Rural Electric Nebraskan

November 2014

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Volume 68, Number 11, November 2014

“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

Beemer man has collecting fever Henry Heller of Beemer, Neb. has been collecting tokens for 50 years. Freelance writer LaRayne Topp shares the story about how Heller’s love of tokens has grown into an impressive collection.

Remodeling for life

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.

November 2014

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Abby Berry, a consumer and cooperative affairs writer for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, tells the story of Home for Life, a collaborative effort by a team of designers, universal design consultants, efficiency specialists and professional organizations, offers a variety of ideas that enable homes to “live” better, last longer and stand out in efficiency.

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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ADULT PEN PALS

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MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS

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On the cover Henry Heller looks over his collection of tokens, each encased in a page of plastic sleeves and carefully identified as to place and date of purchase.

See the story on Page 6. Photograph by LaRayne Topp

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EDITOR’S PAGE

EPA extends public comment period deadline he Environmental Protection Agency sure every rural Nebraskan is aware of the (EPA) announced in September that impacts of this proposed rule. To provide a they were extending the comment comment to the EPA, visit period for the proposed Clean Power Plan www.workingfornebraska.org and click on by an additional 45 days after the October the Take Action button.

16th deadline. With nearly 1,000,000 The NREA, its member-systems and messages having already been sent to the electric cooperatives across the country EPA, this extension will give you and your raised their concerns at public hearings, in neighbors more time to make sure the EPA television and radio ads and through a gets the message that this rule goes too far, grassroots effort that has flooded the EPA too fast. with comments from consumers of public Public comments are now due to the power district and electric cooperatives agency by December 1 on its proposed worried about the consequences of the rule carbon dioxide standard for fossil that was proposed June 2. generation. Because of concerns “These proposed regulations about the rule’s cost and are some of the most complex reliability implications, and far-reaching ever the Nebraska Rural written. Public power Time to Electric Association districts and electric had asked EPA to cooperatives Take Action allow more time for welcome the December 1 is the last day feedback from those extension of the the EPA will be accepting impacted by the comment period to comments on their proposed rule. allow for more rule to regulate carbon from Senator Deb analysis of their Fischer [R-NE], impact on America’s power plants. If you along with Senator affordability and have not yet participated, Heidi Heitkamp [Dreliability,” you can do so at ND], sent a National Rural www.Action.Coop. bi-partisan letter Electric Cooperative signed by 53 members Association CEO Jo of the Senate asking the Ann Emerson said. “This EPA to further extend the extension provides rural comment period regarding electric utilities the proposed rules for existing power opportunity to offer more informed plants. After it became clear that the task and specific feedback to the agency before of evaluating such a massive regulation in announcement of the final rule.”

120 days is not a realistic goal, Senator According to Janet McCabe, acting Fischer helped to lead the way to extend the assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of public comment period.

Air and Radiation, the extension was the “As proposed, the guidelines include result of the outpouring of public comments flawed assumptions and requirements that on the proposal. She noted that public input result in overly aggressive emission rate played an “important part” of the reductions, which will raise electricity costs rulemaking process. The rule was originally for families across Nebraska,” Fischer said. open for 120 days of comment.

“While the environmental benefits of The rule is still on target to go final in capping carbon in America are negligible at June 2015, despite the extension on the comment period. best, the economic consequences are Under the proposed rule, EPA set carbon unquestionably devastating.” dioxide limits for each state, which then Extending the comment period gives our must develop its own implementation plan member-systems an opportunity to make

T

by Wayne Price

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Rural Electric Nebraskan

using a variety of means. These plans can include energy efficiency, switching from coal-based generation to natural gas, and increasing power supply from emission-free energy resources.

Coal fired power plants provide two-thirds of our state’s electricity.

These plants provide an affordable source of electricity that can be depended upon around the clock.

The NREA is concerned about the potential effect this regulation could have on the reliability and affordability of our national electrical system. With current technology, reducing carbon at these levels in this short timeframe will require the closing of many of our nation’s fossil-fueled power plants.

States have one to three years to submit their final plans to EPA. Compliance begins in 2020 with an interim goal based on an average of emissions during the years 20202029. A final emissions goal will be for the year 2030 and beyond.

“Both NREA and NRECA have characterized the proposed rule as going too far, too fast,” said NREA General Manager Troy Bredenkamp, “and something that will most likely raise electricity prices for customers and decrease reliability.

Members of the Nebraska Power Association continue their analysis on what it will take and how much it will cost to comply with the proposed rule.”

There is no commercially viable carbon capture technology so the only way to achieve these kinds of carbon dioxide intensity reductions is to retire coal powered generation and replace it with less carbon intense generation such as combined cycle natural gas, nuclear and renewable sources such as wind and solar.

Much of the economic impacts of this regulation seems pretty well understood, the question remains about the expected environmental benefit. The EPA is proposing a 30 percent reduction of 2005 carbon dioxide emission levels by 2030.

November 2014

According to the American Coalition of Clean Coal Electricity, this proposed reduction would result in only a 0.02 degree Celsius impact on global temperatures.

“This small net effect is due in large part to the fact that while the EPA proposes the U.S. to implement a 30 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, the countries of

China and India have realized a 67 percent and 52 percent increase respectively since 2005, with no indication of slowing down that growth pattern anytime soon,” Bredenkamp said.

We need your help. Please go to or www.workingfornebraska.org www.action.coop and let your voice be heard.

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Beemer man has collecting fever

by LaRayne Topp

enry Heller of Beemer, Nebraska, was seated at the lunch counter a half a century ago in a tavern in Wisner, Nebraska, when he caught the disease. Tavern owner Hugo Koopman was grumbling as he worked behind the bar.

“I’ve shoved these things around long enough. They’re going to the dump,” Koopman said, as he picked up a coffee can and held it in front of Heller. Young Heller reached in and grabbed as many of the things inside as he could hold. That’s how he

H

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caught the disease, he said—a contagious case of exonumia. In fact, Heller is so infected with exonumia— the collection of numismatic items such as tokens and medals—that he has more than 500 tokens in his collection today. Nearly 50 years after his first encounter with tokens, he’s a member of a support group of sorts, in reality a token club, for people just like him.

What is it about these tokens, that they can be so epidemic? In actuality, tokens are small round objects, like a button or coin, typically made of some type of metal or wood.

According to Robert Cruise who compiled a listing of tokens collected in Platte County, Nebraska, tokens

were made of brass, aluminum, nickel, zinc, cardboard or fiber, or other materials. Shapes also varied.

Many were round, square, octagon, oval, scalloped or triangular, or even heart- or bell-shaped.

At one time they were given out by businesses in place of change following a purchase. The tokens could be redeemed only in that place of business. If the tokens were never redeemed, the business owner had a little more change in his or her pocket.

“It was a gimmick,” Heller said.

“You had to spend the token there.”

Remember the old saying, “Don’t take any wooden nickels? Giving tokens in place of cash sounds like a

Rural Electric Nebraskan

pretty good rate of return for the These tokens could be traded for pool hall, among other or business owner, doesn’t it! Today various items. For example, military occupations. however, since the tokens are no tokens from the High Chaparral Some tokens, known as Mavericks, longer used they’ve only increased in Officer’s Club in Lincoln could pay don’t have a town listed on the front, value. Token collectors will pay much for a ladies drink. A token from and so it is difficult to determine more than the token was once worth, Gardiner’s Dairy in Merriman, their origin. substantially more in fact, to add one Nebraska, would award its holder a “They’re like a calf without its more token to their stash. bottle of cream. Heller’s tokens vary mother,” Heller said.

Garry Young of Loup City, in trade-in value from 2 ½ cents for Tokens especially prized may be Nebraska, tells a story about an item to $1. those from once booming locations no tracking down a token of longer in existence: tokens particular interest to him. It used by American Indians at was originally distributed by the Spotted Tail or Red J.W. Hugus, a sutler at a Cloud Agency, for example, trading post at Fort Kearny. military tokens from Fort Founded in 1848, the historic Omaha or Fort Robinson, or fort was located along the merchant tokens from towns Oregon Trail, near presentwhich no longer have day Kearney, Nebraska. businesses which could have Young located the token— once distributed tokens, like one which he fervently Altona, Orum or Bertha. hoped to add to his While some token collection—at the home of a aficionados won’t sell a token private collector. As Young from their collection, they began to pile one hundred might trade a duplicate for a dollar bills on the table, the token they don’t have. Club eight-year-old son who had members hold in-house accompanied him looked at auctions at which time they the stack of bills and said, sell duplicate tokens to “Dad, Mom is going to kill members. Bids are also you!” taken through the mail or Never before had Young over the phone. spent that amount on a Some of the most difficult token. “As you might tokens to locate are those suspect,” Young said, “this is with real photos of business one of the most favorite proprietors on the front, or A page from "Nebraska Trade Tokens, Listing by tokens in my collection.” those made up of advertising The Nebraska Token Collectors Club, Second Edition, Henry Heller understands mirrors. With “good for 10 2009," show various shapes and styles of tokens. (Used this kind of collecting fever. cents in trade…” or a similar by permission, Henry Heller contributor, Nebraska After grabbing a handful of slogan on the front, plus the Token Collector's Club) brass tokens at Koopmans’ business name, advertising tavern, Heller began to hunt mirrors were much more for tokens in earnest. He also joined To learn which businesses may expensive to purchase and distribute the Nebraska Token Collectors’ Club. have been distributing tokens by business owners than brass or Today that club has grown to include throughout the years, token aluminum tokens. Consequently, 45 members from across the state, enthusiasts utilize such books as the they’re rare. along with a few out-of-staters.

Collection Laws pamphlet released The most unusual tokens are dual In addition to those from in 1886. It lists businesses by city town tokens, Heller said. For merchants, tokens that club and county throughout Nebraska, example, Heller holds tokens from members gather run the gamut from and the location of small or obscure two Nebraska businesses, one in prison, dairy and military tokens, to towns in relationship to larger cities.

Wisner and one in Osmond, which those distributed through The pamphlet lists the names of the distributed the same token. Tokens government organizations such as businesses and if, for instance, the are graded for their rarity. A rating the CCC. The Civilian Conservation business owner was a blacksmith, of six is rare, but a seven is rarest, Corps was a public work relief grocer, saloon keeper or shoemaker, Heller said. program for unemployed unmarried and if he or she ran a hotel, Please turn to page 8 men, operating from 1933 to 1942. lumberyard, meat market, drugstore

November 2014

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Collecting fever From page 7 Some token collectors have assembled bound books containing names of merchants in a particular county who were known to have issued trade tokens. The books are as comprehensive as the collectors groups can make them, with some of the books listing the number of tokens held by each collector. They include approximate dates the businesses were in operation, giving a clue to a token’s value.

One such book—“Nebraska Trade Tokens, second edition, 2009”—was compiled largely by Nebraska Token Collectors’ Club members Chuck Berger and Jim Ehlers, with information from other club members, including Henry Heller.

In addition to county-wide books, other books list tokens state-wide. An example is the book, “2006 Nebraska Merchant Trade Tokens, Town/place Rarity Listing, and other Exonumia, 8th edition,” compiled by George Hosek.

Heller has utilized this book and more while scouting out tokens, along with Dunn and Bradstreet Credit Reports that came out yearly, telling which businesses were in operation. In the research Heller has completed, he’s learned that tokens harken back to the day of the fur trader, before standardized currency was used on the frontier.

And speaking of standardized currency, Heller also collects coins.

While he’s looking through boxes at auctions for tokens, he may find a coin he’s been searching for, and vice versa. Or a postmark, which Heller also collects. Or a vintage road map, license plate, beer can or some type of airplane memorabilia. Heller also collects counter checks, whenever he can find them. In earlier days, local banks set out packs of counter checks at businesses where many of their customers shopped. They weren’t exclusive to a depositor and could be used by anyone with an account at that bank.

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Henry's tokens -- all 500 of them -- are stored in books of plastic sleeves like this and carefully labeled. Photograph by LaRayne Topp When Heller first began collecting tokens he planned to get “every one that’s out there,” he said. Later on, when he found out the number of tokens which could actually be “out there,” he decided to focus strictly on Northeast Nebraska. Even at that, Heller’s tokens, which are carefully encased in plastic pages in large, loose-leaf books, number over 500.

That doesn’t count the tokens Heller has duplicates of and which are for sale.

In addition to traditional merchant tokens, Heller also has tokens which capture events like town anniversaries and centennials, space shuttle launchings, livestock shows, political rallies and state fairs.

They represent large companies such as Folgers Coffee and Meadow Gold, or entitle the holder to a free ride, as in the case of his street car and bus tokens.

“You can even get a token for a house of ill repute,” Heller said.

Some collectors go far beyond auctions and antique stores to hunt for tokens. They might walk over an old town site with a metal detector in hand, or sift through the ground

beneath an abandoned outhouse in the hopes that one day, long ago, the then-useless tokens were “flushed away.”

Tokens found in this manner or those which have sat around for a number of years may have become discolored. These are called a “dig,” according to Heller. Other obsolete tokens may have been painted white, red or blue and used as poker chips once they were no longer redeemable.

Today, Heller is on the lookout for a merchant trade token from the town of Bliss, a small town settled in the early 1880s near Goose Lake in Holt County. It wasn’t an especially prosperous town; in 1915 the town boasted only 15 inhabitants and eventually faded away entirely.

Unlike the town, however, the tokens once given out there have increased in value. Printed in 1886 and 1887 and embellished with the picture of a cow, a Bliss token was once distributed by Bliss business owner, H. J. Dierks.

It would be an important find.

After all, as printed on the token, it’s good for five cents at the bar.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

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Find holiday energy savings in the kitchen ach year, from Thanksgiving to Christmas and through New Year’s, friends and family gather to celebrate and enjoy the spirit of the season. While almost everyone knows they can save electric energy during the holidays by decorating with LED lights, most people do not consider the great energy-saving opportunities they have with another seasonal tradition: EATING! There are several ways to avert unnecessary energy use in the kitchen. Consider a few of these tips:

E

Refrigerators Refrigerators and freezers get a real workout over the holidays. They are some of the larger energy consumers in your house, and they often account for as much as 15 percent of your home's total energy usage. Help your refrigerator and freezer to operate efficiently by keeping the doors closed as much as possible. Note, however, that leaving the door open

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while you take out the items is more efficient than opening and closing the door several times.

Keeping your refrigerator and freezer full during the holidays is easy and energy efficient. The mass of cold items inside the refrigerator reduces the appliance’s temperature recovery time after the door is closed.

Be careful not to cram them so full that cool air cannot properly circulate around the food.

Ovens Typically, the holiday turkey, or whatever your favorite meat may be, will roast for hours. Since it is a long, slow cook, there is no need to preheat your oven. As a general rule, unless you are baking breads or pastries, you usually do not need to preheat.

Do not open the oven door to take a peek! Instead, turn on the oven light and check on the cooking through the window. Slightly opening the oven door lowers the temperature inside by as much as 25

degrees. That increases cooking time and wastes energy.

Self-cleaning ovens use less energy for normal cooking because of the higher insulation levels built into them. Consider using the selfcleaning feature right after using your oven, to take advantage of the residual heat.

Stovetops When cooking on the range top, match the size of the pan to the heating element. More heat will go into the pan and less will be lost in the surrounding air. Clean burners and reflectors provide better heating while saving energy. If you need new reflectors, buy quality ones. The best on the market can save as much as one-third of the energy when compared to dull, non-reflective pans.

Other Ways to Cook Do not overlook alternative cooking appliances during the holidays. Fast

Rural Electric Nebraskan

and efficient microwave ovens use around 50 percent less energy than conventional ovens, and they do not heat up your kitchen. They are especially handy and energy efficient when heating leftovers.

Slow cookers (crock-pots) are perfect for many dishes. On average, they will cook a whole meal for about a dime’s worth of electricity. Also, electric skillets can efficiently steam, fry, sauté, stew, bake or roast a variety of food items, and some can double as serving dishes. If you are baking or broiling small food items, a toaster oven is ideal because they use, on average, one-third the energy of a bigger oven.

To get the most from the energy you use during the holidays, give these EnergyWise tips a try. You can save a little on your utility bill, and you will have plenty to talk about over dinner.

Source: Nebraska Public Power District

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by Abby Berry

Home for Life showcases ways to remodel for retirement years.

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Remodeling for life

H

ome is where the heart is for most Nebraskans.

It’s comforting, it’s safe and it’s where we make memories. But what about our home’s sustainability for the future? We expect our safe havens to last for years to come, so that we can continue to enjoy them with family and friends.

In January 2010, the first of the 80 million baby boomers turned 65 years old—which means nearly 30 percent of the U.S. population is now entering their retirement years.

According to a recent survey conducted by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), 84 percent of baby boomers would like to stay in their current homes during retirement years, but only 16 percent have taken any steps to adapt their home for retirement.

Home for Life, a collaborative effort by a team of designers, universal design consultants, efficiency

specialists and professional organizations, offers a variety of ideas that enable homes to “live” better, last longer and stand out in efficiency.

Home for Life is designed to showcase the concepts of universal design and aging in place—an important topic for remodelers and consumers alike—as baby boomers begin to enter their retirement years in record numbers.

The Home for Life team began by constructing a 1970s-model suburban home, implementing updates based on aesthetics, functionality and efficiency. For example, the design team added efficient front-loading washers and dryers and elevated them for easier access. Hallways were widened and grab bars were installed for safety.

Efficiency was a major consideration in the redesign, and the team worked to ensure that all rooms were

Rural Electric Nebraskan

comfortable and free of drafts. This cut down on insects and dust and reduced monthly energy bills. Apart from efficiency, design elements were thoughtfully considered as updates were made to the home.

The Home for Life project can benefit any family living in an older home. In fact, the team’s remodeling efforts and examples could be implemented to update and better any home. Members interested in taking Home for Life’s virtual tour, including a closer look at the remodeling project, can do so by visiting www.homeforlife2014.com.

“We brought together experts in design, active adult lifestyle, energy and resource efficiency, as well as universal design to create Home for Life,” said Rick Strachan, group president, Residential Remodeling.

“Our goal for the REMODELING Home for Life virtual tour is to showcase what remodelers and baby boomers need to consider to adapt homes for the retirement years, including universal design

Efficiency and safety are major considerations for each Home for Life project. strategies, lowered operating costs and durable, low-maintenance products and systems. We also feature the latest offerings from the industry’s leading-edge product suppliers.”

For more information about the Home for Life project, visit www.homeforlife2014.com.

Abby Berry writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Va.based service arm of the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, notfor-profit public power districts and electric cooperatives.

A Home for Life model home kitchen design features energy efficient appliances and lighting. Photographs provided

by Hanley Wood.

November 2014

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Save money during the winter heating season ccording to the U.S. Department of Energy, 31 percent of the average energy bill goes to warming a home in the winter. That is the biggest slice of your utility bill and there some things you can do to keep some of that in your pocket.

“A good first step is conducting an energy audit,” says Executive Director Molly Hall of Safe Electricity. “This will assess how much energy your home uses so you can evaluate what you can do to improve efficiency.” Your electricity provider can probably help you with this, and energystar.gov has a do-ityourself audit.

A furnace obstructed by dirty air filters will use more energy to put less warm air into your home, so mark your calendar to clean or replace your furnace air filters monthly. Since warm air rises, reverse your ceiling fans to pull warm air from the top of a room and circulate it where its comfort can be

A

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enjoyed. A third significant step to a more comfortable home is use the summer and fall to caulk your windows and install weather stripping around doors. Sealing your home from drafts and reducing air infiltration can increase your energy efficiency by 45 percent.

Once you have a good start on improving your winter comfort level, consider adjustments to the thermostats on your furnace and water heater. Most conventional water heaters are set to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Lowering the temperature by 20 degrees would reduce your water heating costs by 6 to 10 percent.

And watch the thermostat on your furnace. For every degree you lower the thermostat during heating season, you'll save between 1 and 3 percent of your heating bill.

Also mark your checklist to: • See if your hot water pipes are warm to the touch. If so, they are good candidates for insulation. You

can get pre-slit pipe foam at most hardware stores. Cut it to size and fasten in place with duct tape.

• Use exhaust fans sparingly in the winter to keep as much heat as possible inside your house.

Dry air typically requires a higher temperature for people to be comfortable than a humid environment. You can help combat dry air with water vapors from bathing and cooking because they help humidify the home. Saving money is great, but nothing is more important than your family’s safety, particularly if you have a gas or oil furnace or other open flame heating device. The Consumer Products Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that approximately 200 people per year are killed by accidental carbon monoxide poisoning. Known as the "Silent Killer", carbon monoxide is a tasteless, odorless, colorless toxic gas that is a by-product of combustion.

Please turn to page 16

Rural Electric Nebraskan

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7KLV QHZ GLJLWDO KHDULQJ DLG LV SDFNHG ZLWK DOO WKH IHDWXUHV RI FRPSHWLWRUV DW D PHUH IUDFWLRQ RI WKH FRVW Now, most people with hearing loss are able to enjoy crystal clear, natural sound—in a crowd, on the phone, in the wind —without suffering through “whistling� and annoying background noise.

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Winter heat savings From page 14

Here are some steps to make your home safe this winter: • Make sure your fuel-burning appliances - oil and gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas ranges and ovens, gas dryers, gas or kerosene space heaters, fireplaces and wood stoves are installed and working according to manufacturers' instructions and local building codes.

• Have all of your fuel-burning appliances inspected and cleaned by a professional at the beginning of every heating season, and never use ovens and gas ranges to heat your home.

• Make sure your furnace has an adequate intake of outside air, and ensure that flues and chimneys are connected, unclogged and in good

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working condition. Also, choose appliances that vent fumes to the outside whenever possible.

• Use the proper fuel and keep doors to the rest of the house open when using gas or kerosene space heaters. Crack a window to ensure enough air for ventilation and proper burning of fuel. Never sleep in an enclosed space with gas or kerosene space heaters.

Safe Electricity's Molly Hall reminds you that “Carbon monoxide detectors can be used to help alert you of the presence of CO, but should not be used as a replacement for proper use and maintenance of your fuel-burning appliances.” Do your research before making a CO detector purchase. Never buy one that is not UL (Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.) approved and does not have a long-term warranty, and don’t select one based solely on price. Make sure you have enough

detectors to cover your entire house, and that they are places as close to sleeping areas as possible. Also make sure that the manufacturers' instructions for placement, use and maintenance are followed closely.

Taking these steps can help ensure you have a safe, warm winter and save some money too.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

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Ebola crisis impacts NRECA International

by Michael W. Kahn EC Today

he Ebola epidemic gripping West Africa is having an impact at NRECA International, whose leader said it rivals anything he has seen in his decades of overseas work.

“I was in Uganda during the Ebola outbreak in 1999 and have been in several countries during dengue fever, cholera, typhoid and other public health emergencies,” said Dan Waddle, senior vice president of NRECA International. “I’ve never seen anything quite like this.”

“What makes this different is how lethal Ebola is, and the means by which it is transmitted,” said Waddle.

“The transmission vector of bodily fluids is particularly insidious given that, in many African villages, family members participate in cleansing the decedent’s body—and this often leads to cross infection of family members.”

NRECA International had planned to initiate a new and important multiyear project in Liberia in August. “But we have not and will not mobilize for the project until the Ebola crisis has been brought under control,” said Waddle.

“We have been monitoring several sources that provide public health information,” Waddle told ECT.coop.

The list includes the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the United States Agency for International Development, as well as non-governmental organizations.

Those groups, said Waddle, have “upto-date, on-the-ground information, so in times of crisis, it is best not to rely solely on multilateral and bilateral resources.”

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The CDC called this “the largest Ebola outbreak in history” and reported that as of Sept. 18 there were 3,095 laboratory confirmed cases in five countries: Sierra Leone (1,513), Liberia (812), Guinea (750), Nigeria (19), and Senegal (1). A total of 2,630 deaths were reported by the CDC. On Sept. 16, President Obama said the outbreak resulted in “the largest international response in the history of the CDC.” NRECA International’s delayed Liberia project will eventually assist and support the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency as it prepares to manage what Waddle called “a very significant, $178 million portfolio of off-grid project investments that will set the stage to electrify rural Liberia.”

NRECA International also recently began working on a program preparation project in Sierra Leone, another country hit hard by Ebola.

That project will help the Millennium Challenge Corporation, a U.S.

NRECA International Programs For 45 years, NRECA International Programs has provided people in developing countries with access to safe, reliable, and affordable electricity. The electrification programs have resulted in increased agricultural productivity, millions of new jobs in micro and small enterprises, and higher incomes and quality of life for rural communities in more than 40 countries around the world.

foreign assistance government agency, determine the level of support that will be needed to rebuild and expand that Sierra Leone’s power sector infrastructure.

But the project has “changed in character from a four month intensive field project to a desk study,” said Waddle. “Travel restrictions will inhibit our team’s ability to collect better quality data, but the project will nonetheless move forward.”

Even in places without Ebola cases, NRECA International is seeing an impact.

“No one wants to take a risk to go to West Africa, and I think there is a general concern about traveling to Africa altogether,” said Waddle.

“We still have a full-time staff member in South Sudan, another in Tanzania, and we continue to support a project in Uganda. Ebola is not a factor in any of these countries but I think that it would be very difficult to bring someone from outside our immediate team to work there at this point.”

Asked what he would tell an American co-op lineman now hesitant to make an NRECA International trip because of the Ebola outbreak, Waddle said to consider how the disease is transmitted. “You have to be in contact with bodily fluids of another human being who is infected with Ebola,” he pointed out. “And, in our line of work, we do not have the kind of contact that would result in disease transmission.”

“None of us wants to take our lives in our hands to contribute to the next project, but I would say that the NRECA International staff have a deeper well of experience from which to draw to make informed decisions about where to go and where not to go for issues that relate to health, security, and other occupational risks,” he added. “Each of us has to be at ease with how we make contributions to what we believe in.

We are under no obligation to contribute in situations with which we are not comfortable. There are many ways to contribute and there will be many opportunities to do so.”

Rural Electric Nebraskan

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The components are all connected; all you do is plug it into an outlet and your high-speed Internet connection.

Then you’ll see the screen – it’s now 22 inches. This is a completely new touch screen system, without the cluttered look of the normal computer screen. The “buttons” on the screen are easy to see and easy to understand.

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

you took part? Call now, and a patient, knowledgeable product expert will tell you how you can try it in your home for 30 days. If you are not totally satisfied, simply return it within 30 days for a refund of the product purchase price. Call today. s Send & Receive Emails s Have video chats with family and friends s Surf the Internet: Get current weather and news s Play games Online: Hundreds to choose from!

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SAFETY BRIEFS

Be aware of surroundings when holiday shopping lack Friday. It is billed as the biggest shopping weekend of the year, and usually marks the busiest day of the entire holiday season for retailers.

During Black Friday, retailers typically offer deep sales and discounts on a variety of advertised consumer items, such as laptops, audio equipment, toys, and other gadgets. As a result, millions of consumers plan the bulk of their shopping during this time, hoping to score the latest gift or gadget at a discount. This could lead to holiday shpopers that are feeling the competitive spirit, battling busy stores and hunting down aggressive deals – and unintentionally putting their personal safety at risk, as a result.

“While big holiday shopping outings have become a tradition for many holiday shoppers, we encourage everyone to remain vigilantly aware of their surroundings,” said Tom Spethman, owner of Signal 88 Security of Lincoln, Neb. Whether you’re hitting the stores before Thanksgiving, on Black Friday or anytime before and Christmas, Signal 88 Security, a private security

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company with more than 100 franchises throughout the United States and Canada, offers the following holiday shopping advice to consumers.

Before the Holidays: Practice Patience: Often, long lines can lead to short tempers. When stores’ doors open, proceed with caution, and avoid running or pushing. Same goes for standing in long checkout lines; expect to encounter potentially frustrating delays if you’re out on one of the major shopping days.

Stand Guard: Inside a store, never leave your purse, wallet or shopping cart unattended. Also, be mindful of security threats in parking lots.

Always keep your vehicle locked and your purchases out of sight. You can enlist the assistance of store security if you feel uncomfortable walking to your car at night.

Beware of strangers approaching you for any reason. At this time of year, “con-artists” may try various methods of distracting you with the intention of taking your money or belongings.

After the Holidays: Keep Records: Record serial numbers for expensive items, especially electronics. If your home were to be burglarized, good records of these items could help law enforcement recover them. And, to further prevent post-holiday home invasions, don’t leave boxes for trash pick-up that showcase any new, big ticket items you received over the holidays.

Return Respectfully: What can be even more frustrating than the long lines and shopping delays before the holidays are the long lines and shopping delays after the big day. You may also be less inclined to pay attention to your surroundings, with the pressure of the holidays behind you. However, remaining aware of the people and events around you at all times is key to your personal security.

“If you see something or someone suspicious, be sure to let law enforcement or store security know,” said Spethman. “You can do yourself and fellow shoppers a favor by looking out for one another this holiday season.”

Source: Signal 88 Security

Rural Electric Nebraskan

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For many of us, nothing is more relaxing than a long, luxurious bath. Unfortunately, because of safety concerns, many people, particularly older people, have to forego this simple pleasure. Sure, you can spend big bucks to remodel your bathroom to provide a bathtub you can use, but who wants to do that? Now there’s a better way, and it lets you use the bath that’s in your home today.

If you or a loved one has given up bathing because of age, mobility or safety concerns, the Neptune® Upright Bath Lift is the answer. It is so simple, you’ll wonder why no one thought of it earlier. The battery-operated “chair” safely and steadily lowers you to the bottom of the tub, and when you’re done bathing, it gently raises you back to the top of the tub, assuring a comfortable and safe exit from the tub. The remote is fully waterproof, so your bath won’t be a “shocking” experience.

The New Neptune® Upright Bath Lift was redesigned making it lighter, more affordable, with more room to bathe—also making it easier to move the lift in and out of the tub. The bath lift features an easy-to-use hand control designed for comfort and safety. If there’s not enough power stored for a full lower/raise cycle, it will not operate. The bath lift also features a wide seat and high backrest for maximum comfort and support.

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS

Using fireplaces efficiently during the winter

by James Dulley

We like to use our brick open Q :wood-burning fireplace, but it makes the rest of the house cold. Our heating bills are high enough, so what simple things can we do to make the fireplace more efficient?

and close doors leading to the room.

Much of the excess air being drawn up the chimney will be cold outdoor air from the open window. When sitting right in front of the hot fire, you probably will not notice the chilly breeze.

the winter, a warm fire A :canDuring be quite comfortable. Radiant heat from the flames and coals keeps you warm when you are sitting directly in front of an open fireplace.

But unfortunately, most fireplaces lose more heat than they produce.

That warm, relaxing open fire is actually costing you a lot of money – in several ways. First, for some, firewood must be purchased, which is not cheap. Second, the radiant heat feels nice in front of the fire, but already-heated air is being sucked up the chimney from the rest of your house. This makes your heat pump or furnace run longer. Third, if there is no damper on the fireplace or the fireplace is not fitted with its own outdoor air source, indoor air is escaping up the chimney when the fireplace is not in use. Adding a source of combustion air that ducts into the fireplace can help a great deal – and this works well in combustion with glass doors. The fire draws the air it needs for proper combustion and draft from outside, rather than conditioned air from inside.

The best tip is to avoid using the fireplace in extremely cold weather.

All of the indoor air lost up the chimney is being drawn outdoors through leaks in the house exterior.

During milder weather, the air leaking indoors is not as cold so less energy is needed to warm up this cold air.

It also helps to crack open a window at little in the room by the fireplace

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Spray several squirts of Anti-CreoSoot into each fire to control creosote buildup in chimney. Photograph provided by SaverSystems Do not place wood into the fire several hours before bedtime so the fire is totally out by the time you go to sleep. It is not safe to leave a smoldering fire. Also, if the fire is completely out, you can close the chimney damper to block room air loss without filling the room with smoke.

If you make just one investment to improve the efficiency of your fireplace, it should be to install highquality glass doors. These doors control the amount of indoor air that escapes up the chimney when a fire is burning and also when one is not.

High-quality fireplace doors are not cheap, but they are worth the expense.

The best doors are relatively airtight when closed. By adjusting combustion air vents in the bottom of the glass door frame, you can still have a raging fire without major indoor air loss.

Keep in mind, the fire does need an adequate supply of combustion air for an efficient, clean burn. If the air flow is reduced too much, creosote buildup occurs, leaving the potential for a chimney fire. I recommend having the chimney inspected and regularly using several squirts of a creosote control spray during each fire.

Burn only well-seasoned wood or no more than one unseasoned log to three seasoned ones. If you try to burn more unseasoned wood, it requires more combustion air to keep it burning well, which draws even more air out of your home.

There are several designs of heatcirculating grates that increase the heat output from a fireplace. Many efficient grates are designed to fit snugly under the bottom edge of the fireplace doors and contain an electric blower that circulates indoor air through the grate, keeping the air warm.

If you decide to purchase a heatcirculating grate, select a model with a blower that has several speeds and a thermostat with an on/off switch.

This switch shuts off the blower when the fire burns down. If you prefer to use the fireplace with the doors open, tubular heat-circulating grates are available to blow the heat directly out the front. Other models have no blower and rely on natural convection.

Stoll Fireplaces makes a unique heat exchanger, which mounts at the top of the fireplace opening, creating a tremendous amount of heat output.

These models work with gas or woodburning fireplaces.

A circulating heat exchanger with built-in glass doors is also available for a more airtight combination. Also, an optional upper oven section is available for cooking and baking, which can help reduce energy use.

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

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Operating your generator safely now storms, ice, and fallen tree branches can all cause When the blackouts. electricity goes out, generators can help you get through and stay warm until power is restored. However, before ever starting a generator, it is vital that you have educated yourself on how to use one safely.

There are two types of generators for homeowners to choose from: standby and portable. Standby generators are installed directly to the house and are typically powered by natural gas or propane. These generators start automatically when the power goes out.

A portable generator is usually gas powered and is movable. You can power appliances by plugging them into it. Your generator should have more output than the wattage of the electronics you will plug into it. This way, the generator will be able to

S

create the extra electricity it takes for the initial power surge. Make sure there is nothing plugged into the generator when turning it on.

When you refuel a generator, make sure the engine is cool to prevent a fire, should the tank overflow. Be sure to keep children and pets away from the generator, which could burn them.

Generators pose electrical risks especially when operated in wet conditions. Use a generator only when necessary during moist conditions. Protect the generator by operating it under an open, canopylike structure and on a dry surface where water cannot form puddles or drain under it.

Carbon monoxide fumes emitted by the gasoline engine on the generator can be deadly. Always operate your portable generator outdoors at least 10 feet from your home.

If you are not careful with the installation of a portable or standby generator, you can put the lives of others in danger away from your home because of backfeed—a situation where a generator is feeding electricity back through your electrical system and meter into the power lines. To prevent backfeed, standby generators should have a transfer safety switch installed by a professional. Portable generators should never be plugged directly into a home outlet or electrical system; use an extension cord to plug appliances into an outlet on the generator for power.

It is recommended that a generator be operated once a month for 10 minutes to ensure it is running properly. Store a standby generator in an easily accessible, weatherproof area. Have enough fuel for at least 24 hours in case of a power outage.

For more electrical safety information, visit SafeElectricity.org.

Don’t overlook electrical safety around grain elevators orking around grain bins creates hazards that are often overlooked by even the most seasoned farm hands. Always keep these safety tips in mind:

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• Wear a mask or filter respirator to limit the amount of direct contact to the fumes • Try to keep animal and insect infestations to a minimum

Suffocation/engulfment Entrapment can happen in a second when dealing with grain, which often is compared to quick sand. This is leading cause of death in storage bins.

• Do not enter grain bins during active loading and unloading times • Never work alone • Make sure to wear proper safety equipment

Fires/explosions When grain dust accumulates, it can sometimes create the right conditions to spark a fire. These fires are difficult to stop and usually end with a large explosion.

• Be sure your ventilation system is working properly • Clean regularly to keep grain dust accumulations to a minimum • Do not smoke or ignite any other open flames while in the grain bin

Toxic atmospheres Mold, fungi, and chemical fumes from decayed grains can create a deadly atmosphere.

• Store fully dried grain at the proper moisture

November 2014

Machine malfunctions Machines also pose deadly risks, including amputation, entanglement, and electrocution.

• Ensure that all equipment is

If someone is in the bin when the grain is removed, they, too, will be pulled down and toward the center of the bin. If grain continues to be removed the person will be covered with grain in a matter of seconds! properly guarded • Be on the lookout for overhead power lines • Check for frayed cables • Always wear safety belts or some form of protection

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DOWN HOME

RECIPES

Great Grandma’s Chocolate Pudding 1 or 2 eggs 2 tablespoons milk 2 tablespoons cocoa 1 teaspoon vanilla

2 cups milk 1 cup sugar 2 tablespoons flour 1/2 teaspoon salt

Heat 2 cups milk until scalded. In separate bowl blend sugar, flour, salt, eggs, 2 tablespoon milk, & cocoa until smooth. Slowly combine with the scalded milk and cook until thick and bubbly. Stir constantly to avoid scorching. Remove from heat and cool. Then add vanilla and refrigerate.

Linda Ridder, Albion, Nebraska

Meatballs

Turkey Pot Pie 1 1-pound pkg. frozen vegetables for stew, cooked according to package directions 1 cup frozen peas, cooked according to package directions 2 cups cooked turkey, cut into 1/2inch cubes 1 12-oz jar non-fat turkey gravy 1 Tbsp. dried parsley 1 tsp. dried thyme 1 tsp. dried rosemary, crushed 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 1 refrigerated pie crust, room temperature Drain any cooking liquid from stew vegetables and peas.

Add turkey cubes, gravy, herbs, salt and pepper to vegetables in oven-safe 2-quart cooking dish.

Unfold pie crust dough and place on top of dish, trimming edges to approximately 1 inch larger than dish; secure dough edges to dish.

Make several 1-inch slits on crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake in preheated 400-degree F oven for 25-30 minutes or until crust is brown and mixture is hot and bubbly.

Recipe provided by the National Turkey Federation 24

1 can evaporated milk 3 pounds hamburger 2 cups quick oatmeal 1 teaspoon garlic powder 2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon pepper 2 teaspoons chili powder Mix and form large walnut sized balls.

Sauce: 2 cups catsup 2 teaspoons liquid smoke 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1/2 cup chopped onion 2 cups brown sugar- packed

Combine and pour over meatballs in a 9 x 12 inch pan & bake at 350 degrees for one hour. Or, place in crock pot on low for 7-8 hours. (I make these ahead and freeze the meatballs in one bag and the sauce in another for future use.)

Ann Schneider, Inman, Nebraska

Fluffy Rolls 1 pkg yeast dissolved in 1/4 cup warm water 1 cup milk scalded & cooled 1/2 cup sugar 1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup salad oil 1/2 teaspoon soda 2 eggs 4 cups flour

Dissolve yeast in warm water. Add milk, sugar, salt, oil, soda, & beaten eggs. Beat well. Add half of the flour & beat again. Add remaining flour.

Cover & let rise until double. Turn out on lightly floured board. Divide in 3 balls. Roll each ball to the size of pie crust about 1/2 inch thick. With pizza cutter cut into 12 wedges. Roll into crescents. Place on greased cookie sheet 1 inch apart. Brush with salad oil. Let rise at least 2 hours. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes or until done.

Norma Jean Skalka, Deweese, Nebraska

Rural Electric Nebraskan

NOV- 1: WidWCM, 70, 5’ 8”, NS, social drinker from northeast Nebraska.

Enjoy gardening, garage sales, fishing, and just talking. I’m lonesome like to meet lady any age.

NOV- 2: CSWF, 60, true country lady, enjoys fishing, gardening and small towns. Seeking rural farmer. I want to live on a farm and have chickens.

To appear in print The Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service is exclusively for member-readers ages 18 and over. To be considered for use, submissions must: (1) Identify rural electric system providing magazine; (2) Include $6 to cover mail forwarding costs; (3) Be 25 words or fewer; (4) Include full name and mailing address (will not be used in magazine); and (5) Be first person, submitted directly by person to receive responses. Acceptance, editing and issue scheduling is at editor’s discretion.

Address all submissions to Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service, P.O. Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. All responses received by the Adult Pen Pal Service are routed directly, postage paid, to the response number assigned to each submission.

NOV- 3: DWCF, 70s, NS occasional drink, like western, rock & roll music, & enjoy car shows. I am a cheerful friendly farm gal, from eastern Nebraska searching for a friendly honest guy who loves country living; one who would like to be a companion and enjoy together whatever comes along in life. I am a one-woman, oneman person.

auctions, fishing, and just talking.

Please write. Phone number & photo.

NOV- 6: SWCM, NS/ND, early 50s, from south central Nebraska looking for someone who is caring, honest, nice personality who is fun loving and has a nice sense of humor, and enjoys things in life. Please send photo and number.

NOV-7: DWF, NS, late 50s, brown eyes, long dark hair, 145 lbs, 5’7”, slim, fit, & active. Cowgirl/farmer’s daughter from central Nebraska.

Looking for NS farmer/rancher 50/60 to enjoy life, good times & country life style. Love horse, rodeos, trail rides, camping, fishing, county fairs, C/W & old rock & roll music, dancing, kids, and animals. Send photo and phone number.

NOV- 4: WCF, NS/ND, 74, 5’2”, 150 lbs, C/W, I am tired of going places with no one to visit with. I have a sense of humor and enjoy laughter. I am interested in a gentleman who enjoys riding his horse, driving cattle, trail rides, etc. The wide open spaces is the one place where I worship. Please send picture & phone number.

NOV- 5: WidWCM, 70, NS, social drinker, from northeast Nebraska, enjoys gardening, garage sales,

To write To respond to one of the adult pen pal requests, write letter, place in envelope, seal and affix first class postage. Address to full, correct response #, c/o Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service, P.O. Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. Your letter will be forwarded unopened. Do not send money or additional postage; forwarding is prepaid. Enclose your full mailing address for return correspondence.

Once again . . . it is very important that all responses carry the full response number—both month and number—to be properly forwarded.

Abbreviation Code C — Christian; C/W — Country-western; D — Divorced; F — Female; M — Male; NS — Non-Smoker; ND — Non-Drinker; R&R — Rock and roll; S — Single; W — White; Wid — Widowed

November 2014

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