MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
MEC expands renewable energy portfolio with new battery energy storage system Page 5
MEC employees celebrate new solar + battery storage project. PHOTO BY STEFANIE SPENCER/TOPAZ PHOTOGRAPHY
FROM THE PIONEER TEAM
Currents
January 2024 • Volume 59, No. 1
ANZA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Sherri Stafford
ARIZONA GENERATION AND TRANSMISSION COOPERATIVES
DUNCAN VALLEY
ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Kassi Mortensen
ELECTRICAL DISTRICT NO. 2
Roselyn Bever
GRAND CANYON STATE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION
Hannah Capozzi
MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Heather Foreman
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Mike Teegarden
EDITOR
Victoria Hampton
Currents (USPS 030-520) is published bimonthly for members for $1.71 a year, plus postage by Pioneer Utility Resources, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-forprofit Oregon cooperative corporation— to serve the communication needs of four consumer-owned electric utilities in Arizona and California. Preferred periodical postage paid at Hillsboro, Oregon 97123 and additional mailing offices. © 2023 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
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Readers Speak Up
Welcome to the new year. I hope you enjoyed quality family time during the holidays while also staying safe and warm. Throughout the year, I hear from many of you via emails and phone calls. Most are positive comments or questions about our content. One reader last month shared that he found our magazine “weirdly engaging,” saying he just can’t put down the magazine. We’re considering adopting the phrase as our new motto!
A few readers felt our November coverage of the Honor Flight program slighted our Korean War veterans, even suggesting there was a bias against those brave soldiers. It saddens me when readers feel as if we don’t care about them. We value each and every member of our military branches, regardless of when or where they served.
We kick off 2024 with a story about a group that wants to return sea otters to the Oregon
Coast. These critters are a critical piece of the ecological puzzle, providing predator balance to the eccosystem.
Because no sea otters exist on the Oregon Coast, we chose to illustrate the story with an AI-generated image. This marks the first time we have used this type of illustration as the lead art for a story. Please note that we clearly labeled the image as an AI illustration. On those rare occasions we find this type of illustration to be the best option, we will be transparent about its use.
Our Up Close feature highlights STEM programs in rural communities and how they connect with industries such as farming and manufacturing. Some high school students are gaining valuable work experience as interns, taking what they learn in school and putting it into practice in the workplace.
As always, thank you for taking the time to read our work. Happy New Year!
Sincerely,
Mike Teegarden Editorial Director
You Need to See It to Dream It
STEM education forges new paths for students in rural communities Up Close, Page 10
Reviving a Coastal Species
Elakha Alliance is on a quest to restore sea otters to the Oregon Coast Spotlight, Page 12
Utility Pages: 4-5, 8, 25, 32
Plugged In 6 In the Kitchen 16
Photo Hunt 22 Before You Go 30
Mohave Electric Solar BESS Project
With a solar array that produces more than 23 MW dc and a battery energy storage system that provides 15 MW dc of stored energy, Mohave Electric Cooperative’s (MEC) renewable energy portfolio has expanded significantly and will provide lowcost, reliable power without the cooperative having to make any capital investment. Instead, a purchase-power agreement with project builder EDP Renewables ensures affordable renewable energy for many years to come.
“It’s a fixed-cost purchase power agreement and it doesn’t escalate over time, so what that does is allow us to set our rates with a known value over the life of the contract. Anything that happens to this facility is on the developer, so Mohave Electric doesn’t bear the risk for anything happening to the solar field, the batteries, anything that could impact the Members’ cost in the future, is really born by the developer,” explains Jon Martell, COO of Mohave Electric Cooperative.
The battery energy storage system, or BESS, makes it possible to provide reliable energy during the hours of peak demand at a much lower cost than if the co-op had to buy power when soaring temperatures make additional energy necessary. MEC can charge the batteries from the solar system, and then discharge the battery as needed. Instead of buying power on the very expensive open market, MEC can essentially use solar to generate electricity to cover our peak demand, 5 to 8 in the evening.
Gustavo
Monteiro, CEO EDPR NA
Distributed Generation states, “What excites me the most is definitely the impact we are leaving for future generations. This is a different project, not only because it combines the traditional solar energy project that we see almost everywhere in this country, with storage. Storage is becoming more and more important, especially with an electric cooperative like Mohave Electric, to help them address the peak demands of the energy that they have, during summertime, especially summertime, where energy consumption really peaks.”
The battery storage system (BESS) can provide 60 MW of energy to the system for up to four hours, enough to power 4,568 homes. One of the key components to this entire system is the way the battery array is not only integrated with solar but how the power is dispatched, or sent, to the member, using the latest in artificial intelligence technology, that’s where partner STEM, Incorporated, joined the team.
“The storage is frankly a dumb battery without any sort of optimization, so what we’ve done here is we’ve integrated the energy storage system with our AI-driven software, we call it Athena, and then we’ve strategically integrated that with the Mohave Electric control center to optimize the battery use so we’re sending that reliable clean energy to the Members at the time they need it,” explains Director of Utility Sales/STEM Inc., Kim Perelli.
She continues to explain, “We’re sensing the control center at Mohave Electric
and what they’ll do is send dispatch schedule as well as on-demand dispatch when the market changes, when there’s a market demand… and the battery reacts instantaneously to dispatch that power.”
So… what’s next? Mohave Electric Cooperative is just getting started… MEC is looking for additional solar, plus what is underway with our generation and transmission cooperative, AEPCO. This will significantly increase MEC’s whole renewable energy portfolio as well.
Tyler Carlson, CEO of Mohave Electric states, “There’s some 250 plus MW of solar plus batteries that are going down at Apache substation down in Cochise County which is great so that’s going to increase in addition to what you’re seeing here. So, we’re not done just because we’ve built this, we’re going to keep adding to that portfolio. Reliability is our members’ biggest issue when we ask, what’s your biggest thing. Reliability is number one.”
That also means the future addition of a quick-start, clean energy natural gas unit. MEC has an all-of-the-above approach, not limited to a single fuel type or a single technology. MEC actually embraces them all to have a diverse portfolio that you can count on for reliability.
Mohave Electric Cooperative would like to thank all those who made this project possible, including the MEC Board of Directors, MEC employees, EDPR NA Distributed Energy Renewables and its partners including Prometheus Power and Stem, Inc. n
ABOVE: Members of the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe perform a Native Blessing. PHOTO BY STEFANIE SPENCER/TOPAZ PHOTOGRAPHY
New Year’s Energy Resolutions
Resolve to take on a major household efficiency project this year and save big on your energy bills
By David Herder
New Year’s Energy Resolutions
We can all think of improvements we would like to make in the new year, whether it is eating healthier, volunteering more or lowering our expenses. One way to spend less in the new year and for many more to come is to make household energy efficiency a goal.
Making small changes to your routine can add up to significant savings. But do you know what adds up faster than small things? Big things.
If you’re willing to make the initial investment, resolve to go big by taking on one of these projects.
Insulate and Air Seal
For most houses, heating and cooling air makes up the largest chunk of energy use. If you’re paying to heat or cool the air, you want to keep it inside your house.
Common spots to insulate are attics, walls, floors and anywhere your house contacts the outside. Just like you want a jacket between you and a snowstorm, you want insulation between your home and the outdoors.
Insulation is rated in R-values. Suggested insulation R-values are between R-30 and R-60, depending on your region and climate. In many cases, it is a good idea to get professional insulation help.
Air sealing is another step to prevent drafts by physically closing gaps and cracks. In some cases, this can be as simple as adding caulking or weatherstripping to places where you notice drafts. Contractors and some utilities can do a home blower test to find and seal leaks.
If you’re considering doing some air sealing on your own, the Department of Energy offers tips at www.energy.gov/energysaver/air-sealing-your-home.
Windows
What are windows but walls you can see through? Like outer walls, they touch the outdoors, and unlike many walls, they aren’t filled with thick insulation. Heat gain and loss through windows account for 25% to 30% of residential heating and cooling costs, according to the Department of Energy.
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE BY BERIT KESSLER
Resolutions
Resolutions
Energy Star windows typically have high U-factors, a measurement of how well they insulate. Get multiple quotes for any home improvement project, including windows, and be on the lookout for rebates from utilities, state programs and the federal government.
If you aren’t buying new windows right away, consider steppingstones such as adding weatherstripping, caulking gaps and using thermal drapes.
Seal Ducts
Just like you don’t want your heated and cooled air to leak outdoors, you don’t want your air leaking into parts of the house where you never go.
If you have ductwork in an attic, crawlspace or other unairconditioned or heated area, the ducts could have leaks that increase your energy bill. According to the Department of Energy, 20% to 30% of the air moved through ducts is lost to leakage.
Hire a professional to seal your ducts, or seal them yourself with metal tape or duct mastic specifically designed for the job. Do not use duct tape, which will dry out and lose adhesion.
Heat Pump
So far, we’ve covered three ways to keep your heated and cooled air where you want it. It turns out, how you heat or cool the air is also important.
If you’re willing to replace your furnace, or the unit is 10-plus years old, a heat pump is an efficient home heating and cooling upgrade. It can reduce heating costs by as much as 50% compared to electric resistance heating, according to the Department of Energy.
A heat pump works similarly to an air conditioner in reverse. It uses a refrigerant to pull heat energy out of the air outdoors, then moves it indoors and blows the heat into your living areas. Also consider a heat pump water heater, which has all the same advantages but heats water rather than air.
Programmable Thermostat
If a heater turns on, but nobody is there to hear it, does it make a noise? One thing we know is that it would impact your energy bill.
Not sure where to start?
Schedule a home energy assessment
Before starting a project, it is important to take a step back and consider, “What will make the biggest impact?” This means knowing how efficient your house is and where the energy use is going.
A home energy assessment looks for air leaks, insufficient insulation, energy-hog appliances or other issues, and evaluates your total energy use. Conducting a home energy assessment lets you know where any inefficiencies in your house are, giving you a blueprint for fixing them.
Many utilities offer assessment programs, and the Department of Energy offers guides on assessments— including tips for a do-it-yourself assessment—at www.energy.gov/energysaver/home-energy-assessments.
Both programmable and smart thermostats help people save energy by changing the temperature throughout the day. You can save 10% on energy bills by turning back the thermostat 10% to 15% for eight hours a day, according to the Department of Energy.
Whether that means heating or cooling less during the day while you’re at work or turning things down while you’re sleeping, a programmable thermostat ensures you’re only heating and cooling the air you feel. n
How can rechargeable hearing aids that t inside your ear costs only $297 and be every bit as good as those that sell for $4,800 or more?
The answer: The MDHearing™ NEO uses the same kind of technology incorporated into hearing aids that cost thousands more at a small fraction of the price. Satis ed MDHearing customers agree: High-quality, digital, FDA-registered rechargeable hearing aids don’t have to cost a fortune. NEO is a medical-grade, digital, rechargeable hearing aid offering sophistication and high performance; and works right out of the box with no time consuming “adjustment” appointments. You can contact a licensed hearing specialist conveniently online or by phone — even after your purchase at no cost. No other company provides such extensive support. Now that you know... why pay more? PLUS... It fits inside your ear.
the summer. Chris Hug, a Madras High School graduate, is a machine operator at KEITH.
From his experience in high school manufacturing classes, Chris had a strong foundation to build upon during his internship.
“They taught us a whole lot about how to operate machines, better welding techniques, good electrical advice,” Chris says. “I knew I could definitely tackle a manufacturing career.”
Through career-connected programs, rural STEM hubs can build and inspire their workforces by allowing high school students to see a future for themselves in STEM careers.
“People are recognizing that there are many careers out there that are STEM that we didn’t see as STEM before,” says Erica
Compton, executive director of the Idaho STEM Ecosystem.
Strengthening Rural Communities
In rural Idaho, community-connected learning is flourishing in the education system.
“A trend that I’m seeing in students, especially in rural communities, is that beyond career-connected learning, what they’re really hungry for is communityconnected learning,” says Crispin Gravatt, communications manager at Idaho STEM Action Center. “They really are wanting to make sure that their communities are as evergreen as they can be. Parents want their students to feel like they can have a life in the communities that they love.”
In rural areas, community-centered approaches can show students they don’t
need to leave home to find better career opportunities.
As STEM education in rural communities propels students toward new horizons, the landscape of possibilities continues to expand. With strong support systems in place, students can transform their communities in more ways than they can dream of.
“What we’re focusing on at Oregon STEM and the STEM hubs is the awareness gap,” says Deb Mumm-Hill, Oregon STEM executive director. “First of all, you can’t envision and be what you can’t see. And the technology and the STEM industry—a lot of it is invisible. So, unless your parents, your school or your ZIP code can show you these invisible, amazing careers, you can’t dream to be them if you can’t see them.” n
Over the summer, four students from Madras High School interned at KEITH Manufacturing Co., where they got hands-on experience in various departments. Clockwise from top left are Riley McElroy, Gabi Baza, Seth Feigner and Cristobal Hug, left. PHOTOS COURTESY OF KEITH MANUFACTURING CO.
Reviving a Coastal Species
Elakha Alliance is
on a
quest to restore sea otters to the Oregon Coast
By Chiara Profenna
The Oregon Coast, with its rugged cliffs and abundant marine life, holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors. Yet, it's been missing a critical piece of its ecological puzzle for decades: the sea otter. Elakha Alliance, a dedicated advocacy group, wants to complete that puzzle.
Since 2018, the nonprofit has aspired to restore the sea otter population to the Oregon Coast through advocacy, scientific research and educational awareness.
The Origins of Elakha Alliance
The alliance’s history goes back about 20 years, when David Hatch questioned the return of sea otters. At the time, David was the Oregon Coast Indian Tribes’ representative on the Oregon Ocean Policy Advisory Council.
One of the council’s staff members was Bob Bailey, an employee at the Department of Land Conservation and Development. During their time on the council, David and Bob became acquainted through their mutual passion for coastal conservation. During one of their conversations, David mentioned sea otters.
“He had built a small boat,” Bob says. “And in the process of building that small boat, was looking for a name for it. He
ran across the word elakha, which in the Chinook trade jargon means sea otter. He ended up naming his little boat ‘The Elakha.’ But it also set him on a path toward understanding and coming to realize sea otters had once been part of the lives of Indigenous people all along the Oregon Coast and beyond.”
David began sharing information about sea otters and seeking ways to create change. Through tribal and non-Indigenous connections, he gathered resources to support his project.
“Dave was out spreading the gospel, as it were, about returning sea otters,” Bob says.
Many years later, in 2016, Bob recalled this encounter. He reached out to David to see what had become of the sea otters.
“I didn't hear back from him and came to find out some weeks later that he had died quite tragically and suddenly that particular week,” Bob says. “[It] was devastating, of course, to his friends and family and all of us.”
Not wanting David’s life’s work to die with him, Bob took up David's mission and formed Elakha Alliance.
The organization was incorporated in 2018. Since then, it has supported many steppingstones in the long and arduous path of species reintroduction.
Sea Otters and Indigenous Communities
Today, a notable 800-mile divide separates the sea otter populations of Northern Washington and Southern California—a gap that emerged more than a century ago. The near extinction of sea otters resulted from intensive hunting by fur traders in the 18th and 19th centuries.
While this important ecological marine mammal was lost to overhunting, the lives and culture of Indigenous people along the coast were also deeply affected.
Sea otters held a profound spiritual and cultural significance in the lives of these communities, as evidenced by archaeological findings and passed-down wisdom. Elakha Alliance, a collaboration among tribal, nonprofit and conservation leaders, strives to rekindle this cultural connection in partnership with Native coastal communities in Oregon. Its board of directors includes representation from these Native communities, including Robert Kentta, a member of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians.
“Sea otters represent prosperity to us in our traditional stories,” Robert says. “That’s an important cultural connection we’re missing without sea otters being present here on the coast.”
For more than 5,000 years, sea otters
lived in harmony with humans along the Oregon Coast. Their extinction from the region holds a symbolic significance to Indigenous people.
“The history of the loss of sea otters coincided with the loss by Indigenous people of their homelands and way of life along the Oregon Coast,” Bob says.
In the 19th century, Indigenous communities were affected by numerous catastrophes. War, disease, loss of their lands and lives, and relentless persecution and stigmas plagued Native communities.
The restoration of sea otters to the coast is indicative of healing the relationships between Indigenous communities and the land, Bob says. While the tragedies of history cannot be reversed, Elakha Alliance hopes to bring balance back to the community and restore an integral piece of Native culture to the land.
“It would be cultural restoration in that ability to see our oceanscape as it once was, not all that long ago,” Robert says.
A Keystone Species
As a keystone species, sea otters would play a vital role in maintaining the health of coastal ecosystems if reintroduced. Their presence would affect coastal regions— directly and indirectly—in many ways.
A growing sea otter population would indirectly increase kelp forests, eelgrass beds and the species that rely on these habitats. Their feeding behaviors would likely lead to a decrease in a variety of prey species, such as Dungeness crab.
Elakha Alliance has taken positive and negative effects into account by conducting a variety of studies. A feasibility study, completed in 2020, found that restoring sea otters is biologically feasible.
“We had six world-renowned scientists work on the 200-plus page document,” says Jane Bacchieri, executive director of Elakha Alliance.
The study looked at the elements necessary for a sea otter population to be restored in Oregon. It included an in-depth analysis of ecology, habitat, genetics and other biological factors.
It also led to more studies on the socioeconomic impacts on fishing industries and tourism. These additional studies—the Oregon Sea Otter
ABOVE: Elakha Alliance Executive Director Jane Bacchieri, left, has overseen the organization since the summer of 2022, as the team has grown to include more events, educational resources and scientific studies. RIGHT: After running Elakha Alliance on his own for many years, Bob Bailey has stepped into the role of president of the board of directors.
Reintroduction Economic Study and the South Coast Tourism Impact Study—investigated some of the broader changes sea otters would make in coastal communities. Those changes could include a spike in tourism and a decrease in shellfish and crab that could be offset by an increase in finfish production.
“The coast belongs to everybody,” Jane says. “Our efforts are statewide; in some cases, beyond state boundaries.”
Using these studies, Elakha Alliance works with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which has the regulatory authority to bring back sea otters.
Blueprints for Restoration
Reintroducing sea otters to the Oregon Coast is a long and complicated process. However, with advocacy and support from Elakha Alliance, it is becoming more feasible each day.
The Elakha Alliance strategic plan
comprises four main steps. Its first initiative included the feasibility study and the following impact studies. At the same time, the alliance’s second step is working to build regional consensus that restoring sea otters is a goal worth pursuing.
The third step of the initiative is reintroducing sea otters along the Oregon Coast and monitoring their progress diligently. Initial work may begin in 2025, although it’s too early to gauge when sea otters will be fully reintroduced. Ongoing monitoring is expected to last for decades.
The last step is to strengthen the organization itself. Key strategies involve public involvement— especially from affected groups— and forming partnerships with organizations sharing the alliance’s vision. The group’s work will be far from over once its key mission is achieved.
“I think there’s going to be a role for Elakha to continue to serve as an advocate for the animals,” Jane says. “At the end of the day, if we’re successful, we might not need to exist as the Elakha Alliance anymore. It might be broader ocean stewardship or something like that. I think we will be flexible and nimble to be value-added wherever we can be.” n
Learn more about Elakha Alliance at elakhaalliance.org.
Reintroducing Keystone Species in the Pacific Northwest
Keystone species play a pivotal role in maintaining ecosystem balance. The Pacific Northwest has seen many successful reintroductions as well as more challenging cases.
In the mid-1990s, gray wolves were successfully reintroduced in Yellowstone National Park. Through careful planning and research, their presence led to a cascade of positive effects and increased biodiversity in the ecosystems. Elk and deer populations rebalanced, allowing willows and aspen to flourish.
In a less successful attempt, translocating sea otters from Alaska to the Oregon Coast in the 1970s became a lesson in the importance of monitoring populations after reintroduction. Not long after the sea otters were brought to Oregon, their population slowly dwindled until the coast was once again left without them.
Careful planning, consideration of ecological dynamics and consistent monitoring are some of the most crucial factors in a successful reintroduction.
Although he never saw the fruits of his labor fully unfold, David Hatch was integral to the creation of Elakha Alliance. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ELAKHA ALLIANCE
Snacking Fun WITH A POP
Graham Cracker Picnic Mix
¼ cup vegetable oil
¼ cup sugar
5 to 6 drops pink neon liquid food color
½ cup unpopped popcorn kernels
1 package mini pastel marshmallows
1 cup bear-shaped graham crackers
1 package white fudge-covered pretzels
1 cup mini cookies
In a large pot over medium heat, stir oil, sugar and food coloring. Stir in the popcorn kernels. Cover. Cook until popcorn begins to pop. Shake pot over heat until popping slows.
Remove pan from heat. Pour popcorn into a large bowl. Add marshmallows, graham crackers, pretzels and cookies. Toss lightly.
RECIPES AND PHOTO BY POPCORN BOARD
Peanut Butter and Jelly Popcorn
8 cups popped popcorn
2 tablespoons raspberry jam
3 tablespoons smooth peanut butter
½ cup white chocolate chips
¼ cup freeze-dried strawberries
¼ cup dried cranberries
In a large bowl, stir together popcorn and jam until evenly coated. Transfer to a parchment paper-lined baking sheet.
In a double boiler over barely simmering water, add peanut butter and white chocolate chips. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes, or until smooth and melted.
Drizzle peanut butter mixture over the popcorn mixture. Sprinkle with strawberries and cranberries.
Refrigerate for 10 minutes or until the peanut butter mixture is set. Break into pieces to serve. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Grab-and-Go Pizza Popcorn
6 quarts popped popcorn
Olive oil cooking spray
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons garlic salt
2 teaspoons paprika
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Place popcorn in a large, sealable plastic container or a 2½-gallon plastic sealable bag.
Spray popcorn lightly with cooking spray. Sprinkle cheese, garlic salt, paprika and Italian seasoning over popcorn. Shake to distribute evenly.
Minty Green Popcorn Clusters
12 cups unsalted, unbuttered, popped popcorn
4 cups mini marshmallows
2 tablespoons butter or light olive oil
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon green food coloring
¼ teaspoon peppermint extract
1 cup green candy-coated chocolate candies
Place popcorn in a large mixing bowl. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt marshmallows, butter and salt. Stir occasionally until smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in food coloring and peppermint extract.
Toss marshmallow mixture with popcorn. Cool for 2 to 3 minutes or until cool enough to handle. Toss with chocolate candies.
Shape 3 tablespoons of popcorn mixture into a small cluster. Place on a wax paper-lined baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining popcorn mixture. Cool completely.
Strawberries and Cream Popcorn
¼ cup freeze-dried strawberries, ground 6 cups popped popcorn
1 cup white chocolate chips, melted
In a small food processor or spice grinder, pulse freezedried strawberries until finely ground.
Place popcorn in a large bowl. Drizzle melted chocolate over the top. Toss until well-coated. Sprinkle evenly with ground strawberries. Toss until well-coated.
Scrape popcorn onto a large parchment paper-lined baking sheet, spreading into an even layer.
Let stand at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes, or until chocolate is set and hardened. To serve, break into pieces.
White Chocolate Peppermint Popcorn Bark
5 cups popped popcorn
12 ounces white chocolate chips or chopped white chocolate
1 cup crushed hard candy peppermints
Cover a baking sheet with foil or wax paper. Set aside. Place popcorn in a large bowl. Set aside.
In a double boiler over barely simmering water, melt chocolate, stirring until smooth. Stir in crushed peppermints.
Pour the chocolate mixture over the popcorn mixture. Stir to coat. Spread onto prepared sheet. Cool completely.
When chocolate is cooled and set, break into chunks for serving. Store in an airtight container at room temperature.
Old-Fashioned Bourbon Maple Popcorn With Pecans
8 cups popped popcorn
½ cup chopped toasted pecans
1⁄3 cup maple syrup
1 tablespoon bourbon
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon orange zest
1 dash bitters
Place popcorn and pecans in a large bowl.
In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, combine maple syrup, bourbon and butter. Bring to a boil. Cook, swirling pan, for 3 to 5 minutes or until mixture thickens to corn syrup consistency. Stir in orange zest and bitters.
Drizzle maple syrup mixture over popcorn. Toss to evenly coat. Cool completely before serving.
Options: Substitute bourbon with rye or whiskey. For mocktail popcorn, substitute with nonalcoholic bourbon or whiskey.
Crafts/Hobbies
I am learning the technique of Swedish huck weaving and am having a difficult time trying to find huck weave materials in Alaska. If you have any huck weave materials that you would be interested in getting rid of, I would love to have them. Thank you.
Nancy Riley P.O. Box 57030 North Pole, AK 99705
I would appreciate unwanted jewelry—old, new or broken. Also, unmatched earrings and unwanted watches. Thank you.
Carol Semenko 145 Chukar Lane Alturas, CA 96101
I am requesting large—about 2 inches—wooden thread spools. A friend carves faces into them. Thank you.
Barbara Cadwell
950 Pomona St., Unit 228 The Dalles, OR 97058 bpcadwell228@gmail.com
I have a flat rate USPS box stuffed full of wool, yarn, needles and other knitting accessories that I would like to give away. If you are interested, contact me by email, and I will be happy to mail them to you free of charge.
Pat Sunday
7096 N.E. Stonewater St. Hillsboro, OR 97124-7282 suncia@icloud.com
Milestones
My mother will be 94 years young in January. I know she would be happy to receive birthday cards. Mail to: Mary Ann Cline, 2221 Oak St., Apt. 329, Forest Grove, OR 97116. Thank you.
Carol Davis Vernonia, Oregon
My mother, Gail Simmons, turns 80 in January. She has been a nurse since I was a child, and she’s still a nurse in the same assisted living facility after more than 30 years. She is a very caring nurse for the elderly, ensuring her residents receive the best care possible while working through the pandemic. She is what you would expect in a nurse—always giving instead of receiving. If you asked her why she still works today, she would tell you it’s in her DNA and it’s what she lives for. I would love to see her face glowing with pride receiving birthday wishes and words of encouragement. Thank you for your letters and cards in advance. Send to: Gail Simmons, 1699 N. Terry St, Space 155, Eugene, OR 97402.
Robert Shafer Heppner, Oregon
Have a Happy New Year!
My dear friend turns 91 in January. She is a retired school teacher with a strong sense of humor and amazing stories to share. Her birthday would be so special if you could send cards. Thank you in advance. Send to: F. Hart c/o 46383 Brahman Way, Pendleton, OR 97801.
Sandra Pendleton, Oregon
Odds
Looking for images and stories of Oregon Army and Navy airfields directly before and during World War II that were used by the military. Will pay postage and return images. Needed for academic research.
Andi Journey P.O. Box 226 Crescent, OR 97733
If anyone is interested in metal pull tabs off cans, we have bags that can be sent to you. Contact me, and I’ll get them on the way.
Peggy Timms 19 Cedar Drive Hermiston, OR 97838
Schools/Labels
North Powder Charter School is accepting donations of new or used playing cards and dice. These will be used to create math games for students and their families. Items can be mailed or delivered before March 1 to: NPCS, 333 G St., North Powder, OR 97867.
Allie Scott North Powder, Oregon
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Learn about ancient horses and other fossilized creatures at
Hagerman Fossil Beds
What Is It?
Hop into history at the Hagerman Fossil Beds in Southern Idaho, and experience one of the world’s largest fossil deposits from the Pliocene epoch—roughly 3 to 5 million years ago.
Fossil Deposits
In 1928, a local rancher named Elmer Cook saw fossil deposits eroding along the Snake River. He contacted the United States Geological Survey, which in turn notified the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian conducted four expeditions between 1929 and 1934.
Piecing Together History
The Smithsonian digs unearthed more than 200 fossils of Equus simplicidens, a predecessor of horses, that more closely resembled zebras. Finding so many fossils together helped researchers realize these horses were likely pack animals. The digs also found previously unfound species such as Platygonus pearcei, an early javelina.
Visitor Center
The Thousand Springs Visitor Center opened in 2022, and is a great place to learn about a century of research at the site. The center has exhibits featuring fossils and the knowledge gained at the site, as well as ranger talks to guide visitors through the information.
More Information
Until March, the visitor center is open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday through Sunday. To plan your trip, call 208-933-4105 or visit www.nps.gov/hafo.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE/F. BROWN
Survive Just About Anything for Under $20
On any outdoor adventure, Mother Nature’s job is to present you with challenges. Some days she’s more demanding than others. And on those days, you’d better come prepared. The Stauer Survival Box is a near-guarantee you’ll be up to the challenge. The stainless steel multitool offers wire cutters, knife, bottle opener, file, a set of screwdrivers, a pair of pliers and much more. The powerful flashlight has three different settings, and the tactical loop watch is a reliable, waterresistant timepiece that clips to your hip and never leaves your side. All told, opening the Survival Box gives you instant access to nine different tools for JUST $19.50.
Regularly sold for $99, we’re offering this collection of survival essentials to you for A FIFTH OF THE NORMAL PRICE! Why? Because we’ve had an incredible year and we feel like giving back to our valued customers. As this kit has proven to be one of our all-time best sellers, we can only extend this offer while supplies last. Of our initial run of 1,737, more than half have already sold. Your move, Mother Nature.
Survival Box Specifications:
• Multitool: 3 1/4" x 1" folded
• Flashlight: 3 1/2" x 1", 260 lumens, takes AA batteries (not included), three LED light modes: strong, medium and caution flashing
• Watch: 2 3/4" x 1", battery type SR626SW (included)
Survival Box $99 $19.50* + S+P Save $79.50
*You must use Insider Offer Code: SVB185-01 to get this price. California residents please call regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
1-800-333-2045
Your Insider Offer Code: SVB185-01
Regularly priced at $99, take advantage of this special offer while supplies last!
Praise for Stauer’s Survival Box “[It] has everything!” — Carol T., Anaheim, CA
Box includes flashlight, watch and multitool with wire cutters, knife, bottle opener, file, screwdrivers, pliers and more!
THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT
The Voice of Light
My heart is heavy.
One of the true blessings of writing a column is the opportunity to share with you, my readers, not only what I see but what is on my heart. The two are often interconnected. As trite as it sounds, I feel like we are family.
In the wake of the most recent war atrocities, it’s challenging to keep my attention on things like photography and positive storytelling. Yet, even as I wade through the
emotions of these conflicts, I am reminded what a lifelong gift photography is, distracting me from deep and painful events while acting as a vehicle to share what I see and feel. For this, I am forever grateful.
Armed with a purpose, photography has always been a powerful communication tool. With it, we can shine light in dark places or quietly applaud acts of love and goodness. I believe both are necessary. While I truly admire the courage of my friends who risk their lives to show us the injustices and atrocities of war, I have chosen to celebrate light and those who reflect it.
Where there is light, there is hope. The new year is the perfect time to talk about seeing and being light. Whether
literal or metaphoric, light reveals and heals. Each of us chooses how we use light. With our cameras, as with our words, we can choose to focus on the good and lovely in our world or dwell on the dark, ugly and evil.
I attended a seminar where the speaker reminded his audience of the difference between a thermometer and a thermostat. One reads the temperature, and the other changes it, he challenged.
The late Agnes Baker Pilgrim—also known as Grandma Aggie, a Native American spiritual elder I wrote about a few years ago— said she talked to water, thanking it often. She insisted water hears us. I think light is similar. I know it has a voice. n
Reader Challenge
Show me the goodness of light, as it falls on mountains, fields, streams, rooftops, bedsheets or kitchen sinks. Or, as it springs forth from the heart in acts of kindness.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pur.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
NIKON D800180mm lens ISO 3200, f/2.8 at 1/500
On senior night, a football player embraces his father on the field before the game.
PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
ABOVE: From left are Bea Munoz, Joan Meis Wilson, Andrea Mooney, Dennis Lesowsky, Leroy Jackson, Bonnie Muir, Naomi Jack, Becky Leisle, and Maria Waitas. LEFT: From left are MEC Board of Directors Michael Bartelt, Rich Tempelman, Bullhead City Mayor, Steve D’Amico, MEC Board of Directors Toni Barbaro, MEC CEO, Tyler Carlson, MEC Board of Directors Joe Solar and Joe Anderson. PHOTOS BY CHRISTINE OWENS/MEC
Operation Cool Shade
By Christine Owens
Mohave Electric Cooperative’s popular Operation Cool Shade event sold out, once again, 2,100 trees last November. Tree pickup took place in Bullhead City at the Anderson Auto Group Fieldhouse on Saturday, November 18 and in Kingman at the MEC Kingman Operations Facility on Monday, November 20.
Members had the opportunity to purchase up to eight trees, for $9 each, which included a complimentary LED bulb for each tree purchased. Four tree varieties were available which included, Lionetti Live Oak, Desert Willow ‘Sweet Bubba Seedless’, Bonita Ash, and Chaste Tree.
As with previous years, MEC employees have been working closely with the University of Arizona Mohave County Cooperative Extension Bullhead City Master Gardeners to determine suitable trees for a desert environment. The Master Gardeners were on hand, at tree pick up, to pass on information to members on how to plant their Operation Cool Shade trees. Master Gardner, Dennis Lesowsky said, “In addition to lowering the temperature of your home, planting trees is good for the environment and helps to clean the air.” The Bullhead City Master Gardeners are available for advice on how to plant Operation Cool Shade trees at 928-753-3788.
Operation Cool Shade trees enhance the look of your home and yard while saving energy dollars. Shading your home can reduce cooling costs up to 20% in just a few years and the energy not being consumed is also better for the environment. Although
temperatures are the same in the shade, people will feel at least 10 degrees cooler. The same could be said about preventing direct sunlight into your home, which lowers the outside wall temperature. “MEC offers shade trees at a discounted price for our members, annually, through Operation Cool Shade. Shading your home is an important cooling factor, especially, during our 120-degree summer days.” said Courtney Nixon, Energy Management Specialist with Mohave Electric Cooperative. “The shading from the trees can protect your home from heat rays.”
Those considering purchasing shade trees next year should create a landscaping plan. Ensure that you have enough space to plant at least three trees so they may provide enough shade to shield your home on the west, south, or east side. Check surrounding areas for obstacles like overhead powerlines or underground utilities, eaves, cement slabs or other structures. Before you dig, to plant your tree, it is important that all members call Arizona 811 at (800) 782-5348 or go online at arizona811. com to create a ticket. Arizona 811 will notify utility locators to mark the placement of underground utility wires and pipes where you plan to plant trees. Never plant trees where their growth will interfere with overhead power lines. A good rule to follow is, at maturity, the trunk and branches of trees should be at least 15 feet away from overhead power lines. In addition, be mindful to plant 15 feet from driveways, patios, sidewalks, and blocks walls.
For complete details on Operation Cool Shade or for information on next year’s event, please visit MEC’s website at www.mohaveelectric.com for any event updates. n
PHOTO BY IRHAM
Chenoa, female, 3-year-old Great Pyrenees. Needs a new home with space. 541-805-0969 or bcrp51@outlook.com. 0124
Stud service for mini Australian shepherd. Photos available. Crescent Lake, OR. Liz Sanders, 360-901-1291. 0124
Real Estate
$600K interior Alaskan turnkey roadhouse and 2 dry cabins. Well-maintained on 5 acres with pond. 50 scenic miles south to Denali Park entrance. 907-460-9292. 0524
Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian, ranch owner. For sale: Sisters, OR, 40 acres. $1.7M. John Gill, 541-480-9161 or johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0124
Dale store. 11 acres along U.S. Hwy 395. Live and work in this recreational enthusiast area. $695K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363 or ddwr@ortelco.net. 0124
Off-grid homestead. Ideal for wind/solar power. NE Elko County NV. Has equipment, quarters, shop. Year-round access. Water and power nearby. $35K. geopup58@gmail.com. 0124
Rest in peace among the pines. Two adjacent gravesites in the historic Sumpter cemetery in Northeast OR. A beautiful, peaceful setting. $300. 208-284-5073. 0124
Selling farmette, snowbird potential. Enclosed RV trailer port, garages, power, propane, fenced, county, near Joshua Tree. 58873 Sun Mesa Drive, Yucca Valley, CA. Cindymarkrealty.com/copy-of-houses. 760-285-4911. 0124
Recreational Rentals
Wavecatcher: Oceanfront. Central Oregon coast. Summer $175/night mid-May to midOct.; $140/night mid-Oct. to mid-May (plus cleaning/tax). Three rooms w/double beds. Pets welcome. Wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. Reservations: 541-740-2846. 0324AR
Bend country cabin. Very clean and fully furnished cabin on private ranch. Close to recreation areas. Very nice. $95/night. 541-382-3050; bendcountrycabins@gmail.com. 0124
Rare 1.34-acre, view lot for cabin/retreat in Mt. Aire Canyon, 4 minutes from Salt Lake City 270º views, elevation 7,200 at confluence of 5 canyons. Water onsite, transformer adjacent. $325K. charles@cc-tdi.org, Instagram: @mtairekitebox, 801-232-8038. 0224
Recreational Vehicle
Hook up a steelhead at The Hook Up RV Park in Ahsahka, ID. Daily or longer rents available. 208-391-2919; hookuprvpark@gmail.com. 0124
Services
Call Pahrump Lock and Safe for all your residential, commercial and safe services. 24-hour emergency service in Pahrump, NV. 702-379-8441; Jim@pahrumplockandsafe.com.
We all want delicious, fresh, nourishing food to feed our families. We’ve got pastured pork corn/soy/GMO free. Delivery to your door or drop sites. Order at: www.rural-roots-ranch. com or text Christy, 541-589-4674. 0624
Holistic nurse consultant. Herbal/natural nutritional advice. Complementary medicine practitioner. Free initial consultation. Available in Brookings, OR, area only. 707-951-1882.
Want to Buy
Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo blankets and rugs, baskets, beadwork, etc. Also, quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Send photos or contact: 760-409-3117 or amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com.
Gold, silver, coins/currency, buy, sell. Collections wanted. Fair prices paid. 44 years in retail store. Baker City, OR. 800-556-2133; garrymclin@aol.com. 1024
Old carpenter tools, planes (wood/metal), levels, chisels, slicks, adzes, axes, hatchets, handsaws, old rulers, spoke shaves, wrenches, shipwright tools, old tool chests. 503-659-0009 or 971-666-0659. 0124
We’ve had a busy year at HIGH PLAINS SHEEPSKIN, making and shipping thousands of these great slippers to people in all 50 states. Our durable hard sole sheepskin slippers are now $75.00, sheepskin soled $65.00. Sales price February 1st through February 29th only. Sizes and colors may be limited. Shipping rates apply (call to inquire if ordering by mail).
P.O.
Building a Reliable, Resilient Future for Rural Arizona
AEPCO’s Reliable Energy Plan focuses on responsible transitions to efficient energy generation
By Mandi Greenmyer
In Arizona, the intense heat of the sun can be a serious challenge. Arizona Electric Power Cooperative (AEPCO) is moving forward with a large-scale solar and battery energy storage project to diversify its generation portfolio and provide a local source of power to meet the growing demand for electricity in the region.
When completed, the new Apache Solar II project will be part
of an ambitious Reliable Energy Plan to expand and diversify AEPCO’s local generation portfolio. The project includes 235 megawatts of solar generation and 940-megawatt hours of battery energy storage. AEPCO’s plan also includes the construction of four new high-efficiency, clean-burning natural gas turbines at Apache Generating Station, providing another 160-MW of flexible, quick-start generation to complement solar investments and offset older, less efficient generation.
Based on extensive planning and collaboration with its cooperative utility members, AEPCO’s Reliable Energy Plan calls for a cautious and responsible transition. The plan phases in solar, battery energy storage systems, and smaller, more efficient natural gas peaking units over several years to minimize the cost impact, while continuing to maximize AEPCO’s existing power generation portfolio.
These new resources will reduce groundwater consumption and air emissions by offsetting the operation of older steam generation. They will also help stabilize or lower energy costs
LEFT: Crews install industrial-scale batteries near Apache Generating Station in Cochise, Arizona, as part of the Apache Solar II project. The Battery Energy Storage System, or BESS, has a storage capacity of 940 MWh. PHOTOS BY STEFANIE SPENCER
A Time of Porpoise
Amemorable
beach moment: You’re basking in the warm sun, toes in the sand, letting the gentle turn of the foam-capped waves lull you into a state of complete relaxation. As your eyes scan the endless horizon of blue on blue, you’re rewarded with a pod of dolphins making their way across the sea.
There’s no denying their signature shape as they leap from the water. If you don’t see anything else extraordinary the rest of day, you can take solace knowing you’ve witnessed one of nature’s most playful and human-like creatures in their natural habitat.
Why not re-create that special moment with our Balinese Dolphin Pendant? We’ve captured two dolphins midjump in sterling silver crafted in the Balinese style. Tucked between these beloved sea mammals is a full carat of shimmering blue topaz. Made by some of Indonesia’s finest artisans, this pendant is an absolute steal at JUST $29! That’s what we call our Stauer IMPOSSIBLE PRICE!
Nothing captures the shimmering color of the ocean in the midday sun like blue topaz. With its sparkling, clear blue color and high reflective index, blue topaz is one of the world’s top-selling gemstones. The Gemological Institute of America lauds topaz for its hardness, noting that blue topaz is known for its intense color that’s better than aquamarine. With this special price, you can score quite the catch.
Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back. Enjoy the Balinese Dolphin Pendant for 30 days. If it doesn’t pass the test swimmingly, send it back for a full refund of the item price.
Limited reserves. This pendant is already one of our best sellers this year. A full carat of genuine blue topaz set in .925 sterling silver for this price is as rare as a dolphin sighting. We cannot guarantee availability for long. Call today! This offer is limited to the first 1,900 responders to this ad!
Jewelry Specifications:
• Made in Indonesia
• Blue topaz and .925 sterling silver
Balinese Dolphin Pendant (1 carat)
$299 $29* + S&P Save $270
*Special price only for customers using the offer code.
One carat of shimmering blue topaz set in sterling silver for $29
What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Topaz
“Just lovely! Would recommend it as a purchase. Thank you STAUER.” — Mary L.
P.O. Box 22530
Bullhead City, AZ 86439
Member Services: 928-763-1100
Outage Reporting: Toll free 844-632-2667 or text “outage” to 55050 from the phone number linked to your MEC account. mohaveelectric.com
Mohave Electric Cooperative Board of Directors
President Joe Anderson
Vice President Deborah Johnson
Secretary Toni Barbaro
Treasurer Rich Tempelman
Michael Bartelt
Tracy Weisz
John Nelssen
Kevin Nestrick
Jose “Joe” Solar
CEO
Tyler Carlson
Happening
A Message from the CEO
Thank You MEC Members—Twice!
In the last Currents article, I thanked all of our members who supported the Reliability for Rural Arizona project which includes bringing new, lowemission, natural gas turbines to MEC’s service territory in Fort Mohave.
Mohave Electric Cooperative’s main generation and transmission provider, Arizona Electric Power Cooperative (AEPCO) is also a not-forprofit formed by AZ co-ops including MEC as a partial owner. We share a generation facility in Cochise County and are bringing two quick start, flexible natural gas units in Cochise and in Mohave Counties to prepare for growth, reliability, and affordability.
Double thanks to members for first supporting our efforts at the Arizona Corporation Commission who provided unanimous approval in October. And second thanks for members who supported our efforts as we just received the next level of approval from the Mohave County Board of Supervisors. The approval on December 4 confirms the need for the generation, the need for the site to be local within MEC’s service territory, and the importance of having emergency back up power to key institutions like hospitals, cooling centers, fire stations, and other government entities during a major outage. The project also has the potential to provide other neighboring utilities with outage support.
Many more steps to come, with in-person meetings, and additional public comments. We welcome your feedback and look forward to sharing project updates and benefits with you.
Power Market Instability and Cost Adjustor
Mohave Electric strives to provide you with reliable power at affordable prices. MEC monitors the power market every hour of every day to secure the best prices for our members. Two Currents magazines ago, I wrote about grid stability, market instability, and keeping members apprised of an ever-changing situation.
Until projects like the Reliability for Rural Arizona mentioned above are built and operational, MEC must continue to weather the ever-changing power market storm. The latest update is our Purchased Power Adjustor (PPA) charge is changing to a $.02 per kWh. The main cause is the rising costs of energy. For example, different types of fuel are used in producing power for the grid, and these fuel prices have only continued to increase over the years.
MEC experienced, in the last year alone, $6.1 million in increased, unplanned power costs including costs incurred from a generation turbine outage, unexpected increase in fuel adjustors from generation and transmission providers, and millions in reduced savings from a battery infrastructure project delay (now currently in operation).
The cost of energy/power changes minute-by-minute and MEC will continue to do everything we can to manage our external and internal costs and review options to reduce the PPA charge. Please read the article in the middle of the magazine and look for the letter from us dated Nov. 30. For any member who is experiencing hardship or needs assistance with their bill, please call our Member Service department at 928-763-1100 to discuss payment plans and other resources available to help our members.
Tyler Carlson