Currents, Mohave Electric Cooperative, March 2022

Currents

MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

MARCH 2022

nstoppable

Alyssa

Seventeen-year-old cancer survivor Alyssa Tudor takes life by the reins Page 12

PHOTO BY MIKE TEEGARDEN

FROM THE PIONEER TEAM

Ruralite

Currents Stories That Feed the Soul March 2022 • Volume 57, No. 2 ANZA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Sherri Stafford

ARIZONA’S GENERATION AND TRANSMISSION COOPERATIVES

Geoff Oldfather

DUNCAN VALLEY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Steven Lunt

ELECTRICAL DISTRICT NO. 2

Roselyn Bever

MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Heather Foreman

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Mike Teegarden EDITOR

Victoria Hampton Currents (USPS 030-520) is published bimonthly for members for $1.73 a year, plus postage by Pioneer Utility Resources, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a notfor-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—to serve the communication needs of 53 consumer-owned electric utilities in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Nevada, California, Arizona and Hawaii. Preferred periodical postage paid at Hillsboro, Oregon 97123 and additional mailing offices. © 2022 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send address changes to Currents, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy., Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. TO CONTACT CURRENTS

Mailing address: P.O. Box 1306 North Plains, OR 97133-1306 Email: info@pur.coop Subscription services: Nonmember subscriptions $8 (U.S.) per year. Prepayment required. Identify local edition desired.

I was already gripped by the tale of the “Unstoppable” Alyssa, a 17-year-old barrel racer who has taken life by the reins despite challenges that would keep most from ever saddling up. Then I got to the side story of Alyssa and Rosie. Not to give too much away, but it is about an instant bond and special connection bringing healing to each. Cue the tears. Stories—well told and not sugarcoated—have a way of moving us, inspiring us, giving us perspective and even lifting us up. Today’s main feature on a resilient teen and her helpers, including a special one, is such a story. It is beautifully told by Victoria Hampton, whose official job here is editor but who writes regularly and from the heart. “You never know the stories that people hold,” Victoria says. “Whether it be your nextdoor neighbor or a resident of a community you’ve visited, shining the spotlight on everyday people and sharing their passions and triumphs brings us closer together. At first glance, you wouldn’t know about Alyssa’s incredible accomplishments as a young equestrian. Her story makes us believe anything

is possible and inspires us to dream big.” On the pages ahead, you will find added inspiration in a story of a rural middle school teacher earning notice for guiding a wildly popular FFA program. Leon Espinoza Randi, who is from a family of educators, is following in the footsteps of her parents, who practiced teaching as a way to build community. This is the latest installment in our 2022 series called “The Learning Curve.” In addition to sharing stories on these pages, we’ve added podcasting to the mix, bringing you more of the story and a different way to experience it. Our January feature story on “Angel’s Journey” to save her Nez Perce language is available for a listen, including hearing the native language. Check it out at www.ruralite.com/angels-journey. Leon Espinoza Senior Vice President of Content

Survey Says ... By now, a randomly selected portion of our readership has received a survey in the mail intended to help guide what we publish. The survey is real—a noted national survey company is conducting it—and the feedback is important for serving you well. Thanks to all who have responded. If you haven’t, we would love to hear your input. If you did not receive a survey, I invite you to email me your thoughts about our content at editor@pur.coop.

Hands-On Learning

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Regional Teacher of the Year focuses on connections beyond the classroom Up Close, Page 10

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Unstoppable Alyssa

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Seventeen-year-old cancer survivor takes life by the reins Spotlight, Page 12

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Plugged In In the Kitchen

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Photo Hunt Before You Go

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Utility Pages: 4-5, 8, 25, 32 MARCH 2022

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MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Classroom Grant Recipients Montessori Prep Academy and Mohave Accelerated Elementary School.

MEC’s Classroom Grants Program One of the 7 Cooperative Principles that Mohave Electric Cooperative (MEC) strives to meet, and exceed at, is “Commitment to Community”. This means that MEC and our employees support local causes through charitable contributions, volunteerism, and other activities that make a positive difference. At Mohave Electric, our community commitment is an integral part of where we work, what we do, and why we do it. Our mission is to support education, health care, economic development, and other areas that contribute to quality of life in our community. Over 15 years ago, Mohave Electric started our Classroom Grants program. While the program has evolved over the years, the goal has remained the same: provide needed funds to educators. The $200 Classroom Grants are awarded to 18 educators that work at schools within Mohave Electric’s service territory. Grants can be used to purchase materials, equipment, or supplies for a 4

MARCH 2022

“Educators are the foundation to student success, and MEC is proud to support students and teachers when we can.” —MEC CEO TYLER CARLSON

special school project. Funds for the Classroom Grants program come from capital credit checks that have been returned to Mohave Electric. These abandoned capital credits go to programs that serve our community like Classroom Grants. The $200 grants come at no expense to the Cooperative or our members. In the past, educators have used the funds awarded to take their students on a virtual trip to Iowa to study the habitat of eagles, buy much needed supplies for their classrooms, and anything that might

enhance students’ learning experiences. Grants are awarded for projects based on need, creativity, benefit to students, age appropriateness, and integration with class curriculum. Applications for the 2022 Classroom Grants program opened February 1, 2022 and will close March 15, 2022 at 5 p.m. To apply, scan the QR below or go to the website at https://www.mohaveelectric.com/ community/classroom-grants/. n

Eleventh graders, from left, Evan Brooks, Marshul Sheehan, Ian Weiss, and Catrina Duncan, earned an all-expenses-paid trip to Washington, D.C., in June 2022. PHOTO BY JULIA GARRINGER

2022 Washington Youth Tour Winners The evening of January 10, 2022 was an exciting night for 4 local eleventh grade students. The students, whose parents, or guardians are MEC members, were selected to represent Mohave Electric Cooperative (MEC) in the annual Washington Youth Tour. The week-long excursion allows the students to interact with others from all over the country, visit our Capitol’s landmarks, and learn about our country’s extensive history. The annual Youth Tour takes place June 2022 in Washington, D.C. MEC selects participants from applicants through a competitive process that includes an essay and presentation before a panel of judges. All applicants must be high school juniors and receive parental or guardian permission to apply.

From there, qualifying students are invited to an in-person presentation. The selected students present to a committee of judges sourced from the local community. This year the volunteer judges consisted of Lorrie Duggins from Bullhead City Police Department, Jeff Gift from River Rock Promotions & Printing, Adam Leprich from TWN Communications, and Terri Sponder from Sponder & Associates Real Estate. MEC thanks those judges that gave their time to help select the winning students. MEC would like to formally congratulate 2022 Washington Youth Tour winners Evan Brooks, Catrina Duncan, Marshul Sheehan, and Ian Weiss for presenting in front of the judges and practicing their public speaking skills. We

encourage all 2022 junior class students to apply for the 2023 Washington Youth Tour. Details about this program can be found on our website, www.mohaveelectric.com. Application process begins in October 2022. n

MARCH 2022

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PLUGGED IN

Shine a Light on Home Security By Paul Wesslund Lighting up your yard will keep the burglars away, right? That is mostly true, but like a lot of things in life, it is not that simple. A brightly lit yard could make it easier for the bad guys to see during a break-in. From streetlights to porch lights, studies show better outdoor lighting reduces crime. But those same reports say security lighting works best as part of a plan that takes into account what crooks look for. The basic advice from law enforcement, insurance companies and home security system vendors is don’t just flip on the yard light before bed. In fact, you may want to turn it off before turning in. The goal is to make it look like people are home. Turning lights on and off gives your home that lived-in look. If you are

not home, there is an app for that. Here are six tips to electrify your outdoor lighting and increase the security of your home: Think Like a Burglar Intruders tend to enter a home through a door. They would rather you not be home, so they watch for signs people are at work. That is why most burglaries happen in the day, and why leaving your lights on all day and night—or when you are on vacation—can be an advertisement that no one is home. Keep the yard lit while you are up and around to show normal activity. Turning off the porch light at bedtime can be a sign to a potential intruder that someone is in the house. Pay attention to spots that could cover up a break-in. Keep trees and bushes trimmed.

From streetlights to porch lights, better outdoor lighting reduces crime.

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MARCH 2022

Light for the Right Reasons Are you trying to light a walkway for guests or keep intruders away from an entrance? Place lights so they achieve your objective. Safety is not just about reducing crime. A well-lit outdoor space can prevent trips, falls and other accidents. Enlist Technology Electronic timers and motion-sensing lights can give the impression someone is home and can light the sidewalk when you return from an outing, without leaving the lights on all the time. Lights and fixtures can be linked to a smartphone so you can turn them on and off while you are out and about. Weigh the Pros and Cons of a Home Security System Security cameras, alarm systems and protection services offer a range of conveniences, such as fire protection or checking whether your pets hop onto the dining table when you leave. A security camera also can help identify someone stealing a package delivered to your doorstep. They can be expensive, so do your research carefully and consider what you are trying to achieve. Protect Yourself From Internet Hackers Internet-connected devices can be hacked by digital-savvy troublemakers. Whether a security camera or a smart lightbulb, the equipment can offer cyber crooks a way into your personal information. The basic internet security advice is to have strong passwords and change them regularly, especially on your home’s central router. Keep software updated on your devices. Those

App-Enabled Lighting Options

Smart lighting is one of the easiest technologies to integrate into your home. It can be easily controlled through voice command, your smartphone or a smart home hub, such as Amazon Alexa. Smart lighting also is among the most affordable smart home devices, starting at about $10 per bulb. Consumers can schedule lighting to turn on or off at specific times, just before returning home from work or at bedtime. One of the most useful aspects of smart lightbulbs is the ability to control lighting while away from home. If you leave for work and forget to turn off the lights, you can do so with a few taps on a smartphone app. If you are traveling but want to appear as if you are home, you can turn on your lights at a certain time to create that illusion. To increase safety, many smart lightbulbs have motion-detection technology and can be programmed to send an alert to your phone when the lighting detects unexpected motion inside or outside the home.

Many outdoor lights and fixtures—such as the Ring smart bulb shown here—can be linked to a smartphone so you can turn them on and off while you are out and about. PHOTOS COURTESY OF RING

updates often add the newest cyber protections. Even though it is tempting, do not use social media to tell the world you are on vacation. Consider sharing your travel photos after you return. Go Old School In addition to lighting through electricity and technology, use people to reduce crime. Invite a police officer to give a safety briefing at a neighborhood meeting. They can describe the best steps for your area. Of all the crime-reducing tips, experts say the best one is to get to know your neighbors, who can recognize and report out-of-the-ordinary activity. Lighting the path to safety involves making a plan, using technology wisely and seeking help from your friends. n

Bulbs are available in a variety of colors and dimming options to create different moods. Blue light mimics daylight. Setting lights to warmer colors at night can help release melatonin and may lead to a better night’s sleep. Most smart lighting options use LED bulbs, which are more expensive but use less energy than traditional incandescents. Incandescent bulbs cost about $1 and last about 1,000 hours. LED bulbs start at about $2.50, but last 25 times longer than incandescents. Smart bulbs come with their own built-in dimming mechanisms, so avoid placing smart lightbulbs in fixtures that already have a dimmer switch. Before buying, research which options work best for your home. Read reviews and stick with reputable brands to ensure a wellfunctioning bulb. By Maria Kanevsky

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY САША МЕЛЬНИК, CHIEF DESIGN

MARCH 2022

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MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Save at Local Businesses with Your Co-op Connections Card Being a Co-op Member definitely has its advantages. One of the advantages is being part of the Co-op Connections program. What is Co-op Connections? This exclusive member program gives you incredible discounts on everyday expenses. The power of Co-op Connections enables the best deals all in one place such as savings on restaurants, golf, shopping, travel, family fun, automotive, movies, and pharmacy prescriptions. Mohave Electric Cooperative (MEC), in conjunction with other Touchstone Energy® cooperatives around the country, joined the Co-op Connections program to deliver more value to our members and assist participating businesses in increasing customer visits. Supporting Local Businesses MEC is promoting businesses by supporting our community. This program 8

MARCH 2022

will showcase your business to MEC members, offer products and services, and highlight any valuable discounts you may have to increase traffic to your business. MEC is offering free advertising to Business Co-op Members. Advertising options will range from social media, print, radio, and billboard ads, as well as a quarter page in our Currents Member Magazine. Changing discount promotions is easy. You may update promotions once a month or leave current promotion running as long as you like. Advertising will reach 36,000 members in the Mohave community. What’s better than free advertising for your business? Become a Business Member To apply for Business Membership or to update your current promotion contact MEC with your business name, contact information, and business logo, and discount promotion. Sit back, relax, and

enjoy free advertisement. Some restrictions apply. For more information or to sign up to become a Business Co-op Member email coopconnections@mohaveelectric.com to speak to one of our public affairs team members today. Access Deals Scan the QR Code to log into your account to view what businesses in your area offer Co-op Connections discounts. n

The Invention of the Year The world’s lightest and most portable mobility device Once in a lifetime, a product comes along that truly moves people. Introducing the future of battery-powered personal transportation . . . The Zinger.

Throughout the ages, there have been many important advances in mobility. Canes, walkers, rollators, and scooters were created to help people with mobility issues get around and retain their independence. Lately, however, there haven’t been any new improvements to these existing products or developments in this field. Until now. Recently, an innovative design engineer who’s developed one of the world’s most popular products created a completely new breakthrough . . . a personal electric vehicle. It’s called the Zinger, and there is nothing out there quite like it. “What my wife especially loves is it gives her back feelings of safety and independence which has given a real boost to her confidence and happiness! Thank You!” –Kent C., California The first thing you’ll notice about the Zinger is its unique look. It doesn’t look like a scooter. Its sleek, lightweight yet durable frame is made with aircraft grade aluminum. It weighs only 47.2 lbs but can handle a passenger that’s up to 275 lbs! It features one-touch folding and unfolding – when folded it can be wheeled

Now available in a Joystick model (Zoomer Chair)

Available in Green, Black (shown) and Blue 10”

around like a suitcase and fits easily into a backseat The Zinger folds to a mere 10 inches. or trunk. Then, there are the steering levers. They enable the Zinger to move forward, backward, turn on a dime and even pull right up to a table or desk. With its compact yet powerful motor it can go up to 6 miles an hour and its rechargeable battery can go up to 8 miles on a single charge. With its low center of gravity and inflatable tires it can handle rugged terrain and is virtually tip-proof. Think about it, you can take your Zinger almost anywhere, so you don’t have to let mobility issues rule your life. Why take our word for it. You can try the Zinger out for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Call now, and find out how you can try out a Zinger of your very own.

Zinger Chair®

Call now and receive a utility basket absolutely FREE with your order.

1-888-442-3676

Please mention code 116495 when ordering.

The Zinger and Zoomer Chairs are personal electric vehicles and are not medical devices nor wheelchairs. They are not intended for medical purposes to provide mobility to persons restricted to a sitting position. They are not covered by Medicare nor Medicaid. © 2022 Journey Health and Lifestyle

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Joystick can be mounted on the right or left side for rider’s comfort

Hands

on

Regional Teacher of the Year focuses on connections beyond the classroom By Vicki Hillhouse

Agriscience teacher Randi Krieg wasn’t at the Goldendale, Washington, community pool to fish for a student project idea. But as is often the case for the Educational Service District’s 202122 Regional Teacher e of the Year, what rned th rieg lea connections K i d n started as a friendly a R f human power o father. encounter turned into r from he a teachable opportunity. In a meandering chat with the pool manager, the subject turned to an issue in the parking lot. Killdeer birds drawn to the gravelly property kept laying eggs in the space where traffic and people were meant to travel. But how to get rid of the unwanted guests? “Let’s have my kids try to figure something out,” Randi suggested. She presented the conundrum to her seventh graders at Goldendale Middle 10

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School, where her science classes are taught through a framework emphasizing natural resources. A unit was dedicated to the birds. Through research, video analysis, datalogging, drawing and watercolor—even reenactments of killdeer behaviors— students learned about the birds’ ecosystems and reproductive rituals. Their work culminated with solutions they developed, including dropping predatory animal scents and using fake crows or snakes. “The kids ate it up,” Randi says. The killdeer didn’t return last spring. The project remains an example of how the 14-year educator approaches teaching and direction of a wildly popular FFA program she helped launch at the middle school. The curriculum may produce good students, Randi says, but using it to solve a local problem while building relationships in the community develops good citizens.

“As far as me personally, I want kids to be connected to their community and know they can contribute,” Randi says. She has applied the same sensibilities around food science lessons, career training and water testing. Her efforts to diversify welding participation drew 70% more females over one year while helping her squash her own notso-fond memory of the nickname “Barbie in Overalls.” The combination of teaching and community-building was modeled by her educator parents. Mom Nancy Nickels taught third grade in Goldendale. Dad Terry Nickels taught agriculture at the high school for 34 years and led the school’s FFA program. As a child, Randi tagged along on Terry’s FFA visits when he checked on students and their livestock projects. She marveled at how closely that tied him to the community. People didn’t just allow him in for a peek at their animals. They invited him in for iced

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY ULZANNA, JEFF METZGER, APPLER

About 4 0 through female Golde n making 12 attended a dale agricultu Columb electrical moto Renewable Ene re students in gr ia r r PHOTOS Gorge Comm s as part of a gy Technolog ades 7 y Progr hands-o COURTE u SY OF R nity College. n a c tivity at am, ANDI KR IEG

y paint tin uild and napolis as b le a d n e ia om Gold lled around Ind ject during ro mbers fr FFA me tries to be instaunity service p t October. s food pan national comm tion & Expo la n a e f v o n t o r C a p onal FFA the Nati

ABOUT THE SERIES: Pioneer Utility Resources, publisher of this magazine, is taking readers on a yearlong journey, The Learning Curve, highlighting success stories in rural education in challenging times. The series receives support from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, a private nonprofit foundation serving nonprofits across the Pacific Northwest. tea at their dining room tables. “He was so connected,” she says. “I loved how when we would go around town everybody knew him.” By the time Randi graduated from Goldendale High School in 2004, she knew she wanted to teach. Her journey started with the Elma School District in 2008, followed by six years in Mabton, both in Washington, before she returned home in 2015. Randi carries on the community-building she admired as a kid. The swimming pool manager with the killdeer problem was her childhood Sunday school teacher. Her parents, now retired, still provide support. When Randi needed to renew her national board certification for teaching, her mother recorded the lessons. Randi continues to tap her father as a resource. “More than anything, I ask my dad, ‘Who do I need to ask for this? Who do I call?’ He’ll know exactly where to go,” she says. Although Randi didn’t follow exactly

in his footsteps when she returned to Goldendale, her husband, Josh, practically did. The couple lead agriscience education, with Josh at the high school and directing its FFA program and Randi at the middle school, where she helped launch a chapter for that age group. According to district statistics, 125 of the roughly 400 high school and middle school students participate in FFA. More than 20 students have been part of FFA projects that advanced to the national level for recognition. “From heating and cooling systems to fertilizer intakes and water filter testing— it’s not just animal-based stuff,” Randi says. Goldendale’s FFA program has earned the Three Star National Chapter Award. It is the highest honor bestowed by FFA for its activities to shape young leaders, build communities and strengthen agriculture. A grant-funded recruitment program from the Goldendale chapter became a top 10 national finalist of 2,013 activities

submitted from across the country. Randi’s recognition as Educational Service District 105’s Regional Teacher of the Year marks the first time a teacher from Goldendale has received the title since regional awards were introduced to the state’s now-70-year-old program in 1996. “I think the best feedback, though, is when students come back to you—when they come and tell you what they’re doing,” Randi says. It already is happening. One student drawn in by the welding recruitment has decided to make it a career through the oneyear program at Yakima’s Perry Technical Institute. Another became an underwater welder in the U.S. Navy. Yet another will follow the course set by her agriscience and FFA leaders and teach. For Randi, each person is a piece of the larger, intricate community she began to understand knocking on doors with her dad. “I’m already getting like him,” she says. “I want what my dad has.” n MARCH 2022

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nstoppable

Alyssa

Seventeen-year-old cancer survivor takes life by the reins

Alyssa Tudor practices barrel racing with Rosie at her trainer’s facility in Kingman, Arizona. PHOTOS BY MIKE TEEGARDEN

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MARCH 2022

By Victoria Hampton

Rosie stands quietly by the horse trailer as Alyssa Tudor gets ready for their big run. Once Rosie’s leg wraps, saddle and bridle are on, Alyssa lifts herself out of her wheelchair and pulls herself up into the saddle in a swift, practiced move. Alyssa is a 17-year-old barrel racer

from Fort Mohave, Arizona, who doesn’t let her paralysis get in the way of her love for horses. During gymkhana circuits in Mohave County, you will find her at every weekend competition throughout the season. “I wanted to be a show jumper,” Alyssa says. “Then I went to my first rodeo and saw barrel racing. I said, ‘I want to do that.’ ” In the saddle, Alyssa adjusts her reins, pulls two rubber bands from the saddle horn and makes a figure 8 around her boots, securing her feet in the stirrups. A built-in saddle seat belt is buckled and tugged tight. Alyssa is ready. Rosie lights up as the duo excitedly makes its way to the arena. As the announcer calls the horse and rider on deck, Rosie’s hooves dance in anticipation of their run. Alyssa takes a deep breath and positions her seat upright for a fast break out of the gate.

As the buzzer sounds, the duo races against the clock, making a tight circle around the first barrel. Right then left, they break away to the final barrel and push hard toward the finish line. In mere seconds, it is over. The practice, dedication and confidence it took to make it to the arena are years in the making. “Alyssa was just under 1 year old sitting on a horse for the first time,” says RoJeana Wymbs, Alyssa’s mom. “I figured it was a phase. All she wanted to do was get on the back of a horse.” Alyssa’s childhood changed in the blink of an eye. One moment, she was a spirited, social butterfly who dreamed of horses. The next, she was faced with an illness that would

change the course of her life. In June 2008, 3½-year-old Alyssa started showing signs something was wrong. “It went from a matter of achy pains in the leg to not walking and then being shuffled around between doctors and hospitals,” RoJeana says. Finally, doctors discovered a tumor had severed Alyssa’s spinal cord. Her diagnosis: neuroblastoma, a nerve cell cancer that most commonly occurs in young children. RoJeana recounts her daughter’s medical journey while shouting words of encouragement and caution from the arena gate as she watches her daughter practice with Rosie. “We say no bad days,” RoJeana says. “I’d be lying if I’d said it was easy. On her fourth birthday, she had a stem cell transplant. She weighed 14 pounds.” Alyssa was given a 30% chance of

survival. During two-and-a-half years of treatment, she received 14 rounds of chemotherapy, two stem cell transplants and 30 rounds of radiation. On top of a low survival rate, neuroblastoma has a high relapse rate, RoJeana explains. After treatment, Alyssa was part of an antibody study to reduce her chance of relapse and increase her survival rate to 50%. The study is now part of the neuroblastoma treatment plan at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where Alyssa was treated. As a young child adapting to paralysis in her legs, Alyssa learned to navigate her new life. She underwent physical and occupational therapy to relearn everyday activities and skills. Her mom, who worked in nursing home physical therapy at the time, offered guidance. “I didn’t want her coming out of

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FROM LEFT: Alyssa and her mom, RoJeana, were not raised around horses, but Alyssa’s love for these animals led them to the equestrian lifestyle. Alyssa and her horse, Rosie, have been inseparable since 2019. Alyssa and Rosie share a special bond as they compete in gymkhana circuits throughout Mohave County, Arizona.

treatment assuming everyone would cater to her,” RoJeana says as she watches Alyssa and Rosie race around a barrel. “I wanted her to come out as independent as possible. I may have overdid it. There are days when I’m like, ‘Holy nuggets!’” Through all the treatments and therapy, Alyssa knew she was destined to find herself back in the saddle. In 5th grade, her horse dreams became a reality when she met classmate Kami Hood. “We were doing a project, ‘What do you want to do 20 years from now,’ and I said something about I want to work with horses,” Alyssa says, noting Kami said she wanted to 14

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help her dad shoe horses. When they went out for recess, Kami told Alyssa they should “hang out.” “That Sunday, I go to her house,” Alyssa says. “She didn’t tell me she had horses. I show up—there’s 18 horses there. Ever since that, I have been down there every weekend.” With her new connection to Kami’s family and a barn full of horses, Alyssa started barrel racing at 11 years old. On horseback, Alyssa competes at local gymkhana circuits—equestrian events consisting of speed pattern racing and timed games, such as barrel racing, pole bending and obstacle courses.

Rescuing Rosie: Alyssa’s Heart Horse PHOTO BY ROJEANA WYMBS

With every competition, Alyssa’s skills and confidence grew. “Before I first started riding, I wasn’t a big hang-out-with-other-people type,” Alyssa says. “But when I met Kami and started riding and connecting with horses, I started hanging out with more people at school. It just kept going from there.” Once Alyssa hit the 10-year mark of her diagnosis, she was out of the red zone for a relapse, RoJeana says. The disease and side effects from treatment have left Alyssa with paralysis in both legs, deafness and impaired eyesight. “One of the reasons she rides is when she’s on a horse she’s equal to everyone,” RoJeana says. “The equestrian lifestyle gave her the confidence to keep striving and doing her best, going above and beyond every day.” On horseback, Alyssa takes life by the reins and lets nothing stand in her way. “When I ride, I have freedom,” Alyssa says. n

Equestrians in all disciplines have stories about the horses that changed their lives. Known as a heart horse, these equines serendipitously enter their lives and lead to unbreakable connections. Alyssa Tudor and her horse, Rosie, share this special bond. When Alyssa’s first horse, Dodge, died suddenly, Alyssa’s mother, RoJeana, started searching for another. This led the family to Phoenix, where they looked at horses that could be the right fit for Alyssa. Rosie was a 6-year-old red roan mare destined for slaughter in a Texas kill pen. She was given a second chance when she was rescued and hauled to her temporary home in Phoenix. In her new environment, the scars of her past were visible as she showed her distrust in humans by keeping a safe distance whenever anyone came near. When Alyssa and RoJeana arrived to look at horses, something about this fearful little mare drew Alyssa in. “Rosie was sitting in the corner terrified,” Alyssa says. Outside the pen, RoJeana and the seller were discussing the horse’s past as Alyssa was making a connection. The seller explained that Rosie exhibited signs of abuse. She would need training and a patient rider who would not use a lot of leg pressure. As her mom talked to the seller, Alyssa closed the distance between her and Rosie. In her wheelchair, she opened the gate and entered Rosie’s pen. “I got into the pen and walked up right to her,” Alyssa says. “I don’t know. We just clicked.” RoJeana and the seller watched in awe as Rosie and Alyssa met. “We were sitting around talking, and all of a sudden Alyssa’s in the pen and they’re rubbing faces together,” RoJeana says. Rosie let Alyssa halter her and take her for a short walk along the driveway. Then Alyssa climbed on Rosie bareback for a short ride. “She wouldn’t let anybody on her, and I got on her within the first five minutes,” Alyssa says. In March 2019, Rosie found a new home with Alyssa. The team has been inseparable, training, practicing, competing and occasionally trail riding down to the river. “We both understand each other,” Alyssa says. “We’re a great team.” MARCH 2022

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IN THE KITCHEN

SEAFOOD Differently

Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls

1 cup quinoa 1 cup orange juice 1 tablespoon hot sauce 1 tablespoon honey 1 tablespoon soy sauce 4 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 tablespoon lime juice 1 tablespoon white miso 1½ pounds shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed

¼ cup butter ¼ teaspoon salt 1⁄8 teaspoon pepper 1 cup mushrooms, sliced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 cucumber, sliced into half circles 5 green onions, sliced 1 avocado, sliced 1 teaspoon sesame seeds 2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped

Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Set aside. In a medium bowl, whisk together orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso. Pour ¼ of the liquid into a separate bowl. Set aside. Add shrimp to remaining mixture. Marinate for 15 minutes. Heat a large skillet over medium heat with butter. Add shrimp, salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes on each side until pink. Add mushrooms. Cook until tender. In two serving bowls, divide quinoa, bell pepper, cucumber, onions, avocado and shrimp. Sprinkle sesame seeds and cilantro over both bowls. Drizzle with reserved dressing. Serves 2

Recipe and photo courtesy of culinary.net

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Bacon-Wrapped Halibut 4 6-ounce halibut fillets Salt Pepper

8 slices bacon 1 tablespoon canola oil Rice or salad

Remove skin from halibut. Season with salt and pepper. Wrap each fillet with two bacon slices, tucking ends underneath. In a large, nonstick skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add fish and cook, turning once, until bacon is crisp and fish is cooked to desired doneness, about 5 minutes on each side. Serve fish with rice or salad. Serves 4

Source: Coleman Natural Foods

Salmon With Romesco Sauce and Aioli

2 cloves garlic, smashed 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided ¼ cup slivered almonds, toasted 2 5-ounce pieces salmon ¼ cup hazelnuts Salt Large roasted red pepper Pepper ¼ cup tomato puree 1 red pepper, cut into long strips 1 teaspoon sherry vinegar 2 cups small potatoes, cooked Salt and cut in half Black pepper 1 teaspoon paprika Aioli: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 cup mayonnaise ½ cup garden peas 1 to 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1 tablespoon chopped 1 tablespoon olive oil tarragon 1 lemon, zest and juice Romesco sauce: Salt ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil White pepper 1 slice white bread, crust Lemon wedges, for garnish removed

Heat oven to 400 F. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Season salmon portions with salt and pepper, to taste. Place skin side down in pan. Cook 2 to 3 minutes, until skin is crispy. Place on a sheet pan, skin side up, and bake 6 to 7 minutes. Remove from oven and let rest. In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Add peppers and potatoes. Cook 6 to 7 minutes, until peppers soften and potatoes start to caramelize. Add paprika, cayenne and peas. Stir and cook for 2 minutes. Add tarragon. To make romesco sauce: In a clean pan, heat olive oil. Gently fry bread, garlic and nuts until toasted. In a blender, process red pepper, tomato puree and vinegar until smooth. Add toasted nuts and bread. Process to desired consistency. To make aioli: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, garlic, olive oil, lemon zest and juice, salt and pepper. Place several spoonfuls of aioli on a plate. Top with potatoes, peppers and salmon. Top with romesco sauce. Garnish with lemon wedges. Serves 2

Recipe courtesy of MOWI

Baja Fish Taco Bowls 24 ounces quinoa 2 tablespoons olive oil 4 white-fleshed fish fillets, 5 to 6 ounces each 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning ½ teaspoon salt ¾ cup plain Greek yogurt

1 tablespoon lime zest 1 teaspoon lime juice ¼ teaspoon ground cumin 4 cups packed baby kale 1 ripe avocado, halved, pitted, peeled and thinly sliced

Prepare quinoa according to package directions. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season fish with Cajun seasoning and salt. Cook 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until fish is lightly browned and starts to flake. Set aside. In a small bowl, stir together yogurt, lime zest, lime juice and cumin. In a medium bowl, toss quinoa with kale. Divide among four bowls. Top each with fish, avocado and a dollop of yogurt and lime mixture. Taco seasoning or chili powder may be used in place of Cajun seasoning. Arugula or baby spinach may be used instead of kale. Serves 4

Recipe courtesy of Success Rice

Japanese Salmon With Sweet Potato 1 tablespoon sesame oil ¼ cup tamarind sauce ½ tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons sesame seeds 1 tablespoon honey 1 sweet potato, cut into rounds

2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided 1 tablespoon sesame seeds Sea salt 8 spears Broccolini 2 4-ounce salmon fillets Brown rice

Heat oven to 400 F. Line a tray with baking paper. To make marinade, whisk sesame oil, tamarind sauce, mustard, sesame seeds and honey in a bowl until combined. Place sweet potato on a baking tray. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Toss to coat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sea salt. Roast for 25 minutes. Remove tray from oven and add Broccolini. Drizzle with remaining coconut oil and sea salt. Place salmon fillets in middle of the tray. Drizzle with marinade. Bake 12 to 15 minutes, or until cooked to desired doneness. Serve with brown rice. Serves 2

Recipe courtesy of Aquaculture Stewardship Council

M A R C H 2022

17

READER EXCHANGE Crafts/Hobbies

I am looking for buttons of any kind, shapes, size or age. Vintage would be awesome. I am working on a craft with my nieces, nephews and grandson. Audra Shrauger 7999 SE Thomas Road Prineville, OR 97754

Do you sew? Do you have scraps you’d like to use up, and for a good cause? We pack shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, and we are in need of pencil pouches. I don’t have a pattern to offer, but the completed size should be about 9 inches by 41/4 inches. A zipper along the long side on top seems to work the best. We add pencils, pens, scissors, etc., so they do need to be sturdy. We can use all that anyone cares to send, as we send more than 500 shoeboxes every year. Thank you in advance. Barbara Hummel 10309 Matthews Way Anderson Island, WA 98303

Milestones

My mother, Iris Sparks, turns 94 in March. She can’t hear much, even with hearing aids, so she loves to receive and read letters. She loves jokes. If you know a good one, she would love to get letters and jokes for her birthday. Her address is Iris Sparks, 3525 Bigelow Drive, Carson City, NV 89701. Thank you. Rebecca Van Dahlen Dreary, Idaho

My mother, Josephine, will be 90 years old at the end of March. She fractured her hip during the middle of 2021 and could not have surgery due to COVID. Finally, right before Thanksgiving, she was able to have a hip replacement. She is having a hard time with the long recovery. It would be wonderful for her to recieve birthday cards and well wishes to cheer her up. Please send to Josephine Formica, 2433 Torrington Lane, Charlotte, NC 28262. Dawn Lund Rachel, Nevada

My wife, Joan, is turning 70 in March. She was an inner city lawyer for 45 years, many cases pro bono, all while in later years

18

MARCH 2022

caring for her parents 100 miles away. For two years, she was an unpaid caregiver for her sister and veteran neighbor, both stricken with cancer. Birthday cards from all of you would be amazing. Thank you. Her address is, Joan K. Clellan, P.O. Box 539, Fernwood, ID 83830. J.R. Clellan Fernwood, Idaho

Music

I have about 300 copies of old sheet music from about 1920 to 1950, as well as church music. My wife was a church organist for many years. All free if you can use it. Hubert Bierly 26690 Horsell Road Bend, OR 97701

Odds

I have close to 400 VHS movie tapes if anyone would like them. Contact me by email. Diana M. Diede 17600 SE 232nd Drive Damascus, OR 97089 dmdiede1018@gmail.com

I’m looking for an afghan made in a poinsettia motif. The flowers are made as individual petals and then set in a hexagon. Willing to pay postage. Thank you. Elizabeth A. Samul P.O. Box 37 Antelope, OR 97001

I am looking for Sachs DKW Penton 125cc engine to finish a project. Mike Garrison P.O. Box 845 Rufus, OR 97050

Recipes

My niece has lost her mother’s old Pennsylvania Dutch fruitcake recipe, which used yeast and, her favorite Burnt Sugar Fondant recipe, both due to a computer crash. If you can help with either of these, please send to, Karoll Smith 213 E. 7th St., Safford, AZ 85546. Edres Barney Pima, Arizona

Thanks

Thanks everyone who responded to my request for “Words of Wisdom” &

Submitting Requests Is Free Send your request—with no attachments—to readerexchange@ ruralite.org or mail to Reader Exchange, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Fill in the subject line with Reader Exchange. Acceptance, scheduling and editing are at the editor’s discretion. Single requests only, please. No duplicates. Submissions are handled on a first-come, first-served basis as space allows. We cannot honor every request. Please affirm you have authorization from all appropriate parties before submitting. By submitting, you indemnify Reader Exchange, Pioneer Utility Resources, Inc., its officers, directors, employees, utility clients and insurers from all legal liability incurred by the publication of information. We no longer accept pen pal requests. You may submit a pen pal request as a Marketplace ad. Marketplace pricing applies. When submitting a milestone request, send at least two months before the milestone. Phone numbers will not be published. Email addresses will be published if part of the ad, but the request must include a postal address. Request must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.

“Advice For Your 49 Year Old Self ” in the November 2020 issue. The response blew me away. The fact so many readers generously took time to share their thoughts meant so much to me. I received well over 100 letters and around 30 emails. The responses were thoughtful, honest, heartbreaking, hopeful, practical, funny and unique. Getting so many perspectives was not only enlightening, it was a bit of a wake-up call. This experience has been life changing. I truly cannot thank you enough. Kristi Forsman Eugene, Oregon

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ADVENTURE AWAITS

See Life Blossom out of the California Desert at

Joshua Tree National Park ADOBE STOCK PHOTO COURTESY OF FROZONE

More information

History What is it? If you’re interested in prickly vegetation reaching into the skies out of sprawling desert landscapes, you may find what you’re looking for in Joshua Tree National Park in Southern California. The 1,235-squaremile park is known for its rock formations and Joshua trees. 20

MARCH 2022

In the 1930s, the desert was under threat from poachers and land developers. Minerva Hoyt, founder of the International Deserts Conservation League, hired botanists and ecologists to show the value of the Joshua Tree area. She was introduced to Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and after more hard work, in 1936, Joshua Tree became a national monument.

What is a Joshua Tree?

What to do

The national park is home to more than 800 species of plant, and the most famous is the titular Joshua tree. The tree is technically a succulent, and is identified by its spiky leaves and round, white flowers. It is part of the agave family, can grow 40 feet tall and live for an average of 150 years.

There is much to see in the sprawling park. The Hidden Valley Nature Trail is a popular, easyto-walk 1-mile loop that showcases some of the park’s wildlife and rock formations. Also popular is the Barker Dam Nature Trail, a 1.1-mile loop that has great views of boulders and desert bighorn sheep.

Joshua Tree National Park contains parts of both the Mojave and Colorado deserts. In the summer, expect it to be hot and sunny, with temperatures often over 100 F. Passes are required to enter the park— $30 covers one vehicle and all its passengers for a full week. For updated local health guidelines and to plan your trip, call 760-367-5500 or visit www.nps.gov/jotr.

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Each of these coins is recognized for its breathtaking beauty, and for its stability, even in unstable times, since each coin is backed by its government for weight, purity and legal tender value. 2022 American Silver Eagle: The Silver Eagle is the single most popular coin in the world. 2022 represents the first full year of release of the Silver Eagle’s new Eagles Landing reverse design, introduced midway through last year to honor the coin’s 35th anniversary. Struck in 99.9% fine silver at the U.S. Mint. 2022 South African Krugerrand: The Krugerrand continues to be the best-known, most respected numismatic coin brand in the world. 2022 is the 5th anniversary of the first silver Krugerrand. Struck in 99.9% fine silver at the South African Mint. 2022 China Silver Panda: Since its first issue, the China Panda coin series has been one of the most widely collected series ever, highlighted by one-year-only designs. This 2022 Panda features its first-ever privy mark honoring the coin’s 40th anniversary. Struck in 99.9% fine silver at the China Mint. 2022 Australia Wedge Tailed Eagle: Introduced in 2014, the Wedge-Tailed Eagle is the first-ever collaboration between U.S. Mint designer John Mercanti and a foreign mint. With a new design for 2022, it’s struck in 99.9% fine silver at the Perth Mint.

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GovMint.com • 1300 Corporate Center Curve, Dept. WRD192-02, Eagan, MN 55121 GovMint.com® is a retail distributor of coin and currency issues and is not affiliated with the U.S. government. The collectible coin market is unregulated, highly speculative and involves risk. GovMint.com reserves the right to decline to consummate any sale, within its discretion, including due to pricing errors. Prices, facts, figures and populations deemed accurate as of the date of publication but may change significantly over time. All purchases are expressly conditioned upon your acceptance of GovMint.com’s Terms and Conditions (www.govmint.com/terms-conditions or call 1-800-721-0320); to decline, return your purchase pursuant to GovMint.com’s Return Policy. © 2022 GovMint.com. All rights reserved.

THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT

CANON EOS 30D, 24mm lens ISO 100, f/8 at 1/400

Simple Contrasts When it comes to making photographic compositions, sometimes less truly is more.

Uncluttered backgrounds and uncomplicated narratives allow us to slide easily into a picture and experience carefree moments, like this simple yet powerful picture of my youngest son curled on a warm boulder after swimming in a cold creek. The strength of this composition with few elements are the contrasts of light and dark, size and shape, and even age—the child’s new, fragile, angular flesh juxtaposed against the rounded, hard body of the ancient boulder. The photograph stirs memories from my youth. Sixty years earlier, I was a boy growing up on a frog farm not many miles from the spot where this picture was shot. I grew up swimming with frogs, tadpoles and mosquito fish in the long cement ponds of our frog farm. Often on summer days, I climbed up and stretched my wet body on the rounded, sun-warmed cement walls and drifted into dream-filled sleep—much as Henry is doing here. Sometimes we work so feverishly with intricate and complicated compositions we miss the beauty and power of simple compositions that are able to communicate so much. n 22

MARCH 2022

With no background distractions, viewers focus right in on the sleeping child and are able to better experience the moment. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE Dave LaBelle spent his boyhood years taking photos and began his storied photojournalism career while still in high school. He has worked for 20 newspapers and magazines in nine states, and taught at three universities. The internationally known photographer, author and lecturer has shared his photo tips and life perspectives with magazine readers since 2009. To read more of Dave’s writings on life, visit bridgesandangels.wordpress.com and davelabelle.com.

Reader Challenge Some newspapers and magazines publish columns with titles such as Looking Back, From the Past or Remember When, sharing photos of times and traditions from the past. What scenes carry you back to your childhood? Is it an old homestead, a leaning barn or a favorite tree that once held a tire swing? When you watch a mother or father walking slowly, holding a toddler’s hand, does the moment carry you back to a wonderful, fleeting time with your children or grandchildren? Make a photograph that represents or captures a happy or meaningful time in your youth, then write a few words to accompany the photo. 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.

Meet the Watch That Shook Up Switzerland A watch that revolutionized timekeeping at a price equally as radical.

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n the history of timepieces, few moments are more important than the creation of the world’s first Piezo timepiece. First released to the public in 1969, the watch turned the entire industry on its head, ushering in a new era of timekeeping. It’s this legacy that we’re honoring with the Timemaster Watch, available only through Stauer at a price only we can offer. Prior to Piezo watches, gravity-driven Swiss watches were the standard bearer of precision timekeeping. But all that changed when the first commercially available Piezo watch came onto the market. The result of ten years of research and development by some of the world’s top engineers, they discovered that when you squeeze a certain type of crystal, it generates a tiny electric current. And, if you pass electricity through the crystal, it vibrates at a precise frequency–exactly 32,768 times each second. When it came on the market, the Piezo watch was the most dependable timepiece available, accurate to 0.2 seconds per day. Today, it’s still considered a spectacular advance in electrical engineering. “[Piezo timepieces]...it would shake the Swiss watch industry to its very foundations.” —Foundation For Economic Education With the Timemaster we’ve set one of the world’s most important mechanical advances inside a decidedly masculine case. A handsome prodigy in rich leather and gold-finished stainless steel. The simplicity of the watch’s case belies an ornately detailed dial, which reflects the prestige of this timepiece. Call today to secure your own marvel of timekeeping history. Because we work directly with our own craftsman we’re able to offer the Timemaster at a fraction of the price that many Piezo watches cost. But a watch like this doesn’t come along every day. Call today before time runs out and they’re gone. Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Spend some time with this engineering masterpiece for one month. If you’re not convinced you got excellence for less, simply send it back within 30 days for a refund of the item price. But we’re betting this timekeeping pioneer is a keeper.

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MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Keep Your Cool With Heat Pump Rebates

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY GOFFKEIN

Mohave Electric Cooperative is always striving to work for members by providing programs and rebates that encourage MEC members to use energy more efficiently and save money on electric bills. There is no denying that MEC members are faced with extreme heat throughout the summer months, often running air conditioner units leading to higher electricity bills simply trying to keep a home or office at a livable temperature. Before summer is here, consider looking into MEC’s Heat Pump Rebates to help with the purchase of a new high-efficiency heat pump. This program saves our members up to $500 on equipment and installation and saves energy dollars, too. Heating and cooling homes can amount to 80% of residential energy usage and cost. The installation of a high-efficiency heat pump can help reduce energy usage by 30%. The higher the (SEER) rating, the higher the savings. Each step up in SEER rating shows an average of 7% savings. SEER stands for Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. This ratio helps guide individuals with purchasing energy-efficient equipment for their homes. Our rebates are broken down by SEER value to: • $150 rebate for 14 SEER • $300 rebate for 16 SEER • $500 rebate for 17 SEER As CEO Tyler Carlson always states, “The cheapest and cleanest energy is the kWh not used by members, and therefore not generated by the utility.” If you are interested in our Heat Pump Rebate program, please visit our website at www.mohaveelectric.com or scan the QR code to prompt the website on your phone. After visiting our site and reading about the program, please call our energy management team members at 928-7631100 to assist you with the application process. MEC’s energy management team is here for our members to help reduce costs and save energy wherever possible. Learn more about our different energy efficiency programs and rebates by exploring our website and look for tips and tricks on saving energy by following our social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram. n

Scan the QR Code to learn more and get started with your heat pump rebate. MARCH 2022

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MARKETPLACE Agriculture Reinforced custom-sized pond liners (35 cents/sqft). Hay covers, greenhouse covers, any width & length. Truck tarps & more. High puncture & tear strength. Best price guaranteed. Celebrating 40 years in business. www.btlliners.com; 541-447-0712. 0522 Antiques and Collectibles Global art and artifacts. From the rare and exquisite to the unusual and primitive. Authentic. One-of-a-kind. Culturally diverse. www.EsotericStuff.com 0522 Interior restoration, vintage/antique auto interiors. Highest quality; reasonable cost. Since 1970. Rare opportunity; back from retirement due to financial concerns. Spray, Oregon. 541-415-8307. 0322 Business Opportunities For sale. Tillamook, OR. Specialty Forest Products Co. Highly successful, nationwide niche market supplying floral, event, design, craft, pet supplies, etc. Family owned/ operated, 2 owners since 1960. Serious inquiries only, call Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.- 7 p.m. 503-842-2737. 0322 For sale. Successful retail store in Northwest Alaska with large attached residence, additional rental property, support warehouses and equipment. This profitable business has provided decades of service, and is located in a spectacular part of the country, with worldclass hunting and fishing, literally out the front door. A great opportunity for people who would like to experience a rich and purposeful life in remote Alaska. Serious inquiries only, contact 907-312-9750. $ There is a financial tornado coming down the street. Let me help you prepare for the tough times. Protect yourself and

your family. I have the solution. See www. FamilyandAnimalWellness.com. Call Cindy at 208-400-0013. 0322AR

colors, since 1984. Wife passed away and left them; will sell or trade. Please call 541-4206215 and 541-536-3889. La Pine, Oregon. 0322

Emergency Preparedness

Cemetery markers, both granite & bronze. Also offering bronze plaques, signage. All at affordable prices. Shipping available. Call Joe Plass for more info, 541-815-8906; www. highdesertmemorials.com. 0622

Build your safe space in this world: Harden your home, build an underground shelter and learn how to protect everything you love. KeepYourTribeAlive.com. 0322AR Farm Equipment

Pets, Supplies

For sale. Late 1970s industrial Massey Ferguson 20 tractor. Needs a little work, but it runs. Body is in good shape. Kept indoors, paint kept touched up. Asking $2,000 OBO. 541-444-1394. 0322

Stud service for mini Australian shepherd. Photos available. Crescent Lake, Oregon. Liz Sanders, 360-901-1291. 0422 AKC-registered Airedales. Fort Sage Kennels, Patricia Sharp, P.O. Box 246, Doyle, CA 96109; 530-827-2271. 0323

Free Items

Real Estate

Church, government uniting, suppressing “religious liberty,” enforcing National Sunday Law. Be informed. Need mailing address only. TBS, P.O. Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. 888-2111715; thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com. 0322AR

Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm & recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian, ranch owner. For sale: Bend, 5 parcels, 80-126ac, $1.5-$1.7 million. John Gill, 541-480-9161; johngill@ landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0422

Miscellaneous I was an unadoptable kid with a hard life until Jesus adopted me. “Little Red Suitcase”, $19.95, signed, 4 left, Rev. Richie. 541-6204255. 0322 Art Center East (ACE) is celebrating 45 years. Thank you for supporting the arts in Eastern Oregon. Visit artcentereast.org to join us. 0322 Cessna 421, 1968 and 1969. Low time, well equipped, out of license. $50K and $60K. yumaaircraftsupply@gmail.com. 0322 Local commercial fisherman sells summercatch gourmet canned tuna on internet September-June. 100% guaranteed the best canned tuna you’ve ever tasted. 206-799-1082; twofisherstuna.com. 0522 I have over 100 brand new Beanie Babies all

Coffee hut? Food cart? Make your dream come true. Drive-thru opportunity on busy street in Baker City, Oregon. 50x100 zoned commercial. $75,000. Call 541-519-8221. 0322 Riverfront property, zoned commercialresidential. Three adjacent lots totaling approx. 4.5 acres with six buildings. 3-bed, 2-bath home with deck, walk-in pantry, basement, 2-car detached garage, 500sqft. bunkhouse, storage building, garden shed w/25,000sqft. fenced organic garden. Plus 2,900sqft. building w/500sq ft. commercial kitchen, 3 bath. City water-sewer. 300 ft. river front on North Fork John Day River and 300 Main St. frontage in Monument, Oregon. On-site spring irrigation. FSBO. $650,000. Call Gabe Philip at

Quick, Affordable: How to Place an Ad Ads 25 words or fewer are $35 a month. An extended ad of up to 35 words is $50 a month. Contact information is included in the word count. Longer ads may be placed. For pricing, contact 503-357-2105 or info@pur.coop. Ads are for customers of member co-ops, PUDs and municipals only. Subscribers and nonmembers may inquire for pricing at 503-357-2105 or info@pur.coop. Ads must be direct and in first person, and are subject to approval and editing. Closing deadlines (in our office): May issue—March 31, 2022.

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If submitting ad by mail, send appropriate payment with your name, address, email, phone number and the name of the electric utility that provides your magazine to: Marketplace, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133. Make check or money order payable to Ruralite. We accept credit card payments for ads submitted by email. Send ad to info@pur.coop.

Call 503-357-2105 to pay by credit card.

541-934-2010. Long growing season, very low fire risk. 0322 Two Rivers, Alaska. 10 acres, southern exposure, trail access, 2-room dry cabin, fenced yard, well on property and electric. $125,000. Call or text 907-378-8234. 0322 For sale. Umpqua riverfront 3bd. 2 bath home with deeded dock on Hwy. 38 near Loon Lake turnoff. $425k. Call me if you have any questions. 541-480-0212 Don’t leave $$ money $$ on the table. If your property is near a river or lake, we will sell it for more. OregonRiverRealty. com. Premiere Oregon Properties: 30yrs experience getting the best price for sellers and buyers. James Wardrope Realty. OregonRiverRealty.com; office@ RiverInnElkton.com. 541-480-0212 0222AR Recreational Rentals Wavecatcher: oceanfront, central Oregon Coast. Easy beach access. $140/night winter, $175/night summer +cleaning/tax; seventh night free. Two bedrooms w/double beds, sleeping loft w/double beds. Full kitchen/bath, linens. Pet friendly. COVID-cleaned between guests. 541-740-9953 or 541-740-2846. Check availability, wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. 0522AR Bend country cabin. Very clean & fully furnished cabin on private ranch. Close to recreation areas. Very nice. $95/night. 541382-3050; bendcountrycabins@gmail.com. 0322

Lincoln City, Oregon. Beautiful ocean views. Slps 12. 4bdr (2 w/king), 3 full baths, Wi-Fi, cable, frplc, W/D, dishwasher, 2nd kitchen upstairs. Info/pics: VRBO.com/693193. Call for special prices. fbeckwithfamily@gmail.com; 503-720-6144. 0722 Situations Wanted Seeking a comfy parking space for us & our unique tiny house! We love community, nature, music & animals. Oregon Coast or nearby preferred. Ruby & Ted, thehomehealer7@ gmail.com. Will send bio & photos. 360-5132221. 0322. Want to Buy I am looking for old ship portholes, windows or other ship junk. I will pay and pick up from you. Call Jim, 503-842-6686. 0322 Buying old Corvette. 1953-1972. Running or not. Know someone who has one? Finder’s fee paid if I purchase. Call or text 702-296-2289. 0422 Will pay cash for guitars. Only buying quality high-end guitars. No breaks, no repairs, no modifications. Collector, not a flipper. 503-5226306. 0322 Wanted: 1967-1972 Buick Skylark, GS, Stage 1, GSX. Cars, parts or leads. Or any ‘60s or ‘70s vehicles. Email billybibbett@hotmail.com. 0522 Buy, sell, repair rock saws and everything lapidary. Buying old rock and gem books & catalogs. CigarBoxRock.com. 541-280-5574; cbr@bendnet.com. Bend, Oregon. 0422

signed paintings of the American West & abstract artists. One piece or collections. ‘60s muscle convertible or ? Photos. 760-409-3117, amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com. 0422 Gold, silver, coins/currency, buy, sell. Collections wanted. Fair prices paid. 42yrs in retail store. Baker City, Oregon. 800-556-2133; garrymclin@aol.com. Will travel. 1022 Wanted. Vintage wristwatches, pocket watches, watch collections, watchmakers’ estates, etc. Call 541-760-1050. Please leave a message if I don’t answer. Will travel. Thank you. 0322 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. 0322 Wanted: muscle cars ‘67 to ‘69 Camaros, Chevelles, etc. Running or not, project cars. Please contact Brian, 203-496-6297. Will handle all shipping. brtservicesllc@gmail.com. 0522

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A Major Undertaking Transformer changeout involves meticulous planning and flawless execution By Geoff Oldfather It’s not easy to move a transformer. For starters, there is the sheer size and weight of it. “This transformer weighs 153,000 pounds dry, not dressed out or anything yet,” says Dominic Rydzak, substation 28

MARCH 2022

apparatus technician. Dominic was on hand as heavy lifting began on a transformer replacement the week of November 17 at Bicknell Substation. “The big challenge in moving it is preventing it from coming off the trailer because it’s top heavy, so that’s a lot of weight to be traversing through the gravel

and everything else,” Dominic says. “This has to be done precisely right. Everything has to be level, every move has to be done carefully, because if it’s not you run the risk of it falling over. “We did the process called ‘jack and roll,’ where we jack the transformer off one trailer, then move it to another trailer

ARIZONA G&T COOPERATIVES

LEFT: Crews prepare the new 345-kilovolt to 230-kV transformer for loading onto a special trailer before moving it in to Bicknell Substation. BELOW: The new transformer, shown in place on the new pad, replaces an old transformer that provided reliable service for more than 40 years. PHOTOS BY GEOFF OLDFATHER

in order to move it to the pad (inside the substation). It is chained down while it’s being moved. It’s the same process in reverse to put it in place: jacking it up, pulling the trailer out from under it, then jacking it all back down on to the concrete pad. It takes a while.” Dominic and his crew enjoy the challenge and showing off their expertise. “It’s a lot of fun,” he says. “It’s not something we do every day.” It took several years of planning, engineering, logistics and preparation before removing a 40-year-old transformer and replacing it with a new, state-of-the-art transformer. With the new transformer safely in place, the engineer in charge of the project reflected on the exhaustive work involved. “It’s been challenging simply because it’s a remote location and it’s a large transformer for us in what I would call a congested substation,” says Claudia Aster, AzGT electrical engineer. “The substation

has all levels of voltage and it’s pretty tightly packed for equipment.” The new 345-kilovolt to 230-kilovolt step-down transformer is in what is called a “hub” because of all the ties and the large power loads it serves. Bicknell Substation allows for interconnection with neighboring utilities, including Tucson Electric Power and Trico Electric Cooperative. TEP’s Vail Substation comes into Bicknell. It allows power to flow back and forth, giving voltage support to and from TEP. “It’s a critical tie for us,” Claudia says. “We have a Trico yard in the Bicknell Substation that goes out and serves Green Valley and a couple of the mines there. It also has lines coming out to Three Points, which is another Trico substation.” With the transformer came the need for a new breaker. Fitting that breaker in the small area on the north side of the transformer also was a challenge. Now that it is in, Claudia says the

benefits project far into the future. “This gives us something we can rely on,” she says. “The transformer it’s replacing was getting old, and we would rather do it proactively than have it go down and wait for a year for a new transformer. It’s going to greatly enhance reliability.” The new transformer also enhances substation capacity since it is almost double the size. This supports growth and future demand for power. Seeing the project come to fruition is satisfying for Claudia. She credits Magaly Osorio for electrical design on the substation. Kathy Moreno coordinated the project with the support of Dustin Teague, who put together the yard and the connectors. “I couldn’t do this without the help of my co-workers,” she says. “I enjoy coming to work and dealing with all the issues to make it happen, so to see it come together, that’s the best part.” n MARCH 2022

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BEFORE YOU GO

This Fish Tale Is True

Anglers for a cause have monster day: Biologists in Idaho track white sturgeon for a living. Good gig. Serious stuff. But even researchers don’t mind the bragging rights that come when the amazing happens. How amazing? In one week, fisheries biologists caught not one, not two, but three monster sturgeon—each more than 10-feet long. Two of three were caught on the same day and had never been tagged before. No wonder these anglers were all smiles. How rare a feat is this? In more than three decades of capturing and tagging sturgeon in Hells Canyon, fewer than 10 of them exceeded 10 feet in length, Fisheries Regional Manager Joe DuPont wrotein a December 27 blog. It had been more than five years since any 10-footer had been reeled in. Find Joe’s happy report, all true of course, at https://idfg.idaho.gov/blog/2021/12/ when-big-ones-were-biting.

Joe DuPont estimates this mammoth sturgeon was at least 70 years old, and potentially more than 100 years old. PHOTO COURTESY OF JOE DUPONT

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AZ-146 Postmaster: Send address changes to Currents, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124 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.

A Message from the CEO

mohaveelectric.com

Your MEC Board of Directors and management have joined Grand Canyon State Electric Cooperative Association and other Arizona electric cooperatives in support of Arizona House Bill 2232.

Mohave Electric Cooperative Board of Directors President Joe Anderson Vice President Deborah Johnson Secretary Toni Barbaro Treasurer Rich Tempelman Michael Bartelt Cindy Christy John Nelssen Kevin Nestrick Jose “Joe” Solar

CEO

Tyler Carlson

What’s Happening h March 15—Classroom Grants

Application Deadline

h March 24—Join MEC & TWN at

the Winter Expo

h April 2—Join MEC at Family

Health Fair

MEC Tells AZ to Stop Double Dipping This state legislation seeks to correct a disparity on how cooperatives are charged for the sale of electricity. The Arizona Corporation Commission operates and is funded through an assessment on all regulated utilities, and the existing assessment formula results in a double assessment for all cooperatives.

The Issue The existing Arizona state statute requires that entities regulated by the ACC pay a fee, or assessment, to fund operations of the ACC. The assessment is based on revenue collected from sales of electricity to the companies’ customers or members. The ACC assessment is then passed to customers or members on their bills. Currently MEC and its members are paying the fee twice. The ACC assessment is charged to MEC, as required, by its power provider Arizona Electric Power Cooperative, a generation and transmission cooperative. MEC, a distribution cooperative pays the ACC assessment a second time for the revenue collected for the same power billed to its members. HB 2232 In January, HB2232 was filed in the Arizona House of Representatives. The legislation is aimed at solving the issue of assessing the same product twice by excluding the assessment on revenues from sales of electricity by the generation cooperative, and only charging the assessment for sales of electricity to the distribution cooperatives’ members. On February 1 the bill passed out of committee with a vote of 11-0 in favor. Next Steps HB2232 has strong support from Arizona legislators. We expect that the bill will continue through the legislative process including Rules Committee, and to the House and Senate for a vote. We’ll continue to track this bill and other legislative actions that impact MEC and our members.

MEC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER & EMPLOYER

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Tyler Carlson