Sayer Stamford, Neb.

February 2015

Letters can be mailed to: Rural Electric Nebraskan Editor Wayne Price P.O. Box 82048 Lincoln NE 68501 Or you can email me directly at: wprice@nrea.org

Dear Editor, For quite a while I have intended to write you and say Thank You. I lived in Scottsbluff County until 2007. My late husband farmed and ranched. I moved closer to my daughter in York County. I answered an ad in the Rural Electric Nebraskan and corresponded with a wonderful gentleman, a farmer/rancher in Madison County, widowed three years.

We wrote letters, telephoned and eventually he came to visit me in York County. We had a great deal in common, we liked each other immediately which quickly turned into something deeper.

We were married last June 14th on the front lawn of the ranch house near Battle Creek, Neb. Our wedding was sweet and simple, very nice with friends and relatives in attendance. We intended to write you a thank you and notice of our wedding. How time flies when you’re enjoying life so much.

We are saddened that you are closing the service. Gene says it is the best $6 he ever spent and I agree. We tell anyone who asks how we met. We both tried the Internet to no avail. By the way, Gene is 86 and I am 77.

Sincerely, Gene and Nan Reeker Meadow Grove, Neb.

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ECO-Friendly Striking a Balance

by James Dukesherer

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ith nearly half of Nebraska’s electric generation coming from coal combustion, many across the state hold the perception that Nebraska’s electric utilities have not done enough to develop renewable energy resources in our state. Some believe with Nebraska’s rich wind energy resources, our state should shift the primary fuel source of our electric generation from fossil fuel resources to renewable generation resources. Polls have clearly shown that most Nebraskans favor additional renewable energy development to help mitigate the impacts of climate change and in general to be good stewards of the planet.

Unfortunately, with all of the rhetoric surrounding this issue, the operational realities of providing consumers with an affordable, reliable and clean energy supply can be lost in the debate. The Nebraska Rural Electric Association works hard to be a strong and knowledgeable voice on the facts regarding the generation and distribution of electricity in Nebraska, and we are not opposed to the development of renewable energy resources. Because Nebraska’s electric providers must consider the delivery of a reliable and affordable electric supply while also meeting all environmental regulations we understand that a balance can be achieved.

At the heart of the discussion on the impact of electric generators on the environment is the issue of climate change, and the linchpin of this issue is the impacts carbon emissions have on our planet’s climate. Climate change theory holds that carbon, as one of many heat trapping greenhouse gases, prevents the sun’s heat from escaping our atmosphere thus causing the temperature of our planet to rise. Carbon is the issue, and the Environmental Protection Agency is leading the charge to reduce the amount emitted into the atmosphere from electric power generators. They have done so by proposing new regulations that will require new and existing fossil fuel power plants to reduce emissions. If implemented in their current form, these

Nebraska’s electric rates are among the top 15 lowest in the U.S.

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regulations will have a dramatic impact on how we generate electricity in the United States.

With carbon being the primary focus of regulation to combat climate change, did you know that more than 30 percent of Nebraska’s electricity is generated from non-carbon emitting resources? Wind generation and other renewable energy resources provide about 9 percent of Nebraska’s electric capacity, but it is noncarbon emitting nuclear and hydroelectric power that makes up 22 percent of our states generation mix. Our states hosts two nuclear power plants, the 810 megawatt (MW) Cooper Nuclear Station owned by Nebraska Public Power District and the 484 MW Fort Calhoun Nuclear Station owned by Omaha Public Power District. In addition, numerous hydroelectric generators across the state and federal hydropower comprise 9 percent of our states generation mix. Wind generation and other renewable energy resources currently supply about 9 percent of Nebraska’s electric nameplate capacity, and planned additional wind energy projects will continue to increase this percentage

Visit the website at: www.workingfornebraska.org Rural Electric Nebraskan

in the near future.

We have all been told that Nebraska needs to develop its wind energy resources to mirror neighboring states like Iowa and Colorado, yet when one looks at facts, regionally Nebraska is a leader in our low carbon emissions.

Of all our neighboring states, only South Dakota with its abundant supply of hydroelectricity has fewer carbon emissions. When compared to Iowa, who is known for their development of wind energy, Nebraska produces fewer tons of carbon.

This shows us that developing additional renewable resources is only one piece of the complicated issue of reducing carbon emissions.

In addition to Nebraska’s noncarbon producing generation resources, Nebraska is also a national leader in energy efficiency.

During hot load peaking days in the summer, rural electric systems voluntarily partner with irrigators

to shed load by turning off their irrigation units until a time when electric usage declines. By doing so, rural electric systems are able to curtail the use of massive amounts of electricity saving the need to construct one new large 600 megawatt power plant. That is enough electricity to power the city of Lincoln! This not only saves

ratepayers hundreds of millions of dollars on the construction of a new power plant, but it also maximizes the efficient operation of existing power plants and reduces the resourced needed to generate the state’s power.

Nebraska’s rural electric systems are working hard to strike a balance between environmental responsibilities, low-cost, and a reliable electric supply. To achieve this balance we need long-term statewide planning by those most familiar with the electric industry and whose job it is to ensure reliable electric service does not suffer.

To understand this complicated issue, we must separate the rhetoric from the reality of power delivery. We need to have an open and honest discussion about protecting the integrity of our electrical system and keeping rates affordable while continuing to pursue the development of new and cleaner generation resources.

Protecting wildlife along the Platte River n 2007 Dawson Public Power District became involved with a project to combat bird collisions with power lines along the Platte River. Rowe Sanctuary in conjunction with Dawson Public Power District, University of NebraskaKearney, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Platte River Whooping Crane Maintenance Trust started working together to protect wildlife and ensure that electric

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power still gets to where it is needed.

With the cost to bury power lines being prohibitive other options

were discussed. Bird flight diverters were hung from the lines at Rowe, 465 of them for a total cost of over $23,000.

The devices were purchased by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service using money from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. The Crane Trust provided technical advice and Dawson PPD provided the installation.

Since they glow in the dark the devices are commonly referred to as “fireflies”. In addition to their luminous qualities

they also spin in the wind and make a noise much like the sound of playing cards on bicycle spokes. It is hoped that the sight, sound and movement of the fireflies will allow birds to notice them and avoid the lines.

In 2010 all the devices that had broken were replaced with a nonspinning type.

The devices were supplied by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and Dawson PPD paid for a helicopter company to complete the replacement project.

Next Month: February 2015

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Efficient water heating technology options

by Thomas Kirk

ater heating is the second largest use of energy in homes, accounting for approximately 14 to 18 percent of residential energy consumption. In addition to wrapping water heaters and pipes in insulation, there are many technologies in this market to help lower energy consumption and save consumers money. These technologies include heat pump water heaters (HPWH), CO2 heat pump water heaters, and point-ofuse (POU) water heaters.

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Heat pump water heaters The heat pump water heater is not a new technology, but it is experiencing a revival. A handful of small companies produced units in the 1980s and 1990s, but random failures soured utilities and consumers on the technology. Today, however, some of the major manufacturers of water heaters and other appliances have entered the market, offering a new generation of heat pump water heaters.

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There are two types. One, the more expensive option, replaces an existing electric water heater with a new, “integrated” unit combining a heat pump with a water tank. The second type adds a heat pump unit to an existing water heater. The heat pump in both versions circulates a refrigerant, which absorbs heat from the surrounding air and then passes through a compressor to maximize the heat output, which is transferred into the tank’s water. The heat pump can produce most of the heat needed by the water heater. A backup electric resistance element in the tank is called upon when the ambient air is too cold for heat pump operation or additional amounts of hot water are needed. Because the units use both heat pump technology and electric resistance for backup, the units are referred to as “hybrid” heat pump water heaters.

Heat pump water heaters use roughly half the electricity of a conventional electric water heater, but this efficiency comes with a higher price tag and potential tradeoffs in effectiveness for participation in load control programs. Integrated units are selling for about twice the

cost of a standard tank heater.

Depending on the retail cost of electricity and the installed cost of the heat pump water heater, including any financial incentives, the payback period can be as little as three years. In areas with low electricity rates and limited financial incentives, however, the payback period can be much longer.

A heat pump water heater can generally be installed in a conditioned or unconditioned space.

However, the space must be at least 10 square feet to ensure adequate air exchange for the heat pump. An open basement, a utility area or—in some climates—a garage is appropriate.

The cool exhaust air can be released into the area where the heat pump water heater is located, cooling and dehumidifying the surrounding air, or it can be ducted outside.

Heat pump water heaters are not a universal option. Heat pump water heaters are most efficient in warm and damp climates. Homes in those climates will also benefit from the water heater’s cooling and dehumidifying features. However, residents in colder climates will see decreased performance during colder

Rural Electric Nebraskan

months. In the northern areas, for instance, if the heat pump is designed to work at ambient air temperatures of 45 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, the water heater’s electric element will operate whenever the air temperature drops below that level, reducing energy savings.

CO2 heat pump water heaters Another emerging water heater technology is the CO2 heat pump water heater. These water heaters are unique because they use CO2 as the refrigerant. Using CO2 is beneficial because other commonly used refrigerants are ozone-depleters or have greater impacts on global warming. In addition to their environmentally friendly chemistry, these heaters can output much hotter water. However, these types of water heaters are still in the early stages of adoption in North America (they are more common in Japan and the European Union) and are much more expensive than conventional water heaters.

Point-of-use water heaters Depending on where your water heater is located, you will lose some amount of heat as your hot water travels to the faucet. One technology to help reduce this loss is the pointof-use water heater (POU). These water heaters are located near to the water’s end use, for example, near the sink or shower. This option can be more efficient than raising the temperature of the main water heater. However, POUs cannot act as a back-up heater to intermittent units like solar or geothermal water heaters because they are not powerful enough to support a household’s entire water heating load.

Before purchasing a new water heater, be sure to check if any incentives are offered by your local electric utility for a particular type.

Your public power district or electric co-op can also offer advice on which water heaters work well for your area, as well as other energy-saving tips.

February 2015

Conserve and insulate to save energy ou may not realize it, but the water heater is the second largest user of energy in most homes in Nebraska. Only space heating and cooling systems use more. However, unlike heating and cooling equipment which are seasonal, your water heater works year round. The average home uses 65 gallons of hot water per day. If you pay an average of 12¢ per kilowatthour for electricity, you may be spending over $800 per year for hot water!

You can save a lot of energy and money with your existing system by following a couple simple suggestions: Conserve Water. Your biggest opportunity for savings is to use less hot water. In addition to saving energy (and money), cutting down on hot water use helps conserve

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dwindling water supplies, which in some parts of the country is a critical problem.

Water conserving showerheads and faucet aerators can cut hot water use in half. By installing these devices, a family of four can save 14,000 gallons of water a year and the energy required to heat it.

Insulate Hot Water Pipes.

Insulating your hot water pipes will reduce energy losses as the hot water is flowing to your faucet and, more importantly, it will reduce standby losses when the tap is turned off and then back on within an hour or so. A great deal of energy and water is wasted waiting for the hot water to reach the tap. Even when pipes are insulated, the water in the pipes will eventually cool, but it stays warmer much longer than it would if the pipes were not insulated.

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Keep safety in mind when cooking in the kitchen ooking is often a relaxing and fun task that brings family and friends together, and it provides a great way to showcase your creativity and love of good food.

But cooking is also the number one cause of home fires and home injuries. Being mindful while you cook, however, can go a long way to helping prevent these fires.

Here’s what you need to know: • Keep an eye on what you fry • Be alert when cooking • Keep things that can catch fire away from cooking area

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ignited in less than 1 percent of these fires, but these incidents accounted for 15 percent of the cooking fire deaths.

• Ranges accounted for the largest share (57 percent) of home cooking fire incidents. Ovens accounted for 16 percent.

• More than half of reported nonfatal home cooking fire injuries occurred when the victims tried to fight the fire themselves.

• Frying poses the greatest risk of fire.

• Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires.

Cooking fires by the numbers Based on 2007-2011 annual averages: • Unattended cooking was by far the leading contributing factor in these fires.

• Sixty-seven percent of home cooking fires started with the ignition of food or other cooking materials.

• Clothing was the item first

Cooking with oil Oil is a key ingredient found in the majority of today’s kitchens. Whether a recipe calls for frying or sautéing, we include oil in almost all of our daily cooking. When using any of the many oils to prepare your meals like olive, canola, corn or soybean, consider the following safety tips when cooking: • Always stay in the kitchen when

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frying on the stovetop.

• Keep an eye on what you fry. If you see wisps of smoke or the oil smells, immediately turn off the burner and/or carefully remove the pan from the burner. Smoke is a danger sign that the oil is too hot.

• Heat the oil slowly to the temperature you need for frying or sautéing.

• Add food gently to the pot or pan so the oil does not splatter.

• Always cook with a lid beside your pan. If you have a fire, slide the lid over the pan and turn off the burner. Do not remove the cover because the fire could start again.

Let the pan cool for a long time.

Never throw water or use a fire extinguisher on the fire.

• If the fire does not go out or you don’t feel comfortable sliding a lid over the pan, get everyone out of your home. Call the fire department from outside.

Source: National Fire Protection Association

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Meet Your State Senator he first session of the 104th Nebraska Legislature convened on Wednesday, January 7th in Lincoln.

It’s a 90-day session.

If you want to write your state senator during the 2015 session, please address correspondence to: Senator (Last Name) District # State Capitol PO Box 94604 Lincoln, NE 68509-4604 Find your senator’s name, hometown, legislative district and Capitol telephone number here.

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District 1

District 2

District 3

Dan Watermeier Syracuse 471-2733

Bill Kintner Papillion 471-2613

Tommy L. Garrett Bellevue 471-2627

District 4

District 5

District 6

Robert Hilkemann Omaha 471-2621

Heath Mello Omaha 471-2710

Joni Craighead Omaha 471-2714

District 7

District 8

District 9

Jeremy Nordquist Omaha 471-2721

Burke Harr Omaha 471-2722

Sara Howard Omaha 471-2723

District 10

District 11

District 12

Bob Krist Omaha 471-2718

Ernie Chambers Omaha 471-2612

Merv Riepe Ralston 471-2623

District 13

District 14

District 15

Tanya Cook Omaha 471-2727

Jim Smith LaVista 471-2730

David A. Schnoor Scribner 471-2625

Rural Electric Nebraskan

February 2015

District 16

District 17

District 18

Lydia Brasch Bancroft 471-2728

Dave Bloomfield Hoskins 471-2716

Brett Lindstrom Omaha 471-2801

District 19

District 20

District 21

Jim Scheer Norfolk 471-2929

John S. McCollister Omaha 471-2622

Ken Haar Malcolm 471-2673

District 22

District 23

District 24

Paul Schumacher Columbus 471-2715

Jerry Johnson Wahoo 471-2719

Mark A. Kolterman Seward 471-2756

District 25

District 26

District 27

Kathy Campbell Lincoln 471-2731

Matt Hansen Lincoln 471-2610

Colby Coash Lincoln 471-2632

District 28

District 29

District 30

Patty Pansing Brooks Lincoln 471-2633

Kate Bolz Lincoln 471-2734

Roy Baker Lincoln 471-2620

District 31

District 32

District 33

Rick Kolowski Omaha 471-2327

Laura Ebke Crete 471-2711

Les Seiler Hastings 471-2712

District 34

District 35

District 36

Curt Friesen Henderson 471-2630

Mike Gloor Grand Island 471-2617

Matt Williams Gothenburg 471-2642

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District 37

District 38

District 39

Galen Hadley Kearney 471-2726

John Kuehn Heartwell 471-2732

Beau McCoy Omaha 471-2885

District 40

District 41

District 42

Tyson Larson O’Neill 471-2801

Kate Sullivan Cedar Rapids 471-2631

Mike Groene North Platte 471-2729

District 43

District 44

District 45

Al Davis Hyannis 471-2628

Dan Hughes Venango 471-2805

Sue Crawford Bellevue 471-2615

District 46 Adam Morfeld Lincoln 471-2720

District 47 Ken Schilz Ogallala 471-2616

District 48 John Stinner Gering 471-2802

District 49 John Murante Gretna 471-2725

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Plan a visit with your State Senator n effective way of conveying a message to your senator is by meeting with them or their staff. Below are a few simple steps which will help make your visit a successful experience.

Plan your visit: Know what you want to achieve and do your homework.

Make an appointment: Contact the senator’s office and try to schedule a meeting. Explain why you desire a meeting and who you represent.

Be prompt and patient: It is not uncommon for state senators to show up to an appointment late or to have a meeting interrupted. Be understanding, flexible and on time. State senators do not have time to wait on you.

Be prepared: Know what you want to say and be equipped with information and materials that support your position. If a senator is not available for a meeting, talk with that member’s staff.

Be pertinent: Demonstrate the connection between your issue and the interests of the member’s constituency. Try to convey to the member how you or your group can be of assistance to him or her.

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Emailing your State Senator mail has become generally accepted among representatives as an acceptable form of communication. Email carries with it the benefit of having your information transmitted instantly. If you opt to use email, your correspondence should be similar in format to a traditional letter. Do not make the mistake of sending an informal letter through email correspondence.

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Visit our grassroots website and find your state senator.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Your Congressional Delegation

Rep. Jeff Fortenberry

Need to contact a member of the House of Representatives or a member of the Senate?

Find Nebraska’s Congressional Delegation's contact information here.

Washington, D.C. Office: 1514 Longworth House Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4806 Website: fortenberry.house.gov

February 2015

Sen. Deb Fischer

Rep. Brad Ashford

Washington, D.C. Office: 383 Russell Senate Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: (202) 224-6551 Website: fischer.senate.gov

Washington, D.C. Office: 107 Cannon House Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20515 Phone: (202) 225-4155

Sen. Ben Sasse

Rep. Adrian Smith

Washington, D.C. Office: B40E Dirksen Senate Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20510 Phone: (202) 224-4224 Website: sasse.senate.gov

Washington, D.C. Office: 2241 Rayburn House Office Bldg., Washington, D.C. 20515 Phone: (202) 225-6435 Website: adriansmith.house.gov

Website: ashford.house.gov

15

SAFETY BRIEFS

Take precautions to avoid hypothermia njoying the Nebraska winter can be some of the most fun a person spends outdoors.

Whether it’s hunting, ice fishing, cross country skiing, sledding or snowshoeing, the state has great outdoor opportunities.

Being outdoors in the winter also means being safe in the coldest of temperatures. Avoiding hypothermia is key. Hypothermia is a low body temperature most often is caused by exposure to cold weather or immersion in a cold body of water.

Left untreated, hypothermia can lead to complete failure of the heart and respiratory system and to death.

Primary treatments for hypothermia are methods to warm the body back to a normal temperature.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission suggests hunters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts dress warmly in layers of clothing that may be added or removed as necessary. Warm hats, gloves or mittens and boots will prevent heat loss through the top of the head, hands and feet. Anglers should wear a life vest on the ice.

Hypothermia can affect judgment,

gradually and because the confused associated with thinking hypothermia prevents selfawareness.

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Tips for safety on ice

which is critical to hunters handling loaded firearms and anglers venturing onto potentially unsafe ice.

Symptoms of moderate to severe hypothermia include: • Shivering • Clumsiness, lack of coordination, stumbling, slurred speech • Confusion, difficulty thinking or poor decision making • Drowsiness or very low energy • Gradual loss of consciousness • Weak pulse • Slow, shallow breathing A person with hypothermia usually is not aware of his or her condition, because the symptoms often begin

Stay safe on the ice this winter while enjoying a day of ice fishing. Follow these Nebraska Game and Parks Commission tips for safety on the ice: • There should be at least 4 inches of clear, solid ice before an angler ventures onto a frozen lake or pond.

• Wear a life jacket.

• Commercial or homemade ice picks should be worn around your neck in case you fall through and need something to grip the ice and pull yourself out.

• Use an ice chisel or spud bar to check ice thickness every step of the way.

• Keep a long rope with you so someone can help rescue you if you break through the ice.

• Avoid alcoholic beverages. These affect your judgment and increase your chances for hypothermia.

Source: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Podcasts offer variety of energy efficiency tips hen compared to years past, building science hasn’t changed all that much. Fifty years ago, a properly constructed and insulated home could provide comfort and affordable electric bills – this is still true today.

Although building science remains the same, energy efficiency technology has changed with the improvement of construction framing methods, insulation, windows, doors and air sealants. The introduction of infrared thermal imaging cameras now allows us to see the behavior of heat transfer, insulation performance (or lack thereof), moisture and air infiltration within a dwelling.

The cost and value of a kilowatthour is just as important today as it was in 1964. Nationwide, electric cooperatives have stayed the course for decades by providing their members with helpful energy efficiency resources for new home and retrofit construction. You can rest assured we’ll be doing so for decades to come.

This month, we invite you to check

W

out another free educational resource for your energy efficiency toolkit — the Smart Energy Tips podcast. Many of you already know about podcasts. For those who don’t, a podcast is an audio format available on the Internet. A podcast can be listened to on your computer or a portable media device, such as an iPod or smartphone. Once you subscribe to our podcast feed, new episodes are automatically downloaded to your device as soon as they are available, and you can listen to them at your convenience.

The Smart Energy Tips podcast provides fact-based building science information in a fun format that’s easy for the listener to understand.

The content helps you take charge of your utility bills without sacrificing comfort and conveniences. Episodes address how construction practices, appliances, heating and cooling equipment, moisture, weather, politics, regulations, consumer habits and much more impact your electric bill. We help you identify your energy and comfort problems and find the solutions.

For audio device or smartphone listeners who are currently subscribed to iTunes: • Simply access your account.

• Click on the “Podcast” tab.

• Enter “Smart Energy Tips” in the search window.

• Then click on the Smart Energy Tips window to subscribe.

For those without an iTunes account • Visit the Apple Store at: http://store.apple.com/us to subscribe for a free account.

• Click on the “Download iTunes” button and follow the instructions.

• Once your account is activated, just follow the steps in the previous paragraph.

For computer listeners, visit the www.smartenergytips.org website and click on the podcast tab to access the episode files.

See what a difference it makes...

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Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month Fighting winter chills? A crackling fire in the hearth warms the house, but don’t let it heat up your electric bill. To cool energy costs, keep the fireplace damper closed when not in use. Caulk around the fireplace hearth. Double up on wood-earned warmth by lowering the thermostat setting to between 50 degrees and 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Learn more at www.energysaver.gov.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy February 2015

17

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS

Methods to zone heat and cool your home

by James Dulley

rooms in our house are Q :tooSome hot or too cold, and someone

harder. According to the Department of Energy, for each degree the is always complaining. What can we thermostat is set lower for an eightdo to even out the room hour period, heating bills can be temperatures to keep everyone reduced by up to one percent. happy? Will doing this lower our Installing an automatic zone utility bills? control system is the best and most energy-efficient method to control : It’s likely there’s not a single individual room temperatures. A home in the entire country that zone control system adjusts special has even temperatures throughout duct dampers based upon the actual all the rooms. There are many room temperatures and the desired factors, such as the length of temperatures. ductwork, bends, orientation to the Many homes have access to only sun and the number of windows and main ducts, which later branch out to exterior walls that impact the room the individual rooms. In this case, air temperature. the zone control The items that system will you keep in a control the room also affect temperatures the air in each room temperature. For grouping, such example, if you as all the have a large TV bedrooms, in a small room, kitchen/dining it can raise the areas and the temperature. living room.

Actually, it is Although it is not desirable to optimum to have all the control each rooms at the room This zone control thermostat is same independently, programmable and controls the temperature. having just temperature in one room or the group Depending upon three or four of rooms in one zone. Photograph the activity level zones is provided by Durodyne in various rooms, adequate for a range of temperatures may be comfort and energy savings. more comfortable for you and your A programmable thermostat is family. Also, some people simply mounted in each room or zone prefer to have it warmer or cooler. grouping to control the motorized Many homes contain a single duct damper leading to it. If the room furnace or heat pump. If you set the is too warm during winter, the thermostat to keep the chilliest room damper in the duct leading to that warm, this results in many of the room partially closes. For example, a other rooms becoming too warm. A zone thermostat may continuously warmer house loses more heat, readjust the damper position as the forcing the heating system to work intensity of the sun shining through

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18

This programmable zone control thermostat has a large digital readout with information about the temperature/comfort conditions in the zone. Photograph provided by Zonex a window changes throughout the day.

The majority of the energy savings with an automatic zoning system is realized because each room temperature can be varied throughout the day. There is no need to keep the bedrooms toasty warm during the daytime or the living room warm overnight.

The programmable thermostats are designed to bring room temperatures back up without having the backup resistance elements come on.

There are various designs of zoning dampers from just a simple flat damper to bladders, which inflate with air to close off the ducts.

They all function equally well. With the many new thermostats and usecontrol electronics, adding a zoning system requires professional installation. Talk to a qualified technician, and design a system that works best for your home.

Send inquiries to James Dulley, Rural Electric Nebraskan, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

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Down Home Recipes

Give up gluten, but not all grains hether for medical reasons or by choice, consumer interest in gluten-free foods is on the rise. The U.S. market for gluten-free foods is expected to exceed $6.6 billion by 2017, signaling the practice of cutting consumption of wheat, barley and rye has gone mainstream.

According to research conducted at Texas A&M University, sorghum, a cereal grain grown throughout the world, offers slow digestibility and a lower glycemic index. Foods with a lower glycemic index are believed to increase satiety, which means people feel fuller longer, which can assist with weight management. Thus, the growth of the gluten-free market has led to a renewed interest in sorghum.

Globally, sorghum is used primarily as a human food product, often in the form of thick porridges, popped sorghum, fermented and unfermented flat breads, cooked and served as a whole grain, malted into both alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, hard cookies, tortillas and more.

Domestically, sorghum is proving to be a strong substitute for other grains. White, food-grade sorghum can be milled directly into whole grain flour to produce a wide range of baked goods and flour-based foods such as pizza dough, pastas and cereals.

Giving up gluten doesn't have to mean giving up the treats you love.

The recipe for Gluten-Free Dark Chocolate-Peanut Butter Cookies proves using sorghum is the smart choice for its many benefits. For more recipes using sorghum, visit www.HealthySorghum.com.

Source: United Sorghum Checkoff Program

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Dark ChocolatePeanut Butter Cookies

1/4 1

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In medium microwave-safe bowl, heat 8 ounces (1 heaping cup) of chocolate chips, butter and peanut butter on low power in microwave oven 1-2 minutes, or until melted. Stir; set aside to cool.

In large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, vanilla, flour, baking soda, xanthan gum and salt with electric mixer on low speed until very well blended. Beat in melted chocolate mixture until no flour streaks remain. Stir in walnuts and

3 2 3 1 1 1/2 1/4 1/4

ounces bittersweet chocolate chips (at least 60 percent cocoa), divided tablespoons butter or buttery spread tablespoons creamy peanut butter large eggs cup sugar teaspoon pure vanilla extract cup sorghum flour teaspoon baking soda teaspoon xanthan gum

teaspoon salt cup finely chopped walnuts

remaining chocolate chips. Dough will be soft. Refrigerate, covered, 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 375째F. Line 15-by-10inch baking sheet (not nonstick) with parchment paper.

Shape dough into 48 walnut-sized balls and place 12 balls, at least 1 1/2 inches apart, on sheet.

Bake just until cookies are shiny and crust starts to crack, about 10-12 minutes.

Do not over-bake. Cool cookies 2 minutes on baking sheet, then transfer to wire rack to cool completely.

Repeat with remaining dough. Or, freeze balls up to 1 month and bake later.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Reader Submitted Recipes

Stackable Ombre Heart Cookies Favorite roll-out cookie recipe Royal icing (below) Rose Icing Color Heart Micro Mini Icing Decorations Prepare and roll out cookie dough following recipe directions. Use 3 smallest cutters from 4piece heart nesting cookie cutter set to cut out shapes.

Bake and cool cookies.

Divide royal icing into three equal portions, and tint 3 shades of rose. Thin a portion of each shade following recipe directions. Use tip 3 and fullstrength tinted icing to outline cookies. Use thinned tinted icing in cut decorating bag to fill in cookies; gently tap to smooth icing. Let dry overnight.

Use icing to attach cookies, stacking largest to smallest; place icing decoration on top.

Royal Icing 3 tablespoons Meringue Powder 4 cups (about 1 lb.) confectioners' sugar 5 tablespoons warm water Beat all ingredients until icing forms peaks (7-10 minutes at low speed with a heavy-duty mixer, 10-12 minutes at high speed with a handheld mixer).

Keep all utensils completely grease-free for proper icing consistency.

• For stiffer icing, use 1 tablespoon less water.

• When using large countertop mixer or for stiffer icing, use 1 tablespoon less water.

Goulash Soup 1/4 2 2 8 1 2 2 2

cup Johnny’s French Dip – Au Jus Sauce large onions, chopped lbs stew meat or round steak cups water tablespoon pickling spice cups chopped carrots cups diced russet potatoes cups ketchup Cheese cloth and string Gingersnap cookies

Saute chopped onion with a little olive oil and Au Jus sauce. While sautéing prepare meat by cutting into bite size pieces and dredge in a flour, salt and pepper combo. Add the meat to the onions and cook it just enough to take the redness off. Add 8 cups of water and potatoes and carrots. Cut a small piece of cheese cloth and put pickle spice in it and tie it off with string and place into soup. Bring to a boil, then lower heat, cover and simmer for 1 hour. In a bowl add one cup water and place 6-8 gingersnap cookies to soak. When mushy, add to soup. Add ketchup and stir well.

Simmer for 2 more hours, uncovered. Taste during this time as you may want to add a few more gingersnaps. If soup gets too thick add some water.

Additional ketchup can also be added, you be the judge. Remember to remove the spice bag before serving.

Vicki Luxa, Blair, Nebraska

Super Duper Chocolate Chip Cookies 2 1/2 1 1 3/4 1/4 1 1 1 1 1

cups flour teaspoon baking soda cup butter, softened cup brown cup white sugar egg 3-oz pkg instant vanilla pudding tablespoon vanilla cup chocolate chips cup chopped nuts, walnuts, or pecans

Mix together flour & soda. Set aside. Cream butter & sugars together.

When light & fluffy, add egg, mix thoroughly. Pour in vanilla pudding & vanilla. Continue mixing, add flour mixture a little at a time. Don’t overbeat. Add chips & nuts. Refrigerate dough for 3 hours or overnight.

When ready to bake, make walnut size balls of dough. Place on cookie sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes. Yields: 25 cookies.

Kathryn Ingerle, Elba, Nebraska

Source: Wilton

February 2015

21

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Have you ever said to yourself “I’d love to get a computer, if only I could figure out how to use it.” Well, you’re not alone. Computers were supposed to make our lives simpler, but they’ve gotten so complicated that they are not worth the trouble. With all of the “pointing and clicking” and “dragging and dropping” you’re lucky if you can figure out where you are. Plus, you are constantly worrying about viruses and freeze-ups. If this sounds familiar, we have great news for you.

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All you do is touch one of them, from the Web, Email, Calendar to Games– you name it… and a new screen opens up. It’s so easy to use you won’t have to ask your children or grandchildren for help. Until now, the very people who could benefit most from E-mail and the Internet are the ones that have had the hardest time accessing it. Now, thanks to the WOW Computer, countless older Americans are discovering the wonderful world of the Internet every day. Isn’t it time

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e of the highest quality evergreens available! Green nt was introduced to the gardening public by the . National Arboretum. And what an introduction! This standing variety is a vigorous grower often growing r 3′ per year. Adaptable trees grow in almost any soil ditions. Extremely uniform in pyramidal shape and uire no trimming. Green Giant is very tolerant to pests diseases. Eventually reaches a height of 60′ tall with ase measuring between 12-20′. Grow as a specimen or as an evergreen windbreak. Plant 5-6′ apart for a ly fast privacy screen, otherwise 10-12′ apart. Green nt can be trimmed to any height and width. Supplies limited so make sure to order yours early!

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