A frosty fog hangs over Powell Butte at sunrise. PHOTO BY COVER CONTEST WINNER JAN HOWARD
FEELING REJUVENATED WITH CBD
Everyone feels the hurt as you age, but CBD can help you deal with it
By: Beth Giles
Life really does y by. Before I knew it, my 60s had arrived, and with them came some new gifts from dear ol’ Mother Nature—frequent knee pain, stress, low energy and sleeplessness. Now, I’m a realist about these things, I knew I wasn’t going to be young and springy forever. But still, with “golden years” nearly on my doorstep, I couldn’t help but feel a little cheated. at is until I found my own secret weapon. Another gift from Mother Nature.
It began a few months back when I was complaining about my aches and pains to my marathon-running granddaughter, Jen. She casually mentioned how she uses CBD rub to help with her joint pain. She said that CBD gave her more focus and clarity throughout the day and that her lingering muscle and joint discomfort no longer bothered her. She even felt comfortable signing up for back-toback marathons two weekends in a row this year. at made even this self-proclaimed skeptic take notice.
But I still had some concerns. According to one study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, 70% of CBD products didn’t contain the amount of CBD stated on their labels. And, as a consumer, that’s terrifying! If I was going to try CBD, I needed to trust the source through and through. My two-fold research process naturally led me to Zebra CBD. First, I started calling my family and friends. Call me old fashioned but I wanted to know if
was impressed by its array of products, including CBD oils called tinctures, topicals, chewable tablets, mints and gummies. After reading on their website that all their products are made with organically-grown hemp, I ordered... and it arrived within 2 days!
there were people whom I trusted (more than anonymous testimonials) who’ve had success using CBD besides my granddaughter.
Secondly, I wanted cold hard facts. Diving deep into the world of CBD research and clinical studies, I came across Emily Gray M.D., a physician at the University of California at San Diego (UCSD) Medical School and medical advisor to Zebra CBD who is researching the e ects of CBD. Dr. Gray wrote “early results with CBD have been promising and we have a lot of research underway now. I’ve had several patients using CBD with good success. It’s important that you know your source of CBD and how to use it properly.”
After hearing it from the doctor’s mouth, I returned to my research, asking more people and was amazed by the number of close friends and family who were already on the CBD train. Apparently, I was the only one without a clue! And funny enough, a couple of friends who commented were using the same brand as my granddaughter—Zebra CBD. ere was no consensus as to why they were using CBD, but the top reasons given were for muscle & joint discomfort, mood support, sleep support, stress and headaches, as well as supporting overall health & wellness.
Eventually, even the most skeptical of the bunch can be won over. With a trusted CBD source in mind, I decided to give it a go.
When I viewed Zebra CBD’s selection online, I
e rst product I tried was the Rub. Now this stu was strong. Immediately after rubbing it on my knee, the soothing e ects kicked in. It had that familiar menthol cooling e ect, which I personally nd very relieving. And the best part is, after two weeks of using it, my knee pain no longer a ected my daily mobility.
e Zebra Sleep Gummies, on the other hand, had a di erent but equally positive e ect on my body. To take it, the instructions suggest chewing thoroughly. is was simple enough, and the taste was, well, lemony. After about 15 minutes, a sense of calm came over my body. It's hard to describe exactly; it's de nitely not a "high" feeling. It's more like an overall sense of relaxation—and then I was out. Needless to say, I slept great and woke up refreshed. I haven’t slept like that in a long time.
While it hasn’t been a catch-all x to every one of my health issues, it has eased the level and frequency of my aches. And it sure doesn’t seem like a coincidence how rejuvenated I feel. All-in-all, CBD is one of those things that you have to try for yourself. Although I was skeptical at rst, I can safely say that I’m now a Zebra CBD fan and that I highly recommend their products. Also, I managed to speak with a Zebra CBD spokesperson willing to provide an exclusive. If you order this month, you’ll receive $10 o your rst order by using promo code “RL10” at checkout. Plus, the company o ers a 100% No-Hassle, Money-Back Guarantee. You can try it yourself and order Zebra CBD at ZebraCBD.com/CM or at 1-888-762-2699.
Ruralite
May 2024 • Volume 72, No. 5
CEO Michael Shepard
SENIOR VP OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mike Teegarden, CCC
DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Noble Sprayberry
SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC
ASSISTANT EDITORS Chasity Anderson, CCC; Victoria Hampton, CCC, David Herder, CCC
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Valeri Pearon, Nina Todea
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION SR. MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
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Celebrating Youth
When I was a child I lived out in the country on 50 acres. Opportunities to earn money were few and far between. I did earn 50 cents a day for feeding the sheep occupying our leased pasture. I also picked strawberries and boysenberries in the summer. My best days were when my mom came out and picked with me. To this day, I don’t know how she filled those containers so fast. Later, we moved to a more populated area and I was able to mow lawns. I think I was getting $5 a lawn at my peak.
I had a brief career in fruit sales. I set up a sign and a box of sad-looking apples at the end of our long driveway. Did I mention this was rural and few cars passed by each day? After one day and only one car stopping, I decided to pursue other opportunities.
Our Up Close story on Page 10 profiles a group of young people who are having a lot more success than I ever did as entrepreneurs. These
three young people are already dipping their toes into the business world by creating and selling their own products. From art to crafts and food, these entrepreneurs are making money and developing skills that will last a lifetime.
Our Spotlight feature starting on Page 12 highlights the creative way a small Oregon community has retained its local school by opening its doors to international students. With only 145 residents in the Spray community, dwindling numbers put the viability of the school at risk. Thirty years ago, the school started bringing in students from other countries to bolster their numbers. This year, nine international students live, learn and soak up rural American culture at the unique school.
The local students benefit too, because they can continue their education closer to home and are exposed to other cultures. Everyone wins. I hope you enjoy the story.
Sincerely,
Mike Teegarden Editorial Director
Young Minds, Big Dreams
Ambitious youth entrepreneurs of the Pacific Northwest excel Up Close, Page 10
The Global Experience
International students soak up culture at rural school Spotlight, Page 12
Pages: 4-5, 8, 25, 28-29, 32
Photo Hunt
transmission and distribution power lines.
“Last year, crews installed and replaced 564 power poles and 68 miles of underground and overhead power lines,” Wilson said.
More capital-intensive projects included increasing transmission capacity in the Redmond/Cline Falls and Prineville areas.
CEC began engineering work to upgrade existing substations and design new ones to meet rapid growth, such as the Stevens Road area, including the new Deschutes County Library in southeast Bend.
Growth
What does that rapid growth look like?
CEC grew annually by 2% in the past five years and projects to grow another 2.5% annually during the next five years.
While other Oregon co-ops are losing members, CEC is one of two of the fastestgrowing in the state. This growth resulted in CEC having 1,034 new connections last year. That is the highest number since 2006, with more than 900 being residential, including single and multifamily housing.
Pursuing Federal Grants
To help keep pace with growth and make its electric system more resilient, CEC is pursuing a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure federal grant funding through the Infrastructure Investment and
Jobs Act, enacted in 2021.
Wilson announced CEC is pursuing three grants totaling $30 million in matching funds for capital projects in the queue.
The first will help fund a new substation, 4 miles of new transmission lines and upgrade another 16.3 miles of transmission lines in the Prineville area to the Post Substation further east. The project will add capacity and redundancy to nine of the cooperative’s existing substations, resulting in equipment being more resilient to wildfire and increased capacity to encourage economic growth.
The second grant, if successful, would fund similar transmission improvements from Redmond to Madras.
The third is a collaborative effort with PNGC Power—a generation and transmission cooperative comprised of other Pacific Northwest electric rural cooperatives—to improve the safety and reliability of our electric systems and update CEC’s advance metering infrastructure.
“It is a great opportunity to help reduce costs for our members to complete these needed projects,” Wilson said.
Challenges Ahead
A rapidly evolving power industry presents numerous challenges, the most significant being securing future power supplies.
The Bonneville Power Administration,
which runs the Federal Columbia River Power System, supplies virtually all of CEC’s wholesale electricity. With the abundance of hydropower, this electricity is nearly 96% carbon free.
“We cannot indefinitely count on this federal hydropower system, as its capacity grows smaller each year relative to the increasing demand for electricity,” Wilson said.
CEC is not idly sitting by. Wilson outlined current proactive efforts with PNGC to explore building or securing new resources, including wind or solar.
“This will allow us to be less reliant on the Federal Columbia River Power system while helping keep power clean, renewable, reliable and affordable,” Wilson said.
Wilson ended his report by emphasizing CEC is up for the challenge, guided by the vision of the board of directors and a workforce dedicated to serving its members.
Director Elections
Members also practiced the principle of Democratic Member Control, electing three candidates for the board of directors.
With three CEC board positions up for reelection this year and facing no opposition, the membership unanimously elected Mark Christie (District 1—Sisters), Ken Miltenberger (District 7—Alfalfa) and Dan Steelhammer (District 8—Bend). n
LEFT: CEC Vice President of Member and Public Relations Brent ten Pas presents Alison Adam, winner of the grand prize drawing, a $500 electric bill credit. Adam donated the credit to Project Helping Hand, a program that helps members in need pay their electric bills. PHOTO BY COURTNEY COBB RIGHT: Retired CEC Board Member Shirley McCullough greets an old friend. PHOTO BY BRENT TEN PAS
Under the Surface
Know the dangers lurking in the water before you take the plunge
By Nina Todea
With the long-awaited warmth of summer arriving soon comes the desire to spend our days outside, whether swimming, boating or camping. Although we’re far more unplugged outdoors, many electrical hazards still accompany these leisurely summer activities—and they often lurk beneath the surface.
Water safety is more than just boating speeds and life jackets. Electric shock drowning, dubbed the “silent killer,” occurs when faulty wiring sends electric current into a body of water. The current then passes through the body and causes paralysis, which can ultimately result in drowning.
This current isn’t nearly as visible as a bolt of lightning. According to Electrical Safety Foundation International, as little as 10 milliamps of current—1/50 the amount used by a 60-watt lightbulb—can cause
paralysis and drowning. Even the best swimmers will feel their bodies freeze as they lose muscular control.
Often misclassified as drowning, ESD injures and kills people every year, whether it happens around a dock, or in a pool or hot tub. Unfortunately, there is no ESD statistics database, and—partly due to inaccuracies in reporting—many people are still unaware of the threat.
“Most people are unaware because there is no visible warning to electrified water,” says ESFI President Brett Brenner. “Without that visual, they are unaware of the dangers of electrified water.”
Boating and Marina
Just like your home, having your boat inspected regularly by a licensed electrician is critical. Familiarize yourself with the electrical system so you can identify and correct any potential hazards.
ESFI encourages boat owners to routinely
inspect boats and stay up to date on maintenance.
Ground fault and equipment leakage circuit interrupters—both safety devices required at marinas—should be tested monthly. A leakage test determines if electrical current is escaping the vessel.
In an emergency, an informed owner who knows where the main breakers are on the boat and the shore power source can respond quickly and effectively.
Alongside the safety of your boat’s electrical system, make sure all boat operators and swimmers understand the hazards so everyone works to keep them at bay. Never allow swimming near the boat, marina or launching ramp. Residual current could flow into the water from the boat or the marina’s wiring, potentially putting anyone in the water at risk of ESD.
Marina owners should do their part, too.
“Plan annual safety events at your marina where owners can learn about boat and
Central Oregon Beauty Shines
Central Electric members showcase region in annual photo contest
By Courtney Cobb
Central Oregon’s beauty was on full display during Central Electric Cooperative’s 2024 annual photo contest. The wide-ranging submissions showed what it means to live, work and play in the high desert.
The winning photo is “Central Oregon Sunrise,” sent in by Jan Howard. A shutterbug at heart, Jan has been taking photos since she was 14. She says she loves to capture everything, including animals, landscapes, people and food.
“I do it as a hobby,” Jan says. “I feel you can never have too many pictures—and believe me, I have a lot!”
Jan captured the winning photo with her iPhone 14 Pro. She also has a nice SLR camera, although she admits to rarely using it.
Jan loves to capture the world around her and appreciates this quote by photographer Elliott Erwitt: “To me, photography is an art of observation. It’s about finding something interesting in an
ordinary place. I’ve found it has little to do with the things you see and everything to do with the way you see them.”
The day she took the photo, Jan was on her way to jury duty around 7:45 a.m. As she was leaving her driveway, she saw the frosty sunrise.
“My husband, Marty, and his dog Belle were out doing the chores and checking the horses’ water,” Jan says. “I knew right away that this was going to be an amazing shot, so I immediately stopped, got out and yelled over to him to stay right there!”
Jan says if it had been a typical morning, she would have missed this beautiful scene.
“I’d be in the house, out doing chores on the other side of the house or working out,” she says. “I’m so thankful my name was selected for jury duty.”
Jan says she is grateful, excited and honored to be selected as this year’s Central Electric winner.
“I still can’t believe it,” she says. “I’m very blessed indeed.”
Jan has a quick tip for other shutterbugs.
“Always have your phone or camera with you,” she says. “You never know when that next incredible shot will appear. Believe me, I’ve missed a few here and there, wishing I had not left it in the car or at the house.”
The second-place winner in the contest is Jane Lindquist, whose photo of sunset at Phalarope Lake at Black Butte Ranch captures amazing sunset colors foiled with the Three Sisters.
Sue Strater won third place with her photo showing off iconic Smith Rock with Mount Jefferson in the background. n
First-place winner Jan Howard with her horse JanE.
Central Electric Cooperative members are talented shutterbugs. From left are the winning photo of morning chores by Jan Howard; the second-place photo of sunset at Phalarope Lake at Black Butte Ranch by Jane Lindquist; and the third-place photo of Smith Rock State Park with Mount Jefferson in the background by Sue Strater.
Young
By Chiara Profenna
Ambitious youth entrepreneurs of the Pacific Northwest excel Big dreams: MINDS,
As the first days of summer emerge, countless youth eagerly embrace their newfound time for leisure and relaxation. But for a distinctive few, summer signifies an opportunity to refine their business skills and embark on entrepreneurial ventures.
Meet some youth entrepreneurs spending their free time blossoming small businesses in the Pacific Northwest. Spanning from the outskirts of Oregon to the northern reaches of Alaska, these young leaders are shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Fortitude Rural Youth Entrepreneurs
At 11 years old, Macy Richcreek, a fifth grader at McGovern Elementary School in Winston, Oregon, is taking over Fortitude Rural Youth Entrepreneurs from her brother, Ryder Sawyer.
The all-kids market operates out of Porter Creek Mercantile in Tenmile.
“My brother started it around 2020,” Macy says. “When he was little, he would sell stuff. He started doing adult events, but then he realized that kids should (be able to) make money.”
A seasoned entrepreneur, Macy began pastry and dessert venture Sassy Sweets when she was 6 years old. In addition to running her table, Macy oversees the market, which typically hosts about 15 children and their various goods.
“My brother has a Bigfoot section,” Macy says. “And we have a lot of different things, like wood carvings, shave ice, spray paint art, bath bombs.”
For the next step of her entrepreneurial journey, Macy is starting a new line—Sassy Sports—to sell sports-themed jewelry.
Managing all her business ventures has been a challenge, Macy says. However, the experiences have inspired her to continue branching out and trying new things.
Starting Sassy Sweets at 6 years old, Macy Richcreek is now ready to expand her business with a new line specializing in jewelry.
PHOTOS COURTESY OF MACY RICHCREEK
Taking over the Fortitude Rural Youth Entrepreneurs from her brother, Macy steps into the larger role of managing a group of youth entrepreneurs while overseeing her businesses.
“I want to be a teacher,” Macy says. “I would like to do business and teaching when I get older.”
Alia’s Treasures Untold
Alia Halat, a sixth grader at Trailside Elementary in Anchorage, Alaska, was driven by her love of art to start her business, Alia’s Treasures Untold. She incorporates radio frequency identification locks built into painted boxes for a business that combines custom art with functionality.
Her magic boxes are hand painted and include an RFID lock with a key built into an outside item. After learning about RFID locks, Alia added one to a wooden box she had painted and made a key out of a toy wand.
“This was just something I had made for fun because I wanted to hide my treasures away from my sister,” Alia says. “I didn’t think of creating a business out of it or that anyone would be interested in having a painted magic box except for me.”
However, after Alia attended a summertime Junior Achievement Biz Camp, she decided to take her concept to the next level.
“During the camp, we worked on creating our own businesses,” Alia says. “At first, I didn’t know what to do my business on, but then I told my camp counselors about my magical treasure box I had made. They helped me come up with the idea to make Alia’s Treasures Untold.”
At the camp, Alia won the JA Biz Camp’s Shark Tank pitch competition.
“I won startup money and was able to invest it back into my business,” Alia says. “I used it to buy more supplies so I can sell more products, and I became a real entrepreneur.”
Contact Information
KB Pet Portraits
Krystal Beckman, a junior at Enterprise High School in the northeastern Oregon city of Enterprise, launched her business, KB Pet Portraits, in December 2023 with the support of Reinventing Rural’s Mentor Match Teen Entrepreneurship Program.
“I was very nervous to start a business, but I loved art so much,” Krystal says. “I was like, ‘OK, I’ll try to do this.’ And then I just went to bazaars, and I passed out info, and that’s how I started.”
Through the program, led by program founderStacy Green, Krystal and a group of teens learn the ins and outs of starting a small business. According to Krystal, the program has been helpful, teaching her about topics such as accounting and time management.
“One of the biggest things she told us was to be bold and don’t feel shy about sharing your business with others,” Krystal says.
Even though Krystal was unsure about starting a business, she was quickly encouraged by her customers and their willingness to pay for her art.
“They actually wanted (to pay) $50 more than I was offering,” Krystal says. “It just really brought up my confidence. I was just extremely excited and happy.”
With the support of the ongoing mentorship program, Krystal hopes to continue to improve and expand her custom pet portrait business. She encourages teens to delve into entrepreneurship in any way they can.
“It takes several times to fail before you succeed,” Krystal says. “That’s one thing we’re trying to focus on right now. And I think it’s a good lesson.” n
ALIA HALAT
KRYSTAL BECKMAN
Creating custom-painted boxes with radio frequency identification locks, Alia’s designs are unique and practical. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALIA HALAT
Krystal Beckman’s business, KB Pet Portraits, is a blossoming passion project that began in December 2023. PHOTO COURTESY OF KRYSTAL BECKMAN
international students in hopes of keeping its doors open. With a dwindling number of students, the school was at risk of being combined with nearby Fossil Charter School and Mitchell High School.
Having a school in each town is incredibly important to the parents and students, says Spray High School social studies teacher Marc Antonio. While the international students bring financial security to the school through district funding, their presence is valued far beyond the monetary contribution.
“We just enjoy the kids so much,” Marc says. “They really do infuse a light and a curiosity about things.”
Each year, Spray locals look forward to meeting the new boarders, according to dorm parent Sadie Garrett.
“When you come into a small community, it’s not just the kids at the school, it’s the staff,” Sadie says. “The whole town comes together.”
A small collection of rural schools throughout Oregon participates in similar programs to support their schools. Burnt River, Mitchell, Paisley and Huntington school districts all accept international students to fill their classes. The programs are served by different agencies, such as International Experience and International Student Exchange, both used by Spray School District.
Marc says the program has seen monumental success since its inception, benefiting the community, the school district and the students.
“With kids around here, a lot of them don’t travel,” Marc says. “Their world is small. And to have [international] kids come here, it’s huge. We learn about them as much as they learn about us.”
Why Spray?
In a town with only one major road, it’s hard to imagine students getting the complete American high school experience. However, the community in Spray begs to differ.
“Because it’s smaller classes, I think for them, they don’t feel swallowed,” Marc says. “They don’t disappear. And because of that, they get to know us teachers really well. They get to know the kids really well. I think their ability to absorb American culture increases so much because it isn’t this overwhelming 10 million people in their school.”
“The teachers are so kind, especially Mr. Marc and Mr. Starr,” says Phong Thai, a junior from Vietnam. “They will stop class or slow down to help explain things.”
Additionally, the relatively safe environment provides parents with peace of mind. The students live in dorms near the school with community members Crystal Rey and Sadie, who oversee
International students from Thailand, South Korea, Vietnam, Germany and Russia have become friends as they experience life together in small-town America. PHOTO COURTESY OF SADIE GARRETT
the girls’ and boys’ dorms, respectively.
“Most of them by now call me Mom,” Crystal says. “It’s a good feeling to know that they’re really comfortable with me and that it feels like a home to them.”
The small town allows boarding students to blossom throughout the year and create meaningful connections with locals. The students say their experience has been nothing short of wonderful.
Lucia del Carmen Garrido Anton, a student from Spain, says living in Spray has been a great experience that has broadened her horizons. Other students agree their friendships have been lifechanging and given them a lot to be grateful for.
“A lot of them have said that they really like the close-knit of the community,” Crystal says. “Everybody’s super nice and super helpful. They don’t feel out of place when they come here.”
The students spend most of their time in Spray, they also have opportunities to explore Oregon through various trips, including regular visits to Bend, the nearest city for shopping.
At the start of the 2023 school year, Sadie organized a trip to Rockaway Beach for the boys, giving them a few days to soak in the beauty of the Oregon Coast.
A Year in Spray
Over the course of their year in Spray, the boarding students are intent on absorbing the language and culture in America so they can further their academic and career goals back home.
“When they leave here, their English language flows, and comprehension is so much greater,” Marc says. “They really are setting themselves up for what they want to do.”
The students also become more sure of themselves as the year progresses.
“It’s great seeing them kind of blossom,” Crystal says. “When they get here, most of them are super shy, super quiet, super unsure. And by the time they leave, it’s like they’re an American kid.”
However, according to Sadie and Crystal, one of the most
The international students in Spray enjoy trips around Oregon for various breaks and holidays. At the beginning of the school year, Sadie took the boys to Rockaway Beach. PHOTOS ABOVE AND RIGHT COURTESY OF SADIE GARRETT
The girls’ dorm, across the street from Spray School and overseen by Crystal Rey, houses up to six international students at a time. PHOTO BY CHIARA PROFENNA
International students bond in Spray.
International students spend the full academic year at Spray School. PHOTO COURTESY OF SADIE GARRETT
Meatless Meals EAT YOUR VEGGIES
Cheesy Burrito Bake
2 tablespoons canola oil
2 bell peppers, sliced
1 medium onion, sliced
1 teaspoon cumin
2 cups water
1 cup brown rice, uncooked
12-ounce can evaporated milk, divided
Heat oven to 350 F.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
4-ounce can diced green chiles, undrained
16-ounce can refried beans
6 8-inch wheat tortillas
Salsa, optional
Guacamole, optional
In a large skillet, heat canola oil. Cook peppers and onion with cumin until tender. In a saucepan, add water and brown rice. Cook for 45 minutes.
In a second saucepan, add 11/4 cups evaporated milk, cheddar cheese and green chilies. Cook over medium heat until cheese is melted and smooth. Stir 3/4 of the cheese mixture in with the cooked rice. Set the remaining cheese sauce aside.
In a medium bowl, add refried beans and the remaining evaporated milk. Microwave for 3-4 minutes.
Lay out tortillas. Layer refried bean mixture, rice mixture and pepper-onion mixture. Roll into burritos and place in a baking pan. Top burritos with the remaining cheese sauce. Bake for 20-25 minutes.
Garnish with salsa and guacamole, if desired.
Source: Culinary.net
Grilled Apple Portobello ‘Burgers’
1 large sweet apple
2 portobello mushrooms
1/4 cup olive oil, divided
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon oregano
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup herbed goat cheese
2 brioche buns
2 large pieces butter lettuce
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
Heat the grill to medium heat. Slice apples horizontally into thick round wedges. Remove seeds using a fork. Remove portobello stems.
In a small bowl, combine 1/8 cup olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano and salt.
Using a basting brush, coat portobellos on both sides with the olive oil mixture. Grill stem sides down for 2 minutes, then flip. Add goat cheese to portobellos. Grill for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted. Remove from grill. Use remaining olive oil to coat apple rounds. Grill apple rounds for 1-2 minutes per side to lightly char.
Serve portobellos with apple rounds on brioche buns with lettuce and mayonnaise.
Source: Envy Apples
Golden Beet and Rice Burger Sliders
71/2 ounces white beans, drained and rinsed
1 egg, beaten
1/2 tablespoon water
14 ounces jasmine rice, cooked and cooled
4 ounces golden beets, cooked and grated
3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled and divided
1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
12 leaves bibb lettuce
1 cup arugula
2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce
In a food processor, pulse beans, egg and water until mashed.
Transfer the bean mixture to a large bowl. Add rice, beets, 11/2 ounces goat cheese, dill, salt and pepper. Stir until combined. Divide the mixture into six portions. Shape into 1/2-inch-thick patties.
In a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook patties in two batches, 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Add remaining oil, as necessary.
Place two lettuce leaves together, overlapping ends to form a pocket. Place a patty inside the lettuce pocket. Top with arugula and remaining goat cheese. Drizzle with Sriracha sauce. Repeat with remaining burgers.
Source: Success Rice
Pomegranate and Arugula Rice Salad
1/3 cup olive oil
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons minced red onion
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 cups jasmine rice, cooked and cooled
5 ounces arugula
1 cup pomegranate seeds
1/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted
Crumbled goat or blue cheese, optional
In a large bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, red onion, mustard, honey, salt and pepper.
Add rice, arugula and pomegranate seeds to the bowl. Toss to coat thoroughly. Sprinkle with almonds.
For added flavor, top the salad with crumbled goat or blue cheese.
Source: Minute Rice
Cheesy Asparagus Tart
5 cups water
1 pound asparagus
Ice water
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste, divided
1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus additional to taste, divided Flour, for dusting
Heat oven to 400 F.
1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
1 cup grated fontina cheese
1 cup grated gruyere cheese
1 tablespoon shallot, minced
2 egg yolks
3 tablespoons milk
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 lemon, zest only
In a large skillet, add water and asparagus. Cook for 5-8 minutes until asparagus is bright green. Drain asparagus and soak in ice water.
In a large bowl, mix drained asparagus, vegetable oil, salt and pepper until combined.
Flour surface area. Using a rolling pin, roll out the pastry to a 10-by-16-inch rectangle. Transfer the pastry to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick the pastry with a fork. Bake for about 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly on the baking sheet.
In a large bowl, mix fontina cheese, gruyere cheese, shallot, egg yolks, milk, nutmeg, salt and pepper until combined. Spread cheese over the pastry, leaving 1 inch around the edges. Lay asparagus over the cheese mixture.
Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Sprinkle lemon zest over the tart before serving.
Source: Culinary.net
READER EXCHANGE
Books/Magazines
I’m looking for Ralph Compton’s “Trail Drive Series” books.
Elizabeth A. Samul P.O. Box 37 Antelope, OR 97001-0037
Crafts/Hobbies
We are gathering items again for Operation Christmas Child. If you sew, knit or crochet, we would love to have Barbie doll clothes, hats or finger puppets. We are also collecting Matchbox or Hot Wheels cars, cloth pencil pouches and Beanie Babies. Last year, we sent 558 shoeboxes worldwide. Our goal is to send as many or more this year. Many thanks to those of you who have sent items in the past, you have shared kindness and joy with children near and far, many of whom have never received a gift. If you have other gift ideas for children 3-14, let us know. Sometimes items are too large for the shoeboxes. We cannot send liquids or sweets.
Peggy Hodge 10106 Edgewood Drive Anderson Island, WA 98303 peggyocc2000@gmail.com
I’m requesting all types of yarn, old jewelry, cotton, fabric, buttons, wine corks and artificial flowers. I make things and donate to shelters, food banks, churches, pregnancy centers and anyone in need. Thank you in advance for anything you can send.
Christen Rath 6577 Lucky Lane #802 Brookings, OR 97415
I sew aprons, pot holders, etc. I would love to find an inexpensive source for fabric. Any good-sized scraps will work. Thank you.
Diane Sauer 17468 Auklet Drive Bend, OR 97707 dianelpn13@live.com
Milestones
Our amazing and precious mother, Verneil, is turning 100 years old in May. She has spent a lifetime helping others, never complaining, and always being there with a smile and a pleasant attitude. Please join us in celebrating this very special lady’s birthday. Send cards to Verneil Johnson, 611 S. Harriman Ave. #219, Amery, WI 54001.
Clayton Johnson Gold Beach, Oregon
At the end of May, mom will be 99 years old. I am thankful to still be able to receive her wisdom, reminisce memories and traditions, or sort buttons from the “purple tin” with great-grandkids. Birthday wishes from readers would be special. Betty Beckwith, The Forum at Town Center, 8709 SE Causey Ave. #226, Happy Valley, OR 97086.
Nancy Welfelt Redmond, Oregon
A very good friend of mine turns 97 in May. She would be tickled to receive a mailbox full of birthday wishes. She was a nurse for many years, raised her family and has always been a loving, giving person. Thank you so much. Send cards to Trudy Schoelkoph, 160 Joshua St., Grants Pass, OR 97526
Missy Murphy Bend, Oregon
Submitting Requests Is Free
Thanks
I would like to thank all the readers who sent crochet cotton to me. What generous members there are. I have more than enough to finish my tablecloth, and enough to do another tablecloth, plus place mats and a table runner. The colors are so bright and cheerful. Thank you all so much.
Patty Gassner Scio, Oregon
My mother, Gail Simmons, of Eugene, turned 80 in January. I requested birthday cards for her birthday and words of encouragement for still being a nurse in these difficult times. I was there when she checked her mailbox the first time, and the look on her face was priceless. She received more than 700 cards from all over the United States thanking her for her dedication to the medical field. I wanted to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for making her 80th birthday special. She read every one of the cards, some homemade and with hand-drawn pictures from children. What a blessing that something so small as a stamp and words of kindness go so far displaying the humanity left in the world. For those who wrote, God bless you, and thank you to the magazine for allowing us to share kindness in Milestones.
Robert Shafer Heppner, Oregon
Send your request—no attachments, please—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 and 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, please send it at least two months before the milestone. Phone numbers will not be published. Email addresses will be published if part of the ad, but you must include a postal address. Requests also must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.
See how landscapes can change in an instant at Arizona’s
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument
What Is It?
Walk over the most recent lava flow in Arizona at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. The monument—just outside Flagstaff— shows just how radically an eruption can change the landscape.
History
Many native tribes witnessed the volcano’s eruption just under 1,000 years ago, around 1,085 C.E. After days or weeks of earthquakes, a nearly 6-mile-long fissure split the Earth’s surface, and lava spouted up to 850 feet. The eruption covered 900 square miles with lava and ash, and the ash cloud could have been seen from as far away as presentday Tucson and Las Vegas.
Finding Flows
The main cinder cone you can visit today—the monument’s namesake Sunset Crater Volcano—formed around one of the main vents of the fissure. While the area surrounding the eruption was once fertile soil, it is now covered by the 10-story-deep lava flows. The oldest pine trees in the landscape are just 250 years old and are believed to be the first to grow since the eruption.
Nearby Monuments
Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is one of three national monuments in the Flagstaff area. If you drive about a half-hour, you reach Wupatki—a pueblo community from around 1100 C.E. near the painted desert—and Walnut Canyon, home to cliff dwellings.
More Information
The national monument is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The visitor center is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s and operates from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To plan your trip, call 928526-0502 or visit www.nps.gov/sucr.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE/L.CARTER
A Time to Honor
By Dave LaBelle
It’s a real paradox for me: I hate war, but I love and honor those who have sacrificed their lives for the freedoms we enjoy.
Michael Rummel called me from his Southern California home and asked if we could talk. He had met my son at Field of Dreams in Iowa and had read my latest book. Michael was struggling with some unfinished business—a promise he had made in Vietnam to fellow Marine Ron Denton some 50 years earlier. While drinking beer in Vietnam, the men had made a pledge: Whoever died first,
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
the other was to visit the deceased’s grave, drink a beer, say a few choice “Marine things,” then crumple the can and spike it into the earth. Silly perhaps, but a promise nonetheless.
Michael didn’t know where Ron was buried, but a search led him to Bowling Green, Kentucky, where Ron had lived the last part of his life.
“Fate is telling me to go to Bowling Green and say my special goodbye to Ron,” Michael said.
But he was still on the fence about going. Hearing how troubled he was, I encouraged him to find Ron’s grave and keep his promise. Because I once lived in Bowling Green while teaching at Western Kentucky University, I told him I would meet him there.
“I have struggled with that decision for seven years now,” Michael confessed. “Your response has tipped the scale in
favor of doing it.”
He made the trip and completed his mission, thankful he did.
This brings me to another short but important story.
A young soldier from the small town I was living in had been killed in action. Out of respect, I dressed appropriately and photographed the sensitive outdoor burial service from a distance using a telephoto lens.
Upon seeing me, a decorated military officer assigned to the burial detail left the grave site and approached me as I photographed the interment. He firmly asked me not to photograph.
I respectfully refused his request.
“This young man died for the very freedoms you are asking me to deny,” I told him.
Unsure how to respond, he left me alone.
Reader Challenge
On this Memorial Day, make a photograph that honors the day and those who gave their lives in service. Remember, you are not taking anything but giving and honoring the fallen and their families when you celebrate their sacrifices. Move slowly and with reverence when documenting any service. Not overshooting is important.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pur.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
I meant no disrespect to the officer, the family or the fallen soldier. To the contrary, I was showing them respect for the laws and rights of our nation and honoring the young man’s service. n
Vietnam veteran Michael Rummel fulfills a promise to a brother in arms. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
NIKON D700, 180mm lens ISO 200, f/4 at 1/400
2025
By Walt Amacher, Oregon—Tillamook PUD
Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest
It is time to share your favorite photos for a chance to appear in our 2025 Ruralite calendar.
Up to 13 winners will be selected and receive $100. Photos must be submitted by July 15, 2024.
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 30 megabytes will not be accepted. Send submissions to calendar@ruralite.org. Put “2025 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 your geography.
• Make us feel something (awe, joy).
Visit ruralite.com/2025contest for more information and an FAQ about entering the contest.
Free materials church, government uniting, suppressing “religious liberty,” enforcing NationalSunday Law. Be informed. Need mailing address only. TBS, P.O. Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. tbsmads@yahoo.com; 888-211-1715. 0824AR
Media
Watch local TV on the go for free on your TV, phone, tablet, computer or ROKU. Visit www.kpvm.tv and stream live today. 775-727-9400. 0624
Miscellaneous
Local commercial fisherman sells summer catch of preserved freshness by blast freezing at sea, gourmet canned tuna on internet. Sept.-June. 100% guaranteed the best canned tuna you ever tasted. Original, jalapeno and garlic flavors available. Twofisherstuna.com. Call 206-799-1082 to place your order. 0624
Alaskan yellow cedar. Great for planter boxes, herb and flower beds, fencing or decks. Various sizes available. Pete, 541-206-0727. Lisa, 541-747-5025, ext. 21. 0624
Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. For more info: Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or 541-815-8906; www.highdesertmemorials.com. 0524
Pets, Supplies
Traditional ragdoll kittens: www.rockinragdolls.com. Minature AKC poodle puppies: www.peachypoodles.net. Idaho. 208-627-7101. 0524
Border collie/McNab puppies. The best dog you will ever have. Males and females, $450 each. Colton, OR. 503-314-0145. 0524
Real Estate
40 acres in Christmas Valley, OR. Water well, metal barn 36x36’, two open carports, one container. Send offers to 52485 Sunrise Blvd., La Pine, OR 97739. 0524
$600K interior Alaskan turnkey roadhouse and 2 dry cabins. Well-maintained on 5 acres with pond. 50 scenic miles south to Denali Park entrance. 907-460-9292. 0524
1 acre Sunnyside, NV. 2,150 sqft. Well-kept mobile home, 35X35’ garage/shop. MLS#: 2507213. Desert Mountain Realty, Shannan Cessford #S.0186536. 775-289-3038. 0524
Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian. For sale Sisters, OR, 40 acres. Price reduced $1,595,000. John Gill, 541-480-9161 or johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0524
North ID forested 20-acre property. Multiple building sites, power at property line, 6 miles to Bonners Ferry. $380K. Offers considered. 530-715-0030; bgbkkr@gmail.com. 0624
320 acres east of Adel, OR. Borders Hart Mountain views, Steens Mountain, and Beaty Butte. Landowner tags, very rural. $267K. For maps contact: 541-659-1573; thejugglingman3@gmail.com. 0524.
Peaceful serene setting on 160 acres bordering BLM. Home, shop, meadow, 2 creeks, timber, LOP tags. $739.5K Duke Warner Realty, 541987-2363; ddwr@ortelco.net. 0524
Buying or selling in Brookings, OR? Call Pat Piper at Century 21 Agate Realty first. Experience. Empathy. Education. Exceptional. 541-251-2152; patpiperbroker@gmail.com. 1024
Off-grid homestead. Ideal for wind/solar power. NE Elko County, NV. Has equipment, quarters, shop. Year-round access. Water and power nearby. $35K. geopup58@gmail.com. 0524
15 off-grid acres. At 8400 ft. near Fort Garland, CO. Great view of CO’s 4th highest peak. On Person’s Road in Sangre de Cristo Ranches. Pinon trees, year-round access. $52.9K. 541-729-0374. 0924
Recreational Rentals
Wavecatcher: oceanfront cottage. Central Oregon coast. Summer $175/night midMay to mid-Oct.; $140/night mid-Oct. to mid-May. (plus cleaning/tax). Three bedrooms w/double beds. Pets welcome. Wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. Reservations: 541-740-2846. 0624AR
Bend country cabin. Very clean and fully furnished cabin on private ranch. Close to recreation areas. Very nice. $95/night. 541-382-3050; bendcountrycabins@gmail.com.
Vacation Rental - Syringa, ID. Rustic, 2-bed, furnished frame cabin. Near 3 rivers, mountains, wilderness. www.airbnb.com/rooms/356491; glenscott.swearingen@gmail.com. 0624 Services
Dawn Till Dusk Masonry. Brick, block, stone and pavers. Small jobs and repairs welcome. Check out our website at dawntillduskconstructionmasonry.com. 541-388-7605 or 541-410-6945. License #245760 bonded and insured. LaPine, OR.
Looking for an elevator repair person for an older elevator, residential, in the Sierra Valley. 415-710-2544. 0524
Call Pahrump Lock and Safe for all your residential, commercial and safe services. 24-hour emergency service in Pahrump, NV. 702-379-8441; Jim@pahrumplockandsafe.com. 0624
We all want delicious, fresh, nourishing food to feed our families. We’ve got pastured pork corn/soy/GMO free. Delivery to your door or drop sites. Order at www.rural-roots-ranch.com or text Christy at 541-589-4674. 0724
Timeshare victims? Call TimeShareBeGone, 800-214-4460. We will get your timeshare legally canceled. A+BBB, 5-Star reviews, 16 years experience. 100% money-back guarantee. 1024
Want to Buy
Old postage stamp albums. 253-307-1881; brashearsj@hotmail.com. Please send photos and contact info. 0524
Wanted: small, working oven element for a 1967-ish flair, double wall oven. 15 inches long, including 3-prong plug-in, 10.5 inches wide. 541-256-0990. 0524
Wanted by Papa and grandson: old car or pickup for project 1930s to 1970s. Call Bill, 503-995-3194. 0524
Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo blankets and rugs, baskets, beadwork, etc. Also, quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Call 760-409-3117 or send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com. 0524
Gold, silver, coins/currency, buy, sell. Collections wanted. Fair prices paid. 44 years in retail store. Baker City, OR. 800-556-2133; garrymclin@aol.com. 1024
Old carpenter tools, planes (wood/metal), levels, chisels, slicks, adzes, axes, hatchets, handsaws, old rulers, spoke shaves, wrenches, shipwright tools, old tool chests. 503-659-0009 or 971-666-0659. 0524
Wanted: early Corvette ‘58-’62, any condition. Call/text Randy, 503-544-3807. 0824
4
Steps to Electric Service
Connecting new electric service takes research and planning
Story and photo by David Herder
When a customer asks their utility for new electric service, it launches a detailed, diligent process into motion. Constructing an electric connection can run smoothly due to all the work done beforehand.
While every utility has its own customized process, a new connection almost always has four steps: application, engineering, permitting and construction.
Application
Typically, the journey of a thousand kilowatt-hours begins with a single application. This first step puts the project on the utility’s radar and begins the information-gathering process.
“If you’re thinking about building a house and you’re getting ready to build, go ahead and apply for new service,” says Kristin Burge, engineering and operations manager at Northern Lights Inc. in Sagle, Idaho. “Don’t wait until your house is built. Because you might come in, and we might not have the right transformer, especially if you need a special piece of equipment.”
Applications typically ask for an address, site plan—to give an idea of how the power will be connected—and a rough estimate of energy use. These questions help the utility plan for any engineering the project needs.
“Especially around here, you might have a 10-acre parcel,” Kristin says. “Well, where do you want power on that parcel?”
While customers can walk into utility offices to
get help with new applications, the information can often be gathered elsewhere. Customers can call their utility or find application materials on utility websites.
Engineering
As with any construction project, before any tools are brought out, it is important to ask, “How are we doing this?”
That plan is the responsibility of the utility’s engineering department. At utilities such as Central Electric Cooperative in Central Oregon, a field engineer heads out to the soon-to-beelectrified site to get the lay of the land.
“Engineers then design the infrastructure, considering the specific requirements and site conditions,” says Brent ten Pas, CEC vice president of member and public relations.
Engineers consider the most efficient way to add the service and calculate the additional cost of providing that service. The best way to connect a location to the power grid varies based on location and terrain.
Sometimes, it can be as simple as running a short wire to connect houses in a new subdivision into a central hub. Sometimes, it could mean running miles of wires and poles through steep woods to reach an isolated barn. Each job has different engineering challenges and costs.
Similarly, if the new customer is building a subdivision, factory or a resort, their power needs may present larger planning questions for a utility, depending on whether or not the current infrastructure can handle the increased electric load.
“CEC engineers evaluate the projected loads to determine the potential impacts to the system and whether upgrades are needed,” Brent says. “If needed, the developers are responsible for the associated costs of upgrading the system to deliver the required power for their projects.”
Utilities are constantly monitoring their systems to make sure they are capable of delivering the full power demand. At Northern Lights, there is a five-year construction plan as well as a 10-year forward-looking plan.
“We’re always trying to look forward so that we’re not going to have a capacity issue,” Kristin says.
Lineworkers at Benton REA in Southern Washington string power lines to provide increased electric load to a local business.
Permitting
In a construction project, it is necessary to follow local laws, codes and guidelines.
Depending on the town, county and state, new service can require electrical permits as well as any easements needed for the property a power line would cross to reach the new service. While the customer must typically get all of these permits, utilities can often help point them in the right direction.
Construction
Once the plans have been developed, lineworkers head into the field, construct a connection to the customer’s meter, and soon enough, a lightbulb turns on for the first time.
“Honestly, that’s the short thing usually,” Kristin says.
At the construction phase, the biggest hurdle is ensuring all of the necessary building materials are on-site. The whole world has faced supply chain challenges during the past four years. For utilities, this has meant difficulties acquiring components, such as transformers and power poles.
“Things have cooled off a little bit, but compared to the pre-COVID supply chain, it definitely has changed things,” Kristin says. “Last year, we ran out of elbows for underground connections. It’s just the most bizarre thing.”
In Alaska, challenges can come even if the materials are on hand. Alaska Village Electric Cooperative has nearly 50 power plants serving 58 communities across western Alaska. In most of those communities, materials must be shipped by barge or airlifted, which requires months long planning.
“We’ve got to have every nut and bolt figured out in advance,” says Bill Stamm, AVEC president and CEO. “If a lineman gets there and is short on materials, it can scuttle the job until we can regroup and get materials out there, which isn’t going to be just a drive to the hardware store. It will be a couple days or a couple weeks.”
Bill says AVEC accountants and auditors came to a realization recently.
“They realize that we are kind of a construction company that does utility service on the side, just because we always have something that’s being built in one of our locations,” he says. n
Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction
Centuries ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear.
On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.
We found a limited supply of turquoise from Arizona and purchased it for our Sedona Turquoise Collection . Inspired by the work of those ancient craftsmen and designed to showcase the exceptional blue stone, each stabilized vibrant cabochon features a unique, one-of-a-kind matrix surrounded in Bali metalwork. You could drop over $1,200 on a turquoise pendant, or you could secure 26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise for just $99.
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you aren’t completely happy with your purchase, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.
The supply of Arizona turquoise is limited, don’t miss your chance to own the Southwest’s brilliant blue treasure. Call today!
Jewelry Specifications:
• Arizona turquoise • Silver-finished settings Sedona Turquoise Collection A. Pendant (26 cts)
B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 +s&p C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw)
**Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings.
A.
B.
Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color