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Making Accidents Disappear Magician Scott Davis uses comedy and tricks to teach students electrical safety Page 4 ALSO INSIDE >>

Mohave Charged MEC Receives Purpose Award

PHOTO BY MEC/JULIA GARRINGER

FROM THE PIONEER TEAM

Ruralite Currents

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May 2022 • Volume 57, No. 3 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.

Young Pros Pleasantly Surprised Sometimes, opportunity sprouts in unexpected places. That was the case for three 20-somethings who found not only a place to earn a paycheck, but budding careers with more benefits and chances to grow than they ever imagined. Better yet, they are building their careers where they grew up. Yes, making a difference close to home. On the following pages, you will meet Grace, Bernie and Julia. Their journeys represent a snapshot of the next generation of professionals moving into the workplace of public power utilities and co-ops in communities throughout the Northwest and West. Their energy, fresh eyes and skills are filling the gap as a growing number of utility workers enter retirement. The young trio found a home at Mohave Electric Cooperative in Bullhead City, Arizona— a community along the Colorado River. They found a place “where everyone helps each other

out” and is quick to share what they know. This storytelling is part of our aim to spotlight the next generation of community builders and difference-makers. Our main feature this month also puts attention on young people and their futures, focusing on ChickTech—a nonprofit organization that empowers girls and women to pursue careers in technology by creating special connections and communities of encouragement. A ChickTech success story, in Bend, Oregon, says the program gave her the needed confidence to do something that fit her. Moving away from the workplace, let’s talk tacos. Check out our In the Kitchen pages to discover how to enjoy a Pressure-Cooker Taco Fiesta. Happy munching! Leon Espinoza Senior Vice President of Content

A New Generation of Utility Employees

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MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Mohave Accelerated Elementary student Aza Rodriquez-Money assists magical comedian Scott Davis on stage. PHOTO BY MEC/JULIA GARRINGER

Making Accidents Disappear March 2022 marked the return of the magical comedic appearance from Scott Davis. This highly anticipated demonstration was on a brief hiatus due to Covid-19, but fourth graders in Mohave Electric Cooperative’s (MEC) service area were ecstatic for his return. The 40-minute show isn’t an ordinary lesson. Scott Davis uses magic to draw his audience into his message. Learning is always more fun when a magician is teaching. After several alluring tricks, Davis uses a whiteboard and black marker to draw a face resembling an electric outlet, then names the character “Sparky.” The kids are fascinated and as they gaze at Sparky’s face, it comes alive. Its eyes suddenly move and its mouth talks. The children explode with cheers and laughter. MEC’s commitment to community extends to local fourth grade students at all elementary schools in Mohave Electric’s service area every year as Davis, an entertainer and magician, captivates his young audiences while educating them on the importance of electrical safety. He educates children by demonstrating that electricity is a tool just like a hammer or saw. When respected and used correctly, it is safe. In contrast, when used improperly, abused, or ignored, it can be dangerous. He explains how to be aware of 4

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electrical hazards as well as how to behave around them. By the end of the show, the students are much wiser about the importance of electrical safety, but they will not soon forget the message because of the magical way it was presented. While no rabbits were being pulled from a hat, three pieces of material with a message did: Stop. Look. Think. Before participating in activities such as climbing a tree or flying a kite, youths should take the time to stop, look up and around, and think about whether the chosen activity is safe or if the wiser choice might be to find another location if power lines were above. The program, known as Making Accidents Disappear, is designed to help students understand both the benefits and potential dangers of electricity. Davis explains, “Nothing should ever be placed in an electrical socket, including keys, coins, sticks. Only plugs, with your parents’ permission.” Davis used his magical disappearing outlet to drive home the point. When it became lost, Davis searched the area as students yelled: “it’s behind you.” And sure enough, there it appeared stuck to a back pocket. It might not have been Houdini, but the

message was delivered in a way students will remember. “I’m excited Mohave Electric sponsors this program. Teaching electrical safety in a way that is memorable and fun for students is a real passion of mine,” Davis said. “There is no performing art more universally loved among children than magic. Electricity has become such an everyday part of our lives, it’s easy to overlook, especially for younger ages.” Scott’s safety tips during the show cover a variety of topics children will understand: • Every tool has a dangerous part that you don’t touch. Just like a hammer and saw, electricity can be dangerous and even deadly if it’s not handled properly. • Never stick anything other than a plug into an electric outlet. • Electricity travels faster than we can think or move. • Stay away from power lines. • Before putting water in the bathtub, unplug everything in the bathroom that uses electricity. The event, funded by assigned capital credits, is part of MEC’s commitment to safety and education. For more information on the Making Accidents Disappear Program please contact Public Affairs at 928-763-4115. n

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PLUGGED IN

Check Before You Leave the Deck While enjoying the sun and surf, stay mindful of electrical safety. Electric shock drowning is a real risk.

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about the dangers of electric shock drowning,” says Electrical Safety Foundation International President Brett Brenner. A 21-year-old Illinois man died in 2015 when touching a dock ladder at the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. Additionally, there were at least two fatalities in Kentucky in 2013, and a pair of deaths in both Missouri and Tennessee during the Fourth of July holiday in 2012. Electric shock drowning deaths usually are recorded only as drowning because victims show no signs of burns. While a lack of awareness persists about the dangers of electric shock drowning, positive strides are being taken to combat the problem. In Tennessee, state legislators passed the Noah Dean and Nate Act in 2014— a move to protect people from electric shock injuries and drowning deaths near

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Despite being categorized as leisure activities, swimming and boating can quickly become dangerous. While water-safety behaviors such as wearing life jackets and maintaining safe boating speeds have become commonplace, a serious hazard is often overlooked: electric shock drowning. It occurs in fresh water when a typically low-level alternating current passes through the body, causing muscular paralysis and eventually leading to drowning. “Although there are reported incidents every year, there is a lack of awareness

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marinas and boat docks. The bill is named in memory of 10-year-old Noah Dean Winstead and 11-year-old Nate Lynam, who died from electrical injuries they suffered July 4, 2012, at a marina in Tennessee. Jessica Winstead, Noah’s mother, was the driving force behind the bill, crusading to prevent similar tragedies. An inspection following the tragic incident found the marina did not have ground-fault circuit interrupters. Under the Noah Dean and Nate Act, Tennessee marinas must install groundfault protection, post notices about the danger of electrical leakage into waters surrounding a marina and undergo a safety inspection by the state fire marshal’s office every five years. The law went into effect in April 2015. A similar law passed in West Virginia in 2013, three years after the death of 15-yearold Michael Cunningham. Changes to legislation were adopted in Arkansas in 2012 after several electrocutions near docks there and in surrounding states. The 2011 National Electrical Code

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Outdoor Electrical Safety

addresses the dangers in marinas and boatyards by requiring the main overcurrent protective device to be GFCIprotected. However, this only applies to installations and inspections, which are recommended annually but not enforced. Protect yourself and your loved ones from the risk of electric shock drowning and common boat electrical hazards with these handy tips from ESFI: • Don’t allow yourself or anyone else to swim near docks. • Avoid entering the water when launching or loading your boat. • Maintain a distance of at least 10 feet between your boat and nearby power lines. • If you feel a tingle while swimming, the water may be electrified. Get out as soon as possible, avoiding the use of metal objects such as ladders. • Have your boat’s electrical system inspected by a certified marine electrician. • Have GFCIs installed on your boat, and test them once a month. • Consider having equipment leakage circuit interrupters installed on boats to protect nearby swimmers from potential electricity leakage. • Only use shore or marine power cords, plugs, receptacles and extension cords that have been tested by Underwriters Laboratories, Canadian Standards Association or Intertek. • Never use cords that are frayed or damaged, or that have had the prongs removed or altered. • Never stand or swim in water when turning off electrical devices or switches.

Pool Electrical Safety Many people want to escape spring and summer heat with a dip in a cool, sparkling swimming pool. Enjoy your swim, but don’t let electrical safety slip your mind. Any situation where electricity is used near water is a shock hazard. You should have GFCI protection on underwater lighting circuits, lighting around pools, hot tubs and spas. Safe Electricity offers the following tips to stay safe in or around swimming pools: • Build pools and decks at least 5 feet from all underground power lines and at least 25 feet away from overhead power lines. • Do not put electric appliances within 10 feet of a swimming pool. When practical, use battery-operated appliances near swimming pools. • Any electric outlets within 20 feet of a pool should have GFCIs. • If a swimmer is in the water and feels electricity or appears to be shocked, don’t dive in. You could be shocked, too. Turn off the power and use a fiberglass shepherd’s hook to pull the victim out of the water. • Don’t swim during a thunderstorm. • When you leave the pool, do not change the radio station or touch any electrical appliances until you are dry. Never touch any electrical appliances when you are wet or standing in water. • If children want to play with sprinklers or hoses, set them up far from appliances. n

The arrival of warmer weather signals the start of outdoor pursuits—everything from flying a kite to cutting the grass. While enjoying yourself outside, make sure you follow electrical safety rules.  When overhead power lines are nearby, use wooden or fiberglass ladders—not metal. Look before you lift.  Before digging into the ground, call and make sure you won’t come in contact with underground power lines or any other utilities.  Never fly kites, model airplanes or metallic balloons near power lines, or in stormy weather. Use only dry string. Avoid using metal or wire on kites. If your kite or balloon gets caught on power lines, don’t try to untangle it. Call your utility.  Inspect power tools before each use for frayed cords, broken plugs, and cracked or broken housings. Make sure tools or extension cords used outdoors are marked for that use.  Never remove the third prong of a threepronged plug. If possible, convert two-pronged outlets to fit three-pronged plugs, using an adapter with a ground tab.  Don’t try to repair electric products yourself.  Keep outdoor outlets and electrical products covered and dry between uses. Never use electrically operated power tools in the rain or in wet conditions. Even morning dew can turn electricity into a serious shock hazard.  Know the location of circuit breakers or fuses. Ensure you can easily reach them.  Put a ground-fault circuit interrupter between your electric power source and your electric product.  Don’t plant tall-growing trees under lines. If a tree has lines running through it, don’t climb it.  Teach children to stay away from utility substation fences and pad-mounted transformers.  Stay away from downed power lines.

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MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Mohave Electric members have heard of Sunwatts solar rebates, but we are proud to announce our new program, Mohave Charged, which offers rebates for both the installation of electric vehicle charging stations and storage batteries. With the increasing support for renewable energy resources, Mohave Electric now offers both commercial and residential rebates for installing electric vehicle charging stations. Charging stations must be Level 2 or higher, have programable controls and/or have wi-fi capabilities, and must not be used during MEC on-peak periods. At MEC, we understand the increasing number of Electric Vehicles (EV) will drive the need for residential EV charging stations at a member’s home. A rebate of $1,000 will be available for each qualifying charging station. The Commercial EV Charging Station Program assists members within MEC’s service territory by reimbursing funds used to install Level 2, or greater, Electric Vehicle charging stations available for MEC members and the public. A rebate of $2,750 will be available for each qualifying charging station. Mohave Electric is also now offering a commercial and residential battery rebate for our members for battery stations that are purchased and installed after January 9, 2022. This new Residential / Commercial Battery Storage Program supports member’s renewable energy, maximizes savings on member’s electric bills, and reduces MEC’s peak demand. A rebate of up to $500 for each qualifying battery installation program will incentivize Mohave Electric members to install 5 kW, minimum usable capacity battery unit. Battery units must

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have programable controls and/or have wi-fi capabilities and must not be charged during MEC on-peak periods. Rebate application must be accompanied by installation receipts and approved building permits. For more information on Mohave Charged, please reach out to our Energy Management Specialist at 928-758-0539. n

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UP CLOSE

A New Generation of Young professionals Utility Employees find opportunity and growth at co-ops and public power utilities Story by Victoria Hampton Photos by Mike Teegarden As high school and college graduates search for jobs, there is no guarantee they will receive fair pay, benefits and opportunities for growth. Young employees often have to sacrifice one or all of these to gain experience that can qualify them for a career move that meets their income requirements and professional goals. At co-ops and public power organizations, young professionals can have it all while building a lifelong career. A new generation of employees is entering the utility workforce, bringing with them an eagerness to learn the industry while receiving job benefits offered to working professionals of all ages and experience levels. Three new employees at Mohave Electric Cooperative in Bullhead City, Arizona, say they did not think they would work in the electric industry. Yet they have come to realize how the compensation, benefits, growth opportunities and work environment differ from other employers. Their employment at the co-op is also an opportunity to build a career in the community where they grew up. Member Service Representative Grace Garcia, 21, did not have industry experience or a college degree, but she came on board with customer service skills and a willingness to learn her new role. “I didn’t necessarily know this job, but they took the time to train me,” she says. “If I’d had to go to college for five years, I wouldn’t be here at this age. I think it’s 10

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Julia Garringer started as public relations coordinator and soon realized her interest in helping members save energy. Less than a year after starting at Mohave Electric Cooperative, she has fulfilled her goal by joining the energy-efficiency department.

really nice they gave me a chance.” Grace, who was hired in June 2021, has learned how the cooperative operates so she can address member needs. She cross trains with the billing department and sees a clear path to her growth at the co-op. “I like the math and the work that you have to do figuring out different people’s usage,” she says. “This is more of a career

than a job. I know you can move up.” Bernie Oviatt was hired as a computer technician in December 2019. His reputation as a student helped him gain employment at MEC. Bernie attended Mohave Community College to earn an associate degree in information technology. That’s where he met Heath Barker, Mohave Electric’s chief information officer, who was

While neither of them imagined working at an electric utility, Bernie Oviatt and Grace Garcia found positions applicable to their interests and skill sets. Bernie is using his IT degree at the co-op and Grace Garcia has expanded her member services role to support member billing. PHOTO OF BERNIE OVIATT BY ARIZONA G&T COOPERATIVES/GEOFF OLDFATHER

his college instructor. When Bernie applied, Heath remembered him from class. Bernie received much of his job training from Heath. Now 25, he has enjoyed learning about the industry and the duties of other utility departments. “Everyone works together,” Bernie says. “Everyone helps each other out—even if we aren’t in the same field.” Teamwork and knowledge-sharing extend beyond the cooperative workplace. As not-for-profit organizations, public power utilities are dedicated to serving their communities. That was something Julia Garringer, 25, learned early in her role and is a motivator to build her career at MEC. Julia attended Northern Arizona University and earned a bachelor’s in creative media and film with a screenwriting emphasis. After college, she was a production assistant for the show “Sister Wives” for a year before moving back to Bullhead City. She started an online master’s degree program in technical communication at Arizona State University while looking for a career-worthy position in her hometown. That is when she saw a posting for a public affairs coordinator position at MEC. “MEC was a name I had grown up with,

but I didn’t know what a cooperative was and what it stood for,” Julia says. “I started researching and found out it is one of the most stable and interesting jobs in this area.” Julia started at the co-op in May 2021. While attending monthly community events, she found a niche connecting with members, some of whom are familiar faces from her childhood. “I love to interact with the community,” Julia says. “It’s a member-owned utility, so everything that the cooperative does is to the benefit of its members.” Within her first six months at the co-op, Julia knew she wanted to move into the energy-efficiency department. In January, she was hired as energy management specialist. For two weeks, she trained with her predecessor, Steve Bouman, before he retired from his 21-year MEC career. “I think that’s what is so great about Mohave Electric in general,” Julia says. “They always put their best foot forward training people. Being able to train with someone with so many years in the field was a phenomenal opportunity for me.” Julia is responsible for helping members improve their energy efficiency, participate in renewable energy and

rebate programs, and save on their electricity bills. The role offers daily faceto-face interaction with members—an environment Julia thrives in. “One of my favorite things is the problem-solving every day,” Julia says. “We’re working to solve their energy problems together to assist them, which is basically the cooperative model. We’re here to serve them.” From their time spent at the co-op, Grace, Bernie and Julia feel valued as employees. The member-driven, collaborative work environment is what has kept many of their colleagues at the co-op for most of their careers. Julia notes there are several employees who didn’t expect a career path at the utility but have spent upwards of 40 years working there as the utility has continued offering fair pay, good benefits and opportunities for growth. “The benefits are phenomenal,” Julia says. “That is something you typically don’t find anymore. (Mohave Electric) is supporting you in your health, supporting you in your career, and supporting you in your family life. That is a huge difference than any other job I have had.” n

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OPPORTUNITIES works to close the gender gap

By Lori Russell According to the U.S. Census Bureau, women comprise nearly half the U.S. workforce yet hold only one quarter of technology and engineering jobs. ChickTech—a national nonprofit organization—is working to change that by empowering women and nonbinary people to broaden the tech pipeline and provide equitable opportunities to all. Founded in 2012, ChickTech supports and creates community for tens of thousands of people in more than 34 states, including Oregon, Washington, California, Nevada, Arizona and Montana. ChickTech: High School has connected more than 6,500 students to education, opportunities and resources in science, technology, engineering and math. (See sidebar on page 15 for adult programs.) “We can see through elementary school and middle school that there is equal interest in STEM fields for girls and boys, and then with each education level it continues to drop,” says ChickTech CEO Katie SanFilippo. “That’s why we work with high school A high school student learns about robotics with encouragement and guidance from a ChickTech volunteer workshop leader. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHICKTECH

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students—so that as they are thinking of careers, they can consider STEM as an option.” Students attend monthly mentorship sessions and workshops exploring everything from software and coding to hardware and user experience design. An annual STEM fair connects them to internships, scholarships and employment at corporate partner companies and community organizations. “We give those students we work with a burst of confidence and mentors and workshop leads who can relate to them,” Katie says. “They can start to see that there are others in this field and it is possible.” Last year, despite COVID-19 restrictions that prevented in-person events, the program served 272 students with 4,021 hours of online programming and 41 events. ChickTech plans to retain the online component of the program as it returns to live events so a greater number of students can participate. Teachers, career counselors and community members can

S Portland ChickTech: High School students combine art with technology by learning to program soft circuits and create wearable tech.

nominate students they believe have the potential to excel in a tech-related field and don’t yet have the confidence or support to do so. Students may also nominate themselves through the ChickTech website. There is no fee to participate. ChickTech provides laptops and Wi-Fi access to those who need them. Know You Belong Lorelai Fosselman, a sophomore from Lebanon, Oregon, is in her second year with the program. She attends an online high school where she says the STEM and coding classes are limited and traditional compared to her experience with ChickTech, where she can choose from hands-on workshops on coding, circuits, digital art, robotics and more. “A lot of kids don’t know tech is an option for them or they go into an engineering class, see a bunch of guys and think, ‘I don’t belong here,’ ” says the 15-year-old. “Having that support and community is really important.” Lorelai serves on the ChickTech Leadership Committee, which helps shape the organization’s programming. She and her peers are planning virtual movie and game nights

and hackathons to work together on coding projects. The group has also set up an online channel where those with similar interests can meet up to share and collaborate. “Now that we have the information and the means for doing it, our imaginations can take us a lot of places,” Lorelai says. In addition to her high school classes, Lorelai takes college courses to earn her associate degree. She plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering. “The exposure to ChickTech changed the trajectory of my life,” she says. Ask for Opportunities Mazie Houchens was one of two girls in the Toledo High School class of 22 students to be nominated by her science teacher for the ChickTech program. She traveled an hour from her home in Newport, Oregon, to attend her first weekend event at Oregon State University in 2014. There, she learned to code and solder electronics and was introduced to a LilyPad system—a set of sewable electronic pieces designed to create interactive e-textile projects. Mazie created a Star Wars R2-D2 character for her laptop bag M AY 2 0 2 2

that lit up and played the movie’s theme when touched. She says the soldering and design skills she learned stuck with her. “It was the first time I felt really engaged in something,” Mazie says. “I was learning a solid skill that would help my future. It was one of the first things that gave me the confidence to keep asking for opportunities.” The second confidence booster was the advice she heard from a speaker at a ChickTech event. “She told us, ‘You never get any job you don’t apply for,’ ” Mazie says. At 16, Mazie realized it was time to act. She began by helping with soldering projects at her high school. During her senior year, she applied and was accepted to the engineering program at Oregon State University. There, she worked in tech support and landed a teaching assistant position the summer after her freshman year. Another job offer followed, and she decided to leave school to work full time. Now 23, Mazie is an engineering technician and lab manager for a wellness consumer electronics company in Bend, Oregon. She does rapid prototyping, start-to-finish product development and holds 12 patents. With her employer’s encouragement, she is working toward her

bachelor’s degree. “ChickTech had a huge impact on my life,” Mazie says. “Where I grew up—because there weren’t any of those influences or role models—that was who I looked up to. It changed how I approached things and gave me the confidence to know I could do it—that it was something within my grasp and capabilities. It was the first program that gave me the confidence to do something I really wanted to do and that actually fit me.” Mazie says she has learned to jump on opportunities as they arise, and failure is nothing to fear. “If you make a mistake, it just helps the future a little bit,” she says. “You won’t make the same mistake again or if you do, it won’t be as bad. And if it fails, I can always try something else.” Mazie has advice for others who wonder if a career in tech or engineering is the right choice for them. “If there is something you think you are passionate about, it’s always good to try it,” she says. “I wasn’t interested in app development or website design, but then I heard someone talk about it and I became curious. I didn’t realize how much I was into it until I tried it.” n To nominate a student for ChickTech: High School, go to chicktech.org/ nominate.

Volunteers at all ChickTech program sites help organize workshops, teach technical skills and help youth build confidence in science, technology, engineering and math.

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. 14

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ADOBE STOCK ILLUSTRATIONS BY PUGUN AND PHOTO STUDIO, MR.

Students at the 2018 ChickTech: High School kickoff event in Portland, Oregon, learn about tech topics such as circuitry and programming.

ADVANCING CAREERS Introducing a diverse group of young people to tech careers is only one step toward creating a more inclusive workforce. It also is essential to retain those already in the field.

helps professional women, nonbinary adults and allies advance their careers, move into leadership positions, celebrate diversity, build technical skills and create community.

“Fifty percent of women in tech leave their employers about mid-career, right about when they would be going into leadership roles,” says ChickTech CEO Katie SanFilippo. “In Silicon Valley, only 5% of leadership roles are held by women.”

ACT-W offers an online membership platform that provides continuing education, a job board, and opportunities to connect with hiring companies and network with others in the industry.

Through its program Advancing the Careers of Technical Women (ACT-W), ChickTech

A free virtual career fair is May 11. Job-seekers can meet with recruiters and companies looking for new hires.

The annual ACT-W conference, August 30 to September 1, includes online speakers, workshops and one-on-one coaching sessions. Katie says more tech employers are working on recruiting projects and acknowledging the need for diversity, equity and inclusion today than even a few years ago. “ChickTech is working alongside our partners to hold action to those words and statements that are put out there,” Katie says. “Hopefully, we are on the verge of big change right now.” For more information, go to act-w.org.

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IN THE KITCHEN

Easy Pressure-Cooker Mexican Red Rice 1½ cups medium-grain rice ½ small onion, chopped 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

1 cup chunky salsa 1½ cups water or broth ½ teaspoon salt

Set an electric pressure cooker to sauté at high temperature. Add the oil to the pot, followed by the rice and onion. Stir constantly for 3 to 4 minutes, until the rice grains turn opaque white and the onion becomes translucent. Add the salsa, water and salt. Stir well. Set the pressure cooker to manual and high temperature for 4 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for 15 minutes. Vent carefully, then remove the lid. 16

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PRESSURE-COOKER

Taco Fiesta

Pork Carnitas

4 to 6 pounds pork shoulder or butt 2 teaspoons ground cumin 2 teaspoons dried oregano 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon ground black pepper 1 navel orange

2 limes Corn tortillas Shredded cabbage Mandarin orange pieces Avocado salsa (see recipe on this page) Quick-pickled red onions (see recipe on this page)

Cut pork into fourths. In a small bowl, mix the cumin, oregano, salt and pepper. Rub the spice mixture over the meat. Place the meat into an electric pressure cooker. Squeeze the oranges and limes over the meat. Tuck the squeezed citrus halves around the meat. Set the pressure cooker to manual and high heat. Cook for 12 minutes per pound. Allow the pressure to release for 15 minutes before carefully venting and removing the lid. When the pork is cool enough to handle, remove it from its juices to a cutting board. Use two forks to pull the pork apart into shreds. If the pressure cooker has a sauté function, turn it to high and allow the juices in the pot to reduce by half. This can be done in a saucepan on the stove if your cooker does not have a sauté function. Before serving, turn on the oven broiler to 450 F. Line a baking sheet with foil. Spread the shredded pork on the baking sheet. Ladle a few spoonfuls of the reduced juices over the meat. Broil until the pork is well-browned in places and has some darker crispy edges. Pile meat into warmed corn tortillas with shredded cabbage, mandarin orange pieces, avocado salsa and red onions.

Recipes and photo by Pam Spettel/101-Mile Kitchen

Pinto Beans Under Pressure 1 pound dried pinto beans 6 cups water or broth 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

1 onion, diced 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 teaspoon salt

Combine all ingredients in an electric pressure cooker. Stir well to prevent sticking. Set pressure cooker to manual and high temperature. Cook for 35 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for 15 minutes. Vent carefully, then remove the lid. Strain the beans from their liquid. Eat as a side dish or in soups, stews, bowls and salads.

Tangy Avocado Salsa 9 ounces tomatillos, husked, washed and quartered 3 medium ripe avocados 1 clove garlic

1 small jalapeño or serrano chili, to taste, roughly chopped Salt, to taste

In a food processor, pulse the garlic and jalapeño or serrano until finely minced. Add the avocado flesh, tomatillos and salt. Blend until smooth and creamy. Store in the refrigerator.

Pickled Red Onions

1 medium red onion, peeled and thinly sliced ½ cup apple cider vinegar ½ cup water

3 tablespoons sugar 1½ teaspoons salt

In a wide-mouthed quart jar or small bowl, add the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar and salt. Shake or stir until the sugar is dissolved. Add the onion slices to the jar and put on the lid. Set aside for one hour before using. Store in the refrigerator.

M AY 2 0 2 2

READER EXCHANGE Crafts/Hobbies I make signs for friends and family using license plate letters. I cut the letters off and create a persons last name on a wood plaque trying to use each letter from a different state. I am in search of plates from all states and countries you may have lying around. I have a plentiful supply of the Oregon tree plates. The more colors and different designs the better. Thank you in advance. Jeff Sumpter 20373 Hwy 213 Oregon City, OR 97045

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.

M AY 2022

I am searching for buttons. I make cardigan sweaters, and I am looking for unique buttons to sew on them. If anyone has buttons to spare, please send some my way. Thanks. Stephanie Behrens 1612 5th St. Susanville, CA 96130

Milestones My sister will turn 61 in May. She is a precious soul who has endured a disease for several years and never complains. It would be so encouraging to her if you would consider sending a birthday card. Thank you! Please send cards to: Dianne Cox, 953 E. Burnett St., Stayton, OR 97383. Denise Powell Sisters, Oregon

My mother will be 90 in May. She loves crocheting and has made some incredible artistic pieces. Please send cards to: Pearl Thunn, 7161 County Rd 38, Omaha, NE 68122. Georgia Fowler Roseburg, Oregon

Odds Fort Rock Homestead Museum seeks donations of pre-1940s Christmas ornaments and items for display. Postage reimbursement may be considered. Thank you. Toni Collins Fort Rock Homestead Museum PO Box 84 Fort Rock, OR 97735 Happyquilter97638@gmail.com

Thanks My mom, my two sisters and I were amazed at the response to our request to send our mom birthday cards for her 105th birthday. The cards kept coming in the whole month of January and some even in February. Never did we surmise that mom would receive so many cards. There are not enough words to say how grateful mom and us girls are to the people who cared enough to share in her birthday milestone. Mom received 924 cards. Jan Bernardi, Joyce Weller, DeDe Webb—Daughters of Eleanor Thompson Veronia, Oregon

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f consumer sales are any indication of its efMade with 100% organic Aloe, AloeCure uses fectiveness, this “aloe tonic” is a breakthrough a proprietary process that results in the highest for supporting gut health while slowing signs of quality, most bio-available levels of acemannan known to exist. premature aging in men and women. According to Dr. Leal and several of her colRecent studies show supporting your gut’s 38 leagues, maintaining the pH balance of your trillion microbiome, which are a collection of all stomach and supporting gut health is the key things that live inside your gut, is key to how to supporting healthy immune function. When good you feel and how well your body functions. your digestive system isn’t healthy, it can cause Sold as AloeCure, researches believe its active unwanted stress on your immune system. Research shows the recommended daily allowingredient may be one of the best ways to support “good gut activity” and why it is so effective. ance of acemannan in AloeCure has been proven to support digestive health, manage healthy imAnd, since hitting the market, sales for Aloe- mune function, and help maintain joint health Cure®, made by American Global Health Group, and mobility without side effects or drugs. This a 20-year leading digestive supplement maker, would explain why so many users are experienchave taken off for some very good reasons. ing impressive results so quickly. To start, the studies have been impressive. VirFeel Great Inside And Out tually all participants taking the active ingredient Maintaining a healthy gut is one of the most reported stunning results including maintaining gastric comfort and bowel health and regularity. important functions of the body. Doctors say this is why AloeCure works on so many aspects of “With AloeCure, my patients were enjoying your health. the food they loved, better sleep, more energy… AloeCure’s active ingredient is made from the even less stress can be contributed to digestive famous active compound found in Aloe Vera. health maintenance” explains Dr. Liza Leal; a It is both safe and healthy. There are also no leading integrative health specialist and company known side effects. spokesperson. Scientists believe that it supports digestive AloeCure’s digestion defender is called malic function and immune health by acting as a natucalcium, which helps keep stomach acid level in ral acid-buffer that promotes nutritional absorpnormal range while you maintain comfort. tion and a natural prebiotic that promotes good Research on Aloe shows its active ingredient, gut flora. acemannan, then helps the body absorb nutriResearch has shown that balanced stomach ents and acts like a prebiotic. acidity contributes to maintaining comfort, supThe daily allowance of AloeCure has shown to porting bowel health and regularity, and is why support good gut activity which is why aloecure AloeCure seems to be so effective. is so effective. With daily use, AloeCure helps users defend Now Dr. Leal is saying AloeCure is a major against accelerated premature aging. health advance in other ways. By keeping stomach acid buffered and supResearchers at the University of Rochester porting gut health, AloeCure works to bolster Medical Center provided the first evidence that your immune system… help maintain digestive supporting good bacteria in your gut could be comfort and performance... Supports joint functhe key driving force behind sustained joint com- tion and comfort… helps improve the appearance of skin and can restore strength to hair and fort. nails… helps maintain healthy levels of cholesAloeCure is proving it may be the only way terol and oxidative stress... helps improve sleep going forward. patterns for better energy and weight control… and supports healthy brain function… without The Science Behind AloeCure known side effects. AloeCure is a small, easy to swallow pill that’s AloeCure® Is Doctor Recommended! taken daily with no harmful side effects and it does not require a prescription. To date over 5 million bottles of AloeCure® The active ingredient is a rare Aloe Vera com- have been sold, and the community seeking ponent known as acemannan. non-pharma therapy for their GI health contin-

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ADVENTURE AWAITS

See what was once the world’s largest waterfall at Washington’s

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M AY 2022

A large portion of Eastern Washington’s geography was shaped more than 13,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age. Glaciers caused around 500 cubic miles of water—more water than is in two of the four Great Lakes—to build up in Western Montana as Lake Missoula. When the glaciers broke, the water rushed westward, making huge carvings across the region.

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY GREGORY JOHNSTON

What to Do Learn the History Lake Missoula filled and broke free many times, and the Dry Falls State Park Visitor Center helps tell the story of how the landscape changed. The visitor center has information on the ice age, as well as early human history in the area.

Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park has 15 miles of trails that give great views of the falls, as well as scenic viewpoints for those who want to drive their car around the park. Campsites are available, and there is a nine-hole golf course, as well as mini-golf in the park.

More Information The Washington Discover Pass—good at all state parks—is required to park, and costs $10 for a day, or $30 for a year. For updated local health guidelines and to start planning your trip, call 509-6325214 or visit www. parks.wa.gov/251/ Dry-Falls-VisitorCenter.

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THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT

NIKON D800 70mm (180mm below) ISO 100 (400 below) f/5.6 at 1/125 f/10 at 1/200 (below)

The same bridge photographed in different seasons with an additional element results in a vastly different feel. PHOTOS BY DAVE LABELLE

Following Leading Lines

First and foremost, I am a documentary photographer—a storyteller who observes and records natural, unchoreographed scenes and unrehearsed emotion. I watch people’s faces, body language and interactions. I seek expression, gesture, spontaneous happenings, ever-so-small capsules of time to tell visual stories. I call these moments. But sometimes, I don’t feel like interacting with humans. Sometimes I prefer to commune with nature or watch wildlife. Other times, I am drawn to the beauty of lines, shapes and the power of architecture. As photographers, many of us gravitate toward geometric shapes such as triangles,

Photographer, author and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writings, visit davelabelle..com and his blog at bridgesandangels. wordpress.com..

M AY 2022

squares and rectangles—even when we are not consciously aware of it. Years ago, while on a tour of Israel, I was struck by the architecture of Herod the Great. Beholding these magnificent creations, I stood in silent awe. Composition is a dance of visual notes that create a musical feel—an orchestra for the eye, with each line, shape, tone and color contributing to the symphony. By changing angles, lenses, time of day and even seasons when we photograph, we change the look, the feeling and the perception of another’s creation, putting our own signature on their masterpiece. It’s a matter of photographic addition or subtraction, inclusion or elimination. Struck by the design of this bridge, I made several trips to photograph it at different times of day and in different seasons. Finally, I felt including the small figure of an elderly man jogging in the early morning fog helped animate and provide living contrast to the stationary beams. n

Reader Challenge

Find a bridge and make it come alive with your camera. Consider how different it looks and feels at various times and with different lenses. Remember: Light coming from behind your subject (bridge) shows shape, while light from the side reveals texture. Perhaps a slower shutter on a tripod at night can help capture the mood. 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 the best submissions on our website and social media channels.

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MOHAVE ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

NRECA CEO Jim Matheson presents the Cooperative Purpose Award to Mohave Electric Cooperative CEO Tyler Carlson. PHOTO BY DENNY GAINER/NRECA

MEC Receives National Accolades for Fiber Project Mohave Electric Cooperative (MEC) received the prestigious Cooperative Purpose Award March 7, 2022 at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA)’s PowerXchange. MEC CEO, Tyler Carlson received the award in Nashville, TN on behalf of the cooperative’s Board of Directors and employees. The Cooperative Purpose Award, a top honor for electric cooperatives, recognizes an electric cooperative who works with their members to make outstanding contributions which result in visible, lasting improvements to the quality of life and the purpose of the cooperative in the community. The award recognizes MEC’s efforts to build a fiber-optic network, a first-of-itskind endeavor in Arizona to enhance electric system operations to all 42,000 member endpoints and provide the opportunity to subscribe to fiber broadband through MEC’s partner, TWN Communications.

Construction on the all-fiber network began in December 2020. The first residential and business member broadband services were connected just a few months later in June 2021. As construction continues in phases, there are nearly 4,000 MEC member locations that can now subscribe to TWN services. MEC was nominated for the award by Grand Canyon State Electric Cooperative Association (GCSECA) CEO Dave Lock. The award application received widespread support including US Senator Kyrsten Sinema, US Senator Mark Kelly, US Congressman Paul Gosar, US Congresswoman Debbie Lesko, Governor Doug Ducey, AZ Senator Sonny Borrelli, AZ Representative Regina Cobb, AZ Representative Leo Biasiucci, and AZ Corporation Commission Chairwoman Lea Marquez Peterson. MEC CEO Tyler Carlson said, “I am proud of our cooperative utility that was created in 1946 by the people themselves

when they needed power. There isn’t a better mission than to continue serving the needs of our members with critical, reliable internet service in our rural communities. We are bringing the cooperative model full circle, making it happen when other providers would not. It may not be electrical, but broadband is the future of this community.” To learn more about the fiber construction or to pre-register scan the QR code or visit www.mohaveelectric.com/broadband. n

M AY 2 0 2 2

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 41 years in business. www.btlliners.com; 541-447-0712. 0423 Antiques and Collectibles Russel Wright vintage dishes - Steubenville. Coral and sea foam colors. Pitcher, veggie dish, tea pot, plates, bowls, cups, serving dishes. Call for details. 509-521-5074. 0522 Private collection of fine Victorian furniture in Pasco, Washington. Bedroom sets, hall trees, Wooton desks, Belter marble-top tables, restored square grand piano and parlor sets. 801-205-9476. 0522 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 Rural collector buying any 1860-1915 clothes, shoes, hats, undergarments or photo albums. Let me know what you have. DL_pappas@ yahoo.com or 971-404-8332. 0522 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. 0522AR Business Opportunities 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. 40-year marine sales & service business. Interior Alaska. Ideal boating location; large inventory, Butler Building on 2 acres, wellnow@live.com, 907-888-7087. 0522 Groceries and gas are going up due to factors beyond our control. Shop from my Idaho online shopping club. I can save you money and gas because inflation is here for two more years. See www.familyandanimalwellness.com or call Cindy at 208-400-0013. 0522AR Emergency Preparedness Are you ready for flood season? With abundant snow this winter, prepare for spring flooding with the fastest sandbag filling tool, ExpressBagger. Go to www.expressbagger.net and save 50% when you buy a two-pack. 0522

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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): July issue—May 31, 2022. 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. underground electricity. No taxes! $495,000. Best suited for the self-reliant, independent buyer. Call Ian, 775-220-7332. 0522 Prime location for a brewery in Baker, NV, the gateway to Great Basin National Park. Historic bar looking for new owner/operator. Call Bruce for more information, 775-296-1492. Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm & recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian, ranch owner. For sale: Bend, 109 acres with irrigation rights, $1,5.5 mil. John Gill, 541-480-9161; johngill@ landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0722

100% Guaranteed Protective Sleeves Copper River frontage. Home, garage, outbuildings, septic, power. Adjacent to St. Elias Park and state land. Fish, hunt, boat, trap from home. No sales or propery taxes. Views. $450,000. 406-560-0740. 0522 Three cemetery plots in Mt. Vernon Memorial Park, Fair Oaks, CA. $3,400 each plus transfer fee of $395. Sell together or separate. 907457-8200. Please leave message. 0522 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: 30 years experience getting the best price for sellers and buyers. James Wardrope Realty. OregonRiverRealty. com; office@RiverInnElkton.com. 541-4800212. 0522AR Beautiful acre lots in Pahrump, NV, starting at $35,000. Also, 10 acres with water rights and electric, good neighborhood. Paula Callahan, Realty One Group, 775-209-2830, License #: 063638. 0522AR 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. 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. 541-7409953 or 541-740-2846. Check availability, wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. 0522AR

I buy Ford trucks and Broncos. 1967-1997. Only good, solid 4x4 trucks please. No prepowerstroke diesels. Please call James, 530228-6333. Thanks. 0522 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. 0622 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. 0622 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. 0622

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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 Muscle car, ‘62-’70 Chevrolet, Camaro, Nova, Chevelle, ‘62-’70 Ford or Mustang, ‘64-’70 Mopar, want V-8, prefer manual transmission, no projects, Local buyer, not a dealer. Call or text, 503-799-3835 Joe. 0622 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. 0522 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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M AY 2 0 2 2

This artist concept shows Boeing’s CST100 Starliner flying in space. The Starliner is a reusable capsule-shaped spacecraft that can transport up to seven people, or a combination of people and cargo, to destinations in low-Earth orbit, including the International Space Station. ILLUSTRATION COURTESY OF BOEING

Dress Rehearsal of Cosmic Proportions Boeing practices Starliner spacecraft capsule landing at Willcox Playa By Geoff Oldfather Willcox Playa may be the site of the next landing and recovery of a unique space capsule. Vehicles and recovery teams gathered on the northwest side of the Willcox Playa recently for a dress rehearsal of cosmic proportions. The event was in preparation for the upcoming landing of Boeing’s crew space transportation spacecraft, CST-100 Starliner. Willcox Playa was first announced as a possible landing site during a public presentation at the Willcox Community Center in November 2019. “This is a dress rehearsal for landing the Starliner spacecraft on the playa here south of Willcox; it’s one of four landing sites that could be selected, with the selection based on the trajectory of the (ISS International) space station and predicted weather and terrain conditions at the landing sites,” says Mike Fawcett, senior engineer for Special Aerospace Services on the Boeing Starliner project. 28

M AY 2022

The spacecraft is designed to take up to seven passengers or a mix of passengers and cargo to low-Earth orbit, or up to four NASA-sponsored crew members and scientific research projects to the International Space Station, according to Boeing. The spacecraft could land in Willcox Playa in May or June, depending on the launch date. “If we pick Willcox, we’ll come out here about one week ahead of time, set up our equipment, do some training runs and be ready here for when Starliner lands,” Mike says. The teams go through an intricate and carefully staged process as they prepare to approach the Starliner capsule after landing. Multiple recovery crews rehearsed the process on the playa during training exercises March 1 and 2, with safety as the priority. As the Starliner is descending, “we have a 4-kilometer radius landing circle that we have to stay out of, so we set up right outside that,” Mike says. Once the Boeing team gets confirmation the spacecraft is on the ground, a convoy is sent 500 feet upwind from the spacecraft. Mike says hydrazine—a toxic flammable liquid with an ammonia-type odor—is used as a propellent. A team checks to make sure there are no leaks before moving closer.

ARIZONA G&T COOPERATIVES

TOP: Recovery crews rehearse the Starliner capsule retrieval at Willcox Playa with an inflatable replica of the spacecraft. LEFT: During the training exercise, recovery crews cover the inflatable replica of the Starliner Spacecraft to protect the crew and capsule. RIGHT: The crew rolls up the capsule parachute with Apache Generating Station in the background.

“We send in the teams with protective gear on to do what we call a hydrazine sniff check,” Mike explains. “Once they give the all-clear, the people who aren’t in gear can proceed on into the spacecraft.” The second step for Mike and his team is grounding the spacecraft to eliminate the electrostatic discharge built up during reentry. Then the team places jacks under the craft to make it stable. “At that point, we bring in a large cooling system that we hook up to cool it,” he says. “The reason for that is it’s powered down pretty quickly after landing, so we have to make sure we keep (the crew) cool, and at that point we can back the trailer up to the hatch and open the hatch and pull the crew out.” The team goes through various scenarios and repeated training to make sure everyone knows how to perform their roles. “Because all of the personnel come from all around the country, we don’t get together very often so when we do, we always try to maximize the training at the different sites,” Mike says. The Willcox Playa has a lot to offer as a landing site due to its wide-open spaces. Fort Huachuca offers additional training space and local personnel support for the landing. “It’s been a great partnership with Fort Huachuca and Willcox

Emergency Services to establish a zone that enables the safety and security of astronauts, Starliner teammates and residents,” Mike says. Arizona G&T Cooperatives and the Apache Generating Station team are involved because the access road that starts near the plant will accommodate the heavy vehicles required to retrieve the Starliner spacecraft once the crew is safely recovered. During a visit last year, Mike said the spacecraft will be loaded onto an 18-foot-wide trailer. The spacecraft weighs 15,000 to 16,000 pounds and the shipping container it will be placed in weighs 13,000 pounds. “Everyone at the (Apache) power plant has been awesome,” Mike says. “Everything we’ve asked them to help us with they’ve done. It went really well from everything I saw and heard from the crew that was out there. We really appreciate working with Arizona G&T Cooperatives. They’re just a great bunch to work with.” Even if the trajectory of the International Space Station is not in line with a landing at the Willcox Playa in May, the site will continue as an option for future spacecraft landings. n For more information about the CST-100 Starliner, visit www.boeing.com/space/starliner. M AY 2 0 2 2

2023

By Jim Dau, Alaska—Kotzebue Electric Association

Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest

It is time to share your most winning photos for a chance to appear in our 2023 Ruralite calendar. Up to 13 winners will be selected, each receiving $100. Photos must be submitted by July 17, 2022. The contest is open to recipients of Ruralite and Currents magazines. Each person may only submit up to 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 “2023 Calendar Photo Contest” in the subject line. Winning Tips • Use the 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).

Ruralite

AZ - 13746 Mueller More Than.indd 1

2/25/22 3:08 PM

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. 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

A Message from the CEO

Success Story! In my last message I wrote to you about an issue – the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC), the state entity that regulates Arizona utilities, has been double charging Arizona electric cooperatives an assessment to fund its own operations / existence. We joined forces with Grand Canyon Electric Cooperative Association and other Arizona electric cooperatives, to support Arizona House Bill 2232 to correct the double charging. I am happy to tell you that the legislation sailed through the process with unanimous support from both the Arizona House of Representatives and the Arizona Senate. The bill was signed by Governor Ducey on Tyler Carlson March 30, 2022. Although MEC will still have an ACC assessment that is passed on to member bills, the extra assessment MEC has been paying in wholesale purchased power costs will stop. While not a large amount, every reduction in cost helps us keep purchased power costs, the most significant part of member bills, as stable as possible. More good news! Our five-year fiber project in partnership with TWN Communications is moving full steam ahead. Phase 1 in the Big Bend and Silver Creek Zones is being finalized. Nearly 4,000 members can now subscribe to TWN services. Phase 2 in the Airport Zone is next up. I want to encourage members to pre-register for TWN services. There is no commitment by preregistering, but it helps us in the construction phase, and also expedites your TWN internet service installation should you sign up for services. The website and phone number are shown below. Our employees have been out in the community at several events recently—Winter Fest, School Magician/Electrical Safety program, Kiwanis Kids Expo, and Mohave Community College Concom. We enjoy engaging with members when we have these opportunities and hope to see you next time!

What’s Happening h May 7—Rotary of Bullhead City

Burro BBQ

h May 30—Office closed for

Memorial Day

MEC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER & EMPLOYER

M AY 2022