NOVEMBER
Leadership Redmond 2025 class members gather during a historical tour of downtown Redmond. PHOTO
COURTESY OF LEADERSHIP REDMOND
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) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200
B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 +s&p
C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw)
Set
* $99 +s&p Save $200
**Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings.
You
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Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color
Ruralite
November 2024
• Volume 72, No. 11
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
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
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This Is the Last One—For Me
See that young guy on the left? That is me more than 30 years ago on my first trip for this magazine. I was ambitious, energetic and excited about embarking on a new career as an assistant editor at a magazine, my dream job. Today, I am writing my last column before retiring at the end of the year. What a glorious ride it has been.
During my time, I have traveled to places I only dreamed of seeing. I spent a week on a tug-and-barge off the coast of Alaska. I traveled to Guatemala, where I spent three weeks photographing lineworkers bringing electricity to a small community for the first time. I have been in small, rural Alaskan villages only accessible by plane, boat or sled. I have covered forest fires in Oregon and a plucky young barrel racer in Arizona who is paralyzed from the waist down. I’ve been hoisted 70 feet in the air in a bucket truck and flown in a hot air balloon. And I have attended countless utility annual meetings, talking with readers like you.
In the past few years, I’ve received many calls, letters and emails from you. Some of you were grateful for a story or hopeful I would publish
For supplemental and interactive content, search @Ruralite on your favorite social media sites.
one. Others took exception to something in the magazine or found an error you thought I should know about.
A few of you sent me milkweed seeds in my quest to create a monarch butterfly habitat.
I appreciate your passion about what is printed each month. You have kept me on my toes. Thank you. My success here is due to two factors: The support of my wife and kids when I worked long hours and traveled at inopportune times; and through the support of a wonderful team of friends who do amazing work every day. I wish I had room to list each one of you, but you know who you are.
Starting next month, Chasity Anderson takes over duties as editorial director. She is a friend and someone I have great respect for. I know she will serve you well.
And now, friends, I say goodbye. I hope you continue to be faithful readers.
Farewell,
Mike Teegarden Editorial Director
From Service to Leadership
Air Force veteran continues to lead in local and state VFW Up Close, Page 10
Sleep in Heavenly Peace
Volunteers build beds so no child has to sleep on the floor
Developing Tomorrow’s Community Leaders Today
By Courtney Cobb
A common challenge for many communities is finding citizens willing to invest their time and energy in becoming wellinformed leaders who can make positive, lasting change.
“Developing leaders from young to old is critical to the community’s success,” says Eric Sande, executive director of the Redmond Chamber of Commerce & Convention and Visitors Bureau and Leadership Redmond program facilitator. “Everyone has something to give back. Helping expose new leaders to those who make our communities function 365 days a year is just vital.”
In 2002, the city faced an interesting dilemma of having open city council positions with no candidates.
“It wasn’t because there was anything
wrong,” Eric says. “It was because nobody knew they could run for a term on the city council.”
Leadership Redmond was created the following year. The Redmond Chamber of Commerce, Redmond Executive Association and Central Oregon Community College joined forces to create a framework and curriculum for the program.
The premise behind the program is to
chart a unique course that doesn’t replicate existing local leadership programs. Instead, it focuses on developing leaders who drive the community’s culture, know its history, manage the city’s departments and oversee nonprofits that support the community.
“Redmond is a very personal small town,” Eric says. “Doors are always open. We want to reinforce that by showing you can speak to anyone in this community by just a phone call or knock on the door. This program is unique in that we don’t teach you how to be a leader. We teach you who the leaders are, what their issues are and what makes Redmond run 365 days a year.”
Eric says people’s biggest misconception concerning involvement in various organizations and nonprofits is the belief they must have a degree or background in public service.
“It’s pure interest,” he says. “If you are
The Leadership Redmond class of 2025 takes an exploratory walk around downtown Redmond. PHOTO COURTESY OF LEADERSHIP REDMOND
interested, you can make a difference in your community.”
Bringing Redmond to Life
Imagine Redmond 20 years ago with no Maple Street Bridge, no art in public places, no historic preservation, no plazas, no Highway 97 reroute and a much smaller population.
The first Leadership Redmond class in 2004 consisted of 20 people who had their eyes opened to what others saw when visiting the city.
“One of their homework assignments was to act like a tourist and take a picture of something you would as a tourist within the city,” Eric says. “However, it was a real challenge because they couldn’t take pictures of the mountains because that’s not in town. The only art in town at that time was at the airport, and it was the bronze eagles. That was it.”
The statue created by Skip Armstrong is called Cycle of Life.
Today, numerous sculptures, murals and monuments dot the city of Redmond’s landscape. Eric credits the area’s transformation to consistent messaging, discussions about art in public places and having Leadership Redmond participants view the city through the eyes of a visitor.
Now, several organizations and nonprofits dedicate time to maintaining and promoting beautification efforts throughout the city.
“(Art) really shows your community has more than just an appreciation for living,” Eric says. “It shows it has an appreciation for the finer things with art and creativity.”
One day a month, from September through May, Leadership Redmond students gain exposure to everything in and around Redmond. The program covers such topics as tourism and recreation, public safety, waste management, transportation, business and industry development, nonprofits and health care.
Eric laughs as he says one of the group’s favorite tours takes students behind the scenes at Redmond St. Charles Hospital.
“It is one of the most highly rated days because we typically only understand the system from one side, but we get to do a deep dive into the ER, the physical plant,
radiology and more so you have a broader understanding of how that whole medical system functions in all circumstances,” he says.
The other high-ranking tour is the city’s wastewater treatment facility.
“We all flush a toilet, but we have no idea where it goes,” Eric says. “Where does the water go? What are the impacts of big RV rallies? It’s just a broader understanding of how our infrastructure systems work.”
Each day brings something different to the table for participants. Many come away with a new appreciation and passion for the community in which they live.
For 20 years, Eric says he has seen many aha moments by class participants and has watched the enthusiasm come alive.
“I tell every class that not every day will be a day that you are enthralled with, but I guarantee you will have at least one or two days where your lightbulb will go off and you will want to get involved,” he says.
Graduates of the program go on to be involved in various service clubs, parks and recreation and area nonprofits. Some have served as city councilors.
One of the biggest highlights of the program for Eric is graduation day and seeing the relationships that have been forged.
“You have become a family,” he says. “Every year, you can see the bond that has been created, and you know the community is in good hands going into the future.”
How to Get Involved
The Leadership Redmond program is open to everyone. Eric has seen teenagers and seniors go through the class.
“We are open to new and current residents,” he says. “Anyone who wants to learn more and how they can participate in the community.”
The program costs $800, and some partial scholarships are available to help.
“We have never denied someone from participating,” Eric says. “In fact, we have even had previous scholarship recipients pay it forward for other participants.”
Local businesses and organizations help by sponsoring scholarships and sessions
and presenting on topics that affect Redmond. Currently, 10 businesses sponsor the day-long programs, including Central Electric Cooperative.
“CEC is proud to partner with programs like Leadership Redmond because they provide an invaluable experience affording participants to engage with the community at such a deeper and productive level,” says Brent ten Pas, CEC vice president of member and public relations.
Above all, Eric says Leadership Redmond helps make Redmond a better place and gets people engaged in their community.
“Everyone needs to feel involved or have that opportunity to be involved, so it’s just a great way to make their community better,” he says. n
The next Leadership Redmond class starts in the fall of 2025. The Redmond Chamber of Commerce gathers names of those interested and reaches out when the registration period opens. Call 541-923-5191 for more information.
Twenty years ago, the only art visible in downtown Redmond was a statue of two birds called Cycle of Life. Since then, the town’s collection has grown exponentially. PHOTO BY COURTNEY COBB
PLUGGED IN
Be Storm-ready this Winter
Think like a lineworker to winterize your home and prepare emergency measures before the chill of the season sets in
By Nina Todea
When winter temperatures drop and storms hit, it can be challenging to stay warm and safe. Extremely low temperatures, high winds and heavy snowfall can lead to power outages. During a power outage, utility crews work as quickly and safely as possible to restore your power, but it still takes time.
Lineworkers, who brave the elements to keep electricity flowing, have key insights to storm readiness and how to keep their families ready come winter. Think like a lineworker, and take proactive measures now to ensure your home remains safe and prepare your family to weather any storm coming your way.
Prepare Your Home for Winter Storms
Although the extremity of winter weather varies from one region to another, no area is immune to weather-related events.
In Northern Idaho, where Foreman Cliff Miller has been a lineworker with Clearwater Power Co. for 29 years, winters are cold with significant snowfall. Cliff’s experiences as a lineworker
influence his lists of tasks inside and outside the home.
He recommends ensuring your heating system is reliable and efficient. Start with scheduling a maintenance check for your furnace or heating source. A professional can clean filters, check for potential hazards and ensure your system operates smoothly.
If you rely on electric heat, have a backup heating option in place—such as a generator, fireplace or wood-burning stove—to stay warm during prolonged outages. Remember that fuel- and woodburning heat sources should always be properly ventilated.
Insulating your home and weatherstripping around doors and windows can prevent heat loss and keep your space more comfortable, with and without power. For a more budget-friendly option, consider thermal curtains to help retain warmth.
Outside the home, Cliff recommends disconnecting all hoses from bibs and hydrants, draining them and putting them away, as well as draining and winterizing
campers and boats to store them for the winter. Installing stock tank heaters and filling propane tanks before winter weather hits is also beneficial.
When a storm hits and a power outage is likely, unplug all sensitive equipment so it isn’t damaged in a potential power surge.
Build a Winter Emergency Kit
An effective winter emergency kit is crucial for any household. Stock up on essentials: nonperishable food items, bottled water and medications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends families have at least a three-day supply of food and water per person.
“My home winter emergency kit includes water, freeze-dried meals, flashlights, a jet-boil or other backpack camping stove for heating water and food,” Cliff says. “Water and freeze-dried meals have served us best. I also always keep flashlights, blankets, a winter coat, a stocking hat and gloves in the vehicle during winter months.”
Warm clothing, such as gloves, hats and thermal layers, can protect against the
to Leadership
in and take advantage of the different opportunities provided,” is her advice for anyone considering serving in the military.
But Carol has specific words of wisdom for women.
“Females need to work alongside others, not behind or think they are better or worse,” she says. “The big thing is learning to be a team.”
This holds true in the military and out.
Carol earned the right to join the VFW while serving in Korea. In the past, many women veterans chose to join the women’s auxiliary instead of the VFW itself, even though they had served in the military. Now, not only are more women joining, but more are serving in leadership roles.
“Joining the VFW brings camaraderie among people who have been in military situations together,” Carol says. “We pull together and are able to stand up for veterans’ rights that we’re promised when we sign the dotted line.”
Carol serves as quartermaster for VFW Post 10029 in North Pole.
“I believe in helping the veterans and their families,” she says.
One thing Carol is always proud to do is ensure there are flag lines for soldiers to walk through when they return home. She says some people at airports seem to think they are blocking servicemen and women from seeing their families when they get off their planes, but that’s not the intent. Organizers want to ensure that when service members step into the airport returning from their stations, all they see is a wall of U.S. flags.
Life isn’t all about the VFW, though. Serving in accounting and budgeting in the Air Force prepared Carol for her current job as an accounting assistant at Design Alaska.
There were a few struggles when she first left the military, though. For one thing, deciding what to wear was a hassle after 20 years of wearing a uniform almost every day. Another was keeping track of time.
“Now I work on an hourly basis, not on call 24/7,” she says.
Veterans Day is special for Carol. She and her veteran husband of 19 years, David, work with a second grade class
that holds a special program for veterans each year. They previously held the event at the VFW post, but it grew so large, they must hold it at the Moose Lodge in Fairbanks.
Last year, about 75 students performed a program for about 20 or 30 veterans, with parents and others in attendance. Recently, the students presented veterans with a flag with all their handprints on it.
Carol isn’t sure why there are so many women veterans in Alaska—it’s tied with Virginia for the greatest proportion—but she does know there are many dualenrollment couples in the state, meaning both spouses served in the military.
Regardless, Carol loves calling Alaska home and enjoys camping with David and playing with their cat and dog. The couple have three children and six grandchildren. When she’s not outside, working or helping other people, Carol enjoys doing puzzles on her computer and encouraging other women to join VFW.
“You have that right just as much as (men) do to be a comrade,” she says. “We have served side by side.” n
LEFT: Carol and David Kacal hold a flag made of students’ handprints that was presented to veterans. RIGHT: Carol and David, left, deliver toys at a local hospital. PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAROL KACAL
Heavenly Peace
Washington and Charmayne Fazackerley help the children choose bedding. They unroll mattresses and teach them how to make their beds.
Deliveries like this tap the talents of Sleep in Heavenly Peace volunteers in more than 300 chapters in four countries united by one mantra: “No kid sleeps on the floor in our town.”
SHP founder Luke Mickelson says his first delivery in December 2012 melted his heart and left him resolved to do more. He built a set of bunks with a young men’s church group for a family in their Twin Falls, Idaho, congregation. After that, he built a bed with his family and delivered it to Haley, a 6-year-old girl who was in a new home with her mom after being homeless and sleeping in the backseat of their car.
“We went into little Haley’s bedroom, and there was a pile of clothes in the corner, and that’s what she slept on,” Luke says.
Haley’s joy and her mother’s tears of relief were eye-opening. Back then, it took hours to build a bed, but Luke realized there was nothing more worth his time.
“We ended up doing 22 beds before Christmas that year,” Luke says. “It was awesome.”
The next December, he got more people involved. In 2014, he set up a nonprofit because people wanted to donate to the cause. In 2015, Luke and his friend, now SHP Executive Director Jordan Allen, decided instead of just building at Christmas and for a few
Eagle Scout projects here and there, they should host builds all year. There were 15 build days that year.
Soon, SHP got calls from volunteers from Minnesota to Maryland who wanted to build beds in their hometowns. So, they flew people into Idaho to train them and help them form new chapters. By the end of 2017, they had chapters in five states and more on the way.
That’s when Mike Rowe of TV’s “Dirty Jobs” fame featured
Sometimes you have to be willing to challenge yourself to do more than you think you can do.
—Jim Prior, co-president of the SHP Eugene Chapter
them on his “Returning the Favor” Facebook Watch series. Mike leveraged community support for a rent-free warehouse for SHP for three years.
“But the biggest thing that came from that is we were viewed by 10 million people,” Luke says.
The episode aired Feb. 12, 2018. SHP put together an application for those wanting to start chapters.
“In the first year, we had like 2,000,” Luke says. “A crazy amount.”
SHP swiftly boomed from seven chapters to more than 120. Apart from a slowdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, SHP has consistently added 40 to 50 chapters a year.
Prospective chapter presidents must go to a build and prove they have enough community support to keep their chapters going. Then they fly to Lehi, Utah, for training.
Jim Prior, who serves as co-president of the SHP Eugene Chapter alongside his wife, Jeanette, says training is intense. They’d been involved in SHP for more than four years, so they felt like there was much they understood—but the training gave them much more to learn.
“It was still kind of like drinking from a fire hose,” Jim says. “Even though we knew the general concept of what was going on.”
The Priors took over when Eugene Chapter founders Bryce and Connie Jonas decided to step back a little over a year ago. No one had volunteered to take over, and the Priors
Jim Murzyn assembles a bunk bed during a delivery in Pahrump, Nevada. PHOTO BY GINGER MEURER
each year, including builds with coaches and players from the University of Oregon’s athletics programs. A July build brought in nearly 200 coaches, players and volunteers from multiple Oregon chapters who turned out 155 beds in less than four hours.
Nationally, Lowe’s—one of the organization’s biggest sponsors— hosts huge builds with multiple chapters.
The bed-building process has evolved a lot since 2012.
“I used to be on hands and knees trying to square corners,” Luke says. “It would take two hours just to build a bed, let alone sand it and stain it.”
Now, at some of the biggest builds, a bed is completed every 24 seconds.
“It’s crazy,” Luke says. “I like to say Henry Ford would be pretty proud of our assembly line.”
Everyone involved agrees that while building beds is fun, the most important part of the mission is the children.
When the beds were complete at the Pahrump home, 3-yearold Jazita was first to hug her freshly cased pillow and lie down on her new bed. She was speechless when asked what she thought of it, but her smile and expression of “Is this really for me?” were unmistakable.
Carmen isn’t surprised by Jazita’s reaction. Before the delivery, she talked about what it’s like when kids get their own beds.
“It’s like it’s their own space,” she says. “It’s their place; it’s nobody else’s. We’ve had quite a few kids get right in, and they’re already going to sleep before we’re out the door. The kids will jump in their bed no matter what time it is.”
Even though it was only 4 p.m., that’s exactly what Jazita did. n
For more information on volunteering or to apply for a bed, visit shpbeds.org.
ABOVE: Jazita can’t wait to try out her new bed. PHOTO BY GINGER MEURER TOP: Volunteers sand boards in an assembly line to build beds in Pahrump. PHOTO BY JOHN CLAUSEN
Flavors of Fall
Leftover Turkey and Dumpling Soup
Olive oil, as needed
1 large onion, sliced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
½ cup frozen peas
2 sprigs fresh sage
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
2½ quarts turkey or chicken stock
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1¾ cups heavy cream
1 pound leftover turkey, shredded
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Heat a large, heavy-bottom pot over medium heat. Add enough oil to just coat the bottom. When the oil is hot, add the onion slices. Let them caramelize for about 8 minutes or until golden brown, stirring often. Add the carrots and celery. Season with salt and pepper. Saute for about 8 minutes.
Add the sage, thyme, bay leaves and stock. Stir well and bring the liquid to a simmer.
Simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring often. Season the soup with salt and black pepper, to taste.
Meanwhile, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar and salt in a mixing bowl. Stir to combine. Stir in the heavy cream until just incorporated. Don’t overmix. The dough should be somewhat lumpy.
Remove the herbs from the soup, and stir in the turkey. Use two spoons to drop the dumplings into the soup in an even layer. Cover the pot, and simmer for 8 minutes. Remove the lid, add the peas, and simmer for 3 minutes.
Serve the soup in large bowls topped with black pepper and any additional herbs.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
ADOBE STOCK
PHOTO BY FOMAA
READER EXCHANGE
Books/Magazines
I would appreciate any Catherine Cookson books you may have and no longer want.
Marsha King 16637 William Foss Road La Pine, OR 97739
Crafts/Hobbies
I would love any old stamp collections or singles you would like to part with. Thanks in advance.
Rosalie Ferry 109 Raven Lane Careywood, ID 83809-9711
I’m seeking to illuminate my winter days with sparkle therapy. Living with a disability on a fixed income can be challenging, but your gift would bring sunshine. If you're willing to part with unwanted jewelry, components or treasures—for men or women—I’d be thrilled to accept them. Your thoughtfulness would give me a sense of fulfillment and happiness. Thank you in advance. I am forever grateful for your generosity.
Carly Wagner 913 Stillwell Ave. Tillamook, OR 97141
We are starting a respite care and are looking for old jewelry—broken or not— chains, beads, pearls and any items used to make jewelry or crafts for dementia patients. We would really appreciate anything you can give.
Diane Whitley
P.O. Box 1629 Eastsound, WA 98245
Milestones
My mother turns 92 this month. She is the wife of a retired Air Force man who took us all over. On base, she was a Girl Scout leader, VBS teacher and spent a lot of time at our sports events. She spends her days now reading, lunching with her greatgrandchildren and playing games online. It would be such a treat for her to receive wishes for her birthday. Send to Betty West, 1860 17th St., Springfield, OR 97477.
Laura Crowe
Springfield, Oregon
My dad turns 94 in December and would be delighted to receive birthday cards. He was born in England and served in the R.A.F. as a navigator. He came to the United States in 1965 and worked in sales until he retired. Since my mom’s passing, he spends his time watching the news and all sports on TV. He does some light gardening and still reads without glasses. His favorite hobby is sampling new beers, so if any readers could make suggestions of a new beer for him to try, he would love that. Send cards to Peter Burgoyne, 5549 Our Lane, Zephyrhills, FL 33542.
Larry Burgoyne Sagle, Idaho
Recipes
I am looking for a recipe for pecan praline fudge. I have one, but it failed both times I’ve used it. Can you help? Thank you in advance.
Pat Moss
P.O. Box 61155 Fairbanks, AK 99706
Submitting Requests Is Free
Thanks
A special thank you to all who contributed to my button collection. Your response was overwhelming, and I deeply appreciate you.
Bette McCarthy Pahrump, Nevada
Thank you to all the Ruralite readers who sent my friend, Elsie Bergold, almost 500 cards for her 105th birthday. We played poker and had cake. She was completely shocked by all the cards and the gifts that were sent from complete strangers. She opened all of her cards and read every one of them. KVAL News did a story on her for the nightly news.
Martha Curl Creswell, Oregon
Thank you to all the wonderful, amazing and kind readers that sent me buttons and my grandfather’s yearbook. It was like Christmas. I received them in packages, boxes and envelopes. Thank you so very much for your time, thoughts and kindness. I am so very thankful to everyone.
Kim Koester Fairbanks, Alaska
Have a happy and safe Thanksgiving!
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See the strength of nature’s architecture in Arizona at
Tonto Natural Bridge State Park
What Is It?
In Central Arizona, just north of Payson, Tonto
Natural Bridge
State Park is home to one of the largest natural travertine bridges in the world. The bridge is 60 feet thick, sits 183 feet off the ground and tops a roughly 400-footlong tunnel that measures 150 feet at its widest point.
Catch Fall Leaves
When visiting, enjoy the short hike down to the bottom of the waterfalls that gently cascade over the bridge and surrounding rocks. The water flowing down from the bridge has created an ideal environment for the aspen, cottonwood and elder trees that brighten the park with magnificent fall colors. While the colors peak in later October, they continue throughout November.
How Was It Made?
The natural bridge is made of a crystalline form of limestone, known as travertine. Broadly, the rock forms when spring water rich in calcium carbonate evaporates, leaving the calcium behind. The calcium built up into a large structure, before a hole was worn through the rock, creating the bridge.
What To Do
In addition to the travertine bridge, the park has four hiking trails, a picnic area, a group use area and the historic Goodfellow Lodge. All trails are shorter than a half-mile, but they are steep and strenuous, so be sure to pack drinking water. The trails close an hour before the park closes, and no dogs are allowed on any of the trails.
More Information
The state park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. but closed on Christmas. On Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve, the park closes at 2 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for youth 7 to 13 and free for children 6 and under. If visiting in the winter, be prepared for reduced services. Go to azstateparks. com/tonto for detailed information.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY JASON YODER
NORTH AMERICA’S
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✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service, all included at one low, affordable price You’ll agree – there just isn’t a better, more affordable walk-in tub on the market.
Someone To Be Thankful For
By Dave LaBelle
Thanksgiving comes in different shapes and is expressed in different ways.
Herb Recker never felt he deserved to take advantage of the Honor Flights that carry veterans to Washington, D.C.
Herb died in January at the age of 71. His Iowa friend, Tom Klaren, who served with him in the Iowa National Guard, carried Herb’s encased flag in May on an Honor Flight.
When veterans gathered at the World War I Memorial in Washington, D.C., they saluted the folded flag Tom brought, which had been given to Herb’s widow, Mary, at his funeral.
“I feel so passionate at what we owe those people, so much of what they gave up,” Tom says. “What their wives gave up, what their mothers and fathers gave up. Sometimes the ultimate sacrifice.
“I am a veteran myself, but not to the point these guys are, who served overseas. I just feel I am a step down from these
lecturer Dave
for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
Reader Challenge
As storytellers, we are always looking for fleeting moments that best express the pulse of a story. While I occasionally talk about photo fundamentals, my greatest interest and love is about the psychology of photography.
Perhaps you know a veteran who would agree and even enjoy the attention sitting still for a portrait would bring. Remember, when you make someone’s picture or listen to their story, you are honoring them.
Stay focused and alert. So many times, it is often those ever-fleeting gestures that reveal the most.
guys, that’s how I feel. Actually, Herb felt like I did. Since we were in the National Guard, we felt like we didn’t deserve to go like the guys who actually were in combat.”
Though Tom has made three Honor Flight trips as a guardian for four different veterans, he never made the trip as an “honored” veteran.
Herb and Tom were best friends from grade school, high school and in the National Guard. It was Tom’s honor to carry Herb’s flag to Washington, D.C.
“He was in my wedding, and I was in his wedding,” he says.
D810, 180mm lens ISO 100, f/5 at 1/200
After interviewing Tom, I made several pictures with his best friend’s flag in two different places in his home before asking him to carry Herb’s flag outside on his front lawn. Nothing I shot expressed the emotion this patriotic man felt. Then, after I was finished and sitting on the lawn, Tom grew openly emotional because it had been less than a week after returning from his trip to Washington, D.C. Emotions for Tom were still raw. Looking up, I saw him
relax and drop his guard. A small window opened, and I quickly raised my camera and was able to make two frames before the fleeting moment passed.
Once again, I was reminded of the importance of anticipating the unexpected. Sometimes the best unguarded storytelling moments happen when the formal shoot is over. Deep and buried emotions often surface ever-so-briefly once the camera is off. n
Renowned author, photographer and
LaBelle has captured special moments
An emotional Tom Klaren holds the flag of his deceased friend, Herb Recker. Tom carried the flag to Washington, D.C., in May 2024 on an Honor Flight. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE NIKON
Generational Wealth A future for generations to come
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Minimum order of 5 coins
GENERATIONAL WEALTH is of paramount significance as it represents a beacon of financial stability. It serves as a tangible testament to the hard work, diligence, and financial acumen of previous generations, offering a solid foundation upon which future generations can build their dreams and aspirations.
American Gold Reserve is releasing Government issued $5 Gold American Eagles completely free of dealer mark-up for only $279 each. These beautiful $5 Gold American Eagles are a perfect way to enter the gold market. They are set for immediate public release and will sell out fast
• Free of dealer markup. • Protection against inflation and deflation. • Gold offers financial cover during geopolitical uncertainty. • Good portfolio diversifier.
MARKETPLACE
Agriculture
Reinforced custom-sized pond liners (39 cents/sqft). Hay covers, greenhouse covers, any width and length. Truck tarps and more. High puncture and tear strength. Best price guaranteed. Celebrating 43 years in business. www.btlliners.com. 541-447-0712.
Antiques and Collectibles
Buying antiques and collectibles: advertising signs, porcelain signs, gas pumps, beer signs, antique toys, cast-iron coin banks, neon signs and more. Jason, 503-310-3321 or tjabaughman@yahoo.com. 0325
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. 1124
Automotive
‘66 and ‘67 Ford 2-door hardtop Fairlane 500s 289 V8, auto, straight, good glass, titles, project cars. ‘66 runs. ‘67 new upholstery. $5.5K each or $10K for both. LaGrande, OR. 541-663-9091. 1124
Business Opportunities
For sale: quaint hardware store in Maupin, OR. Inventory and interior store recently updated and refreshed. See ad on Bizbuysell.com or email Maupincountrystore@gmail.com. $239,999. 1124
Community Events
Art Center East’s 16th Annual “Handmade Holidays Makers Market” 4-8 p.m. Nov. 15 and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 16 in La Grande, OR. artcentereast.org. 1124
Farm Equipment
Two 1937 rare co-op tractors. #2, #3 1952. $900 for both. $1.7K, 1959. 691 $2K. 208-507-1211. 1124
Free Items
Free materials—church, government uniting, suppressing “religious liberty,” enforcing National Sunday Law. Be informed. Need mailing address only. TBS, P.O. Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. tbsmads@yahoo.com; 888-211-1715. 1224AR
Help Wanted
The Cape Blanco Heritage Society needs volunteers at the Cape Blanco Lighthouse Greeting Center and Hughes House for 2024 and 2025. Background checks are required. Free RV hookups are available to volunteers. heritage32@frontier.com; 541-332-0521. 1124
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. Phone numbers and emails count as one word.
Longer ads may be placed. Contact 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop for pricing information.
Ads are for customers of member co-ops, public utility districts and municipals only. Subscribers and nonmembers may inquire about pricing at 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop.
Ads must be direct and in first person, and are subject to approval and editing.
Closing deadlines (in our office): January issue—Nov. 30, 2024.
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@pioneer.coop.
Call 503-357-2105 to pay by credit card.
Advertisements are accepted in good faith. Pioneer Utility Resources is not liable for interactions between buyers and sellers.
Hobbies, Gifts, Games
Santa letters and cheerful artwork for gift giving and holidays, made in Alaska. We ship high-quality gifts and custom artwork, including letter bundles, totes, jewelry, prints, cards, relief prints, tiles. GV11 saves 10%. www.PamelaSueArtandDesigns.com. 1124
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. To order: twofisherstuna.com or call 206-799-1082. 1124
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.
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. 1224
Real Estate
Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in OR. Fourth-generation Oregonian, prior ranch owner. For sale: Sisters, OR. 40 acres. Price reduced. $1.55M. John Gill, 541-480-9161 or johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 1124
Dale store. Live or work in a recreational enthusiasts’ location, store, fuel, post office, home, game cooler. $325K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363 or ddwr@ortelco.net.
Last chance to get an undeveloped buildable lot (8,000 sqft.) in Sportsman’s Park (Wasco County, Tygh Valley, OR). Sewer to property line, water on property, power available. National forest on backside. 7 miles to Wamic. $86.6K. Eric, 971-370-0220. 1124
Become an instant Nevadan. Wells: Fully equipped, nonoperating, Bar/Grill, 479 6th St., $395K. 3/2 home, 1355 Lake Ave., $230K. 160 acres with water rights and structures, $160k. Goldfield, ruins of Catholic Church, $65K. Pahrump, Resort Membership $1.8K. kisciniello@yahoo.com; 775-550-2263. 1124
Your ad could be here in January. See instructions above for details.
Energy Efficiency For All
Income-qualified programs
make it easy for co-op members to reduce their monthly bills
By Courtney Cobb
Maria and Miguel knew they couldn’t survive another Central Oregon winter in their older manufactured home without a functioning heating system. The couple and their children had been making do the past two years without a working HVAC. They had a wood stove in the living room and space heaters in the bedrooms, yet the house remained cool. The young family couldn’t afford to have a new furnace put in because of the seasonal nature of Miguel’s job.
The prospect of facing another winter dealing with multiple layers of clothing and blankets, a cold, drafty house and higher energy bills was daunting. After talking with a Central Electric Cooperative customer service representative, the couple learned about the co-op’s Energy Efficiency Income Qualified program.
After a simple audit by Energy Specialist Alex Pajunen and Customer Service Translator Margie Ponce, Maria and Miguel discovered they were eligible not only for a new heat pump, but also a heat pump water heater, floor insulation, a washer and dryer, and improved ductwork for the dryer and HVAC system.
Today, their home is cozy and more energy efficient than before. They have seen their electric bills decrease and are thankful for the help from CEC to create a warm and safe space for their family.
Income-Qualified Offerings
With the chill of winter around the corner, many renters and homeowners are looking at ways to prepare their homes. Central Electric Cooperative believes every member and home should benefit from greater energy efficiency. The cooperative offers special incentives and resources for income-qualified households.
“As long as members meet CEC’s income requirements, we can potentially upgrade the heating and cooling system, the water heater, windows, insulation, and clothes washers and dryers at no cost to the homeowner,” Energy Services Manager Thomas Elzinga says.
TOP: Central Electric Cooperative’s Energy Services team is ready to help all members with their energy-efficiency needs. From left are Energy Services Representative Sarah Green, Energy Services Manager Thomas Elzinga and Energy Specialist Alex Pajunen.
PHOTO BY COURTNEY COBB
The program is for renters or homeowners and covers site-built or manufactured homes. Since 2015, CEC has helped more than 166 families improve their homes and lower their bills.
“Since the beginning of the year through August, we have helped over 66 families,” Thomas says.
How to Apply
The income-qualified program is available at no cost to members. Those interested in this opportunity should call Central Electric Cooperative and speak with an energy specialist.
“We will discuss income levels and set up a home energy audit to see what we might be able to do and offer you,” Thomas says.
The income requirement must be met from the combined incomes of everyone in the household or property. Renters must secure the property owner’s permission before making any modifications.
Alex says multiple projects are often completed.
“As long as there is a need for it—and if it’s something that
CEC can help with—we try and get the member qualified for all of our available upgrades,” he says. “This will help improve the home’s energy efficiency and ultimately reduce the member’s overall electric usage.”
Once the energy audit is completed and all requirements are met, CEC works with local contractors to make the process as easy and stress-free as possible for members.
“We take care of all the paperwork,” Alex says. “The only thing they should have to worry about is scheduling a time to have the work completed.”
Alex and Thomas stress income-qualified members should consider the program.
“This is a no-cost way to help improve your home and help lower your ongoing utility bills,” Thomas says. “Some members have been able to lower their bills by hundreds of dollars.” n
To learn more about CEC’s income-qualified program, visit www.cec.coop under the energy-efficiency tab or call 541-548-2144 and select option 6 to talk with an energy specialist.
CLOCKWISE FROM ABOVE: A contractor installs an energy-efficient washing machine. PHOTO BY SPATES Heat pumps move heat instead of generating heat, typically requiring less energy and resulting in higher efficiency. A technician repairs a heat pump unit. PHOTOS BY WELCOMIA
Help Us Help Your Neighbors
#SleevesUp to donate blood for your community
At Pioneer Utility Resources, the publisher of Ruralite magazine, we are always working to put the right letters together to tell a story. The American Red Cross story can’t be told without three letters: A, B and O, which represent the main blood types. When those important letters are missing from blood bank shelves, lives are at stake.
With the recent hurricanes in Florida adding to the need for blood nationwide, we encourage each of you to consider
Donate between Nov. 18 and Dec. 8, and you could receive two pairs of socks.
Facts About Blood Needs
X Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood and or platelets.
X Approximately 29,000 units of red blood cells are needed every day in the U.S.
X Nearly 5,000 units of platelets and 6,500 units of plasma are needed daily in the U.S.
X Sickle cell disease affects 90,000 to 100,000 people in the U.S. About 1,000 babies are born with the disease each year. Sickle cell patients can require blood transfusions throughout their lives.
X According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1.9 million
donating blood by rolling up your sleeves and visiting a local Red Cross donation center between Oct. 25 and Dec. 25. Your gift of blood can save more than one life.
Visit this link—https://rcblood.org/3zJ1rxU—or scan the QR code below. Sign up to help us reach our goal and fill in the missing blood types so patients can receive the lifesaving care they need. Make and keep an appointment to give blood to the American Red Cross. n
https://rcblood.org/3zJ1rxU
people are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in 2025. Many of them will need blood, sometimes daily, during their chemotherapy treatments.
X Nearly 16 million blood components are transfused each year in the U.S.
X The average red blood cell transfusion is approximately 3 units.
X A single-car accident victim can require as many as 100 units of blood.
X Blood and platelets cannot be manufactured; they can only come from volunteer donors.
X The blood type most often requested by hospitals is type O.
X One donation can help save more than one life.
With more than 200 recipes, this cookbook from our 2007 contest offers options for potlucks, family reunions or picnics. As a bonus, additional pages feature previously unpublished barbecue recipes from a 2006 contest. The 8½-by-11-inch spiral-bound, indexed book is $10 (includes postage).
TO ORDER BY MAIL:
Submit payment with cookbook title, your name, address and number of cookbooks wanted to:
Ruralite Cookbooks
P.O. Box 1306
North Plains, OR 97133
TO PAY BY PHONE: Call 503-357-2105 for credit card payments with Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express.
TO ORDER ONLINE: Visit www.ruralite.com.
Please allow two to three weeks for delivery.
Central Issues
Central Electric Cooperative DIRECTORS
Chairman Kip Light, Madras
Vice Chairman Kelly McFarlane, Powell Butte
Secretary/Treasurer Kenneth H. Miltenberger, Alfalfa
Mark Christie, Sisters
Beverly Clarno, Redmond
Boyd Keeton, Tumalo
Sam McKenzie, Prineville
Dan Steelhammer, Bend
Tom Strand, Terrebonne
Attorney, Thomas M. Grim
Cable Huston LLP, Portland
STAFF
President & CEO
Brad Wilson
Vice President of Finance & Accounting
Shane Morgan
Vice President of Operations & Engineering
Kevin Rohde
Vice President of Information Services
Phillip Franklin
Vice President of Member & Public Relations
Brent ten Pas
Vice President of Customer & Energy Services
Ryan Davies
24-HOUR
PHONE NUMBERS:
Call 541-548-2144 or toll-free 800-924-8736.
Mission Statement
The aim of Central Electric Co-op is to make electric energy available to its members at the lowest cost consistent with sound economy and good management.
The board meets the third Thursday of each month at the CEC office, 2098 NW Sixth St., Redmond, OR.
www.cec.coop
OR-12
Lend a Helping Hand to Other Members This Holiday Season
Christopher—a proud, retired Marine who served in Vietnam— has ongoing medical issues and a pile of medical debt. He struggles to keep his power on and have enough to eat monthly. He cannot work to supplement his fixed income due to his poor health.
Jessica, who is in her 80s, had an undetected hot water pipe leak in her house, requiring extensive and expensive floor repairs and mold removal. She fell behind on her bills and needed help.
Christopher and Jessica’s stories represent many members we hear from throughout the year who need financial assistance with their electric bills due to life’s circumstances outside their control.
It is the holiday season—accompanied by shorter days, colder temperatures and higher electric bills—when Central Electric Cooperative sees a spike in the number of inquiries from members during their time of greatest need.
CEC is here to help. Project Helping Hand is a voluntary program that provides bill payment assistance to co-op members with various demonstrated needs. Fellow members raise donations by opting to round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar.
Members’ spare change can go a long way. Over time, these donations, albeit small, substantially accumulate through the collective effort and, ultimately, significantly help members in need pay their electric bills.
Since the program’s inception in 2000, member donations enabled CEC to distribute more than $500,000 in assistance to more than 3,000 members. Last year, 277 members received a helping hand, totaling more than $51,000.
There are three ways to participate. You may elect to have your bill rounded up to the next dollar, add a fixed amount to your monthly bill—whether $1, $2, $5 or more— or make a one-time donation. Recently, a member made a $1,000 donation.
A few months ago, CEC sent an email appeal to members to sign up for Project Helping Hand, and the response was so encouraging. More than 300 members signed up, pushing enrollment to an all-time high of 2,800 members. We greatly appreciate the care and generosity demonstrated by all members who enrolled.
For those members who haven’t, I urge you to strongly consider doing so this holiday season to help us surpass the 3,000 member threshold. Collectively, members helping members can make lives a little brighter for those in need.
To sign up, go to www.cec.coop under the community tab, go online through SmartHub or call our customer service representatives at 541-548-2144. You may leave the program at any time. CEC provides a year-to-date contribution summary on your monthly bill.
President and CEO Brad Wilson