Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative Lineworker Travis Moore restores power to Cape Blanco Lighthouse after a storm. PHOTO BY WAREHOUSEMAN THOMAS MORRIS
CRUISE THE SOUTHEAST
SOUTHEAST SEA ISLANDS
On this enchanting 9-day cruise from Charleston to Amelia Island, experience the charm and hospitality of the South. In the comfort of our modern fleet, travel to some of the most beautiful historic cities in America. The fascinating sites you visit, the warm people you meet, and the delectable cuisine you taste, come together for an unforgettable journey.
Small Ship Cruising Done Perfectly
Ruralite
January 2025 • Volume 72, No. 1
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
ASSOCIATE EDITORS
Valeri Pearon, Nina Todea
PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION SR. MANAGER
Elizabeth Beatty
SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR
Alyssa McDougle
Ruralite (USPS 397-460) is published monthly for members for $5.43 per year, plus postage, by Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-for-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—to serve the communication needs of 46 consumer-owned electric utilities in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Nevada and California. Preferred periodical postage paid at Hillsboro, Oregon, 97123 and additional mailing offices. © 2025 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
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HOW TO CONTACT RURALITE
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Address Changes:
Utility members, contact your local utility. Subscribers, call us at 503-357-2105 option 3 or email mailingdept@pioneer.coop.
Back issues:
Back issues and extra copies $3. Prepayment required. Supply is limited. Be sure to identify edition, month and year. Call first if ordering back issues to check availability.
To contact Ruralite: Ruralite magazine is published by Pioneer Utility Resources.
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Stories That Inspire Change
As the new year unfolds, it brings with it the promise of fresh starts and new opportunities. Many of us take this time to reflect on the past year and set resolutions for the months ahead.
Whether it’s pursuing personal growth, building stronger relationships or contributing to our communities, this annual reset reminds us change is always possible. I hope that in this season of renewal, you find the strength and courage to achieve your resolutions and embrace the potential for transformation in your own life.
Yet, alongside the optimism, we must also acknowledge the importance of facing life’s more difficult truths. Sometimes, the stories that break our hearts are the ones that teach us the most. They remind us of the resilience of the human spirit and the power of hope to overcome even the darkest of circumstances.
One such story is that of Jane, a survivor of human trafficking, whose journey exemplifies courage, determination and the profound impact of community support.
Jane’s story, as told by our very own awardwinning writer Victoria Hampton, is a sobering reminder that trafficking often doesn’t look like the stereotypes we might imagine. It’s not confined to far-off cities or shadowy strangers. It
can occur in the homes and neighborhoods we think we know best.
Despite the horrors she faced, Jane’s journey didn’t end in despair. Her eventual escape and recovery were made possible by the tireless efforts of local advocacy groups and community task forces that refused to let her story go unheard. Today, she works to support other survivors, channeling her experiences into advocacy and care. Her resilience and resolve serve as a beacon of hope for countless others who face similar struggles. Read more on Page 10.
As we step into this new year, let us take inspiration from Jane’s journey and the work of those who supported her. Consider how you might contribute to change in your own community. Whether it’s volunteering, donating time, supplies or money, or simply raising awareness, every effort matters. The new year is a time for hope, resolve and action. Together, we can create a world where every individual has the opportunity to rewrite their story and dream of brighter days ahead.
Thank you for the wonderful story ideas many of you submitted in the past month. I’m still following up on many of them. Have additional thoughts about a story we should share? Reach me at editor@pioneer.coop.
Happy New Year!
Chasity Anderson Editorial Director
For supplemental and interactive content, search @Ruralite on your favorite social media sites.
Giving a Voice to the Silent
Community task forces create first lines of defense against human trafficiking in rural communities
Spotlight, Page 10
It Tastes Better in a Bowl
In The Kitchen, Page 16
Unclaimed Capital Credits
Find out if you have an unclaimed capital credit check from 2020
Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative Inc. is searching for members who have unclaimed capital credit checks issued in 2020. If you were a member who received electric service from CCEC between 1991 and 1993, there may be check from 2020 with your name on it for your capital credits.
The names of members who have unclaimed capital credits paid in 2020 will appear in a special insert within the Curry Coastal Pilot newspaper. The insert will be published at least one time in January,
February, March and April 2025. You can also visit www.ccec.coop/capital-credits to view the list.
What are capital credits?
Capital credits reflect each member’s ownership in the cooperative. You, as a member, are an owner of CCEC, and the allocated margins, or capital credits, are just one of the many advantages of membership. Unlike investor-owned utilities, CCEC provides electric service to our members at cost and any profits
Cool Cool Cool
Arc faults often cause overheating in wires and electric equipment. Common culprits are pinched, damaged or overloaded wires. AFCI outlets shut off when they detect unwanted arcing. AFCIs are useful in all living areas.
Heating Equipment
Most electrical fire deaths occur in December and January, according to the United States Fire Administration. This is also the time of year when we use space heaters, wood stoves and other heating devices. Heating devices can become dangerous when used improperly. Keep these tips in mind when using heating devices:
• Keep anything that can burn at 3 feet away from heating equipment, such as furnaces, space heaters, fireplaces or wood stoves.
• Only use products as intended. Space heaters are not for drying clothes, and the cooking stove is not a heater.
• Ensure all fuel-burning heating equipment is vented to the outdoors, and keep all intake and output vents clean and clear of debris.
• If using a wood stove or fireplace, use a screen to prevent sparks from flying into the room.
• Never plug a space heater into an extension cord.
• Keep space heaters on level ground, away from areas where you may trip over it.
Generators
Many people use portable generators during outages. To properly use one:
• Let the generator run for a couple of minutes before plugging things in to prevent catastrophic surges. Similarly, plug things in one at a time, as each device requires a small surge to start up.
• Only plug generators in to your home’s transfer switch or into a heavy duty extension cord rated for the weather conditions. Never plug generators into wall outlets—this can endanger lineworkers by backfeeding electricity onto distribution lines.
• Keep generators at least 20 feet from your home to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. n
New Batteries, New Fire Hazards
Many new devices enter our homes during the holidays, and that means new batteries to charge. Lithium-ion batteries are efficient and effective at powering phones, toys, electric bikes and more, but they can be fire hazards.
Damaged lithium-ion batteries can rapidly overheat and ignite. Whatever you’re plugging in, safe charging can prolong your battery life and prevent fire danger.
X Stop using a battery if you notice any smell, change in color or shape, too much heat, leaking or odd noises.
X Plug battery chargers directly into a wall outlet.
X Don’t overload circuits. Batteries take in a lot of energy while charging. Make sure you don’t overload your home’s circuits by having too much plugged in at once.
X Charge in a flat, dry area, away from sunlight and doorways. Heat and water can create fire risks, and keeping batteries away from exits keeps emergency paths clear should a fire start.
X Always buy batteries from known, quality sellers.
X Stay near your batteries while they are charging.
Giving a Voice to the Silent
Community task forces create first lines of defense against human trafficking in rural communities
By Victoria Hampton
As a child, Jane was an explorer. While the wind whipped through her brown hair and the sun beat down on her family’s rural central California ranch, Jane and her brothers created imaginary worlds. Goats and chickens acted as companions on their quests, and trees and forts built their magical realms.
Yet even the most elaborate games of make-believe only offered temporary escapes from the cruelties of Jane’s everyday life.
“I was about 6 years old when my cousin started to traffick me for drugs,” says Jane, now 33.
It was not a villain from a faraway city who stole Jane away from her family and forced her into a life of human trafficking. It was Jane’s cousin and grandfather who forced her into illicit acts for her family’s financial gain in the small town where she grew up.
“Looking back on it, it was a very slow process of isolating me and manipulating me and grooming me to the point where I thought that what I was doing was helping my family,” Jane says.
Jane’s experience is similar to millions of victims who are bought and sold for commercial sex and forced labor in the United States. Nonprofits and task forces throughout the Northwest are taking action against this crime to help victims and survivors as well as safeguard their communities. People like Jane are no longer alone in their fight for a better life.
In the Life
“Human trafficking is one of the fastestgrowing criminal enterprises in the world,” says Amanda Swanson, Oregon Department of Justice’s human trafficking response and intervention coordinator. “Before the pandemic, it had surpassed the gun trade and was projected to surpass the drug trade. Human trafficking, you really can break down to economics 101. If there is demand, somebody is going to supply.”
From her 16 years of experience working hundreds of human trafficking cases in Oregon, Amanda knows the crime is perpetrated by people who victims know, trust and sometimes love.
“The top two most common forms of trafficking are familial trafficking and romantic relationships,” Amanda says. “It’s the family. It’s a partner. It’s a boyfriend or girlfriend. It’s not the person who is going to jump out of the bushes. It’s possibly our neighbor or a family member.”
Familial trafficking is when a trafficker exploits a minor within their own family. Other traffickers exploit their partners or spouses. In both scenarios, perpetrators manipulate their victims and prey on their vulnerabilities. Traffickers offer safety, security and basic needs that may be lacking in someone’s life.
“Most of the time, there is a lot of stuff going on at home, whether it is abuse or neglect from their family,” Jane says. “They feel like they don’t have those basic, fundamental things we all need as humans, like love and acceptance.”
Using a process of force, fraud and coercion, traffickers build up individuals, making them dependent on their abusers. They use this control they’ve gained to force people into illicit acts. By the time this happens, victims have no way out.
“A lot of times people still think, ‘How could somebody get trapped into this?’”
Jeri MooMaw says. “The grooming process is similar to a cult leader. Over time, (traffickers) are cutting off any other avenue of needs fulfillment so (victims) become dependent on them.”
Jeri—a child sex trafficking survivor and executive director of Innovations Human Trafficking Collaborative—has worked with clients who live everywhere from gated communities to homeless encampments.
“When you’re being forced to do things that you don’t want to do—besides the physical pain that you go through—I think it is just a really difficult thing to cope with mentally. There was a point where my brain just kind of broke.”
JANE, HUMAN TRAFFICKING SURVIVOR
Human trafficking affects victims from all age groups and walks of life.
Once a trafficker has effectively isolated their victim, they use tactics of fear, shame and helplessness to keep them in the life. For Jane—a child who did not know a lifestyle beyond the one she lived on her family’s isolated ranch—traffickers used fear as their tool to keep her compliant.
“They told me that people could read my mind, and I believed that,” Jane says. “My brothers would be hurt if I didn’t do what they would ask me to do.”
In communities, trafficking happens under the radar.
“Especially in rural communities, (trafficking) doesn’t always look like the way we think it would,” Jane says. “I
wasn’t standing on street corners. I lived at home with my family. Most of my trafficking happened in people’s homes.”
Jane’s abuse continued throughout her childhood while she went to school, played sports and attended church. She seemed like any other child, with a shy and obedient nature.
“One part of me was doing all this terrible stuff, and the other part of me was who I kind of presented to the world,” Jane says. “If you had looked at me, you wouldn’t think, ‘This person is being trafficked.’”
Jane was terrified of what might happen if she opened up to anyone about her abuse. Her cousin—the same one selling her for sex—introduced her to substance abuse to help cope with the
trauma and physical abuse inflicted by her buyers and to make her easier to control.
“When you’re being forced to do things that you don’t want to do—besides the physical pain that you go through—I think it is just a really difficult thing to cope with mentally,” Jane says. “There was a point where my brain just kind of broke. It’s incredibly difficult to process.”
She also started self-harming and attempted suicide multiple times. Jane was connected to a school counselor and saw a therapist. While she was too scared to speak her truth, no one recognized the signs of what was going on behind closed doors.
“Nobody ever asked me why,” Jane says. “I don’t understand why nobody saw the bigger picture.”
Jane overlooks Summer Lake in Oregon while wrapped in a blanket gifted to her by a friend who wanted to honor Jane’s heritage. After escaping familial trafficking, Jane takes small steps to reclaim pieces of her inherited identity while creating a better life for herself.
PHOTO COURTESY OF JANE
Communities for Change
To help mitigate this crime in local communities, county task forces are relying on what small towns do best: help one another. County task forces are community-based multidisciplinary teams with the training and skills to identify, respond to, and help victims and survivors of human trafficking.
Each task force is different but often includes employees from the local police department, domestic violence and housing assistance organizations, youth nonprofits, school districts and other county organizations with existing resources to support victims and survivors.
“Our goal is to have them in every county,” says Amanda, who is responsible for building Oregon’s response to sex and labor trafficking.
This effort starts with building awareness and understanding the root causes of trafficking and how it thrives in communities. From there, task forces find the best ways to support victims and survivors by pooling resources and educating their communities about human trafficking and where they can direct suspected victims for help or report a suspected incident.
“One of the goals of the task force is
to build this team of people who know what trafficking is and know how to respond to it so that when a victim or survivor is identified, they know what to do and the other agencies they can reach out to support the person,” says Ashley Johnson, Anti-Trafficking Alliance of Central Oregon task force coordinator and “at:project” coordinator.
If a victim is in a police station, entering foster care, contacting a domestic violence center or sitting in a school counselor’s office, the goal is for the professionals they’re encountering to know how to identify the signs of trafficking and connect them with what they need in the moment.
Starting with meeting basic needs— something to eat and a safe place to rest— may lead to counseling, housing and job support, or prosecution of their trafficker.
Community awareness and collaboration changed Jane’s life.
After escaping her traffickers in her early 20s, Jane eventually found her way to Central Oregon. Even through the trauma and abuse Jane experienced, she didn’t think of herself as a survivor.
“At this point, I still didn’t understand what trafficking was,” Jane says. “I didn’t know that was what had happened to me. I knew it was a lot of abuse and a lot of really
bad things that shouldn’t have happened.”
When she moved to Oregon, Jane was in an abusive relationship and struggling with her mental health. While working in a hospital, she suffered from a concussion after hitting her head on a piece of equipment. During her medical examination, the doctor found evidence of multiple concussions Jane had suffered from abuse inflicted by her traffickers and buyers.
Finally, someone asked Jane a question that took down all the walls she’d spent her lifetime building: Why did this happen to you?
“I just broke down and told him everything,” Jane says. “That was the first time I had really opened up about the things I had been through in my life. Up until that point, I was too scared. I told myself I was never going to tell anyone what had happened.”
Thanks to the local advocacy and awareness efforts by the county task force, the doctor knew where to direct Jane to get the help she needed. Jane was connected to at:project, a local nonprofit created by law enforcement and the district attorney’s office employees, service providers and agencies to support survivors of human trafficking in Central Oregon.
The at:project helped Jane gain her
LEFT: As a survivor of human trafficking, Jeri Moomaw founded Innovations Human Trafficking Collaborative to help victims and survivors access life-changing services. PHOTO COURTESY OF JERI MOOMAW RIGHT: From left, Oregon Department of Justice employees Kaitlyn Hardy and Amanda Swanson; Lizzie Martinez, Lincoln County Trafficking Intervention task force coordinator; and Shawna Gray, Siletz Tribal Gaming Commission executive director, host a human trafficking presentation at Chinook Winds Casino. PHOTO COURTESY OF LIZZIE MARTINEZ
“Getting connected with the at:project was probably the best thing that has ever happened to me.”
JANE
independence and a new outlook on life through therapy, housing assistance and the support of others who understood what she was going through and were there to support her every step of the way.
“Getting connected with the at:project was probably the best thing that has ever happened to me,” Jane says. “I had true, genuine, caring support for the first time in my life, and I feel like that was the turning point for me, and everything just got so much better.”
How You Can Help
As a former homeless youth in Lincoln County, Oregon, Lizzie Martinez has firsthand experience of the transformative nature of community support for people experiencing hardship. This inspired Lizzie to dedicate her career to giving back to her community. Lizzie is the Lincoln County Trafficking Intervention Task Force coordinator and works for Children’s Advocacy Center of Lincoln County.
“Just the strength and resilience that I have seen as I’ve walked alongside survivors makes it very motivating to advocate for them in the professional arena and be a voice where they so often don’t have one,” Lizzie says.
Protecting communities from these crimes goes back to where the exploitation of children and adults often starts: vulnerabilities. Lizzie understands everyone has a different capacity to help in their communities, yet there is power in every action taken to raise awareness and support existing programs that help the most vulnerable members of communities.
From small to large, there are ways residents can address vulnerabilities and help safeguard their communities:
• Listen to survivors’ stories at thelifestory.org.
• Donate to a food bank.
• Volunteer at a school as a tutor.
• Donate clothes to youth and adult organizations.
• Research and share internet safety training resources with families. The school district may have resources available.
• Support a domestic violence or housing assistance organization.
• Report any suspected incidents of human trafficking to police.
• Organize a trafficking awareness event, such as a film screening or guest speaker. Contact a county or state antitrafficking agency for training support.
• Volunteer with Court Appointed Special Advocates or a youth advocacy organization.
• Do not buy or encourage others to buy sex.
• Form a task force with programs and services that can support victims and survivors of human trafficking. It can start with a group of concerned community members meeting at someone’s house and expand from there, which is how the Anti-Trafficking Alliance of Central Oregon was formed.
“Being able to address those vulnerabilities makes such a big difference that people don’t even realize,” Amanda says.
A decade later, Jane is still an explorer, and her reality is a place she no longer has to escape from. She takes her lived experiences and helps victims and survivors as a supervisor at an antitrafficking organization in Central Oregon.
“Something that I’ve realized doing this kind of work is how many people have stories similar to mine,” Jane says.
Jane is working on a degree in social work and plans to apply to a master’s program to continue supporting others and be a voice for change.
“I feel like it is a way of taking some of my power back,” Jane says. “Everything that I am learning right now is helping me feel even more confident and capable in my ability to show up for other people.” n
Want to find out more? Listen to Jeri Moomaw, Innovations Human Trafficking Collaborative executive director, speak about holding perpetrators accountable at ruralite.com/giving-a-voice-to-the-silent.
Need Help?
Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline
This 24-hour, confidential hotline connects victims and survivors of sex and labor trafficking with services and support to get help and stay safe.
If you need assistance, here’s how you can connect:
Call: 888-373-7888
Text: 233733 (BEFREE)
Chat: humantraffickinghotline.org/chat
If you suspect potential situations of sex and labor trafficking in your community, call the hotline or report it to your police department.
At her
request, Jane’s name was changed and her last name omitted to protect her privacy.
The Eyes of the Road Transportation employees take the wheel to stop human trafficking in its tracks
By Victoria Hampton
Jennifer Geisler knows that anyone who steps into one of her buses could be a human trafficking victim. As chief operations officer of Sunset Empire Transportation District in Astoria, Oregon, Jennifer and her team rely on their yearly training from TAT—formerly known as Truckers Against Trafficking—and open communication to keep their riders safe and get them the help they need.
In February 2023, Jennifer’s team quickly responded to a situation involving two girls who boarded a bus in Seaside to connect with a person they met online in Portland. Calls to the Seaside transit office came from the dad of one of the girls and local police. Transportation Support Specialist Stephanie Rodriguez reviewed camera footage and contacted Jennifer and supervisor Rick Yelton to confirm the girls were on board. Jennifer, Rick, bus driver Chuck Poellnitz and police worked together to bring the girls home.
Jennifer can’t help but think about what might have happened.
“This could very well have not been a happy ending had we not been able to get involved,” Jennifer says. “That’s why we continue to do training every year, to be able to help save our children and other young people as well as elderly and disabled who are just as much of a victim in this situation. It’s just watching out for each other.”
Jennifer credits TAT’s free training to raising her team’s awareness and ability to help riders in need.
Human trafficking is a crime in which people are bought and sold for forced labor or commercial sex. For more than a decade, TAT has worked alongside the transportation industry to bring awareness to this crime and empower drivers to report incidents they see on the road.
“It makes our drivers consciously aware of these situations, and they have the tools to call and question what’s happening,” Jennifer says.
Driving Change
Kylla Lanier couldn’t have imagined how her family’s life would change when she cracked open a book from her mom. She and her sisters were consumed by a world they didn’t know existed when they read David Batstone’s “Not for Sale: The Return of the Global Slave Trade and
How We Can Fight It.”
“I’ll be honest, we were just shocked,” Kylla says. “We didn’t realize slavery still existed.”
It was this awareness that drove the family to create TAT. What started as local advocacy in 2009 grew into a specialized training program focused on drivers who travel the 4.2 million miles of highways in the United States.
“Most truck drivers, if they knew what was going on, they’d do something about it,” Kylla says, TAT’s deputy director and senior director of external affairs.
Today, the organization offers free human trafficking awareness training for transportation employees—such as longhaul truckers, delivery drivers and public transit drivers—along with law enforcement, government agencies, private and public companies, and community members.
“The general population in the United States, they do not understand prostitution,” Kylla says. “Almost every person in prostitution is there against their will. This is a system of exploitation.”
The exploitation of girls, boys, women and men isn’t the sensationalized experience people see in movies, Kylla says. Victims are often trafficked by people they know who rely on psychological manipulation to
trick and threaten them into providing commercial sex or forced labor. It is a crime that happens everywhere.
“It’s happening in every community, whether people want to acknowledge it or not,” Kylla says. “It is important we are aware and make sure our community is safe. It is an everywhere problem, so it is an everyone solution.”
TAT’s free training includes industryfocused, documentary-style videos, corporate and community training resources, printable posters and wallet cards, and a mobile app. The training videos bring together survivors’ firsthand accounts and antitrafficking education.
Awareness on the Road
TAT’s survivor-driven education changed Oregon Department of Transportation’s Maureen McNeill’s perspective on her work eight years ago when she attended Kylla’s presentation at a law enforcement conference in Bend. During the presentation, a young human trafficking survivor shared some of her darkest moments and how she carries the weight of those experiences with her every day.
“I sat right across the table from her as she told her story, and it really stuck with me for a long time,” Maureen says. “I said to
TOP: Sunset Empire Transportation District’s employees are trained to identify signs of human trafficking. PHOTO COURTESY OF SUNSET
EMPIRE TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT RIGHT: Kylla Lanier gives a presentation on human trafficking awareness to 300 law enforcement officers at the 2022 Western States Information Network. PHOTO COURTESY OF TAT
myself, ‘I need to do something about this.’”
As the backbone of the country’s economy, Maureen knows each truck driver she meets may encounter human trafficking victims and perpetrators. Traffickers use the same extensive road network as truck drivers to transport their victims, including the rural stretch of I-84 Maureen manages from Umatilla to Baker City.
“They are the eyes of the road,” she says. “When they’re stopping in rest areas, truck stops and casino parking lots, they are likely to see something.”
When Maureen was promoted to Blue Mountain regional manager of commerce and compliance, she added human trafficking awareness to trainings she and her team present to trucking businesses and farming operations in Eastern Oregon. She has fliers and wallet cards at weigh stations
for her employees to hand out to drivers.
“Traffickers are on our highways, and they need to stop and use facilities,” Maureen says. “That’s where we’re going to spot them.”
Kylla hears stories of industry professionals across the country who have encountered suspected human trafficking and reported it to local police. Oftentimes, the people who step up to help in these situations never hear the outcome of their efforts. Yet, Kylla knows how much of a difference these actions make from the survivors she works with at TAT.
“When you see survivors thriving— these are creative, strong, smart people that deserve a chance at a better life,” Kylla says. n
Bring attention and advocacy to your community with TAT’s free human trafficking awareness resources at tatnonprofit.org.
TAT is dedicated to giving transportation employees the training they need to identify signs of human trafficking while on the road.
PHOTO BY MIKE TEEGARDEN
ABOVE: Clockwise from left, Stephanie Rodriguez, Rick Yelton, Chuck Poellnitz and Jennifer Geisler played a role in preventing two teenage girls from running away aboard a Sunset Empire bus. PHOTO BY MIKE TEEGARDEN
It Tastes Better IN A BOWL
Acai Bowl With Whole-Wheat Toast
1 100-milligram frozen acai smoothie pack
1 cup low-fat milk
1 medium frozen banana, sliced
1 cup fresh or frozen mixed berries
2 slices whole-wheat bread
Fresh blueberries
Granola
Coconut flakes
Under warm water, thaw frozen acai smoothie pack about 5 seconds. In a blender, combine acai, milk, banana and mixed berries. Blend until smooth.
Toast bread slices to desired doneness.
Pour acai mixture into bowl and garnish with blueberries, granola and coconut flakes before serving. Serve with toast.
Source: Culinary.net
Chicken and Grape Cauliflower Rice Bowl
Chicken
1/2 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon minced ginger
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Zucchini
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
1 pound (3 to 4 pieces) small boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
1 tablespoon olive oil 2 medium zucchini, trimmed and cut into 3/4-inch chunks
Cauliflower rice
1 pound thawed frozen riced cauliflower
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1/3 cup water
1 teaspoon turmeric
2 large garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons minced ginger
1 tablespoon ground cumin
15-ounce can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed well
1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
11/3 cups halved red grapes
To make the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine oil, garlic, ginger and cumin. Add turmeric, season lightly with salt and pepper, and whisk to blend. Lightly pound chicken pieces to even them out, then coat in oil-spice mixture. Let stand 20 to 30 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add chicken, smooth side down. Cook until golden brown underneath, about 4 minutes. Flip with spatula, and reduce heat to medium. Cook about 4 minutes until just cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and tent with foil. Do not clean the pan.
To make the zucchini: In a medium skillet, heat oil on medium-high heat until hot. Add zucchini pieces. Cook, stirring often until crisp and tender, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
To make cauliflower rice: In a colander, drain cauliflower well. In same large skillet used for chicken, add oil, onion and water over medium heat. Cook, stirring until softened, about 3 minutes. Add turmeric, garlic, ginger and cumin. Cook, stirring, for 3 minutes. Add drained cauliflower and garbanzo beans. Cook until hot, about 5 minutes. Stir in cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
Divide cauliflower rice among four large soup bowls. Slice chicken against the grain. Arrange on top of cauliflower rice along with grapes and cooked zucchini. Serve warm.
Source: California Table Grape Commission
Mixed Berry Smoothie Bowl
1/2 cup fresh raspberries
1/2 cup sliced fresh strawberries
¼ cup sliced banana
¼ cup pomegranate juice
3/4 cup dairy whipped topping
1/8 cup fresh blueberries
1 tablespoon raw pepitas
1 teaspoon honey
Set aside a few berries to place on top of finished smoothie. Add banana, remaining raspberries, strawberries and pomegranate juice to blender. Blend until smooth. Add whipped topping, and pulse until blended.
Pour smoothie into a bowl. Artfully arrange reserved berries, blueberries and pumpkin seeds on top. Drizzle with honey. Top with additional whipped topping, if desired.
Source: Ready Set Eat
Oatmeal Power Bowl With Peanut Butter Drizzle
1 banana, mashed
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1/3 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2/3 cup dairy-free milk
1/3 cup water
1 tablespoon milled flaxseed
¼ cup natural creamy peanut butter, warmed
The night before, prepare oats by combining the banana, chia seeds, oats, cinnamon, dairy-free milk and water. Stir, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
In the morning, scoop the mixture into a saucepan over mediumhigh heat. Bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to medium-low and continue stirring frequently until mixture is thick and completely heated. Remove from heat. Stir in flax. Pour oats into bowl, and drizzle with melted peanut butter. Add toppings as desired.
Source: Ready Set Eat
Orange Shrimp Quinoa Bowls
1 cup orange juice
1 tablespoon hot sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon soy sauce
4 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
1 tablespoon white miso
¼ cup butter
11/2 pounds shrimp, peeled, deveined and tails removed ¼ teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 cup quinoa, cooked
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 cucumber, sliced into half moons
5 green onions, sliced
1 avocado, sliced
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
2 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
In a medium bowl, whisk orange juice, hot sauce, honey, soy sauce, vegetable oil, lime juice and miso until combined. Pour one-quarter of liquid into a separate bowl. Set aside. Add shrimp to the remaining mixture, and marinate 15 minutes.
Heat large skillet over medium heat with butter. Add shrimp, salt and pepper. Cook 2 minutes on each side until pink. Add mushrooms and cook until tender.
In two serving bowls, divide quinoa, bell pepper, cucumber, onions, avocado and shrimp. Sprinkle sesame seeds and cilantro over both bowls. Drizzle with reserved dressing.
Source: Culinary.net
READER EXCHANGE
Crafts/Hobbies
I would appreciate any scrapbook paper, metal dies, embossing folders, wax seals, glitter, embellishments, embossing ink. Anything that you don’t need anymore in your craft room, I’m willing to pay shipping if needed. Thank you very much.
A Zinni
260 E. Theater Lane Hermiston, OR 97838
Retired “hot rodder” would like old license plates to decorate wall of hobby shop. Will be happy to refund shipping cost. Thank you.
Marty Billich
3580 Parkridge Ave. Pahrump, NV 89048
I have been working on a California king size cover for bed. I would appreciate if anyone has white doilies they would be willing to share. Can be used. I have been working on the cover for 10 years. Thank you in advance.
Kathryn Geiszler
19024 Hwy 42 Myrtle Point, OR 97458
Milestones
Our family has adopted a spunky senior who is turning 92 in January. She still drives and brings a lot of joy to others. Adelia has experienced much loss and sorrow in her life, but she keeps smiling and is truly an inspiration. It would mean the world to her to receive birthday cards. Please address them to: Adelia Anderson, 3755 N. 4th St., Coeur d’Alene, ID 83815. Thank you so much.
Karen Kastning Rathdrum, Idaho
My mom turns 100 in early February. She would love to receive greetings and words from the world outside my home. Please send cards to: 61590 Gosney Road, Bend, OR 97702. Thanks in advance.
Anita Elsey Bend, Oregon
Music
I am looking for the words to an old cowboy song that my dad loved. I don’t remember the name, but some of the words are, “I dreamed there would be a great roundup/where cowboys like doggies would stand/to be judged by the (Rider of Justice?)/who is (trained?) and who knows every brand/roll on, roll on, roll on little doggies, roll on.” I would love to have these words, if someone knows them.
Evalyn Finney 11815 N. Boyer Road Sandpoint, ID 83864-8870
Odds
I am a lover of hot tea, especially on a cold winter morning. I noticed my tea selection getting rather skimpy and thought it would be fun to ask readers if they might send me a tea bag of a brew that they enjoy. I would be happy to reciprocate. I would very much enjoy the variety. I double checked postage, and it would require one stamp. Thank you so very much.
Harriet Courts
6060 Teal Creek Road Dallas, OR 97338
I have a very nice casserole dish in my possession. It is a large stone one: 9x13. It was left in Antelope, Oregon, about six to eight months ago. If you have a missing dish, please call 541-489-3445 with the brand name. I will be happy to mail it to you.
Elizabeth Samul P.O. Box 37
Antelope, OR 97001
Recipes
Looking for a recipe for cornbread that was much more moist and sweeter than traditional cornbread. It’s baked in a 9x13 pan, has cheddar cheese, butter and creamed corn.
Elena Nightingale
907 D Ave. LaGrande, OR 97850
Thanks
I want to send a huge thank you to all of the amazing people who sent beads, jewelry, other craft items and ideas for our Senior Respite Program. Your generosity is so appreciated and overwhelming.
Diane Whitley Eastsound, Washington
Thank you so very much to all who sent cards and gifts to my mom for her 92nd birthday. She was shocked but very delighted to get mail. Rural people are so awesome.
Laura Crowe Umpqua, Oregon
Submitting Requests Is Free
Send your request (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 firstcome, first-served 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 (pricing applies).
When submitting a milestone request, please send it at least two months before the milestone. Phone numbers are not published. Email addresses are if they are part of the ad, but you must include a postal address.
Requests must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.
See millions of years of history embedded in stone at Oregon’s
Sheep Rock
What Is It?
Jutting into the sky with its layers of rock and fossil, Sheep Rock in Eastern Oregon is home to millions of years of geologic history. One of three parts of the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument and next to the beautiful Painted Hills, the area is great for history, hiking and marveling at landscapes.
Rock Records
The Sheep Rock Unit of the fossil beds is home to rocks up to 95 million years old, with plant and animal fossils from 7 to 33 million years ago. The unit houses the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center, where visitors can see a collection of fossils. The unit also includes seven hiking trails, ranging from a quarter mile to 3.25 miles round trip.
Two More Units
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument has two other units. One, the Painted Hills, is famous for its rolling hills with striking stripes in its rock. The colors—best viewed in the afternoon sun—are caused by variations in mineral levels. The third unit, Clarno, is home to pillars of rock formed by volcanic mudslides.
Take a Road Trip
When visiting the John Day Fossil Beds, consider making it a road trip along Oregon’s Journey Through Time Scenic Byway. The byway is nearly 290 miles long, taking visitors from the Columbia River south through the fossil beds, then east through the Blue Mountains before ending in Baker City.
More Information
The John Day Fossil Beds do not require a pass, unlike many National Parks Service sites. To start planning your trip, head online to www.nps.gov/joda or call 541-987-2333.
ADOBE STOCK
PHOTO BY DAVIDRH
A New Year
By Dave LaBelle
As a newspaper photographer, there were always New Year’s Day photo assignments, such as taking pictures of the first baby of the year.
Like many holidays marked with some sort of celebration, New Year’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate
and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
NIKON D810, 180mm lens
ISO 800, f/3.2 at 1/320
As they age, one goal for many people is to keep moving. Gary
70, walks 15 minutes a day at a local fitness club before doing other strength-training activities. Gary says he has been working out the past five years because his chiropractor told him he needs to keep moving.
time, the beginning of a new calendar year. Most of us make resolutions we hope to keep. You know how it goes. After Jan. 1, gymnasiums are usually filled with eager folks ready to start fulfilling New Year’s health resolutions. The same gyms are half-filled by June.
But photographically, the new year might be a good time to follow a dream you have wanted to pursue.
Thanks to the help of several generous supporters, I plan to finally pursue a photographic dream I have had for many years. I call this dream A Visual Walk with Christ, and I plan to visually
interpret Biblical scenes.
So, whether you travel to the Big Apple to watch the ball drop at Times Square, position yourself in one of the towns or cities that color the
Reader Challenge
sky with fireworks, or begin a dream project, the calendar change is an opportunity to start the new year with fresh challenges, both personally and photographically. n
Try photographing resolutions in action, such as documenting someone beginning a new workout routine. Challenge yourself to make a photograph of yourself once a month. Photograph someone you love or admire throughout the year, similar to how we made a pencil mark on a doorframe for children to mark their growth. Pick a favorite spot to document over the four seasons. When my third child, Tucker, was born, I photographed him every day of his first year of life. I still draw from those images every year.
Email your best image (just one, please) 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.
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com
Kramer,
PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
Blades ofaFeather
As one of the largest purveyors of collectible knives in the country, you can trust Stauer to give you the best knife for your money.
Case in point: The Blades of a Feather Knife –– a remarkable hunting and adventure knife with an even more remarkable price. This is the kind of knife people flock to.
This stick tang knife boasts a stainless steel blade with a scalloped edge that gives it a distinct feathered appearance. This “feathered” edge is more than a striking aesthetic touch; it enhances the knife’s performance by creating air pockets in the spaces. These air pockets prevent shredding and allow for a cleaner, smoother cut. Consider it your edge up.
Recalling the days of the great American frontier, this knife’s artisan handle is crafted of natural bone, redwood and brown Pakkawood. It’s a great addition to your collection, and will prove a trusty companion for all your outdoor adventures from hunting and fishing to camping and hiking. It also makes one heck of a letter opener. Plus, by making the call today, you are guaranteed to receive a genuine leather sheath in the deal.
Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the impeccable craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.
We invite you to join the hundreds of thousands of Stauer knife collectors who appreciate a fine blade along with a fine deal. We assure you, you’ll be in good company. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers. Call today!
Knife Speci cations:
Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath!
• Stainless steel stick tang blade; 12” overall length
• Natural bone, redwood & brown Pakkawood handle
Blades of a Feather Knife $249 $49* + S&P Save $200 California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.
*Special price only for customers using the offer code.
1-800-333-2045
Your Insider Offer Code: BFK144-02
“The feel of this knife is unbelievable... this is an incredibly fine instrument.”
The Coos-Curry Electric Charitable Foundation empowers local educators
Do you know a teacher with a brilliant idea? The Coos-Curry Electric Charitable Foundation offers an opportunity that could transform local classrooms—and we need your help to spread the word.
What is a Bright Ideas Grant?
This grant program supports educators across the Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative service territory by funding innovative projects that bring learning to life. From science experiments to artistic innovations, these grants help teachers create extraordinary learning experiences for students.
Grant Details at a Glance
• Application opens Jan. 6.
• Application deadline is April 20.
• Grant focus is STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics).
What makes this grant special?
The Bright Ideas Grant is about fueling innovation in local education. Projects can range from:
• Interactive technology workshops.
• Creative scientific demonstrations.
• Artistic engineering projects.
• Innovative math learning experiences.
• Exploration of art-based learning.
Easy Application Process
Teachers can apply quickly and easily by following these steps:
1. Visit www.ccec.coop/bright-ideas.
2. Complete an online application form.
3. Submit an innovative project proposal.
How You Can Help
Share this opportunity with the educators in your life. When sharing, you’re not just helping one teacher—you’re supporting educational innovation across our service territory. Every shared link, every forwarded email and every conversation could help a local educator bring an amazing project to life.
Submit your application by Sunday, April 20.
Together, we can brighten the future of local education—one bright idea at a time. n
For more information, visit www.ccecf.org.
Angela Dixon used a Bright Ideas Grant to buy hands-on STEAM learning kits for her second grade class. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ANGELA DIXON
MARKETPLACE
Agriculture
4x5 round bales, Meadow Foxtail Orchard Grass. 4x4 Timothy, small square. nas@cpcinternet.com; 208-435-4637 or 208-435-4002. 1225
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. 0425
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. 0225
Automotive
1997 Eddie Bauer Expedition. 4x4 exceptional condition. New aluminum wheels and tires. 113K miles. No disappointments, leave a message. 541-661-1140.
Books, Magazines and Videos
Not just for Christmas. Idaho author Tova R. Cladouhos sells children’s books on Amazon or by email at tovarae@gmail.com. These books are perfect for elementary-aged children with factual stories based on friendship, affection, protection and farm animal adventures. Tova loves barns, pastures, dogs, cats, sheep and ponds. Her books include, “The Nine Lives of Milo the Cat,” “Saving Lily,” “Little Molly” and “Little Molly’s Secret.” 0125
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. $229,999. 0125
For sale: successful Northeast Oregon Drive-In Diner, Union, OR. Owner wishes to retire after 28 years. RMLS #24493530. Walt BrookshireBroker, Oregon Trail Realty, 541-805-8689. $185K. 0125
Community Events
9th Annual Fiber Arts & Jewelry Exhibit. Feb. 7 - March 29, 2025. Art Center East in LaGrande, OR. Submission deadline: Feb. 1, 2025. artcentereast.org. 0125
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): March issue—Jan. 30, 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.
Equipment and Tools
Fireproof combination lock safe, $300. DR multi trimmer, $300. Kubota tow rototilla, $1.75K. Land pride 4-ft mower, $800. Ted, 458-910-3727. 0225
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. 0125AR
Miscellaneous
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.
Quadra-Fire Santa Fe pellet stove 700-1,000 sqft. Used 2 seasons, cabin, small house, man cave. $1.8K. Starchaser987@yahoo.com; 541-419-7477. 0125
Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. For more info: www.highdesertmemorials.com; Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or 541-815-8906.
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. 0225
Pets and Supplies
Male husky. 4 years old. Very gentle. Great with children. 541-875-4172. 0125
Real Estate
Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in OR. Fourth-generation 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. 0125
Beautiful custom home on 15 acres w/ stunning panoramic mountain and valley views. Garage, barn. $599K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363, ddwr@ortelco.net. 0125
20 acres located east of Montello, NV. Fully livable. Year-round access. Power and water nearby. Comes with equipment and facilities. $35K. geopup58@gmail.com. 0125
3 beautiful 1.01-acre lots in Pahrump, NV, awesome mountain view in nice area. No HOA. $30K each or two for $55K. Easy access to offroading. Horses okay. Also 10-acre lot with water rights and underground utilities. pkcfitness@hotmail.com. 775-209-2830. 0125
Recreational Rentals
Bed and Birds; a guesthouse. Wet meadows, range, forest, dark sky. Beds for 9. Lakeview, OR. Explore or ride? Near ski hill. Reasonable. 541-219-2044. 0125
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.
Wavecatcher: oceanfront cottage. Central Oregon coast. $175/night (plus cleaning/tax). Open April through Oct. Holds up to 6-plus kids and pets. Wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. Reservations: 541-740-2846. 0125
Recreational Vehicles
Thor Ace model 27.2, 2017 motor home. Excellent condition. 14K miles, 2 slides. Sleeps 6, 2 TVs, always covered. $60K. debutler1947@icloud.com; 541-953-0295. 0225
24ft Sunseeker RV Mercedes. Diesel, 8-ft. slide out with 4-person dinette, sleeps 6. 60K miles, 2016. $48.5K. Ted, 458-910-3727. 0225
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. 0225
Historic Windows & Restoration: windows, storm sashes, screen doors for residential buildings. historicwindowsllc.com. 541-714-3460. License #252960. Serving Corvallis, Albany, Eugene, Salem, Portland and surrounding areas. 0125
Swaps and Trades
Private horse ranch in Sisters, OR, offers a spot for your RV living in trade for light horse feeding and cleaning. TK, 541-504-1234. 0125
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.
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 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. 0225
Cash paid for old gas station and oil company signs, pumps, globes, metal oil cans. Good condition. Discreet cash settlement. Clifton Jones, collector. 512-413-4459. 0225
Buying quality concert posters and handbills from the 1960s and ‘70s. Cash paid for desired items. Eric, 541-520-2794 or ericwedmondson@yahoo.com. 0125
Child Who Stutters Cannot Do!
We’ve answered some questions to help you make the switch:
1. Is it a hassle to get set up?
Not at all! We’ve made installation as smooth as possible because we know our members deserve nothing less than convenience. Our local technicians— your neighbors—understand the ins and outs of our South Coast communities. Your installation is done at no charge, tailored to your needs. During setup, we’ll make sure your entire home or business has reliable, top-tier Wi-Fi coverage. If you run into an issue, don’t stress. With our local team, you’re never waiting long for help. Fast, stress-free installation. Isn’t that the way it should be?
2. Am I going to pay extra for equipment?
Here’s the good news—absolutely not! Our premium Wi-Fi equipment is included in your service at no additional charge. On top of that, we give you access to the Beacon Home app for free. From the app, you can manage your Wi-Fi, monitor parental controls, and even boost your internet security—all from your phone. It’s just one more way we’ve made sure our service fits seamlessly into your life.
3. Are your internet rates just a short-term deal? When will the price increase?
No fine print here. With Beacon Broadband, what you see is what you pay—forever. Thanks to our Price for Life Guarantee, the internet rate you sign up for will never increase. Why? Because we believe in fairness and transparency. Unlike other providers who hook you with low rates and surprise you later with unexpected price hikes, we keep it simple and straightforward. No surprises, no shenanigans. That’s just how we do business in our community.
It’s Time To Say Hello to Better Internet Today
4. Can I get phone services too?
Yes, you can! Whether you’re someone who still loves the reliability of a landline or need a strong backup for your cell service, our advanced voice service has you covered.
Delivered over fiber internet, calls are crystal clear and ultra-reliable. You’ll enjoy unlimited calls within the continental U.S., and for your convenience, you can even keep your current phone number.
5. Will I get stuck talking to customer service reps in a faraway call center?
Never. That’s a promise. We’re local, and you’ll always talk to someone who understands what it means to be part of the South Coast community. Here’s something we’re extremely proud of—our customers have given us a world-class NPS (Net Promoter Score) of 86. That means you don’t just get fast, reliable service—you get support from people who genuinely care about solving your problems fast. Need help? We’ll diagnose issues over the phone or send a technician to your door in no time. That’s the benefit of support from neighbors who are just down the road.
6. What’s symmetrical internet, and why does it matter? Symmetrical internet speeds are one of the biggest perks of fiber technology. Here’s how it works—your download and upload speeds match. For example, if you choose 500 Mbps download speeds, your upload speeds will also be 500 Mbps. This is a game-changer for gamers, remote workers, and anyone uploading files or hosting video calls. No more lagging Zoom calls or waiting for uploads to finish. It’s fast. It’s reliable. It’s the future of internet—and it’s here, right on the South Coast, thanks to Beacon Broadband.
At Beacon Broadband, we’re bringing fiber-fast internet and reliability to the people who matter most—our CCEC members, like you. When you join us, you’re not just signing up for better internet. You’re supporting a local initiative that prioritizes connectivity and progress for the entire South Coast community.
Still have questions? Reach out to us—we’re here to help. Or better yet, make the switch today and see what it feels like to love your internet provider. Together, we’re building a stronger, more connected future, one household at a time. If you’re already a Beacon Broadband customer - Thank you!
BEFORE YOU GO
For the Love of Cooking
After recently moving to San Juan Island with her German shepherd, Tanja, Erna Heckele has taken to teaching her four grandchildren how to cook and bake mostly simple and easy old German meals.
“What a blessing, they have their own plum trees,” Erna says. “I’m trying to teach each of (them), on an individual basis, the art of German cooking.”
Last week, she and her youngest grandson made “apfelkuecherl” (apple fritters) from their own apple tree.
To submit your photo, email a JPEG file to photos@pioneer.coop. Include “Before You Go” in the subject line. Please share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo. n
Erna’s youngest granddaughter, Kora Pearl, joins her in making “zwetschgenknoedel,” which is German for plum dumplings. PHOTO COURTESY OF ERNA HECKELE
Best Breads Cookbook
This 8½-by-11-inch indexed cookbook features yeast breads, quick breads, scones and specialty breads for $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.
Warm Up With Chili
Whether you prefer your chili hot beyond belief or mild, with beans and/or meat, this booklet from our 2002 contest is for you. Recipes include stories from entrants. As a bonus, get slowcooker recipes from our 2000 contest. The 8½-by-11-inch indexed book is $8 (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.
YULIA FURMAN
Board of Directors
President
Jim Kolen, Gold Beach
Vice President
Cheryl L. McMahan, Southern At-Large
Secretary/Treasurer
John G. Herzog, Brookings/Harbor
Georgia A. Cockerham, Brookings/Harbor
Daniel Loshbaugh, Northern At-Large
Peter C. Radabaugh, Bandon/Coquille
Daryl C. Robison, Port Orford/Langlois
Attorney—Tyler Pepple
Staff
General Manager/CEO
Brent Bischoff
Corporate Services/CFO
Paul Keeler
Engineering Manager
Matt Mjelde
Chief Technology Officer
Dan Springer
Marketing and Member
Services Manager
Keith Buchhalter
Operations Manager
Scott Adams
Human Resources Director
Breanne Valliere
Office hours 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Closed Fridays.
541-332-3931
After-Hours Outage Number
866-352-9044
Call Before You Dig 811
www.ccec.coop
OR-13
Maintaining Financial Integrity: Preparing for a 2025 Rate Adjustment
This past summer, I attended the Oregon Rural Electric Cooperatives Association mid-year meeting, where an industry economist presented some eye-opening data. I knew Coos-Curry Electric Cooperative’s materials costs had increased significantly in recent years, but one slide she showed shocked me. Since 2020, many of the materials and equipment specific to the electric utilities industry have increased in cost by 50% to 100%.
Adding to these challenges, the Bonneville Power Administration started rate-making proceedings for wholesale power and transmission services for the rate period beginning October 2025. BPA is proposing an average 9.8% increase in wholesale power rates and a 21% average increase in transmission service rates.
In December, I attended a meeting with 25 CEOs of electric cooperatives from across the Northwest. During a roundtable discussion, the topic of rates came up. When it became clear that many of the co-ops are planning for rate increases in 2025, one person asked, “By show of hands, who does not plan to implement a rate increase in 2025.” No hands were raised. Some of these co-ops are implementing 10% increases on January 1, 2025.
Despite these inflationary pressures, we are working hard to keep expenses down and minimize the impact of these inflationary pressures on you, our members. Before approving the 2025 budget, the CCEC Board of Directors asked staff to reduce the proposed expense budget by $250,000. Staff sharpened our pencils and identified the requested budget cuts without compromising service quality.
CCEC has taken additional proactive steps to offset rate increases. In 2022 and 2023, BPA sold surplus power outside the region during extreme hot summer weather when demand drove market prices very high. BPA returned some of those unexpected revenues back to its customers in the form of bill credits. CCEC chose to account for those credits as deferred revenue to help mitigate future rate increases. Some of the deferred revenue was used to soften the impact of the rate adjustment in the spring 2024. More of this deferred revenue will be used to mitigate a rate adjustment later this year.
Another way we help ease rate pressure is by strategically timing rate increases. The CCEC Board of Directors has consistently chosen to postpone rate adjustments until after the winter months, when electricity use tapers off and bills are lower.
One of CCEC’s high-level strategic goals set by the board is to maintain financial integrity. That seems like a no-brainer, but as a not-for-profit cooperative, we also have the responsibility not to charge our members a penny more than we must to meet this goal.
In 2025, CCEC is planning a rate adjustment similar to the rate change made last year. We will provide you with detailed information in the coming months to help you prepare.
Brent Bischoff General Manager and CEO
brent.bischoff@cooscurryelectric.com
Brent Bischoff