Ruralite, Consumers Power, June 2025

JUNE

The Webb family raises Valais Blacknose sheep and other livestock at their Scio farm. From left are David, Joy, Hope, Hadassah and Faith Webb. PHOTO BY DANITA CAHILL

Ruralite

June 2025 • Volume 72, No. 6

CEO Michael Shepard

SENIOR VP OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Chasity Anderson, CCC

DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Noble Sprayberry

SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC

ASSISTANT EDITORS Victoria Hampton, CCC; David Herder, CCC; Sable Riley, CCC

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Valeri Saldanha Rosa, Nina Todea

PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION SR. MANAGER

Elizabeth Beatty

SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR

Alyssa McDougle

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Celebrating the Unexpected

There’s something captivating about discovering the unexpected in the ordinary.

In this month’s issue, we’re drawn to stories of people who’ve found joy, purpose and community in places they never anticipated.

Take Paul Swanson, who stumbled across a YouTube video of magnet fishing and found not just a hobby, but what he calls his “soul savior.” Living with progressive multiple sclerosis and raising two children with autism, Paul transformed a simple activity into a meaningful pursuit that connects him with friends, cleans local waterways and reveals history hidden beneath the surface.

We also explore communities that celebrate their distinct character through what can only be described as delightfully unconventional festivities. From Alaska’s Outhouse Races— complete with custom privies on skis—to Idaho’s Silver Wake Celebration showcasing handcrafted wooden boats, these gatherings remind us that tradition often walks hand in hand with eccentricity.

Even the everyday tortilla becomes something extraordinary in our kitchen section, where Gertrude Treadaway shows us how this simple staple can be transformed into everything from pizza quesadillas to taco lasagna. Sometimes the most accessible ingredients offer the greatest creative possibilities.

There’s a refreshing authenticity in these stories—people finding their way to passion and community through unexpected avenues.

As summer begins, I find myself inspired to look for the extraordinary hiding in plain sight. Perhaps there’s a local tradition I’ve overlooked, a hobby I’ve dismissed or a simple pleasure I’ve forgotten to appreciate. I hope this issue encourages you to do the same—to celebrate the unexpected treasures in your own community.

Until next time, Chasity Anderson Editorial Director

What unexpected discoveries have you made in your community? We’d love to hear about the extraordinary elements that make your area special. Maybe you’ll even see a story about it in an upcoming edition! Reach me at editor@pioneer.coop.

The Allure of Water

Paul Swanson’s magnet fishing journey transforms disability into discovery

Up Close, Page 10

Tradition Meets Eccentricity

Spotlight, Page 12

Roll, Fold and Feast

Turn to tortillas

In The Kitchen, Page 16

The World’s Cutest Sheep

The Webb family raises and shows Valais Blacknose sheep and other animals

Story and photos by Danita Cahill

Valais Blacknose sheep are often called the world’s cutest sheep. The lambs, with their black ears, black faces and woolly white heads, resemble a child’s stuffed toy. The sheep are a heritage, dual-purpose breed from the Valais region of Switzerland, raised for wool and meat.

Hadassah Webb, who lives in Scio in Consumers Power’s service territory, began breeding Valais Blacknose sheep in 2019. Since live sheep are not allowed to leave Switzerland, Hadassah began her flock using imported Valais Blacknose semen from Switzerland in what is called a “breed up” program, with each subsequent generation carrying a higher percentage of Valais Blacknose. Hadassah started the program with Shropshire ewes. She started her Shropshire bloodline when she was a fourth grade 4-H member.

“I had a good, healthy line,” Hadassah says. “I used the lineage from clear back when I was a kid.”

Hadassah now has a flock of 15 Valais, including a purebred ram, who is cute and sweet tempered.

“The breed is calm and laid-back,” she says. “The meat has a mild flavor.”

Valais are resilient in harsh climates. They are friendly, medium size and their meat is lean. But there are also downsides to the breed. For example, proper black markings on Valais sheep are challenging to get.

“Females should have a finger length of white down their tails,” Hadassah says. “Males are not to have any black on the bum.”

Valais should have black noses, faces and ears. Rams and ewes should have black knees and hocks, with some white between the hocks and knees and the black sock area around

the hooves. The tails are not docked, like most sheep breeds, but left long.

“They control their tails really well,” Hadassah says, as opposed to many breeds whose tails just sort of hang there and get messy.

A well-marked Valais with good confirmation and quality wool can fetch as much as $10,000, Hadassah says. There are an estimated 5,000 purebred Valais in the United States.

Hadassah and her husband, David’s, three daughters, Faith, 17, Hope, 13, and Joy, 11, are 4-H members, and have entered 4-H projects in Linn County Fair relating to their family’s herd of Valais Blacknoses. Faith does felting projects with the wool. Some of her projects made it to the state fair. She also makes felted items to sell at the Black Sheep Gathering each year in Lebanon. Hope painted a portrait of a Valais Blacknose, and Joy made a little purse with a Valais face on it. She also weaves wool on a loom.

Sheep aren’t the only animals raised at the Webbs’ farm. Faith raises small silky ducks and larger Saxony ducks. The latter is a German breed that became a U.S. breed in the fall of 2000 in

Hadassah Webb greets one of the Valais Blacknose sheep at Joy and Martin Dally’s farm, Shepherds Lane, in Lacomb.

Albany, Oregon, when 30 breeders got together with 190 birds. The National Poultry Association met with them, looked over the ducks and officially registered the Saxony as a breed.

“I like the Saxony because they lay large white eggs and lots of them,” Faith says. “They are a large breed duck. Friendly, calm and pretty. They are a good meat breed.”

Faith has won awards at county and state levels for her eggs, duck and chicken.

“She’s won best eggs in Oregon twice,” says David, who is a Greater Albany School District teacher.

Hope shows sheep and Barnevelder chickens. Joy shows Dexter cattle. Dexters are a small, docile cow with good-tasting meat.

“They’re easier to keep than a fullsize breed,” Joy says.

Besides sheep, cattle, chickens and ducks, the Webb family also raises golden retrievers on their farm. Faith is accomplished in dog competitions. She’s titled a dog in the American Kennel Club obedience class, has won a trick dog title, a Canine Good Citizen award and a 4-H Dog Champion Showman. Hope won an obedience champion in 4-H as well as a reserve champion in dog showmanship.

Hadassah has Valais mentors, Joy and Martin Dally, of Lebanon. Martin had a lengthy career at the University of California, Davis doing sheep research and is still an artificial insemination technician. Martin and Joy were the first shepherds in the United States to produce purebred Valais Blacknoses. Hadassah works for Joy, helping with their large flock of Valais and other imported breeds of sheep.

Hadassah and Joy organize agricultural tourism events at the Dallys’ farm, Shepherds Lane. This year, they hosted a Valentine’s event and an Easter event so people could come meet and pet the lambs. Hadassah takes visitors’ photos with the lambs. Joy and Hadassah hope to expand the open barn events to include one in the summertime with vendors and live music.

Last summer, Hadassah and Joy traveled to Iowa for the National Valais Show. One of Hadassah’s young Valais ewes placed first in her class and was sold to a man in Idaho. n

For more information on Valais Blacknose sheep or upcoming Shepherds Lane events, check out Webb’s Wold Woolies on Facebook or go to shepherdslane.com.

TOP: The Webb family began breeding Valais Blacknose sheep in 2019 at their Scio farm.

From left, Faith, Joy and Hope Webb snuggle the family’s latest litter of golden retriever puppies.

Joy Dally, right, of Shepherds Lane Farm, mentors Hadassah on raising Valais Blacknose sheep.

FROM

POWER DIVERSITY

Why America’s electric grid needs a mix of fuels

By Sable Riley and Michael Leitman

America’s appetite for energy never takes a break—and neither can the power grid. That reliability stems from a diverse energy mix. Across the country, electric utilities depend on coal, natural gas, nuclear, wind, solar, hydropower, biomass—from organic waste like wood chips—and geothermal sources to keep the power flowing.

Energy Mix by the Numbers

According to the U.S. Energy Information

Administration, natural gas is the leading source of energy, generating about 43% of the United States’ electricity in 2023, the most recent statistics available.

Coal, once dominant, has fallen to about 16%. Nuclear produces roughly 18%, delivering reliable baseload power. Renewables continue to grow. Wind contributes about 10%, hydroelectric dams about 6%, solar farms 4%, and biomass and geothermal together account for 1-2%.

Altogether, renewables make up just more than 20% of the mix. This balance—60% fossil fuels, 20% nuclear and 20% renewables— leverages the strengths of each resource.

Electric utilities embrace an

all-of-the-above strategy. Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, says diversity of electric generation, including baseload sources, is essential to providing dependable, affordable power.

Utilities use what’s local and available— hydro in the Northwest and solar in the Southwest—and exchange power regionally to stay flexible.

Dispatchable and Nondispatchable Sources

Some sources can be turned on when needed; others can’t. Dispatchable sources like natural gas, coal and hydropower—if

What Fuels the Four Regions of the United States

Energy choices—and the sheer volume of power produced— swing wildly once you break the country into the four Census Bureau regions. This map shows each region’s 2023 electricity output, then stacks the fuel mix so you can see who leans on gas, who burns coal, and where wind, solar and hydropower dominate from coast to coast.

Midwest (945 terawatt-hours)

• Natural Gas: 25%

• Coal: 32%

• Nuclear: 12%

- Wind: 24% - Solar: 3%

NOTE: Percentages are approximate shares based on the most recent data available from the U.S. Energy Information Administration utility-scale net generation. *Other renewables combine biomass and geothermal fuel data.

West (766 TWh)

• Natural Gas: 30%

• Coal: 10%

• Nuclear: 4%

• Renewables: 31%

• Renewables: 56%

- Wind: 14%

- Solar: 18%

- Hydropower: 22%

- Other: 2%

• Petroleum: 1%

- Hydropower: 3% - Other: 1%

Northeast (524 TWh)

• Natural Gas: 47%

• Coal: 5%

• Nuclear: 29%

• Renewables: 18%

- Wind: 5%

- Solar: 4%

- Hydropower: 8%

- Other: 1%

• Petroleum: <1%

South (1,934 TWh)

• Natural Gas: 45%

• Coal: 18%

• Nuclear: 17%

• Renewables: 19%

- Wind: 9%

- Solar: 6%

- Hydropower: 3%

- Other: 1%

• Petroleum: 1%

those resources are available—ramp up and down on command, responding instantly to demand changes. In contrast, nondispatchable sources like wind and solar depend on weather. A reliable grid needs both types working in concert. On a sunny afternoon, solar farms may flood California’s grid with power. At sunset, fast-start gas and hydroelectric plants take over.

“The growth of renewables has had many benefits, but the wind doesn’t always blow, and the sun doesn’t always shine,” Southwest Power Pool’s Paul Suskie said in a 2023 congressional testimony on grid security.

Grid operators must rely on other fuel sources to ensure demand can still be met, Paul said. Real-world events underscore this interplay.

During California’s 2022 heat wave, battery storage systems and gas plants met peak evening demand after solar generation declined. Conversely, Winter Storm Elliott in December 2022 caused blackouts in parts of the Southeast when more than 100,000 megawatts of coal and gas capacity failed during freezing conditions. That crisis revealed the risk of over-reliance on a single resource.

Policymaking and Grid Reliability

Electricity demand is also skyrocketing, fueled by new data centers and a surge in domestic manufacturing.

According to the North American Electric Reliability Corp., electric demand growth is now the highest it has been in more than two decades. Over the next 10 years, peak power

needs are expected to rise by more than 18%, with new projects driving demand even higher. That puts grid reliability under the microscope.

Regulators at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and at the state level are adjusting policies to support capacity, storage and demand response. In 2024, FERC Commissioner Mark Christie warned the United States is heading for a catastrophic situation in terms of reliability if changes aren’t made carefully during testimony before the House Subcommittee on Energy, Climate, and Grid Security.

The nation’s energy mix is shifting, driven by economics, innovation and policy choices. Federal incentives from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act accelerated investments in solar, wind, batteries and advanced nuclear. At the same time, environmental regulations are prompting closures of older coal and gas plants.

NERC’s 2024 assessment cautions that rising demand combined with shrinking

LEFT: Renewable energy sources like solar and wind provide many benefits and can deliver low-cost electricity, but they only generate electricity when the

or

baseload capacity puts many regions at risk of shortfalls during extreme conditions— even after recent solar and storage additions.

Strengthening Renewables

Energy storage is a promising development. Batteries help balance intermittent renewables by storing surplus energy and releasing it when needed. Battery capacity in the United States jumped 66% in 2024 to roughly 26 gigawatts and could nearly double again by the end of 2025, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.

The Bottom Line

No single energy source can guarantee affordable, uninterrupted electricity across a country as vast and weather-diverse as the United States. Natural gas is flexible but susceptible to supply disruptions. Coal and nuclear plants offer consistent output but are less adaptable and aging. Wind and solar, while clean, depend on weather, and storage solutions remain limited.

Having a range of energy resources safeguards against any one fuel becoming scarce, expensive or unexpectedly unavailable.

That’s why electric utilities continue to invest in a balanced portfolio of energy sources—diversity gives the grid the resilience it needs to meet demand in the moments that matter most. n

sun shines

the wind blows. PHOTO COURTESY OF NRECA BELOW: Most areas of the United States are powered by natural gas plants. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRENT WALLACE

OUTAGES DURING WILDFIRE SEASON

During Oregon’s wildfire season, CPI exercises an abundance of caution to ensure members, and our communities stay safe.

Our Operational Wildfire Risk Mitigation Plan focuses on three main components: vegetation management, system coordination and system hardening. The plan uses a systematic approach to implement immediate, short- and long-term actions, and documents these activities for future reference.

To view CPI’s Wildfire Mitigation Plan, visit the cpi.coop/safety/wildfire-safety page.

Prepare for Power Outages During Wildfire Season

During wildfire season, CPI modifies the settings on its reclosers to prioritize safety and reduce fire risks. While these adjustments may lead to more frequent and longer-lasting power outages, they are essential for protecting our communities.

What Are Reclosers?

Reclosers are devices on power lines designed to automatically shut off electricity when faults, such as a tree branch contacting a line, are detected. After a brief pause, they attempt to restore power, helping to minimize outage durations and ensure reliable service.

What Changes Occur During Wildfire Season?

To lower the risk of wildfires caused by electrical equipment, CPI increases the sensitivity of its reclosers during wildfire season. They will shut off power more quickly and will not attempt to restore it automatically. Power remains off until a visual inspection of the lines confirms it is safe to restore.

What Does This Mean for You?

Expect more frequent and prolonged power outages during wildfire season. While we recognize this may cause inconvenience, your safety and the protection of our communities remain CPI’s top priorities.

PLAN KNOW ACT

To learn more about personal preparation, including information on creating an emergency plan and defense perimeter, as well as links to resources such as Watch Duty and Emergency Alerts, scan the QR code, or visit cpi.coop/safety/wildfire-safety.

The Allure of

Paul Swanson’s magnet fishing journey transforms disability into discovery

By Ginger Meurer

Around 2019, Paul Swanson stumbled across a YouTube video of Magnetic Mike hurling a high-power magnet into Florida waters to fish for metal.

“That one video, I was hooked,” Paul says. With a background in construction and angling, Paul saw magnet fishing as a beautiful blend.

“Once I threw a rope with my magnet, it was all over with,” he says. “I’ve never been so happy to pull up a horseshoe in my life.”

That first horseshoe hangs from a plaque bearing the inscription, “Everybody needs a little luck,” in Paul’s Spokane, Washington, living room.

‘Soul Saver’

Magnet fishing was more than lucky for Paul.

“I call it my soul savior,” he says.

Paul has progressive multiple sclerosis and is raising two children with autism.

“I needed something to do that wouldn’t break the family’s budget,” he says. “And our water is so rich in history, I just had to see.”

Waterways surround Paul’s home. From the 111-mile Spokane River to more than 86 nearby lakes, he says it’s impossible to run out of places to explore.

“We had the great fire of Spokane back in the early 1900s,” he says. “There’s so much stuff in that waterway, in anybody’s waterways. It’s just never been seen.”

Paul teamed with other magnet fishing enthusiasts and the Spokane Riverkeeper organization to help clean up the surrounding waterways.

“I’ve fought very hard not to be in a wheelchair,” he says. “So, now I go around with crutches and a bilateral brace, and I surround myself with a lot of warrior friends.”

There are at least four longtime regulars who meet around once a month, and as many as 700 more magnet anglers pitch in on big projects, like the time they tried to set a World Record, bringing in more than 14 tons of findings.

Friends help gear Paul up to set out aboard his double-hulled Livingston, where they throw and pull from over the boat’s edge.

“They’re all good swimmers. Nobody would let me go,” Paul says. “They keep a good eye on me. My wife’s pretty happy about that.”

Paul’s friends call him Mag Neto.

“Because I’m a magnet fisherman and because of my legs and everything else,” he says. “It just kind of stuck with me.”

Surprises Surface

Plenty has stuck to Paul’s magnet. He and his buddies have fished up just about everything, from Model-T rims to bathtubs, shopping carts, bicycles, electric scooters, phones, knives and even a few historic guns.

It isn’t about profit or treasure hunting for them. In fact, they end up donating the proceeds from most of their finds to charities. If owners are traceable, they return items, too. Often, they’ve been called on to help retrieve lost items. Occasionally, they even rescue newbies in need.

“You gotta help them out sometimes,” Paul says. “They just don’t realize that if they’re on a metal bridge and they throw out a magnet, it slaps to the side of it. There are ways to get it off, and we’ve mastered it.”

When people are looking for gear or tips, Paul sends them to Muscular Magnetics, a company launched about seven years ago in Orem, Utah, and is now based in Idaho Falls.

“Once you get the idea, oh, you’re essentially underwater metal detecting, it sparks the interest,” he says. “People wonder, ‘What can I find?’ We have had customers that have pulled some extraordinarily awesome things out of the water.”

Fish Responsibly

Paul says magnet fishing isn’t for everyone and stresses that high-power magnets are not toys. If you have a pacemaker, this is not the hobby for you. Hearing aids are magnet-sensitive, too.

“And don’t put your phone near it, or you’re going to wipe it clean,” Paul says.

He also recommends respecting the waterways. He avoids indigenous areas and stays clear of places where fish spawn. Former battle areas are also a hazard.

Muscular Magnetics owner Michael Taylor built a great relationship with Paul.

“The moment I talked to Paul, he knew everything you could imagine about magnet fishing, probably better than I did, honestly,” Michael says. “He’s done great things where he is up in Washington.”

Michael says magnet fishing took off during the pandemic with people wanting to get out more, and that interest hasn’t diminished. The moment people see it, they want to know more.

The top of that list includes a convenience store ATM retrieved from the waters separating New York and New Jersey. Magnet fishing enthusiasts have discovered live bombs that required the bomb squad. Then there are handguns, shotguns, and even a couple of sniper rifles fished out by a grandfather and his grandson in Florida.

Muscular Magnetics and several competitors offer kits with everything from low-power magnets for beginners to high-power double-sided magnets that can lift thousands of pounds.

Michael says so far, there’s only one state with laws against magnet fishing: South Carolina.

“Really, any other state is game on as far as laws go,” he says. “Any public property, from what we’ve seen, is great for it.”

Paul recommends you ask first, even on public land.

“It’s a lot like a hunting sport,” Paul

FROM FAR LEFT: Paul Swanson begins a magnet fishing excursion. PHOTO BY PAUL SWANSON JR. An empty safety deposit box from 1914 is one of the coolest treasures Paul has reeled in. PHOTO BY PAUL SWANSON ABOVE: Paul magnet fishes at Riverfront Park in Spokane. PHOTO BY LANCE TURNER

By Dianna Troyer

Festivals showcase communities' unique charms, characteristics and senses of humor. Attractions and events run the gamut from outhouse races to gravity-fueled coaster races, a Bigfoot calling contest to Basque dances and strength contests, and handcrafted mahogany boats of yesteryear to colorful kites to banana slugs.

Alaska's Outhouse Races

Imagine an outhouse shaped like a fighter jet. That was one of the unforgettable entries in Anchorage’s annual Outhouse Races. The contest, held on the last Saturday of February, is a highlight of the two-week Fur Rendezvous—a prelude to the Iditarod and celebration of all things Alaskan.

a maximum of 12 feet in length and 8 feet in width and height. The categories were set in 2006, when the University of Alaska’s Architecture and Engineering Club started the event as a fundraiser.

Coeur d’Alene as water taxis, racers, or mail and grocery delivery, or for pleasure. He was known for his distinct boats and using blueprints of a Hacker-Craft design. They’re low in the water, so they have a smooth ride.”

Ron and his son are restoring another boat his uncle built named Skippy Junior.

“We work on it a couple of nights a week,” he says. “He was an amazing craftsman.”

The “Top Gun”-esque outhouse was built by the Alaska Air National Guard team.

“There are so many hilarious, crazy entries,” says John McCleary, executive director of the festival, known locally as Fur Rondy.

Dozens of creative teams build an outhouse on skis and race it around a course, pulling and pushing it toward the finish line. Teams of four runners and one rider—who must wear a helmet and have toilet paper on board—choose between two categories when they build their peculiar privies. In the traditional class, outhouses must measure at least 30 inches square. The unlimited class allows

Along with prizes for the fastest and last-place finishers, there are awards for best theme, most realistic, cleanest and best engineered. Along with bragging rights, the winners receive a trophy like no other—a toilet paper roll holder ensconced in a small-scale outhouse.

The outhouse races are among more than two dozen events brightening spirits during the darkness of winter. Another crowdpleaser is The Blanket Toss, when people grip the edge of a taut, tanned walrus skin and toss someone in the center skyward. Also popular are ice sculpture contests and the Running of the Reindeer, where entrants dash down a street with deer hot on their heels.

The event is a fundraiser for the Three Barons Renaissance Fair, scheduled for the first two weekends in June with pirate and fantasy themes. Sword fights, crafts and food booths are featured.

Idaho's Silver Wake Celebration

There’s a backstory to the names of dozens of handcrafted wooden antique and classic boats that line up at Sandpoint's boardwalk during the Silver Wake Celebration, an annual boat show in mid-July in Northern Idaho.

“Our boat was called the Donna Rosa for my red hair,” says Jan Keener, show chairperson. “I’ve always loved the sound of the motor, the beauty of the boats, and the lasting friendships and camaraderie of boaters.”

The sleek boats’ white oak frames are covered with mahogany and varnished to a glistening shine.

“They all have a story,” says longtime boater Ron Yandt, who owns the Uncle Bob. “It was named for my uncle, who built about 75 boats that were used on Lake

The Inland Empire Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boat Society hosts three summer shows. This year’s Sandpoint show is July 11-13, with the public showing on Saturday, July 12. Boats are mostly from Northern Idaho and Eastern Washington. Boat owners from chapters in Portland, Seattle, Payette and Western Montana also attend.

The Coeur d’Alene Boat Festival is Aug. 15-17, and the Dry Rot Boat Show at Priest Lake is Aug. 29 to Sept. 1.

Nevada's Basque Festival

The 61st National Basque Festival, July 5-6 in Northern Nevada, is sponsored by the Elko Euzkaldunak Club at its clubhouse. The celebration features live music, dancing, weightlifting, wood chopping, food and vendors, all celebrating the culture of the Basque region in Spain and France, and the immigrants who brought it with them to America.

“It’s great to see how our culture is still alive. The festival is personal for our family because my grandfather, Marcial Goitia, was Basque,” says Michelle Cromwell, marketing and advertising manager at the Elko Convention and Visitors Authority.

“He was a sheepherder and business owner. He opened a pool hall.”

Michelle recalls seeing a photo of her grandfather’s wife, Glenna Goitia, holding a shovel to break ground for the Basque Club, a meeting place for residents of Basque heritage.

To celebrate their heritage, Michelle’s three daughters learned traditional Basque dances.

“The Basque community is close, and dance groups perform at festivals throughout the area,” she says. “Our daughters are looking forward to dancing at Jaialdi, the world’s largest Basque Festival in Boise.

“Basque food is amazing,” she adds. “I still make my grandmother’s salad dressing recipe

Outhouse racers dash toward a finish line in their custom-made contraptions in Anchorage to celebrate Alaskan culture during the two-week Fur Rendezvous Festival, known locally as Fur Rondy. PHOTOS COURTESY OF FUR RONDY

1 2 3 4 5 6

PHOTO COURTESY OF RON YANDT

PHOTO BY KATIE COTTERILL

PHOTO COURTESY OF BRIDGETTE CHRISTIAN

PHOTO BY SYDNEY MARTINEZ/TRAVEL NEVADA

PHOTO BY SAVANNAH BLISS

with a little garlic, sour cream and vinegar.”

Elko’s Basque restaurant, The Star, honors Basque culture year-round.

“People sit at the same long tables, and the food is served family style,” Michelle says.

The schedule of festival events will be posted on the Elko Euzkaldunak Club's Facebook page.

Arizona's Bisbee Coaster Races

For more than a century, generations of Bisbee residents have celebrated the Fourth of July by racing soapbox derby-style cars, called coasters, at speeds of up to 40 mph down a canyon road.

“We start at the top of Tombstone Canyon and end at the post office,” says Bridgette Christian, chairperson of the Coaster Race Committee. “It’s how we start the holiday in the morning. My dad was a big volunteer, so I want to keep it going.”

Drivers ages 9 to 16 build their own vehicles and coast along for about 1.6 miles in roughly 3 minutes. They practice at trial runs in June to be ready for the big day in July.

The town’s population of 5,000 doubles during the event “because it’s so familyoriented,” Bridgette says. “We have a strong

sense of community here. We’re grateful to all the volunteers who make it happen.”

After the town’s copper mine closed, a large group of residents left the area, but many come back for a reunion to celebrate the summer holiday.

Other unique festivals in Arizona include the Oatman Egg Fry, ShoLo Lawn Mower Races and Wyatt Earp Days.

Northern California's Decades of Bigfoot Daze

Bigfoot’s sonorous calls resound across the small town of Willow Creek in Northern California during Bigfoot Daze, the second Saturday of July.

“We have so many events with one of our most popular ones being the Bigfoot Calling Contest,” says Shannon Hughes, president of the Willow Creek Chamber of Commerce. “It always draws a lot of entrants and a lot of laughs, too.”

She says local and worldwide Sasquatch devotees come to the annual event.

“This will be our 63rd celebration,” she says. “For some, it’s an annual pilgrimage. It’s understandable why we’re the Bigfoot Capital of the World. We’re surrounded by wilderness where there are always some sightings.”

About 300 purported sightings of the elusive creature are chronicled at the local museum along with Sasquatch exhibits. A 1967 film taken near Bluff Creek became famous when it showed an ape-like creature walking along the banks.

Among the numerous events, another one that makes spectators laugh is the 20-minute parade with entries expressing the theme of Bigfoot and the watermeloneating contest.

“It’s a great community festival,” Shannon says.

Washington’s Slug Fest

“May the slime be with you” is the saying on June 28-29 at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park in Eatonville.

Children learn what life looks like from a slug’s point of view. They even get the chance to race while wearing tentacle headbands, goggles and plastic sacks as they slide around on their bellies on a wet tarp.

The event is organized to celebrate the importance of the local yellow-green banana slug that helps decompose organic matter to nourish trees and plants.

Oregon’s Lincoln City Kite Festivals

Professional kite flyers demonstrate aerial acrobatics at Lincoln City Summer and Fall Kite Festivals in Oregon's Central Coast.

“It’s amazing what the professional flyers can do,” says Stephanie Hull, event outreach coordinator for Lincoln City. “We have about 50 flyers come to our events.”

KiteLife magazine named the town the Kite Capital of the World with its more than 7 miles of beach. Many festival participants handcraft their kites with shapes of whales or octopuses.

“The large inflatables are really creative,” Stephanie says. “Some people paint their own designs on the kites and others handsew them. Some choreograph their flights, too.”

This year is special.

“We’re celebrating our 40th summer festival and 45th fall festival,” she says. “We’re looking forward to seeing an LED illuminated night flight on Friday.”

The summer festival is June 21-22, and the fall festival is Sept. 20-21. n

4. Slugs are celebrated at a festival at the Northwest Trek Park in Eatonville, Washington, with festive events for children.

5. Boats align the boardwalk for festivalgoers to admire at the annual Silver Wake Celebration in Sandpoint, Idaho. 6. Professional kite flyers entertain beachside audiences at summer and fall festivals in Lincoln City, Oregon.

1. Bigfoot Daze is celebrated at Willow Creek in Northern California, where numerous purported sightings of the primate have been documented at the local museum.

2. For more than a century, the Bisbee Coaster Races have been a tradition on the Fourth of July in Arizona.

3. Dancing is a popular event at the National Basque Festival in Elko, Nevada.

PHOTO BY BRANDON SHELTON

Roll, Fold and Feast

TURN TO TORTILLAS

Easy Pepperoni Pizza Quesadillas

2 8-inch flour tortillas

2 tablespoons tomato sauce (may substitute spaghetti, pizza or marinara sauce)

10 to 12 slices pepperoni

6 to 8 tablespoons shredded mozzarella cheese

Butter

Additional tomato sauce

Spread tomato sauce evenly over entire tortilla in a thin layer. Add pepperoni, covering half of each tortilla.

Sprinkle the pepperoni with a layer of cheese. Fold over the top of the tortilla.

Melt a bit of butter in a skillet. Place two quesadillas in the skillet. Cook 2 to 3 minutes over medium heat until lightly browned.

While the first side of the quesadilla is cooking, lightly butter the other side of each tortilla. Flip over the tortillas, and cook until the second side is browned. Remove the quesadillas from the pan. Let rest for a few minutes, then slice each tortilla into quarters or thirds. Serve with warm tomato sauce for dipping.

Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY CIRCLEPS

Fiesta Pinwheels

8 ounces cream cheese, softened

½ cup sour cream

1/4 cup picante sauce

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

Dash garlic powder

4.5-ounce can chopped olives, drained

4-ounce can chopped green chiles

1 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup thinly sliced green onions

8 10-inch flour tortillas, warmed

Salsa

In a small bowl, beat together cream cheese, sour cream, picante sauce, taco seasoning and garlic powder until smooth. Stir in olives, chiles, cheese and onions. Spread about 1/2 cup on each tortilla. Roll up jelly-roll style.

Cover. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Slice into 1-inch pieces before serving with salsa.

Taco Lasagna Recipe

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

1 pound lean ground beef

1 medium yellow onion, diced

1 medium red bell pepper, cored, seeded and diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

16-ounce jar salsa, divided

12 8-inch corn or flour tortillas, divided

16 ounces sour cream, divided

16 ounces shredded Mexican cheese blend, divided

Heat oven to 350 F. Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add ground beef. Cook, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through, 6 to 8 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the meat to a plate. Pour off any fat from the skillet.

Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining olive oil. Heat until shimmering. Add the onion, bell pepper and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes. Return the beef and any juices to the skillet. Add black beans, and stir to combine. Add chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt and black pepper. Stir to combine. Cook for 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat. Pour 1/4 cup salsa into a 9-by-13 baking dish. Pour the remaining salsa into the skillet. Stir to combine.

To assemble the lasagna, spread out the salsa in the baking dish into a thin layer. Arrange four tortillas in a single layer on top of the salsa, overlapping them as needed. Dollop and spread 2/3 cup of the sour cream. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the sour cream. Spread in an even layer. Sprinkle with 11/3 cups of cheese.

Repeat layering the following: four tortillas, 2/3 cup sour cream, the remaining meat mixture and 11/3 cups shredded cheese. Top with the remaining four tortillas and 2/3 cup sour cream. Sprinkle with the remaining 11/3 cups cheese.

Bake, uncovered, until the cheese is melted and lightly browned, about 30 minutes. Cool for 15 minutes before serving.

Sour Cream Chicken Enchilada Skillet

3 tablespoons butter

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups chicken broth

1½ teaspoons chili powder

1/4 teaspoon oregano

¾ teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

1 cup sour cream

6 to 7 regular-sized flour tortillas, cut into bitesized pieces

7.5 ounces black beans, drained

14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, drained

1 cup shredded cheese

In a large skillet, heat butter until melted. Stir in flour, and cook for 1 minute. Whisk in chicken broth. Stir until sauce is smooth and thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir chili powder, oregano, salt and pepper into the sauce.

Add chicken breasts to the pan. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, until chicken is cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan, and shred into bite-sized pieces.

Stir sour cream into the sauce. Return the chicken to the skillet. Add tortilla pieces, black beans and tomatoes. Stir until combined, then top with shredded cheese.

Cover skillet and cook until bubbly and the cheese is melted, about 5 to 8 minutes.

Freezer Burritos

11/4 pounds lean ground beef

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

11/4 cups salsa

2 tablespoons taco seasoning

½ cup water

2 15-ounce cans pinto beans, rinsed and drained

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

12 8-inch flour tortillas, warmed

In a large skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until meat is no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking meat into crumbles. Drain. Stir in salsa and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Simmer, uncovered, for 2 to 3 minutes. Transfer to a large bowl, then set aside.

In a food processor, combine water and beans. Cover. Process until almost smooth. Add to beef, and stir in cheese.

Spoon 1/2 cup beef mixture down the center of each tortilla. Fold ends and sides over filling. Roll up. Wrap each burrito in waxed paper and foil. Freeze for up to 1 month.

To heat frozen burritos: Remove foil and waxed paper. Place one burrito on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high until a thermometer reads 165 F, about 3 minutes, turning burrito over once. Let stand for 20 seconds.

READER EXCHANGE

Books/Magazines

Searching for Louis L’Amour 1st print edition paperbacks only. Please respond with titles. I can pay fair price and shipping if requested. Thanks.

J Hall P.O. Box 1456 Orofino, ID 83544 jwhall13@gmail.com

Crafts/Hobbies

I’m retired and had double hip replacement in the past six months. I’m nearly recovered, and I started making patriotic American flags. They are roughly 30x20 inches tall. I’m requesting any type of fabric; printed with design or plain red, white, and blue that I can make into quilted American flags to sell.

Brian Cody 298 Basham Lane Troy, MT 59935

I’m looking for Scrabble tiles of all sizes. We are working on picture frames as a family project. Any contribution is appreciated.

Audra Shrauger

7999 SE Thomas Road Prineville, OR 97754

Milestones

I’m traveling to Washington in early June to surprise my mom for her 90th birthday. Her name is Donna, and she is as spunky as ever. I would be grateful to take birthday cards to her from people all over the states. She was living in Fairbanks for a while, so if you know her ...shhhh... this is a surprise. Please mail to Lee Ann Hough, 1190 Pickering Drive, Fairbanks, AK 99709.

Lee Ann Hough Fairbanks, Alaska

My husband turns 75 this month. He has had some health issues, but is well now. We are trying to make this a great day. Please send to Bill Hoople, P.O. Box 81691, Fairbanks, AK 99708.

Janet Hoople Fairbanks, Alaska

Our mother is turning 90 this month. We would be thrilled for her to receive birthday greetings from friends and fellow readers across the country. She has a passion for photographing wildlife and the beautiful landscapes of Idaho. She’s still very active, enjoying her Bunco games, knitting, reading and sharing delightful tea with friends. Thank you so much in advance. Please send cards to Kay Deubel, 1717 Poplar St., Sandpoint, ID 83864

Brenda Sawyer Naples, Idaho

My mom is turning 100 at the beginning of June. She lived in Florence, Oregon, for her first 12 years, then in Eugene. She married in 1945 and was married for 55 years, living in Springfield all that time. Everyone always remembers her, as she has a beautiful smile. In her later years, she made crocheted clothes hangers for friends, family and whoever needed one. She was ecstatic to know I was making this request for birthday cards to be sent to her and will enjoy reading all of them. Thank you. Send to, Linda Snyder, 4001 SE 182nd Avenue, Apt #217, Gresham, OR 97030.

Barbara Toedtemeier Heppner, Oregon

Odds

I am searching for information, stories or pictures from anyone who has family history, stories or knowledge of the lost town of Cabinet, Idaho.

Craig Nelson 8760 River Road Clark Fork, ID 83811 Buscakccf623@gmail.com

Thanks

A million thanks. Thank you so much to all the readers who sent my dear husband, Robert Dodge, warm wishes for his birthday. He was overwhelmed to see so many cards (more than 600). We are still reading through them. Many people sent small gifts, paintings and even a $2 bill. Many of the senders related to Bob’s service in the Marines, the Boy Scouts and hunter’s safety. There is no way we could send thank you notes to each person, so this will have to do. Our heartfelt thanks for all the wonderful people who care enough to send best wishes. Bob is forever grateful, as am I.

Carol Wennstrom Blachly, Oregon

Submitting Requests Is Free

Send your request—with no attachments—to readerexchange@ruralite.org or mail to Reader Exchange, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Fill in the subject line with Reader Exchange. Acceptance, scheduling and editing are at the editor’s discretion. Single requests only, please. No duplicates.

Submissions are handled on a first-come, first-served basis 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 the request must include a postal address.

Request must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.

Silver Falls State Park Walk behind and around high waterfalls in Oregon at

What Is It?

Hike into a rainforest to see a 177-foot waterfall at Silver Falls State Park in Oregon. First opened in 1933, the park is a magnet for hikers and bikers.

Oregon’s Largest State Park

Silver Falls State Park is less than an hour east of Oregon’s capital city, Salem, and contains 9,000 acres. Many of the park’s original trails, walls and buildings were built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Hit the Trail

The park is known for its more than 35 miles of trails, with the Trail of Ten Falls as a highlight. The 7.2-mile loop is classified as a moderate hike, with 800 feet of elevation change. The trail gives great views of the park’s waterfalls and winds behind four of them, providing a unique angle of the falls.

A New View

A few years ago, the park opened the North Rim Trail, which gives a more accessible way to see the North Falls.

Beginning from the new North Canyon Trailhead, the 1-mile trail has a compacted surface 6 feet wide. The new North Canyon day use areas also have picnic tables, restrooms and access to the park’s Nature Play Area.

More Information

Silver Falls State Park is open every day of the year. Hours vary according to the season. Parking is $5 per day. To start planning your visit, head to friendsofsilverfalls.net.

ADOBE STOCK

PHOTO BY BOB

U.S. zip codes turn up silver for residents

Sealed Vault Bags full of State Silver Bars are actually being handed over to the first U.S. residents who find their zip code listed in today’s publication and call before the 21 day order deadline ends to claim the bags full of pure silver

NATIONWIDE - Operators at the National Silver Hotline are struggling to keep up with all the calls.

That’s because Silver Vault Bags loaded with pure .999 State Silver Bars are now being handed over to everyone who beats the order deadline.

“That’s why U.S. residents will be hoarding all the silver bars they can get their hands on before the deadline ends. This comes as no surprise after the standard State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury was dropped for everyone who gets the Silver Vault Bags making them a real steal,” said Mary Ellen Withrow, the Fmr. 40th Treasurer of the United States of America, Emeritus.

“As executive advisor to the private Lincoln Treasury, I get paid to deliver breaking news. And here’s the best part. This is great news for U.S. residents because the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury is a real steal,” said Withrow.

The only thing residents need to do is find the first 2 digits of their zip code on the Distribution List printed in today’s publication. If their zip code is on the list, they just need to call the National Silver Hotline before the deadline ends.

And here’s the good news. Residents who do are getting the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury of just $390 for each State Silver Vault Bag which is just $39 for each pristine Silver half ounce bar as long as they call the National Silver Hotline at 1-888-415-6109 before the deadline ends.

Phone lines open at precisely 8:30 A.M. this morning and are expected to be flooded by U.S. residents looking to cash in on the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln

(Continued on next page)

■ U.S. RESIDENTS CASH IN: Calls are pouring in from state residents who are trying to get their hands on the Jumbo Silver Ballistic Bags pictured above before the deadline ends. That’s because residents who find the first two digits of their zip code printed in today’s publication are cashing in on the reduced State Minimum price set for the next 21 days by the Lincoln Treasury.

Who gets the Silver Vault Bags: Listed below are the zip codes that get to claim the Silver Vault Bags. If you find the first two digits of your zip code below immediately call: 1-888-415-6109 DEPT. SMB199

(Continued from previous page)

Treasury to date. That’s why U.S. resi dents who find their zip code on the distribution list today are being urged to call.

Since this special advertising announcement can’t stop anyone from buying up all the new 2025 Edition U.S. State Silver Bars they can get their hands on, the Lincoln Treasury has not set a limit of how many Jumbo Silver Ballistic Bags residents can get – these are the bags pictured that contain 10 individual Silver Vault Bags each. Everyone who gets these will be glad they did.

“Residents who want to cash in on the reduced State Minimum set by the private Lincoln Treasury better hurry. That’s because after the deadline ends, the State Minimum for these pristine half ounce U.S. State Silver Bars set by the Lincoln Treasury will go up to $68 per bar no matter how many bars people get,” Withrow said.

“We’re bracing for all the calls and doing the best we can, but with just hours left before the deadline ends, residents who find the first 2 digits of their zip code listed in today’s publication need to call the National Silver Hotline,” Withrow said.

■ SILVER IS SOARING: It’s good news for state residents who get the Silver Vault Bags each loaded with 10 solid .999 pure Silver State Bars. That’s because residents are getting the State Minimum set by the private Lincoln Treasury as long as they call before the deadline ends.

I keep calling and can’t get through: Keep trying. Right now everyone’s looking to cash in on the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury. In fact, we won’t be surprised if thousands of residents order up as many Silver Vault Bags as they can get their hands on before the deadline ends. That’s because the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury has been reduced to just $39 for each silver half ounce bar for everyone who gets the vault bags. And since each Silver Vault Bag contains 10 pristine State Silver Bars for just $390 we’re guessing state residents will be claiming two or more bags while they’re up for grabs. But all those who really want to cash in are taking the Jumbo Silver Ballistic Bags containing 100 State Silver Bars before the deadline ends and the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury goes up to $680 per Vault Bag. In fact the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury is reduced even further for those getting the Jumbo Bags so just be sure to ask the National Silver Hotline operator for your discount. So if lines are busy keep trying.

How much are the Silver Vault Bags worth: It’s hard to tell how much these Silver Vault Bags could be worth since they are in pristine condition, but those who get in on this now will be glad they did. That’s because the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury goes up to $680 per bag after the deadline ends. So you better believe that at just $390 the Silver Vault bags are a real steal for everyone who beats the deadline.

Can I buy one State Silver Bar: Yes. But, the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury of just $39 per bar applies only to residents who purchase a Silver Vault Bag(s). That means only those residents who order a Silver Vault Bag(s) or a Jumbo Silver Ballistic Bag get the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury. All single bar purchases, orders placed after the deadline and all non-state residents must pay the normal state minimum of $68 per silver half ounce bar.

Why is the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury so low now: Thousands of U.S. residents stand to miss the deadline to get the silver at the reduced State Minimum set by the private Lincoln Treasury. Now all residents who find their zip code on the Distribution List to the left are getting the Silver Vault Bags for themselves and all the solid .999 pure State Silver Bars found inside. The price for each Silver Vault Bag after the deadline ends is set to the normal state minimum of $680 which is $68 per bar. But residents who beat the 21-day deadline only cover the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury of just $390 for each State Silver Bar Bag which is just $39 per bar as long as they call the National Silver Hotline before the deadline ends at: 1-888-415-6109 DEPT. SMB199. Hotlines open at 8:30 A.M.

*** All 7 States listed are available - States not listed are already sold out ***

WEIGHTS AND MEASURES FULL-HALF TROY OUNCE SOLID .999 FINE SILVER

DATE NUMBERED IN WHICH THE STATE RATIFIED THE CONSTITUTION AND WAS ADMITTED INTO UNION

CERTIFIED SOLID SILVER PRECIOUS METAL BACK FRONT

ALL 7 STATES LISTED ARE AVAILABLE.

PHOTO ENLARGEMENT SHOWS ENGRAVING DETAI L OF SOLID HALF OUNCE STATE SILVER BARS

Anatomy of

Capturing Fireworks

By Dave LaBelle

There are annual events—such as birthdays, anniversaries and holidays—many of us are determined to make pictures of.

One of the annual events I am often called on to photograph is fireworks during the Fourth of July. Here is where I confess, even though I have photographed fireworks for more than a half a century, I never seem to capture the picture I want.

Oh, I have made some acceptable pictures through the years but not one that I felt expressed what I saw and felt.

I surveyed the grounds early where the fireworks were to be launched this past year, seeking every possible angle.

Some cities have hilltops or big rivers running through them, like Pittsburgh or Portland, Oregon. But Dyersville, Iowa, is flat with few bumps we might dare to call hills.

Finally, I decided on a low, grassy spot that afforded a relatively clean, uncluttered view of the aerial bursts. However, as parking spaces grew thin, vehicles lunged forward, parking on the grassy spot I had

Reader Challenge

chosen. Camera and tripod in hand, I had to move or get run over.

Just as I was about to seek another last-minute vantage point, a couple of children put down a blanket between two vehicles and sat waiting for the show.

Hmmm?

If I could get low enough, they might make a good foreground, their shapes against

a lit-up sky.

I moved up slowly and stealthily behind them and lay on the ground to see if I could get the camera low enough— off the tripod—to see if I had enough sky to see and capture fireworks once they began.

At one point—still 30 minutes before the show—I had to explain to their father, watching me suspiciously, the photo I was hoping to capture.

Determine to make a beautiful photograph that captures the spirit of celebration meant by filling the sky with beautiful explosions of color and design. Scout areas and choose the spot first. Then consider using a tripod and slower shutter speed. To create depth and context, foreground is key. Above all, experiment with exposure. Each burst is often a different color and intensity.

Email your best image (just one) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to gph@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.

As most of you who have attempted to photograph fireworks know, there is a lot of luck involved. That acknowledged, the old maxim, “Luck is where opportunity meets preparation,” was on my side this evening.

After a handful of lowbursting blasts, finally a reddishpink explosion filled the sky low enough to wash over and even reflect on the parked vehicles. n

Photographer, author and lecturer

captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog at bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.

Dave LaBelle has

Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest 2026

It is time to share your favorite photos for a chance to appear in our 2026 Ruralite calendar. Up to 13 winners will be selected and receive $100. Photos must be submitted by June 30, 2025. The contest is open to recipients of Ruralite and Currents magazines. Each person may only submit up to two photos. Each submission must include:

• Photographer’s name, address and electric utility.

• A short description of what is shown.

• Photographer’s email address and phone number.

• JPEG file 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 MB will not be accepted. Enter today by visiting tinyurl.com/ruralitecalendar or use the provided QR code on this page.

Winning Tips

• Use the highest resolution setting on your camera.

• Photograph beautiful places and wildlife.

• Capture scenes full of vivid color.

• Reflect the seasons.

• Make us feel something—awe, joy, etc.

For more information, visit ruralite.com/2026contest.

BY

ARLEN RICKE, OREGON— COOS-CURRY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

Perfect for Potlucks

With more than 200 recipes, this cookbook offers many options for potlucks, family reunions or picnics planned this summer! An added bonus in the back are the recipes from a previous barbecue recipe contest. “Perfect for a Potluck” is an 8½-by-11-inch indexed cookbook for only $10, which includes postage.

To order by mail:

Submit proper payment with your name, address and the number of cookbooks wanted to Ruralite Cookbooks, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133.

To order by phone:

Call 503-357-2105 to pay with VISA, MasterCard, Discover card or American Express.

To order online: Visit www.ruralite.org.

Please allow 2-3 weeks for delivery.

CONSUMERS POWER INC.

MARKETPLACE

Agriculture

4x5 round bales, Meadow Foxtail Orchard Grass. 4x4 Timothy, small square. 208-435-4637 or 208-435-4002; nas@cpcinternet.com.

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 44 years in business. www.btlliners.com. 541-447-0712. 0426

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. 0925

Buying American Indian collectibles: Navajo jewelry, blankets, rugs, CA/AZ baskets and beadwork. Quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Call 760-409-3117 or send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com.

Assisted Living Facility

Haven House assisted living at Fossil, OR. It is a wonderful place to live. For more information, call Lou Gabica, 541-763-4651.

Automotive

Rare 1960 Chevy pickup 4x4. Short-bed. Not running now. Text or call 661-713-3377. Leave message. $7K. 0625

1966 Ford Mustang Coupe in good condition. Runs well. 289 automatic. 89K miles on rebuilt engine. Wimbledon white, much of car is original. $16K. Kathi, 541-419-3243.

2006 Mazda Miata. Blue. MX-5. Convertible. Only 70K miles. Custom exhaust. Excellent condition; ready to go. Always kept in garage. $10K cash. 541-661-1644. 0625

1960 GMC 4500. 21/2 FB. Many newer parts: windshield, master cylinder, clutch, radiator, wiring harness, transmission. $750. La Grande, OR. Brent, 541-805-4909. 0625

1929 Studebaker and 1956 Ford Courier. Call 541-786-5833. 0625

1970 Ford F-100. Rare truck 4x4. Short bed. Mint green, original pain. Sitting 6 years. Not running. $11K. Paul, 775-296-3604.

Boats

1978 Mirrorcraft. 14’ aluminum boat, trailer, 2 extra tires and wheels, 15hp craftsman outboard, oars, anchor, fuel tank, 2 seats. $1.25K. La Grande, OR. Brent, 541-805-4909.

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): July issue—June 2, 2025.

„ 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.

Books, Magazines, Videos

Book restoration. Bibles, cookbooks, cherished family heirlooms. Beautiful work. We give renewed life, more durable than original, to last for generations.

775-537-7066; salacanstudio@gmail.com. 0725

For Rent, Lease

Northeast, OR. 1 bd, 1 ba, bonus room. Nice smaller home. Water/sewer/garbage paid. On the river. $650 month, plus deposit. 55-plus preferred. Phone calls only, 541-519-3400. 0625

Quiet, spacious country home. Fully furnished, sits above Clearwater River near Lenore, ID. 3 bd, 3 ba. 1-month minimum. $1.9K. 208-476-7688.

Free Items

Free materials—When church/government unite, enforcing Sunday Law, the “Mark” of the “Beast” is here. Don’t be deceived, be informed. Leave mailing address only, TBSM, P.O. Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. 888-211-1715; tbsmads@yahoo.com. 0625AR

Miscellaneous

2010 Artesian Swim Spa. 7x14’. Excellent condition. $12K. Pelican paddleboat, 5 passenger. Used twice. $500. 541-954-3884. 0625

Foster parents needed to care for teen youth in Wasco and Hood River counties. Agency provides on-call support, training, $2.1K/youth monthly reimbursement, 2 days off/month. Fosterinfo@nextdoorinc.org; 541-308-2207. 0625

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 206-799-1082. 0625

3 cemetery plots, Salt Creek Cemetery near Dallas, OR. $1.2K each. Open to offers on all. Message, 503-457-8084. 0625

Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. Joe, 541-815-8906; highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or highdesertmemorials.com. 0625

Your ad could be here in July. See instructions above for details.

Pets

Fort Sage Kennels closing. AKC-registered Airedales. Females, 1 year old. Males, 2 to 3 years old. 530-827-2271, 530-249-7896. 0925 Border collie/McNab puppies. The best dog you will ever have. Males and females, $450 each. Colton, OR. 503-314-0145. 0625

Plants

Cactus for sale. Cold/winter hardy. Good for landscaping. Sunnyside/Mabton, WA, area. Local pickup only. 509-391-5546; marybarthlow@gmail.com. 0725

Real Estate

Cozy Dayville home with country charm and mountain views. $232.5K Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363, ddwr@ortelco.net. 0625

320 acres east of Adel, OR. Borders Hart Mountain views, Steens Mountain and Beaty Butte. Landowner tags, very rural. $179K. Quick sale due to injury. For maps: 541-659-1573; thejugglingman3@gmail.com. 0625

Granite, OR. 3 city lots, 3/4 acre each, one has an off-grid cabin. Year-round activities: hunting, fishing, hiking, skiing, snowmobiling, 4x4, etc. $200K for all 3. 541-519-9077; billpathanley@gmail.com. 0625

Irrigon, OR. 3-bd, 2-ba manufactured home on permanent foundation. Lawn maintenance business with equipment. Huge shop and garage stick-built, unattached. One full city block property. $435K. 541-922-9675. 0625

Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in OR. Fourthgeneration Oregonian, prior ranch owner. For sale: Klamath Marsh, OR. 173.65 acres. $2.5M. Guest Ranch Overlay. John Gill, 541-480-9161; johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0625

Wanted: acreage that has been destroyed by fire. Want to purchase for rebuilding evergreen timber and wildlife habitat lands. OR, WA, ID. 509-521-7496. 0625

39 acres in Beaver, OR. Stunning mountain top view, creek, springs, wildlife, hunting, fishing, privacy. 3-bd, 2-ba home. 40x40’ barn. $595K. 503-664-3144. 0725

27 acres forested with pasture. Approved hilltop view building site; adjacent historic Unity Covered Bridge in Lowell, OR. Well, power, 2 sheds. $650K; jjmichelson@comcast.net; 206-356-0391. 0625

Sand Springs Ranch. Prepper’s Paradise in Fish Lake Valley, NV, where wild horses range. Historic 80-acre homestead with permitted spring and permitted septic system. Concrete building. 3.5 miles off Hwy 264. $649K. Contact Trish Rippie Realty, Dennis Bradley, B.S. 144254, 775-399-3972; dennis@trishrippierealty.com. 0625

Peal Starks Estate. 119 E. Allyn, Goldendale, WA. 3-bd, 2-ba fixer upper. $140K. Email inquiries to goldendale67@gmail.com. 0625

Awesome view of the Nestucca River, still in tidewater, across from a great fishing hole. Newer, glassed-in Trex deck overlooking the river. 2-bd, 21/2-ba home with knotty pine interior. 2-car garage, plenty of room for kayaks and a short walk to a beautiful beach. $524.9K. steelheadsteven@gmail.com; 503-680-9799. 0625

Rogue River, OR. Off-grid, 600-sqft. home on 40 acres. New 5O-amp solar w/batteries. Timber, game, privacy. 20 minutes from Grants Pass; 30 minutes from Medford. Turnkey. $395K. Leave message at 360-701-7192. 0625

Recreational Rentals

Oceanfront cottage on the spectacular Central OR Coast. Stunning views, sandy beach. Scoters, spindrift and seals. 2 bd, loft all w/double beds. Rates and reservations: wavecatcherbeachrentals.com, 541-740-2846, relax@WaveCatcherbeachrentals.com.

Enjoy your ideal Maui getaway. This updated 2-bd, 2-ba condo sleeps 4 and features a charming “surf shack” design. Just half a block from a beautiful beach, it’s perfect for morning strolls and sunsets. Plus, you’re steps away from shops and restaurants at Azeka Plaza. tinyurl.com/MauiGetaway. 0725

Mi Casa NW: Nehalem River day access $25/day and camping $100/night. Experience the river, creeks, hiking trails, fishing, wildlife, etc. Boat ramp BYO canoe, kayak, boat and stargaze all on 35 acres, just 25 minutes from Seaside and 45 minutes from Portland. 5 tent camping sites along the Nehalem River; private, exclusive, secure. 971-489-3960. 0725

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.

Recreational Vehicles

1999 Newmar Dutch Star 38’ RV. Diesel. 3126B Caterpillar engine. Freightliner chasis. One slide. Good condition. 95K miles. $18K. 530-616-0388. 0625

2023 Winnebago EKKO Ford F-350, all-wheel drive. Travel in all 4 seasons. Approximately 12K miles. Excellent condition. $120K. 541-550-6570. 0625

Mobile home for sale. 2 bd, 2 ba 840 sqft. 6,098-sqft. lot. 234 Shoshone Lane, Henderson, NV 89015. 0625

Resorts, Camps, Tours, Lodges Cruises: Alaska, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Panama Canal, Hawaii and more. River cruises, safari, resorts. UdoU Travel LLC: www.udoutravelllc.com; 541-256-0100, cindygreenup@gmail.com.

Services

Dawn Till Dusk Masonry. Brick, block, stone and pavers. Small jobs and repairs welcome. dawntillduskconstructionmasonry.com. 541-388-7605, 541-410-6945. License #245760 bonded and insured. La Pine, OR. 0825

Blue Mountain Defensible Space LLC wildfire fuel reduction: clearing brush, thinning trees, animal habitat enhancement. Expert service. Grant money available OR, WA, ID. Bluemountainbrush@gmail.com, 509-399-3473, Bluemountainbrush.com. 0126

Gardening supplies, fresh produce, kitchen staples, plus more delivered monthly to a drop location near you. Azure Standard is an American business, supporting American farmers. Use code RURAL at: Azurestandard.com for $5 off your first $100 order. 0625

Sporting/Exercise

Virtual individualized training for 50-plus ages. Flexible schedule. Work at your own pace and ability. Get strong, get fit, get going. BodybyAris@gmail.com; 425-577-1630. 0625

Want to Buy

Old carpenter tools, planes (wood/metal), levels, chisels, slicks, adzes, axes, hatchets, handsaws, old rulers, spoke shaves, wrenches, shipwright tools, old tool chests. 503-659-0009, 971-666-0659. 0625

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. 1025

Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo jewelry, blankets, rugs, CA/AZ baskets and beadwork. Quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com or call 760-409-3117. 0625

1984-92 Toyota Sunraider motor home. 18-21 feet in good condition. Some repairs OK. Don, 541-379-4111. 0625

Eatonville United Methodist Church

A Spiritual Base Camp On The Way To Paradise.

Mashell Avenue North P.O. Box 205 Eatonville, WA 98328 360-832-4021

Home: 360-832-4562 Pastor Bernard Preston Ritchea Cell: 361-330-9666

Facebook: Eatonville United Methodist Church of Washington OPEN HEARTS OPEN MINDS OPEN DOORS OPEN TABLE WORSHIP SERVICE BEGINS AT 10:30 a.m.

THE GROWING RISK OF

WILDFIRES

Wildfire mitigation requires planning and collaboration

By Scott Flood

Wildfires have always been part of North America’s ecosystems. However, the risks to communities and electric utilities have risen in recent years due to declining forest and public land health, severe weather and increased urban wildland interface. This risk is compounded for electric utilities because dry vegetation ignites easily when it contacts downed power lines or sparks from equipment, and wind creates incidents that start fires and accelerate the spread of flames.

While there’s a common perception wildfires are only a problem out West, recent headlines about wildfires along the Carolina coast, on Long Island and even in the Milwaukee suburbs confirm they’re a potential threat everywhere. When the Forest Service proposed—but subsequently withdrew—a 2024 rule about forest conservation, it cited a study that wildfire risk is growing in the east as fire-resistant species, such as oaks in Eastern forests, are giving way to more combustible species, such as red maples.

In several high-profile cases, investigations cited power infrastructure as the cause of wildfires, making the owners of that infrastructure liable for damage. The Western Fire Chiefs Association reported nearly one-fifth of wildfires from 2016-2020

were triggered by electric power infrastructure. Even if an electric utility isn’t directly responsible for a wildfire, it may find itself compelled to pay for damages under federal strict liability statutes.

“Suppose there’s a shed on a piece of private property, and a strong wind blows the shed into a co-op’s power lines or other infrastructure, causing a fire in a national forest,” says Megan Olmstead, regulatory affairs director for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. “Even though the co-op had no control over what the wind did, it may still be on the hook for strict liability and the costs of suppressing the fire and any damage to timber and other natural resources. If you’re operating on Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management lands, you could face between nearly $2 million to upward of $3 million dollars in damages per incident—and that is strict liability alone.”

Given that responsibility, it’s no surprise liability insurance premiums for wildfire damage have increased and coverage is becoming unavailable in some states. Because insurers spread risk across all their

Wildfires burn in Oregon. Declining forest and public land health, severe weather and increased urban wildland interface have increased the threat of wildfires.

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY BRIAN GAILEY

policyholders, even electric utilities facing minimal wildfire risk are seeing higher premiums.

“Our focus is advocating before the federal government to resolve challenges that limit co-op wildfire mitigation efforts, including arduous permitting processes for vegetation management and grid-hardening projects,” Megan says.

At times, it can take several months or even years for federal regulators to approve the removal of a single tree that poses a danger to power lines. Even then, the threat is not removed from the forest or public land.

“In some cases, once co-op crews remove the trees, federal law requires them to leave the timber on the forest floor, which creates more of a fuel load for fires,” Megan says. “Co-ops also face challenges acquiring approvals to simply access their power lines.”

Even basic grid-hardening strategies, such as undergrounding a line or replacing an existing wood pole with a metal one, can trigger a yearslong environmental review process.

Bipartisan legislation moving through Congress would allow electric utilities to step up their mitigation efforts by eliminating delay-causing regulatory roadblocks. The Fix Our Forests Act is designed to expedite federal approvals, making it substantially easier for utilities to harden their grids against wildfires and remove hazardous vegetation that fuels blazes. The act would also limit exposure to frivolous lawsuits that often complicate those efforts. Among its many helpful provisions is permission for utilities to remove vegetation within 150 feet of power lines, rather than the current 10-foot limit.

NRECA’s team is working directly with federal agencies to help utilities develop strategies for limiting liability.

“If your co-op creates a forest operating agreement with the U.S. Forest Service, they’ll cap your strict liability amount per incident,” Megan says. “We’re working to promote similar concepts across the other federal land management agencies.”

As the risk of wildfire grows, more utilities are developing wildfire mitigation plans.

“Plans spell out the mitigation process co-ops employ to reduce risks to their systems, including vegetation management and grid hardening projects,” she says. “Many co-ops also are increasingly navigating the complex decision-making process related to whether Public Safety Power Shutoffs are necessary or helpful in their systems, then determining how that process will work during severe weather.”

Researchers and electric utilities are investigating new technologies for detection of and response to wildfires, but for now, wildfire mitigation planning is crucial. The process is most effective when it involves a collaborative approach with all stakeholders.

“It’s important to engage with land management agencies, state and local government, local businesses and the agricultural community to discuss the risks and how everyone should respond if a fire occurs,” Megan says. “By working together, they can focus on key factors, such as community hardening and minimizing damage.” n

New Technology Shields Grid During Wildfire

By Bonneville Power Administration Staff

New fire-resistant wrap—an initiative launched by Bonneville Power Administration in 2024—saved the day during a wildland fire this past summer, reducing damage to transmission wood poles and protecting critical infrastructure.

As the largest transmission provider in the Northwest, BPA manages more than 15,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines. Fire season is often the most challenging time of the year as field crews, system operators and many others across the agency diligently work to mitigate wildfires and maintain reliable operations.

When a wood transmission pole is damaged by fire, line crews must respond promptly. Depending on the severity and location of the fire, a damaged section of line could be out of service for a few hours to several weeks.

Using a fire-resistant wrap at the base of the wood pole reduces the likelihood that the pole will be damaged to the point where it needs to be replaced. This saves time, resources and improves safety and reliability.

The new fire wraps are made of a fiberglass mesh with an intumescent coating that expands and seals around the pole during a fire, creating a protective barrier and effective heat insulation. Within 20 seconds of coming in contact with wildfire, the wraps activate to prevent burning, strength loss and pole failure. Wraps can withstand flames with temperatures up to 2,100 degrees.

The fire wrap proved effective during the WacoaSwawilla Fire in July 2024, when a weekslong blaze on the Colville Reservation in Northeast Washington burned 53,462 acres. Despite intense conditions, none of BPA’s wood poles required replacement. Power in the nearby town of Keller remained on.

Wildfires have intensified in recent years. The National Interagency Fire Center reports wildfire activity is occuring earlier in the spring, lasting longer throughout each year and becoming more extreme and complex to manage.

As wildfires increase in severity, utilities are forced to adapt to this new reality.

Fireproofing the grid now extends beyond traditional vegetation management to include undergrounding power lines, replacing wood poles with fire-resistant steel or fiberglass structures, or insulating bare overhead lines. These approaches, while often complex and resource intensive, have proven effective in reducing wildfire risk and maintaining reliable power.

Catch of the Day

Kyle Trojan Kline took his daughter fishing in September 2024 and came away with a whopper of a catch while fishing for Burbot near the dike in Fairbanks, Alaska.

“It is almost 25 years to the date since (Ruralite) published (my son’s) first fish picture,” says Jodi Trojan, Kyle’s mother. “I just thought it was a very cool coincidence.”

To submit your photo, email a JPEG to photos@pioneer.coop. Include “Before You Go” in the subject line and share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo. n

Kyle Trojan Kline’s 3-year-old daughter holds up her catch as best as she can during a fishing trip. PHOTO COURTESY OF JODI TROJAN

Salad Cookbook

Want a fresh take on salads? More than 250 readerrecommended recipes are listed in an 8½-by-11-inch indexed book for $8, postage included.

To order by mail, send payment and number of cookbooks wanted along with your name and address to Ruralite Cookbooks, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133.

To pay with Visa, MasterCard, Discover card or American Express, call 503-357-2105.

To order online, visit www.ruralite.org. Allow two to three weeks for delivery.

MAILING ADDRESS

P.O. Box 1180

Philomath, OR 97370

541-929-3124

800-872-9036

LOCAL OFFICES

6990 W. Hills Road

Philomath, OR 97370

1900 W. Oak St. Lebanon, OR 97355

BOARD OFFICERS

Shane Russell | CHAIRMAN

Eric Horning | VICE PRESIDENT

Terry Plagmann | SECRETARY

Kevin Christopher | ASSISTANT SECRETARY

STAFF

James Ramseyer | PRESIDENT/CEO

Billy Terry | DEPUTY VP/COO

Scott Muller | TREASURER/CFO

Denise Downs | CAO

cpi.coop

Give

a

Gift That Keeps on Giving

When you sign up for Operation Round Up, your bill is rounded up to the nearest dollar each month. That difference helps support our local communities. The average contribution is $6 a year. To sign up or for more information, call 800-872-9036 or visit cpi.coop.

OR-6

Safely Powering Your Summer President’s Report

As June ushers in the warmth of summer, with longer days and outdoor adventures ahead, it’s the perfect time to reflect on electrical safety. Whether you’re tending to your garden, firing up the grill or embarking on home projects, a few simple precautions can keep you, your family and our community safe. At Consumers Power, we’re committed to powering your summer reliably while prioritizing safety every step of the way.

Summer often means more time outdoors, but it’s crucial to stay mindful of overhead power lines. Before trimming trees, setting up ladders or installing antennas, take a moment to look up and around. Ensure you’re at least 10 feet away from power lines, and always assume they’re energized. If you’re planning to dig for fencing or landscaping, call 811 at least three business days in advance to have underground utility lines marked. This free service helps prevent accidental contact with buried cables, keeping you safe and avoiding costly repairs.

For those enjoying Oregon’s beautiful outdoors, portable generators can be a summer staple for camping or backup power. Use them safely by operating them outdoors, away from windows and vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Never plug a generator directly into your home’s electrical system without a licensed electrician installing a transfer switch. This protects your household and our lineworkers from electricity backfeeding into our system. If you’re using extension cords for outdoor activities, choose heavy-duty, grounded cords rated for outdoor use, and inspect them for fraying or damage before plugging in.

At home, summer barbecues and poolside gatherings are highlights of the season, but water and electricity don’t mix. Keep all electrical devices, such as radios or chargers, away from pools, hot tubs and sprinklers. Ensure outdoor outlets have ground fault circuit interrupter protection, or GFCI, which can prevent shocks in wet conditions.

For families with children, summer break means more time exploring. Teach kids to steer clear of electric substations, green transformer boxes in yards and downed power lines. If you spot a downed line, stay at least 30 feet away and call our 24/7 outage line at 800-872-9036 immediately.

As your cooperative, we’re doing our part to keep safety first. Our crews undergo rigorous training to maintain our electric system, from clearing vegetation around lines to inspecting poles for summer readiness. We’re also investing in technology to reduce risks during wildfire season. Safety is a team effort, and your vigilance makes all the difference. We also encourage members to ensure we have updated contact information, so you’re never left in the dark.

Let’s make this summer one to remember for the right reasons. If you have questions about electrical safety or want to learn about our energy-saving programs, reach out to us. Together, we’ll keep our communities powered and protected.

James Ramseyer President/CEO