ARIZONA’S GENERATION AND TRANSMISSION COOPERATIVES
Geoff Oldfather
DUNCAN VALLEY
ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Steven Lunt
ELECTRICAL DISTRICT NO. 2
Roselyn Bever
GRAHAM COUNTY
ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Diane Junion
MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Bo Hellams
EDITOR
Mike Teegarden, CCC
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 consumerowned electric utilities in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Nevada, California, Arizona and Hawaii.
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Storytelling in the Digital Age
Are you ready to enjoy our storytelling in a new way?
Your magazine has launched its first two episodes of a 13-part podcast series tied to Heart of Community. It is our yearlong look at how rural arts—the cultural heart and soul of so many communities—are staying alive and even thriving despite the challenges of the day.
We encourage you to listen to our opening podcasts and let us know what you think.
The first episode looks at how the series came about. The second dives into how the Columbia Gorge Orchestra Association rallied both adults and kids after the curtain suddenly fell on in-person activities. In the tradition of “the show must go on,” you will hear how an entire community improvised and succeeded.
You might be wondering, “Why is my magazine doing podcasts now? And exactly what are they?”
Your kids may be able to explain it better, but here goes: A podcast is essentially an online audio broadcast. Podcasts are episodic and often focus on a topic of interest. Think of it as talk radio for the internet age. You can subscribe to Heart of Community on all major podcast listening apps, including Apple Podcasts, Good Podcasts, Amazon Music and Spotify. You can also find it at heartofcommunity.transistor.fm.
Ruralite magazine embraced podcasting to
let readers experience, in new ways, the stories first told on these pages.
You get to hear from the artists themselves and listen to the passion, joy and resiliency in their voices as they share what they do to make the community better.
You will also hear some beautiful music and the sounds of artists at work as the series unfolds and journeys across the West.
Like the magazines you read, podcasts can be consumed at your convenience. Because you can listen while doing other things, they are great for multitaskers.
One of our magazine editors, Chasity Anderson, has a background in rural radio and is your podcast host.
While podcasting is new for our team, we have seasoned hands behind the scenes. Under the Pioneer Utility Resources umbrella—which publishes this magazine—is WordSouth. Our content marketing company is experienced in producing podcasts. Stephen V. Smith, who founded WordSouth, is our own creative hero.
You, our readers, are in good hands. Let the listening begin.
Fleet of robots makes food deliveries in Oregon community
Up Close, Page 10
In Rhythm With Art and Science
Rural dance company illuminates performances with world-class choreography and technology
The Heart of the Community, Page 12
Utility Pages: 4-5, 8, 25, 28-29, 32
Photo Hunt
Leon Espinoza
Cabinet Space: What Does it Mean?
If you follow Mohave Electric Cooperative on our social media platforms (see back page for MEC social media presence), you might have seen that MEC has been regularly posting content about our electrical boxes known as cabinets.
These social media posts are shared to raise members’ awareness of the safety spacing needed around all our electrical equipment. MEC has thousands of electrical cabinets and other equipment throughout our service area and all require working space so that our crew members can safely have access.
Cabinets are critical to MEC’s electrical distribution system. Members will often see these cabinets and other electrical equipment within the road right-ofway and utility easements adjacent to or on your property or business. MEC takes safety precautions to keep both our members and crew safe while providing reliable electric service.
The desired safety distance from MEC electrical ground equipment is 12 feet from the front of the cabinet and 3 feet from the sides and back. If you are considering building around one of the electrical cabinets, please call 800-806-4570 before adding any walls, structures, landscape, or placing barriers, so crews can ensure you are building within the correct safety distance.
MEC continually works to keep our electrical equipment in optimal working condition and crews visit MEC equipment regularly. As the MEC fiber upgrade
project continues to progress, crews will be visiting and updating cabinets and other electrical equipment more frequently throughout our service area.
With cooperation from our members for proper upkeep and protection of MEC equipment, our crews will be able to access
electrical equipment safely when the time comes. n
For any questions about distance and safety around electrical equipment, please call 800806-4570 and an MEC representative will assist you.
The Line Workers of Mohave Electric Cooperative
April was National Line Worker appreciation month, and Mohave Electric is grateful for our staff!
A cooperative-based utility company is different in many ways than investor-owned utilities. One main difference: we are most proud of the employees that make up our cooperative team. Not only are Mohave Electric employees a part of the cooperative, because they work for the cooperative, but most of them are also members receiving electrical service from the cooperative.
Employees and field crews work around the clock to keep the lights on for our members. They are called into action whenever needed, and they are required to resolve critical issues with caution and ingenuity all while working within a timely manner to ensure members are not without electricity for too long.
“Our
workers are critical to all essential businesses, providing electricity for hospitals, fire departments, schools, police departments, while also serving all our member businesses and homes.
This past year during the pandemic,
our workers
have
demonstrated how
important their role is for our way of life.”
—CEO TYLER CARLSON
Working as a line worker is not your average day-in day-out job that some might expect. Our crew members carry a familybased environment that takes care of each other, looks out for each other, and works together on each job as if they were a team executing to win a championship. On call, each crew member has a responsibility to assist the overall success of the project. If one team member loses focus, the entire team may struggle or be faced with an unsafe work environment. Though, when they are all in-sync, safety, productivity, and resilience against the elements are achieved.
Line workers assist in keeping the lights on, and they also work to improve the energy grid within our service area. They are called into action when there is an outage, and they also work with our engineering department to build new lines to new businesses and residential areas. They understand the capacity of our system and learn the latest and greatest technology trends.
We are thankful for our MEC workers’ service, diligence, and dedication to members and the cooperative. We are proud of the reputation our workers carry and demonstrate while they are out in the field. If you know a lineman, thank them for their dedication and commitment to keeping the lights on, responding to outages, and working to grow your community for today and tomorrow. n
Mohave Electric lineworkers are critical to the well-being of our power grid. They work year-round in all types of weather and all times of day. Tell them thank you next time you see them.
PHOTO BY
BO HELLAMS
PLUGGED IN
Celebrate Safety in May
The same electricity that powers our modern lives causes thousands of injuries every year—and 20% of those injured are children. Many of these injuries could be avoided with education and a quick look around the home for hazards.
May is National Electrical Safety Month, but that doesn’t mean consumers shouldn’t take a few minutes to look around their homes regularly.
Extension Cord and Power Strip Safety
According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, 50 people die every year from more than 3,300 fires caused by extension cords. Extension cords can overheat if used inappropriately.
• Buy cords approved by an independent testing laboratory.
• Make sure extension cords are appropriately rated for their use—indoor or outdoor—and meet or exceed the power needs of the device being used.
• Do not plug extension cords into one another. Extending the length of your cord—or daisy chaining—is the most common cause of overheating. It overloads the cord and creates a serious fire hazard.
• Inspect extension cords before plugging them in. Look for tears along the insulated cord, and check your sockets for bare wiring, metal parts and loose connections.
• Do not use an extension cord or power strip with heaters
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association estimates 60% to 80% of power surges originate from within a home or business. PHOTOS BY BRANDON POMRENKE
or fans, which could cause cords to overheat and result in a fire.
• Do not staple or nail extension cords to any surface. This could damage the cords. Do not run extension cords through walls, doorways, ceilings or floors. Keep the cords uncovered so heat can escape.
• Keep outdoor extension cords away from standing water.
• Never use three-pronged plugs with outlets that only have two slots. Anything in contact with the loose prong could catch fire.
• Never cut off the ground pin (the third pin on a three-pronged plug) to force your cable to fit a socket. It could lead to electrical shock or worse.
• Use only surge-protected power strips. This helps prevent fires and protects your electrical equipment from surge-related damage.
• If your home is littered with extension cords and power strips, hire an electrician to install additional wall outlets.
• Remember that power strips only add outlets; they do not change the amount of power received from the outlet.
Avoid Overloading Circuits
Do not overload your electrical system. Overloaded circuit warning signs are flickering, blinking or dimming lights; frequently tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses; warm or discolored wall plates; cracking, sizzling or buzzing from receptacles; a burning odor from receptacles or wall switches; and a mild shock or tingle from appliances, receptacles or switches.
To prevent electrical overloads:
• Never use extension cords or multioutlet converters for appliances.
• All major appliances should be plugged directly into a wall receptacle outlet. Plug only one heat-producing appliance into an outlet at a time.
• The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates more than 50% of electrical fires that occur every year can be prevented by arc-fault circuit interrupters.
• Use the appropriate-watt bulb for lighting fixtures. Using a larger-watt lightbulb may cause a fire.
Teach everyone in the home to inspect power and extension cords for tears, cracks and fraying before use. Do not use nails or staples to secure cords, as this can cause damage or start a fire.
Watch for Overhead Power Lines
Checking for overhead power lines before starting work on household projects is a fundamental safety measure.
• Never touch a power line. Contact with an energized line can injure or kill you.
• If you see a downed power line, stay at least 35 feet away, call 911 immediately and warn anyone nearby of the danger.
• Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead power lines. Do not assume the lines are for cable or telephone service.
• Tree branches can become electrical conductors. If a tree is in contact with or near a power line, call your utility and make arrangements to de-energize the line before trimming branches.
• Do not assume a power line is insulated. Often, what appears as insulation is only a soft covering to protect energized metal wires from the weather.
• Carry ladders and other long equipment horizontally to avoid contact with power lines.
Other Home Safety Tips
• Place safety caps on unused outlets to prevent children from accidentally placing items in the socket, which may cause a fire or injure them. It will also help you save energy by eliminating drafts.
• Consider installing tamper-resistant receptacles on all outlets.
• Do not yank electrical cords from the wall. Pulling cords can damage the wall, socket and insulating material surrounding the wire.
• Make sure your electrical cords are tucked away. Electrical trip hazards can cause fire, electrocution and other injuries.
• Never stick nonelectrical items in outlets. n
Save Energy and Money With an Energy Efficient Heat Pump
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. 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 largest energy savings is the kWh not used. We are constantly looking for ways to help our members reduce their energy usage and save energy dollars.”
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 928-763-1100 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
Dax
Delivers
Fleet of robots makes food deliveries in
Oregon community
By Lori Tobias
Driving through Philomath, Oregon, last month, Kristi Humphrey Ryder noticed a child-sized object stopped at an intersection. It seemed to be waiting for the light to change.
It wasn’t a person or an animal—or even living, for that matter— but it sure seemed aware of what it was up to.
“You have to go back around so we can see,” Kristi told her husband at the wheel. “It had crossed the street by that time and was on the other side of Highway 20 and had cut into a neighborhood. It was just sitting there next to a garbage can, and then it activated itself. It cocked its head and took off.”
Kristi learned “it” is a delivery robot named Dax, developed by Joseph Sullivan and his crew at Nova Dynamics LLC—a research and development company based in Philomath.
An entrepreneur of many years, Joseph says he has always had a passion for robots.
The idea for Dax came one day about six years ago as he was walking to work and realized sidewalks could be convenient for robot use.
The idea “just came out of nowhere,” Joseph says. “I was just
Joseph Sullivan is the creator of Dax, a robot that can navigate city sidewalks to deliver food. PHOTO BY NICHOLE SULLIVAN
thinking about the sidewalks. At that point, the idea of practical robots working outside still felt like 10 to 15 years in the future. I remember talking to one person about it. I said, ‘Yeah, we’re going to have robots delivering food.’ And he said, ‘You should try something simpler.’”
Joseph wasn’t deterred, but he was concerned how people might react to a robot. He also knew there were many ways to get it wrong—like building one that scared people or got in the way.
He and his team comprised largely of family members—including sister Miriam, brothers Kevin and Sean, and father Joe— could overcome technical difficulties, but changing people’s perception once set was another matter.
Joseph wanted to get it right the first time.
“We wanted Dax to be cute,” he says. “We wanted it to look and act like a friendly dog. If you are walking down the sidewalk and you see a strange dog, your first thought might be, ‘Is this dog a threat?’ If the dog looks at you, he has told you a bunch of things. He has seen you. He is not a threat. He’s using nonverbal cues that a lot of animals use to show you that everything is OK. Even though it is a robot and isn’t really a dog, if he could gesture by looking around, you’d be able to see what he is looking at, that he’s not spying on you.”
Engineers came up with Dax—a robot that can retract and tilt its head, turn both its head and body in the direction it is
looking and/or listening, and change the expression in its eyes to communicate or blink to show it is responsive.
Its name was inspired by Dex’s diner in “Star Wars,” but also because it sounded like a name that could belong to a dog.
“The main idea behind making Dax ‘canimorphic’ is less that he looks like a dog and more that he interacts more like an animal, making him intuitive to interact with,” says Miriam, spokeswoman for the company.
Although nonverbal, Dax makes sounds that suggest the word “hello,” “I’m here” and “uh-oh.”
Its wheels feature hazard lights for use when crossing the street.
“To me, what has been funny is the way people interact with him,” Miriam says. “I’ll see Dax driving up to a business and the business owner will be, ‘Hey, Dax, come on in.’ It’s funny when they know the robot better than me.”
Today, three delivery robots motor around Philomath, with more in development. Each one is monitored with GPS and video while making deliveries.
Joseph believes they are the first step in an “infant” industry—an amenity not unlike many taken for granted these days.
“When you look at almost anything— cars, planes, computers—in the first year, people had uses for them, but they hadn’t really hit their niche, hadn’t really found their home,” Joseph says.
As a reminder, he keeps a poster featuring a computer sitting on a kitchen table. A person in the shot holds a recipe card.
“The idea being, maybe a computer can be used to hold recipes,” Joseph says. “Today, computers run the whole show. They had to find their niche.
“I feel the age of robotics is really just starting out. I see this growing into an industry. A whole lot of things people don’t enjoy or that are dangerous or hazardous can be dealt with by a robot.
“Picking up trash by the side of the road is a really great job for a robot. I think in the future we’ll be able to tell a robot, ‘Here’s a baseboard and here is how to clean it. Got it? I’ll be back in a couple of hours.’” n
ABOVE: A fleet of three Dax robots is in the field making deliveries. PHOTO COURTESY OF NOVA DYNAMICS
LEFT: Jackson Bruce, 9, unloads a food delivery from Dax. PHOTO BY RACHEL BRUCE
IN
Rural dance company illuminates performances with world-class choreography and technology
By Victoria Hampton
Darryl Thomas, left, performs “Street Suite in Shanghai” with Kailee McMurran. PHOTO BY M. JOHNSTON
RHYTHM With Art and Science
In the heart of a small town, a luminescent beat has taken root. Tucked away among fertile farmland, Monmouth is an unassuming town in Oregon.
Husband-and-wife team Darryl Thomas and Valerie Bergman have planted their passion and creativity into this community, bringing innovative art that captivates audiences locally and internationally.
At the heart of Monmouth is Western Oregon University. The school drew Valerie and Darryl to the remote destination to teach dance after a career as internationally renowned dancer-choreographers.
The couple brought with them Rainbow Dance Theatre, a modern dance company that incorporates lighting and projection effects into one-of-a-kind performances.
Established in 2000, Rainbow Dance Theatre is composed of eight dancers from Oregon, Alaska, India and China. Though small, this powerhouse team books more than 70 public and school performances each year throughout the United States and Canada. They have toured in Mexico, China and Japan.
What makes this small dance company shine is its use of technology to create an immersive experience that stretches beyond the limitations of the human body. Performances combine innovative choreography, interactive sets, and the latest innovations in projection and lighting technology.
The dancers arrive with a background in ballet. Valerie and Darryl teach them new dance styles, including African, hiphop, Hawaiian, and martial arts.
Combining these dance styles with
The Heart of Community
technology has helped the dance troupe reach new heights.
“Because we integrate cutting-edge technology and cool effects, we’ve been able to expand the modern dance audience,” Valerie says. “Dance concerts tend to have an older audience. Our venues have found that because of the technology we use, they get a lot of new concertgoers.”
One of Rainbow Dance Theatre’s series is called iLUMiDance, which uses electroluminescent wire for costumes and puppets. On a dark stage, this artful collaboration between dancer and light effects helps tell a story and bring a new dimension to the performance.
Another series that incorporates technology is called Selfie. Darryl worked with a programmer in Hungary to develop projection software that allows him to move elements projected onto a lightweight fabric hanging across the stage in real time with the dancers.
Before the show, the audience is invited to submit selfies that are added to the projection during the performance.
“Because we focus on technology so much, we are a bit more unique than some small modern dance groups,” Valerie says. “We are taking it to a new level.”
Rainbow Dance Theatre’s 2020 tour was in full swing when the pandemic abruptly hit the pause button. Dancers headed home while Valerie and Darryl navigated the challenges of teaching dance virtually.
For one dancer, the unexpected change of course forced her to make a difficult decision. With a major in public health and a minor in dance from Western Oregon
University, Mikaela Mendoza felt she had to choose a beat to follow.
“This pandemic is all public health, but the thing I love to do is dance,” Mikaela says. “I was so torn with which direction I was going to go, but knew it was a choice I needed to make.”
Mikaela joined the dance company her junior year after auditioning for a spot in Rainbow Dance Theatre’s performance at the university’s spring dance concert. She has toured with the troupe the past three years.
“It really just felt like family,” Mikaela says. “It was so fun to be with this group.”
When the 2020 tour was cut short, she moved back home to Anchorage and started pursuing public health. She now works for the State of Alaska’s Division of Public Health. Her role has gone from collecting data on positive cases of COVID-19 to joining the vaccine task force. She is also attending graduate school to become an epidemiologist.
While Mikaela feels fortunate circumstances led her in a new direction, performing is still what she loves most.
“They tell you only 1% of dancers makes it professionally,” she says. “I did it on a certain level with this great group of people that I love. I feel so lucky and grateful.”
Before taking her final bow, Mikaela will join Rainbow Dance Theatre’s virtual performance for Western Oregon University’s 2021 spring dance concert.
Even though the dance troupe embraces technology, creating a virtual performance is no easy feat.
“Putting together a dance work remotely
is a whole new territory for us,” Valerie says.
Darryl and Valerie are using this opportunity to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Rainbow Dance Theatre a year late. They have invited past dancers to join current dancers and submit their own dances.
The couple will piece together the submissions to create “Apart But Not Alone.” They are incorporating illumination and projection techniques to create an immersive experience for the virtual audience.
“We are looking to illustrate how separate we feel, but how we have used technology to get in touch with each other and still feel community,” Valerie says. n
The dance company will return to venues across the country in 2022. To view the upcoming touring schedule and watch the spring dance concert on or after May 7, visit rainbowdancetheatre.org.
ABOUT THE SERIES: Pioneer Utility Resources, publisher of Ruralite magazine, is shining a light on rural arts in the Northwest and West through early 2022, revealing how the arts enrich communities and sharing comeback stories in these challenging times. The series, The Heart of Community, receives support from the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust—a private nonprofit foundation serving nonprofits across the Pacific Northwest.
ABOVE: Rainbow Dance Theatre’s performances combine choreography, interactive sets, and the latest innovations in projection and lighting technology. PHOTO BY CLIFF COLES
RIGHT: Valerie Bergman performs “Fallen Angel.” PHOTO BY DALE PETERSEN
Professor Teaches Coding Through Dance The Heart of Community
By Victoria Hampton
As the beat of the djembe drum rises, students watch in awe as the rhythm brings their programming to life. Hands move in a pattern, and LEDs attached to the drum dance along.
These students aren’t just performing. They are learning how to code.
Darryl Thomas, professor of dance at Western Oregon University, focuses his research on expanding digital literacy through dance. For the past three years, he has taken his coding and dance workshops to classrooms across Oregon.
“Our goal is to give them a love of coding through dance for all youths regardless of socioeconomic background, gender or ethnicity,” Darryl says.
Darryl and his wife, Valerie Bergman, operate Rainbow Dance Theatre, a modern dance company that hosts more than 40 workshops and performances at schools each year.
Dancing and coding are two concepts that don’t typically mix, but having a vested interest in both allowed Darryl to create a working model.
“Darryl is equally comfortable and gleeful about being a dancer and a nerd,” Valerie says.
The interplay between dance and coding exists in the repetition, pattern and choreography. When students learn coding through dance, Darryl hopes it will help them realize a future in a STEM career: science, technology, engineering or math.
“It is a very different way to teach coding through the arts,” Darryl says. “Usually, you sit at a computer and see something happen on the screen. But to really see something tangible in the real world change because of the code makes it a unique experience.”
Drums aren’t the only tools Darryl uses to bring movement into coding. One of his workshops lets students code the performance of a puppet with electroluminescent light wire, known as EL wire. Students work in groups to code the lights
on the puppet using a computer program. They work together to make the puppet dance as the coded lights come to life.
Another workshop uses EL wire costumes. It is the same concept as the puppet, but students can set the lights to complement their individual dance.
“It’s exciting to see that it is possible to use the arts beyond just the enjoyment factor,” Darryl says. “Now, the arts can be used for digital literacy and engaging a community who may not be interested in tech.”
By teaching coding concepts through movement, Darryl strives to break down barriers and interest all students in this form of technology.
Women are underrepresented in the coding field. During a workshop in Bend, Oregon, one of the seventh-grade girls said, “If they taught coding like this in school, a lot more girls would do it.”
To have enough materials to bring dance and coding workshops to students
in Oregon, Darryl has applied for grants and contributed personal funds. He recently bought a van to transport all the equipment needed to host workshops and performances.
Darryl also has added drones to the mix, which gives students the opportunity to code aerial choreography to music.
As the world becomes increasingly dependent on technology, Darryl’s ultimate goal is to have his workshops become a national model for teaching coding through the arts.
“When we have people who are writing the code, we want to make sure there are multiple voices at the table, including gender, ethnicity, social perspectives and sexual orientation,” he says. “We need to get kids from all these different demographics involved in this. This is my grassroots way of doing it.”
For more information on coding and dance workshops, visit rainbowdancetheatre.org.
During a coding and dance workshop in Bend, Oregon, students work in groups to code the lights on a puppet, then make it dance as the coded lights come to life. PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CENTRAL OREGON STEM HUB
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil to pan and swirl. Add peas. Sauté 3 minutes or until crisp-tender. Stir in mint, lemon rind, pepper and salt. Sprinkle with cheese.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
PHOTO BY KATIE WILCOX
Spring Pea and Radish Salad
½ pound fresh wax or green beans
½ pound fresh sugar snap peas
2 cups water
6 large radishes, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons honey
1 teaspoon dried tarragon
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon coarsely ground pepper
Snip ends off beans and peas. Remove strings from peas. In a large saucepan, bring water to a boil over high heat. Add beans and reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 4 to 5 minutes.
Add peas. Cover and simmer until beans and peas are crisp-tender, another 2 to 3 minutes. Drain.
Toss beans and peas with radishes. Stir together honey, tarragon, salt and pepper. Drizzle over vegetables.
Sautéed Spring Greens
With Bacon and Mustard Seeds
2 ounces thick-cut bacon, finely diced
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
1 large shallot, thinly sliced
1 hot red chile, seeded and finely chopped
1 tablespoon yellow mustard seeds
1¼ pounds mixed young spring greens—such as dandelion, mustard, collards, Tuscan kale and spinach—stems and inner ribs trimmed, leaves cut into ribbons
Salt
Freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
In a large skillet, cook the bacon in the olive oil over moderate heat, stirring until golden, about 3 minutes. Add the shallot, chile and mustard seeds. Cook until softened, 2 to 3 minutes. Add the greens, and season with salt and pepper. Cook, tossing frequently, until wilted and tender, about 5 to 6 minutes. Stir in the vinegar and serve.
“ De spite the forecast, live like it's Spring .”
—Lilly Pulitzer
Spring Greens Pasta
16 ounces spaghetti
3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
12 ounces marinated artichokes
1½ cups asparagus, cut into 1-inch pieces
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
½ cup white wine
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 tablespoon lemon zest (approximately 1 lemon)
4 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (approximately 1 lemon)
1 cup Parmesan cheese, divided
4 cups fresh baby spinach
Fresh parsley
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. You will use the same pot of water to blanch asparagus and cook pasta. Add asparagus to the boiling water. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until color brightens.
Reduce heat. Using a slotted spoon, remove asparagus from boiling water and place in a strainer. Do not drain water. Run cold water over strainer with asparagus to stop cooking. Set asparagus aside.
After asparagus is blanched and just before you add the pasta, start sauce. In a large, deep sauté pan, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic. Sauté for 1 to 2 minutes or until just fragrant. Add white wine and let simmer for 1 minute. Add vegetable broth. Stir to combine and let mixture simmer for 7 to 10 minutes.
While sauce simmers, add pasta to boiling water. Cook until al dente, generally on the low end of the recommended cooking time on the pasta package. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining into colander.
Once wine and veggie broth is done simmering, add artichokes, asparagus and peas. Cook over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes to warm.
4 ounces goat or feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup pecans, lightly toasted
¼ cup red onion, thinly sliced
11 ounces baby spinach, prewashed
1 pound strawberries, hulled and quartered
Salad dressing
Combine all ingredients. Dress with balsamic or poppy seed dressing.
Add cooked pasta, ½ cup to ¾ cup Parmesan, lemon juice, lemon zest (reserve some for garnish) and toss together. Add some of the reserved water as needed. Stir to combine. Simmer a minute or two so spaghetti absorbs some of the broth. Add spinach. Stir to combine. The dish is ready as soon as the spinach wilts.
Top with Parmesan and lemon zest to taste.
Strawberry Spinach Salad
READER EXCHANGE
Books/Magazines
My daughter collects Pearl Buck books. She already has “The Good Earth” and “Imperial Woman: The Story of the Last Empress of China” If you have others, I would love to reimburse the postage. Thank you.
Jane Edwards 903 Valley View Way Aberdeen, WA 98520
Crafts/Hobbies
I am a young philatelist who is passionate about collecting stamps from around the globe. If you have any old stamps lying around, I would be happy to take them off your hands. Additionally, if there are any collectors interested in trading stamps, please contact me.
Robby Carr P.O. Box #785 Condon, OR 97823 robbycarr1414@gmail.com
I would appreciate any old jewelry and beads so I can make something for someone to wear and enjoy.
Marsha Holeik 16637 William Foss Road La Pine, OR 97739
Milestones
I am requesting birthday cards to be sent to my mother-in-law, Rose Brickett. She lives in an assisted living facility at 3325 Columbia View Drive Apt. #220, The Dalles, OR 97058. She will turn 95 in May. She has been isolated for this entire year. I know she will greatly appreciate knowing that people are thinking of her and wishing her a happy birthday. Thank you so much.
Marilyn Richardson The Dalles, Oregon
My dad will be 90 in May. He has an amazing soul. He loves Jesus, his five children, 13 grandchildren and 18 greatgrandchildren. Like most of us, he has had the best attitude and understanding while obeying the rules of quarantine. He sure misses the interaction with family and friends and the love of his life, his wife. He always has a ready smile and is an encouragement to so many. He still walks three times a day. The grandchildren refer
to him as “the working man.” He always loves a project. Please help me and family wish him a wonderful birthday this year. Send cards to: Jim De Lapp, 4138 Market St NE Apt. B107, Salem, OR 97301.
LaDene G Carson
North Bend, Washington
My incredible next-door neighbor is becoming a centenarian in May. Norma Peters has 13 great-grandchildren and has been a horse rider since 1924. At 5, she rode bareback and transitioned to English saddle and competition, her latest being a rodeo in 2014 (she received a ribbon). She rode in the 1939-40 Golden Gate International Exposition on Treasure Island in San Francisco. This horse whisperer is a jumper, also riding English and Western, winning countless trophies. Norma rode her latest horse until 2017, even showing me a side-pass at 96 years old. She would be tickled to get a postcard or letter to celebrate her 100 years and counting. Please send cards to: Norma Peters, P.O. Box 33, Fort Bidwell, CA 96112.
Jordan Hindes Fort Bidwell, California
Odds
If you have an Epson Workforce 2760 printer or model compatible with Epson 220 ink, I have 12 ink cartridges, assorted colors, to donate to someone. First-come basis; send your info to address below. I will reimburse for postage.
CK Martin
P.O. Box 587
The Dalles, OR 97058
I collect miniature paintings of dignified seagulls. Willing to pay reasonable price plus shipping for paintings 8x10 or smaller. Send a letter or email if you have any to sell.
Karen Rich 22185 E. Highway 20 Bend, OR 97701 lebrie@icloud.com
I am trying to gather domino sets from sets that are missing pieces. My mom’s senior center is in need of sets. They are unable to use their senior center and only have two sets that are being checked out by the week. We would love to be able to
make up more sets, since dominoes are the most desired game in their center. Anyone who no longer uses theirs or has a set with missing pieces, we would love to have them. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Please send to: Little Barb, 735 South Center St. Unit #14, Yerington, NV 89447.
Barbara Salamida Doyle, California
I am looking to find a copy of Oregon’s Wallowa-Whitman National Forest, North Half map. Probably circa 1980 to 1990. I’ll pay for postage.
Steve Howland
2350 C St., Apt. E Baker City, OR 97814
Submitting Requests Is Free
Please 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. Please 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 firstcome, first-served basis. Before submitting information to Reader Exchange for publication, please affirm you have obtained authorization from all appropriate parties. Please note 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 this information.
We no longer accept pen pal requests. If interested in placing a request of this nature, you may submit the request as a Marketplace ad. Marketplace pricing applies. When submitting a milestone request, please consider sending 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.
Vegetable Casserole, Pork Tamale Casserole and breakfast casseroles are just a few of the 179 mouthwatering recipes available in Ruralite’s Casseroles booklet. Price is $6, shipping included.
To order by mail, submit with proper payment, cookbook title, name, address, and number of cookbooks wanted to Ruralite Cookbooks, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy, Ste 400, Hillsboro, OR 97124.
To pay with Visa, MasterCard, Discover card or American Express, call 503-357-2105. To order online, visit www.ruralite. com.
Allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.
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Restore your energy with a trip to the red rocks of
Sedona
What Is It?
Known for its red sandstone formations and purported energy vortexes, Sedona, Arizona, may be the spot to recharge after a tumultuous year.
What’s in a Name
In 1902—before the town had a name—a farmer named T.C. Schnebly wanted to open a post office to serve the area’s growing population. He applied, suggesting the names Oak Creek Crossing and Schnebly Station, but was told the names were too long. Instead, Schnebly named the town after his wife, Sedona.
Vortexes
Many believe Sedona is home to vortexes— “centers of energy that are conducive to healing, meditation, and selfexploration,” according to visitsedona. com. Places in Sedona that are called vortexes include Cathedral Rock, Bell Rock and Red Rock Crossing. These picturesque areas are worth visiting regardless of their energies.
Take a Hike
Sedona has more than 400 miles of trails. One popular and easy option is the Crescent Moon Ranch Trail. About 1.5 miles round trip, the easy hike offers great views of Cathedral Rock (pictured).
When to Visit
Spring is a popular time to visit Sedona, when the area is in bloom. Fall and spring both tend to be warm, but if you are looking to warm up, Sedona averages high temperatures in the 90s during the summer.
More Info For updated travel restrictions related to COVID-19 and to begin planning your trip, go to visitsedona. com or call 800-288-7336.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY LEILANI
You can’t always lie down in bed and sleep. Heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches –and dozens of other ailments and worries. Those are the nights you’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in: one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises your feet and legs just where you want them, supports your head and shoulders properly, and operates at the touch of a button.
Our Perfect Sleep Chair® does all that and more. More than a chair or recliner, it’s designed to provide total comfort. Choose your preferred heat and massage settings, for hours of soothing relaxation. Reading or watching TV? Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment and promotes back pressure relief, to
prevent back and muscle pain. The overstuffed, oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage.
White glove delivery included in shipping charge. Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of Genuine Italian leather, stain and water repellent custom-manufactured DuraLux™ with the classic leather look or plush MicroLux™ microfiber in a variety of colors to fit any decor. New Chestnut color only available in Genuine Italian Leather. Call now!
Pictured: Genuine Italian Leather chair chestnut color.
THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT
ISO
Exposure compensation
Treasures on the Road Less Traveled
“WOW! DID YOU SEE THAT?” MY TEENAGE SON YELPS.
“Dad, back up, you missed it!”
I check my review mirror, look for a safe place to turn around and slowly backtrack to see what treasure I missed.
From the time they were big enough to see out the windows from their car seats, my children were keen observers of passing life. They learned early on that their dad was always on the lookout for the unusual.
Tucker, in particular, became a spotter of the unusual. He often screeched and waved his little hands, startling me each time. At 21, he is still emphatic.
Leaving the main highways and searching the backroads of our country with a camera has always been a favorite pastime. There are few things I enjoy more—or find more therapeutic— than wandering down rural roads searching for visual treasures to photograph. I have met some of the most interesting “country philosophers” once I left America’s main roads.
Given the long shadow of the pandemic and associated fears of interacting with others, long, slow drives off the beaten paths looking for humor and the unusual things we humans do can be calming and entertaining. n
Reader Challenge
Take a slow drive in the country or a long walk along a scenic trail or bike path with your camera. Breathe in the beauty through your eyes and notice things you pass by often without seeing. Pull safely off the road or highway. Some folks might not appreciate a camera—especially with a long lens—pointed at their property. I make sure I am seen and avoid shooting out my window, when possible. I wave when people look at me suspiciously. I have had few unpleasant backwoods encounters. Email your best image with caption information to GPH@pur.coop. We may share the best submissions on our website and social media channels.
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 here since 2009. To read more of Dave’s writings on life, visit bridgesandangels.wordpress.com and www.greatpicturehunt.com.
This eye-catching scene was spotted on a winding two-lane county road not far from Hocking Hills in eastern Ohio.
PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
NIKON D700, 180mm lens
200, f/3.2 at 1/640
.03
2022
Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest
It is time to share your most winning photos for a chance to appear in our 2022 Ruralite calendar.
Up to 13 winners will be selected, each receiving $100. Photos must be submitted by July 17, 2021.
The contest is open to recipients of Ruralite and Currents magazines. Each person may submit two photos. Each photo submission must include:
• Photographer’s name, address and electric utility.
• A short description of what is shown.
• Photographer’s email address and phone number.
• Digital JPEG photos only. Photos must be horizontal or landscape format and at least 300 dpi at 11 inches wide by 9 inches tall. Vertical photos and files larger than 20 megabytes will not be accepted. Send submissions to calendar@ruralite.org. Put “2022 Calendar Photo Contest” in the subject line.
Winning Tips
• Use highest resolution setting on your digital camera.
• Photograph beautiful places and wildlife.
• Capture scenes full of vivid color.
• Reflect the seasons.
• Focus on the beauty of Ruralite and Currents geography.
• Make us feel something (awe, laughter).
Scientists Target New Digestive Aid Pill for Anti-Aging Research
Surprisingly, the secret to slow the aging process may reside in a new digestive aid treatment; studies find the pill to help protect users from fatigue, cardiovascular issues, and serious conditions that accompany premature aging.
Seattle, WA – A published study on a leading natural digestive aid shows that its key ingredient improves digestive health while supporting healthy inflammation response that slows down signs of premature aging in men and women.
And, if consumer sales are any indication of a product’s effectiveness, this ‘GI-tonic turned anti-aging phenomenon’ is nothing short of a miracle.
Sold under the brand name AloeCure®, its ingredient was already backed by research showing its ability to neutralize acid levels and improve gastric discomfort.
But soon doctors started reporting some incredible results...
“With AloeCure, my patients started reporting, better sleep, more energy, stronger immune systems... even less stress and better skin, hair, and nails” explains Dr. Liza Leal; a leading integrative health specialist and company spokesperson.
AloeCure contains an active ingredient that helps improve digestion by acting as a natural digestive aid that improves the pH balance of your stomach.
Scientists now believe that having optimal acid levels could be a major contributing factor to a healthy immune system.
The daily allowance of AloeCure has shown to optimize the acid levels needed to manage healthy immune function which is why AloeCure is so effective.
It relieves other stressful issues related to GI health like discomfort, excess gas and bloating, and bathroom stress.
Now, backed with new scientific studies, AloeCure is being doctor recommended to help improve digestive function, help build better bones, support healthy joint function, and even help reduce the appearance of wrinkles - helping patients look and feel decades younger.
FIX YOUR GUT & SUPPORT HEALTHY INFLAMMATION
Since hitting the market, sales for AloeCure have taken off and there are some very good reasons why. To start, the clinical studies have been impressive.
Virtually all participants taking it reported stunning improvement in digestive symptoms including gastric discomfort.
Users can also experience higher energy levels and endurance, less discomfort and better sleep, healthier looking skin, hair, and nails.
An unhealthy gut can wreak havoc on the human body. Doctors say this is why AloeCure
works on so many aspects of your health.
AloeCure’s active ingredient is made from the famous polysaccharide compound found in Aloe Vera. It is both safe and healthy. There are also no known side effects.
Scientists believe that it helps improve digestive health by acting as a natural digestive aid that improves the pH balance of your stomach and helps the immune system maintain healthy functions.
Research has shown that acid imbalance contributes to premature aging and is why AloeCure seems to be so effective.
EXCITING RESULTS FROM PATIENTS
To date millions of bottles of AloeCure have been sold, and the community seeking non-pharma therapy for their GI health continues to grow.
According to Dr. Leal, her patients are absolutely thrilled with their results and are often shocked by how fast it works.
“For the first time in years, they are free from concerns about their digestion and almost every other aspect of their health,” says Dr. Leal, “and I recommend it to everyone who wants to improve GI health before considering drugs, surgery, or OTC medications.”
“All the problems with my stomach are gone. Completely gone. I can say AloeCure is a miracle. It’s a miracle.” Another user turned spokesperson said, “I started to notice a difference because I was sleeping through the night and that was great. AloeCure does work for me. It’s made a huge difference.”
With so much positive feedback, it’s easy to see why the community of believers is growing and sales for the new pill are soaring.
THE SCIENCE BEHIND ALOECURE
AloeCure is a gastric and digestive tonic. The pill is small. Easy to swallow. There are no harmful side effects and it does not require a prescription.
The active ingredient is a rare Aloe Vera component known as acemannan.
Millions spent in developing a proprietary process for extracting acemannan resulted in the highest quality, most bio-available levels of acemannan known to exist, and it’s made from organic aloe.
According to Dr. Leal and leading experts, improving the pH balance of your stomach and restoring gut health is the key to revitalizing your entire body.
When your digestive system isn’t healthy, it
causes unwanted stress on your immune system and that might lead to unhealthy inflammation.
The recommended daily allowance of AloeCure has been proven to support digestive health, manage healthy immune function, and promote healthy inflammation response without side effects or drugs.
This would explain why so many users are experiencing impressive results so quickly.
REVITALIZE YOUR ENTIRE BODY
With daily use, AloeCure helps users look and feel decades younger and defend against premature aging that can make life hard.
By helping acid levels stay optimal and promoting gut health, AloeCure’s ingredient supports joint health…helps skin appear smooth… maintains healthy cholesterol and oxidative stress…improves sleep and associated weight loss....and supports brain function by way of gut biome...without side effects or expense.
Readers can now support their energy, vitality, and youth regardless of age.
AloeCure Taken Daily
• Helps End Digestion Nightmares
• Reduces appearance of Wrinkles & Increases Elasticity
• Supports Healthy Immune System
• Supports Joint Health
• Promotes Healthy Inflammation Response
• Supports Bowel Health & Regularity
HOW TO CLAIM A FREE SUPPLY TODAY
This is an exclusive offer for our readers. And so, AloeCure is offering up to 3 FREE bottles and FREE S&H with their order. While supplies last you may also receive a FREE book on Aloe Vera health benefits.
A special hotline number has been created for all residents. This is the best way to try AloeCure with their 100% satisfaction guarantee, and any free gifts are yours to keep no matter what.
Starting at 5:00 AM today the phone lines will be open for 48 hours. All you have to do is call TOLL- FREE 1-800-746-2898, the special promotion will automatically be applied.
Important: Due to a surge in sales supplies are not guaranteed beyond the next 48 hours. Call now to not lose out on this offer.
Small Donations Make a BIG Impact
2020, especially, and even 2021 have continued to be challenging for so many people. The past year has demonstrated struggles and unforeseen circumstances can occur with little to no warning, and those that were once stable might need some assistance at times to weather the storm. Mohave Electric Cooperative supports our community and participates in multiple programs to assist our members.
The River Fund, a nonprofit based out of Bullhead City, administers MEC-sponsored programs to help members with their electric bill payments or utility-related appliance repairs and replacements. Every year, if funds are available, the MEC Board of Directors approves a contribution to the River Fund. In 2020, the board doubled the donation for a total of $70,000 to serve members across MEC territory during COVID-19.
Complementing the MEC Board of Director’s donation to the River Fund, MEC employees lead by example. Employees can voluntarily use a payroll deduction to contribute directly to the River Fund. MEC also participates in programs sponsored by our corporate vendors and partners such as CoBank’s Sharing Success donation match, amplifying the total amount donated each year to the River Fund.
Interested in helping?
Members can also donate to the River Fund by voluntarily adding a dollar to their MEC bill (From the Heart with River Fund) or simply rounding their bill to the nearest dollar (Operation Roundup). These programs help members, and members have the option of donating to one of these programs, or both. Your donations make a difference.
Members can donate to Operation Roundup and add an extra dollar each month to the From the Heart with River Fund program through our SmartHub application on mobile devices or SmartHub online. For those who would like to donate and pay in person, visit with a member service representative to join the programs. You can also speak directly to our member service team by calling 928-763-1100.
For members who need assistance with their electric bill, please call the River Fund at 928-704-0039.
We thank all our members who participate in MEC’s From the Heart with River Fund and Operation Roundup programs. The joy of giving is something that cannot be replaced, and you are truly making a BIG impact for families and our members with small donations that add up quickly. n
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
1929 Model A Ford fully restored in perfect condition & trailer. Black w/dark blue fenders. 541-848-1790. 0521
Antique Fayette Cable Player Piano. Cabinet, keys great condition. Player option hasn’t been used recently, needs repair. 90 music rolls included. $1,000/OBO. granmaloree@gmail.com. 0521AR
For sale. Workhorse/draft horse harness. Last used in 1970. Call Evelyn for information, 530-279-2370. Leave message. 0521
Automotive
Original fire truck. 1984 GMC 7000 Diesel, 5 speed, 11,081 original miles, structure truck, new tires, 750-1,000 gallons, all work, $17,500, OBO. Wells, Nevada. 775-407-0081. 0521
Books, Magazines, Videos
Book restoration. Bibles, cookbooks, cherished family heirlooms. Beautiful work. We give renewed life, more durable than original, to last for generations. 775-537-7066; salacanstudio@gmail.com. 0521AR
“Justifiable Kidnapping,” the Whitelaw childabduction case. Ron’s ex-wife threatened to murder his childen. The family hid in Oregon 7 years. Ron was caught & faced a
precedent-setting trial that captured national headlines. Amazon. 0621
Business Opportunities
Flee the city. 2,400sqft metal, A/C, building, SE Washington, Starbuck. Store/deli/pub/living/ man cave. Thousands in equipment. Excellent hunting, fishing, cycling, water sports. Unlimited potential. Built 2008. Sale/lease, $225K. 253-261-5340 or 253-302-0853. 0621
Work and shop from home with an Idahobased online shopping club. Safer, cheaper products, shipped to your door. It is like Amazon or Costco only cheaper. www.familyandanimalwellness.com. Supplement your income. Call or text 208-400-0013. 0521AR
Emergency Preparedness
Build your safe space in this world: Harden your home, build an underground shelter and learn how to protect everything you love. KeepYourTribeAlive.com. 0621AR
Free Bible studies and devotionals. Reply to John Seventeenthree, PO Box 574, Baker City, OR, 97814 or johnseventeenthree7@gmail.com for order form. Also submit prayer requests. 0521AR
Church, government uniting, suppressing “religious liberty,” enforcing National Sunday Law. Be informed. Need mailing address only. TBS, PO Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. 888-2111715; thebiblesaystruth@yahoo.com. 0721AR
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 503-718-3717 or info@pur.coop.
Ads are for customers of member co-ops, PUDs and municipals only. Subscribers and nonmembers may inquire for pricing at 503-718-3717 or info@pur.coop.
Ads must be direct and in first person, and are subject to approval and editing.
Closing deadlines (in our office): July issue—May 31, 2021.
Home and Hearth
Residents of Franklin County, WA. Receive a $100 voucher to remove fruit-bearing and ornamental trees (flowering plum, crabapple, Hawthorne). Voucher(s) are redeemable at participating locations. Residental trees only—no commercial orchards. Call for details before you remove trees. Franklin County Horticultural Pest and Disease Control Board, 509-545-3580. 0921
Looking for Rental
Looking for a wheelchair-friendly beach rental near Newport, to sleep 10. Accessible groundfloor bedroom, bathroom & deck. Ocean view. Need 9-15 to 10-15, 2023 or 2024. 541-354-2208. 0521
Miscellaneous
Local commercial fisherman sells summer catch gourmet canned tuna on internet September-April. 100% guaranteed the best canned tuna you ever tasted. 206-799-1082, Twofisherstuna.com. 0521
Three cemetery lots, $1,000ea. Located @ Restlawn Memory Gardens, 201 Oak Grove Road NW, Salem, Oregon. Lot 399, spaces 1, 2, 3. Call 541-382-7904. 0621
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. 0621
Pets, Supplies
Stud service for mini Australian shepherd. Photos available. Crescent Lake, Oregon. Liz Sanders, 360-901-1291. 0521
AKC-registered Airedales. Fort Sage Kennels, Patricia Sharp, PO Box 246, Doyle, CA 96109; 530-827-2271. 0322
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.
Stud service for AKC-registered red toy poodle available. Bonnie Todd, Braejay’s Lil Toy Poodles, 509-551-4322. Benton City, Washington. 0621
Pools/Spas
Used inflatable pool dome w/airlock door & heaters. 42’ x 70’. $21,000 new. Used one winter season. Asking $5,000 plus freight. 775-727-4414; manager@preferredrv.com. 0621
Real Estate
3 2.5ac lots (1 commercial), Sandy Valley, Nevada. Close to Las Vegas. $55,000ea, or $150,000 for all 3. Possible OWC. Near post office, store. Some utilities. 775-209-2830. 0521AR
Beautiful acre lots in custom-home area of Pahrump, Nevada. Paved roads, no HOAs, near shopping. Hurry before the prices go up. Starting at $24,000. Some OWC. Some w/ water rights. 775-209-2830. 0521AR
Parks Highway, 300’ frontage, 2.9ac, 3mi south of Fairbanks, Alaska. Gated, gravel equipment yard, 1,600sqft insulated, heated, two-bay garage/shop. Three-seasonal mobile. $175,000, as is. Call 360-866-2834, leave message please. 0621
Alaskan dream opportunity. Year-round recreational fixer-up cabin. Circle Hot Springs, central. Hunting, fishing, mining, ATV, etc. on 5ac. $25,000, firm. 775-537-6755. 0721
Buildable, 4.26ac. Gated community above Ochoco Reservoir, Prineville, Oregon. Spectacular views. 400-amp service; shared well w/cistern ready. RV parking, if shielded. Septic approved. $110,000. 503-622-6515. 0521
Missoula, Montana. 28,864sqft flex space, large storage shed on 2.36ac. Centrally located, security fencing, 3-phase power, railspur access, within opportunity zone. Office area: 8 offices, “bullpen”/conference areas, breakroom, storage. Four warehouse areas (clearspan), overhead doors. $2,249,000. Available for lease, $7.50sqft NNN. 5yr-minimum lease. MLS #22103358. Kathi Olson, BHHS Montana Properties. 406-5447359; Kathi.Olson@BHHSMT.com. 0521AR
Premiere Oregon Properties: 30yrs’ experience getting the best price for sellers and buyers. 4 sale: Old Mill Farm Store in business since 1853. $960k. 4 sale: 238ac 2.5mi Umpqua River frontage. Possible wetland mitigation property. $690k. 541-480-0212. James Wardrope Realty. OregonRiverRealty.com; office@RiverInnElkton.com. 0521
Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm & recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian, ranch owner. 640ac for
sale, Ironside, OR. $640,000. John Gill, 541-480-9161; johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0621
Recreational Rentals
Maui vacation rental, 1bdr, full kitchen, across from beach. For further details, plus 10% discount when booked through owner, call 541-974-4427, leave message if unavailable. 0621
Wavecatcher: oceanfront, central Oregon Coast. Easy beach access. $120/night winter, $150/night summer; seventh night free. Two bedrooms w/double beds, sleeping loft w/ double beds. Full kitchen/bath, linens. Pet friendly. COVID-cleaned between guests. 541740-9953. Check wavecatcherbeachrentals.com for availability. 0521AR
Bend country cabin. Very clean & fully furnished cabin on private ranch. Close to recreation areas. Very nice. $95/night. 541382-3050; bendcountrycabins@gmail.com. 0521
Looking for a quiet getaway? Look no further. Vista House Vacation Rental in quaint hillside village of Oceanside, Oregon. Panoramic ocean views, sunsets, winter storms. 3 units, slp 2-16. 503-730-7149; vistahouseoceanside.com. Ask about monthly rates. 0521
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. 0921
Want to Buy
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. 0521
Cash paid for old gas station and oil company signs, pumps, globes, metal oil cans. Good condition. Discreet cash settlement. Clifton Jones, collector. 512-413-4459. 0821
Dodge Powerwagon ‘40s, ‘50s, ‘60s, running or not, whole or parts, leads also appreciated. Private party. 541-929-5993. 0621
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 97701. 0521
Buying old Navajo blankets, rugs & old jewelry, old beadwork & baskets, etc. Also, 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. 0521
Gold, silver, coins/currency, buy, sell. Collections wanted. Fair prices paid. 41yrs in retail store. Baker City, Oregon. 800-556-2133; garrymclin@aol.com. Will travel. 1021
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. 0621
Motorcycles. Clean out your barn. Pre-1980 road bikes. No restored bikes, Harleys, Goldwings. Hobbyist, not a commercial shop or dealer. What have you got? 503-260-5597; ten1pdx@yahoo.com. 0521
Need both doors 28”-29” AA Ford truck, enclosed pickup cab, 26”-27” T-Coupe doors fit. 28”-29” front fenders. Need good running motor & maybe complete chassis, running gear, fair condition, fair price. Allen Piquet, Hermiston, Oregon. 541-571-4506; piquetat@charter.net.
Comfort Foods
Order your copy of our newest cookbook, Comfort Foods. Our readersubmitted recipes— from pasta and casseroles to treats and desserts—are sure to warm your heart and soothe your soul. You can give this as a gift or add it to your collection for just $9, shipping included.
To order by mail, submit with proper payment, cookbook title, name, address, and number of cookbooks wanted to Ruralite Cookbooks, PO Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133.
To pay with Visa, MasterCard, Discover card or American Express, call 503-357-2105.
To order online, visit www.ruralite.com.
Allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.
See Something, Say Something
Beware of salespeople claiming cooperative affiliation
By J.D. Wallace
Have you ever considered residential solar? Next thing you know, someone is knocking on your door or an advertisement pops up on social media that claims your cooperative is a partner with a particular rooftop solar company. They proceed to ask for your personal information. But wait—you didn’t know your cooperative partnered with a residential solar company.
“The primary ones that we have been concerned with are going door to door, representing themselves as affiliates of Trico,” says Laree St. Onge, manager of public affairs and sustainable energy programs at Trico Electric
Cooperative, a member of Arizona Generation and Transmission Cooperatives.
Laree says a member called in December to say four people in their area were knocking on doors claiming to be Trico technicians. They were selling meters and solar equipment. Trico sent some of the reports to the Pima County Sheriff to be investigated.
“Trico doesn’t go door to door selling solar,” Laree says. “If someone says they’re with Trico doing that, let them know it’s not the case. Don’t release any personal information to these companies without doing more research in detail.”
In Mohave Electric Cooperative’s territory,
four men were detained by Bullhead City Police earlier this year for impersonating MEC employees and trying to sell solar service to members without appropriate city permits.
Allison Ellingson, public affairs and regulatory compliance manager for MEC, says members also received calls saying if they didn’t pay their electric bill, MEC would disconnect their service.
“If in doubt, call MEC Member Services,” Allison says. “We do not want any of our members victimized by these scams. MEC will always provide written notices regarding service connections and does not disconnect after
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY ANDREY POPOV
hours, on weekends or MECrecognized holidays.”
Eric Petermann, public relations manager for Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative, has yet to encounter reports of salespeople claiming to be affiliated with SSVEC. However, calls demanding payment before cutting off power remain a big concern.
Eric says SSVEC has informed members about these scams in its newsletter and through bill inserts. The imposter usually creates a sense of urgency and demands the victim put money on a prepaid card and take it to a specific location.
As with the other cooperatives, Eric says SSVEC does not demand payment
in that way. Anyone who is called or contacted in person by someone who claims to be an SSVEC employee should try to get as much information from that person as possible and contact SSVEC and law enforcement.
“That’s not how we do business,” Eric says. “They should immediately call our office with any inquiries about their bill. They need to call us because we rarely call with such demands.”
Both SSVEC and Trico have hosted education workshops for members who want to learn more about solar and what it means for their home and their bill. SSVEC held at least nine classes last year, before the pandemic. Trico has more virtual classes planned.
“What many of our members are already aware of is that solar usually doesn’t work on our rate structure,” Eric says. “We haven’t had a rate increase in years and continue to have some of the lowest rates in the country.”
Laree says Trico is happy to work with members interested in installing residential solar and works well with installers in its area.
“Our classes really show our members that we are their trusted source of information,” Laree says. “We want them to have the facts, and we want to remind them to not give their information to anyone claiming to be affiliated with Trico. We want our members to know that they can call us with any questions.” n
Before the pandemic last year, the Sulphur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative Member Services Department, led by David Bane, held workshops offering members insights on the true cost and benefits of installing solar panels. More than 100 members attended.
An Ode to Mothers
By Danielle Brusby
Whether May 9, 2021, marks your first Mother’s Day or your 21st, we want to take a moment to commend you on everything you have done and accomplished this past year.
You have taken on—or continued—the role of educator, chef, playmate, taxi driver, caretaker, laundress, housekeeper and referee.
But to those who love you, you are simply known as Mom: boo-boo kisser, problem solver, best friend and one of the most important people in their lives. The world would not be the same without moms. On this day dedicated to you, we wish you the happiest and most relaxing of days. n
Danielle is one of the social media aces for the magazine’s parent company. She penned this piece as she was putting her three children to bed.
Danielle Brusby reads a book, “It’s Not Easy Being a Bunny,” to her two youngest children: 9-year-old Reece, left, and 5-year-old Quinn. Her 12-year-old, McKenna, was visiting her grandmother.
PHOTO BY DAVE BRUSBY
Bad to the Bone
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California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
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
Cindy Christy
John Nelssen
Kevin Nestrick
Jose “Joe” Solar
CEO
Tyler Carlson
What’s Happening
h May 4-7, Electric Safety Magician Program
h May 7, Classroom Grant Applications due
h May 8, Rotary Burro Barbecue
h May 31, MEC is closed for Memorial Day
A Message from the CEO
Education Is Key to Our Future Success
Everyone has heard the expression “today’s students are tomorrow’s leaders,” which spotlights just how important it is to educate our youth and support our teachers. Here at Mohave Electric Cooperative, we believe in empowering our member students to aspire for success, and believe in providing tools and resources, as best we can, to support their hard work.
Every year, MEC offers multiple programs to help teachers and students. Beginning with our $200 Classroom Grants, MEC opens the application process for teachers to submit a project description outlining the materials and costs associated with their proposed program and explaining how the $200 grant will bring the project to fruition. 2021 has been a record year with dozens of applications received. A panel reviews the applications, and MEC will announce the awards at the end of May.
Tyler Carlson
Next thing you know, our juniors have matriculated all the way to Washington, D.C.! Each year, MEC awards selected member students to participate in National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s Washington Youth Tour—a weeklong, all-expenses-paid trip to the U.S. capital. Students who attend have an opportunity to learn about the U.S. government that engages on policies important to cooperative utilities such as MEC and see firsthand America’s deep history. Member students submit a written application and speak before a panel that reviews their qualifications. The 2020 and 2021 trips were canceled as a precaution during the pandemic, and MEC offered a future trip or scholarship to winning students. We have high hopes the Washington, D.C., trip will return in 2022. I want to thank this year’s and past year’s panelists who have volunteered to interview our student applicants and who value investing in their lives and future success.
The cooperative utility industry is always changing. That includes advancements in technology and changes in traditional and renewable energy resources. Each year, MEC awards a school within our service territory a grant of $5,000 to support renewable energy curriculum. We appreciate our schools that can find new and creative ways to share information that is changing regularly.
Many of our member students that have graduated k-12 don’t stop there. Many continue to vocational programs, associate degrees, bachelor degrees, and beyond. This is why MEC is creating a scholarship program for members who are enrolled in classes at Mohave Community College. We want to support our members in their paths toward careers and industry professions. We look forward to developing our scholarship program and supporting you in the future. Look for details in upcoming MEC materials.
Also, various MEC staff attend school events and functions throughout the year. Whether invited to speak for career day or to present energy efficiency tips and lightbulbs, staff is always ready to support our schools, teachers and students.
Planning for the future starts today. MEC wants to congratulate those who are graduating in 2021. We will continue to support our member teachers and students next school year. Be safe and enjoy the summer break.
