Director Elections: Get to Know the Candidates Your Fuel and Purchased Power Questions Answered Meet GVEA’s Charles Merritt
Don’t Miss the Annual Meeting
April 2025 • Volume 72, No. 4
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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Flipping through our April edition, I’m struck by the sheer amount of “doing” happening in our communities.
Our Easter Sunday dinner feature isn’t just about food—it’s a practical approach to creating a memorable meal without unnecessary fuss. These recipes are straightforward and delicious, which is why they deserve a spot on your table this month.
The Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show, now marking its 50th anniversary, demonstrates how practical skills can transform into community events with a real economic impact. What began as a teaching necessity has evolved into an annual celebration that brings $1.7 million to a smalltown’s economy. That’s not just tradition. That’s impressive community development.
Speaking of action, our “Beyond Barriers” feature highlights organizations tackling accessibility head-on. These aren’t just feel-good stories—they’re examples of problem-solving at its finest. When faced with the challenge of making outdoor recreation accessible, groups like Oregon Adaptive Sports and David’s Chair didn’t just talk about inclusion—they engineered solutions with tangible results. As David’s Chair
Founder Steve Furst puts it, they “fumbled through” and figured it out.
Even Dave LaBelle’s piece on rainbow photography offers practical advice: Keep your camera ready as storms clear, use interesting foregrounds and be prepared to capture fleeting moments.
What ties these stories together is action— people identifying gaps and taking steps to address them. From Jean Wells opening a quilt shop because her students lacked materials to Bill Greenwood developing accessible water entry points after hearing about someone struggling, our communities are full of doers.
As you read this month’s issue, I hope you are inspired not just to appreciate these stories but to look around your own community. Where are the gaps you might help fill? What practical skills could you share? Sometimes, the most meaningful contributions start with acknowledging we can do better and then asking, “What’s a solution?”
Do you know any stories of “doing” you think should be showcased on the pages of Ruralite? I’d love to learn more. Reach me at editor@pioneer.coop.
Until next time, Chasity Anderson Editorial Director
For supplemental and interactive content, search @Ruralite on your favorite social media sites.
The Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show marks 50 years Up Close, Page 10
Innovative organizations make the great outdoors accessible to all Spotlight, Page 12
In The Kitchen, Page 16
This year, elections are scheduled for Districts 5 and 6. Nominating committees from each of these districts were formed last November and the committees worked until mid-January to recruit candidates.
District 5 has one candidate nominated by committee. District 6 has two candidates, one candidate nominated by committee and one nominated by petition
The submission deadline for anyone seeking to apply to be a director candidate through the petition process was March 5 at 9 a.m. No additional applications were submitted for District 5.
As a member of GVEA, the most important action you can take is to vote for your board representative. To help you in your selection, candidate bios are presented on Pages 5 and 6..
Additional information about each candidate is on GVEA’s website at gvea.com/elections. Candidate information also will be in election packets mailed to members eligible to vote on May 9.
Members will receive ballots in the mail and can choose to cast their ballot via mail or online through their MyGVEA account.
• For members with multiple accounts, your district is determined by your membership account.
• Members with more than one type of membership (residential, commercial, etc.) are entitled to one vote for each type of membership.
Tom DeLong, GVEA Board of Directors Chair
“Voting is one of the most important actions you can take as a member-owner of Golden Valley Electric. You help set the direction of your local electric co-op through the representative you elect to the board of directors. Please take a few minutes to learn about the candidates and cast your vote.”
May 1—GVEA Annual Meeting.
May 9—Ballots mailed and online voting opens.
June 10—Ballots must be received by 5 p.m., electronically or by mail.
June 12—Election committee counts ballots. Learn more at gvea.com/elections.
District 5
Includes the general area of North Pole; the Richardson Highway from Mile 352 and the east side of Woll Road; Nordale Road; the area north of Chena Slough, excluding the general area of Chena Hot Springs Road; Moose Creek; Eielson; and south to the Salcha River.
District 6
Includes Delta Junction, Fort Greely and all areas south of the Salcha River, including Harding and Birch lakes.
The single candidate from District 5 who applied for candidacy and was nominated by committee will now be considered for appointment by the Board of Directors to serve a three-year term, effective as of June 24, 2025, which is the date the board is scheduled to accept the election results. If the board agrees to appoint the candidate, then the 2025 election process scheduled for District 5 will be cancelled, rather than hold a costly, uncontested election. This process is in accordance with Bylaws Article V, Section 2(h), which states:
For the financial best interest of GVEA and its membership, if the deadlines have passed for nominations by the nominating committee and by petition, and there is only one qualified candidate seeking election, no election will be held provided that the Board appoints that candidate. In the event the Board declines to appoint that candidate, an election will proceed with that candidate as the only name on the ballot.
Bradley Swope
District 5 candidate
Nominated by committee
Primary residence: P.O. Box 57211
Phone: 708-846-9919
Email: Brad18th@gmail.com
Years in Alaska: 7
Occupation/employer: Physical Security Specialist, Federal Employee with U.S. Army, Fort Wainwright
Education: Military Police MOS (Military Occupational Specialty, Human Resource MOS (Military Occupational Specialty), Physical Security/ Crime Management, Anti-Terrorism Level 1
Instructors Course, Traffic Accident Investagtor, Security Managers Course, FEMA 100, 200, 700, 701, 300 and 400 Incident Command Courses, Security Design Course, Equal Opportunity Leader, Acquisition Ethics Training, Government Purchase Card Overview, Master Resilience Trainor, Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention, Basic Leadership Course, Advance Leadership Course, Basic Instructor, Small Group Instructor, Risk Management
Personal interests/hobbies: Here are some of my interests and hobbies. I like fishing, camping, hunting, ATV riding, and tinkering with tech and electronics.
Organization affiliation: N/A
Special interest/Community service: I have volunteered as a coach for Fairbanks youth soccer for 3 years, but am no longer volunteering.
Electronic voting just got easier!
This year, members can vote electronically through their MyGVEA accounts. This process is easier and faster than previous processes. GVEA is diligently working on getting this set up for the membership, so keep an eye on gvea. com/elections for updates and instructions. All members will receive paper ballots and detailed e-voting instructions in the mail.
Why are you interested in running for a seat on GVEA’s board? Throughout my life, I have consistently felt a strong calling to serve others. This was likely the primary motivation behind my decision to enlist in the Army. Since my separation from the military, I have come across an opportunity to run for the board and would like to become more actively involved in my community. I believe that if I am given the opportunity, I can assist in recommending and approving decisions that prioritize the best resources and outcomes for the community, rather than solely focusing on the company’s bottom line. Given my knowledge of the constraints and special considerations inherent in our environment and location, I am confident that my background in physical security and risk management, as well as other skills I have acquired throughout the years, can provide a unique perspective and valuable skills to the board. With over 15 years of experience in leadership roles, I have honed my skills in managing people and resources, as well as understanding budgets and the challenges associated with limited resources in achieving goals.
Questions? Give us a call at 907-452-1151.
Fred Sheen
District 6 candidate
Nominated by committee
Primary residence: 2397 Sandland Drive
Phone: 907-978-5314
Email: sheen.fred04@gmail.com
Years in Alaska: 38
John Sloan
District 6 candidate
Nominated by petition
Primary residence: 3746 Aurora Heights
Phone: 907-322-4391
Email: sloanster1@gmail.com
Years in Alaska: 43
Occupation/employer: Lineman, Barrow Utilities Electric Coop Inc.
Education: Journeyman Lineman
Personal interests/hobbies: Outdoors man, Hunting, fishing, boat captain, private pilot, scuba diver, active in church activities and public outreach.
Organization affiliation: Current GVEA Board member 3rd year
Special interest/community service: I have been a board member for the Delta Chamber of Commerce and president. Alaska State Chamber of Commerce board member and chair of the local chamber outreach committee. Volunteer firefighter for Rural Deltana fire association. Church member and involved in community outreach.
Why are you interested in running for a seat on GVEA’s board? I am eager to run again for the position of Golden Valley Electric Board of directors.
My 30+ years of experience in the electrical industry, former employee, and experience as lineman serving the Delta Junction area has been very rewarding. My extensive background has equipped me with a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities In our sector, enabling me to make informed decisions that benefit our community. Over the past three years the organization has successfully secured numerous grants for large scale upgrades to the electrical grid and bring on cost-effective renewables online. GVEA has invested considerable resources to train me to be an effective board member and I will continue to foster and grow if reelected.My dedication to serving our residents and my proactive approach to project development makes me a strong candidate for this board. Together, we can ensure that Golden Valley Electric continues to thrive and effectively meet the needs of our community and its members. Thank You for considering my candidacy.
Sincerely, Fred Sheen.
Occupation/employer: Retired, Elementary School Teacher
Education: BS in Elementary Education. I earned 54+ credit hours beyond my Bachelors.
Personal interests/hobbies: I enjoy daily hikes. When the weather permits, I like to go on runs and be a part of running events. In warmer weather I like riding my bike on day rides as well as multi day rides. My wife and I enjoy camping in our VW camper.
Organization affiliation: I drive for Caring Hearts, an organization in Delta that provides services for elderly folks. I am on the finance committee for Delta Junction Trails Association. I am a member of Pioneer’s of Alaska Igloo #35. I’m a docent at Sullivan Roadhouse, and a member of Deltana Fair Association.
Special interest/community service: I drive the van for Caring Hearts, delivering Meals on Wheels and transporting senior citizens to Fairbanks for shopping, medical appointments, and other appointments. I’m very involved with Delta Junction Trails Association. We build and maintain trails in and around Delta Junction. DJTA sponsors several events throughout the year to encourage folks to walk and
hike. As a docent at Sullivan Roadhouse, I greet visitors and show them around our awesome museum. My wife and I sponsor a triathlon for folks 60 years and older.
Why are you interested in running for a seat on GVEA’s board? After three years away from the GVEA board of directors I’ve missed the connections and still feel the need to give something back to our cooperative. I was elected to the GVEA Board of Directors in 2007 and served on the Board till 2022. While on the Board of Directors, GVEA constructed Eva Creek Wind Project, constructed a 1/2 megawatt solar array, installed, Advanced Metering Infrastructure, AMI, and built a new state of the art electrical shop. I’m proud of being a part of these big projects. I still have a lot to offer GVEA and the folks in District 6. I enjoy being involved in our community and being on the GVEA board is a big part of that. I like talking about GVEA and keeping people informed about their co-op, upcoming events and listening to and discussing whatever is on folk’s minds about GVEA. I am running so that I may contribute to strengthening relationships with members and develop lasting partnerships.
1485 30th Ave., Fairbanks
• 5 p.m. Event starts
• 6:15 p.m. Meeting begins
awayWe’regiving aretiredfleetvehicle!
The meeting is in person and livestreamed on GVEA’s YouTube and Facebook pages.
Family-friendly activities and educational booths are open prior to the meeting. Stay tuned for additional details.
By Rachael Kvapil
April 18 is Lineworker Appreciation Day, an annual recognition of utility workers’ hard work and dedication to their trade. The history of the lineworkers began in the mid-1800s. It was a dangerous job then, and it’s dangerous now. However, Golden Valley Electric Association’s crews find great satisfaction in making sure Interior Alaska communities are connected to this basic service.
Lineworkers are most associated with responding to power outages. Interior Alaska experienced several major outages over the past few years, particularly in winter when heavy snowfall or freezing rain weighs down lines or tree limbs. Last October for about 10 days, every lineworker available in Fairbanks, including contractors from Fullford, Northern Powerline Constructors and B&B Electric, worked long days on minimal rest to get the power restored. Ten inches of snow fell in the Fairbanks area, followed by freezing rain. In a few areas, fires broke out, delaying lineworkers’ ability to restore power. In some places, they spent a significant amount of time repairing poles to reestablish power.
“We deal with one job at a time and keep focus,” GVEA Journeyman Lineworker Joe Waggoner says. “We work together and are accountable for each other. We work long hours and then get a few hours of rest before we get back at it.”
While winters are brutal, summers pose different unique hazards. Hot, dry, windy days require lineworkers to do what is necessary to stay safe in extreme elements. Downed lines are especially problematic when the
potential for fire is high. However, Joe says lineworkers’ training and gear allow them to safely handle emergencies in multiple scenarios.
Lineworkers were first recognized nationally in 2013 when U.S. Senate Resolution 95 set April 18 as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. Though Interior Alaskans often share their earnest appreciation for lineworkers in the aftermath of an outage, there are a few additional ways to recognize them. First, post a shoutout on social media to lineworkers in your community, especially if you have experienced the benefits of their service. Use #thankalineman and #NationalLinemanAppreciationDay to make them more visible online. Second, if you know a lineworker, thank them personally for their service. Finally, consider learning more about the work lineworkers do.
For Joe, the best way the public can honor lineworkers is to stay safe. He urges people to avoid downed power lines.
“You cannot see electricity,” Joe says. “Please keep away and call us.”
He adds that many community members have shown their appreciation in other ways. Sometimes, Joe and his co-workers return to their trucks to find cards or a plate of cookies, water or fruit. He says this goes a long way to boost morale for everyone. Most of all, he says that people’s patience as they work to reconnect homes after an outage is the best appreciation crews could receive.
When GVEA lineworkers aren’t responding to outages, they focus on system maintenance, upgrading lines, and installing new service and new construction. And though many dangers come with being a lineworker, Joe says they are dedicated to their work on behalf of the community. n
Great ideas, those that stand the test of time, often arise from necessity. Such was certainly true for Jean Wells, who moved to Central Oregon in the ’70s to teach home economics, only to discover her students didn’t have access to the necessary materials.
Jean opened The Stitchin’ Post quilt shop in downtown Sisters to address this need, but took the opportunity a step further. She displayed about a dozen of her family’s quilts in the shop to showcase the centuries-old tradition of creating textile art.
Her students and local businesses loved the idea, which evolved into a quilt show that grew every year. This year, the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show celebrates its 50th anniversary. It’s considered to be the world’s largest outdoor quilt show—although organizers admit that’s a tough claim to prove. Around 1,000 quilts will be on display throughout the town July 12 as part of a show that includes children’s activities and special events.
“It’s organically grown over the years,” says Dawn Boyd, executive director of the nonprofit that runs the show.
The event attracts 10,000 visitors to the town of 3,000 residents. Even more remarkable is the tiny staff that produces the show. Dawn has help from a part-time staff member and a group of volunteers ranging from a few people throughout the year to about 300 on show day. The annual economic impact the quilt show has on Sisters is estimated at $1.7 million.
“It’s so much fun, and you meet so many people from everywhere,” Dawn says.
Hundreds of quilts—items from Jean’s personal collection and those belonging to quilting teachers and students worldwide— are installed early in the morning throughout downtown Sisters. Admission to view these masterpieces is free.
“They’re all over town, like three blocks by seven blocks,” Dawn says. “There’s also a city park we take over.”
Local firefighters get in on the act, hanging quilts on the side of The Stitchin’ Post building. Visitors and residents love to watch the proceedings.
“It’s a highlight for some of our visitors,” Dawn says with a laugh. “They get a coffee, then they watch the firemen in action.”
This year, the quilts displayed on The Stitchin’ Post wall will be a log cabin pattern created by the shop’s employees. In addition to the quilts around town, children are invited and encouraged to make their own fabric-based crafts at the Kids Activity Center.
“It’s neat to show them how colors can go together,” Dawn says.
Quilters have a chance to use their talents to produce their own fabric postcards. The 19th annual Wish Upon A Card fundraiser challenges participants to create a 4-by-6-inch quilted art piece— called a postcard—using two fabrics designed by Giucy Giuce, a business run by designer Giuseppe Ribaudo. Contestants can create a similar postcard highlighting the 50th anniversary of the show. Winners receive quilt show goody bags.
Sales of both juried and nonjuried postcards help raise funds for an SOQS scholarship given to local high school graduates entering a collegiate fabric arts or design program.
“People love them,” Dawn says of the postcards.
Quilters can also compete for prizes in the Quilt Block Contest featuring the fabrics of sister quilter Kathy Deggendorfer’s Sisters Mountain Meadow collection. Each packet contains six fabric squares to build a finished 9.5-by-9.5-inch block. The first-place winner receives a cash prize, and honorable mentions are awarded additional fabrics.
For more information about the contests, visit soqs.org/contests.
Jean offers Quilters Affair—quilting classes led by teachers from around the world—the week before the show. The list of classes, held at The Stitchin’ Post, is announced in December, and many visitors make plans immediately. Accommodations in Sisters fill up fast.
“It’s a huge event for them, coming from all over,” Dawn says.
On Friday, July 11, Jean and her daughter, Valori Wells, a quilter in her own right, discuss the show’s history at an event called “A Town Covered in Quilts” at Sisters High School.
On Sunday, award-winning Dallas quilter Karen K. Stone offers walking tours at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. and a lecture at 10 a.m. at FivePine Lodge Conference Center. Karen’s quilts have nabbed awards in international competitions, and her Indian orange peel
quilt is now part of the Quilt National Collection at the International Quilt Museum in Lincoln, Nebraska. There is a cost to attend both events, but visitors are free to enjoy Karen’s quilts on display from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. along the creek at the conference center.
A raffle of a special 48-by-84-inch quilt raises more funds for the show. Valori designed a Sisters Scape pattern years ago, and Donna Rice and Jean reimagined the design in a piece they named “Sisters Scape Reimagined 2025: Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show.”
The raffle quilt includes the iconic Three Sisters mountains, from which the town got its name, along with wildflowers, Ponderosa pine trees and Whychus Creek. June Jaeger recreated the design of the creek and its fish, while Donna, Jean, Jan Tetzlaff, Janet Roshak and Diane Jaquith pieced the remaining blocks and assembled the quilt. Annette Caldwell finished the quilt with machine quilting. Raffle tickets cost $5, and the winner is announced on show day.
As the show grew from its start in 1975, Jean created a nonprofit and handed over the reins, although she is still on the show’s board and is active in the annual event.
“She’s retired but still involved in everything,” Dawn says, adding the nonprofit show and its founder “are entwined like a bowl of spaghetti. We are separate but together.”
Like Jean, Dawn came to Sisters out of necessity. She and her family moved to coastal Oregon from Southern California but veered to Sisters after what Dawn calls a “midlife misdirection,” and a new college degree made her realize she longed for a career in event planning. The job of executive director emerged, and when she approached her husband about moving to Sisters, she learned it was his dream to live in Central Oregon.
Her mother, an active quilter, was pleased as well.
“I had quilted before,” Dawn says, but gave it up while raising a family. “Obviously, living here, I picked it back up.
“I didn’t have a choice,” she says with a laugh. n
For more information on the Sisters Outdoor Quilt Show, visit soqs.org.
By Ginger Meurer
Extending recreation and athletic opportunities to people of all abilities is the mission of adaptive sports and other organizations throughout the West. Accessible beaches, parks, trails, waterways and adaptive equipment allow participation for people who might otherwise be unable to enjoy these experiences. Here’s a small sampling of these inclusive efforts.
Oregon Adaptive Sports offers professional outdoor experiences supported by more than 350 volunteers and 30 certified instructors, catering to participants of all ages and abilities. It also provides access to state-of-the-art adaptive equipment.
“We have a fleet of sit-skis, adaptive mountain bikes and adaptive cycles,” says Executive Director Pat Addabbo.
He says Oregon is an ideal setting for outdoor activities.
“It’s a great place to come test out different types of equipment and to enjoy the hundreds of miles of trails that we have access to here. It’s a just a great place to get out and ride a bike.”
Oregon Adaptive Sports taps adaptable transportation to make sure athletes can easily reach activity sites. Affordability is at the heart of all the nonprofit’s offerings.
“We have a robust scholarship program,” Pat says. “We never turn
anybody away for inability to pay.”
Through a sponsorship from Toyota, new athletes can participate in three free experiences. Additionally, the Kelly Brush Foundation sponsors one of Oregon Adaptive Sports’ most unique events: Turns & Berms, a three-day camp designed specifically for athletes with paralysis caused by spinal cord injuries. Campers ski Mount Bachelor in the mornings and mountain bike in crisp spring air near Bend in the afternoons.
Fundraisers help, too. The biggest is the First Chair Gala, named for a golden opportunity skiers cherish.
“As a skier, the term First Chair has a bit of a palpable sort of magic to it,” Pat says. “It’s the idea of getting on the chairlift early in the morning with a whole day of adventure laid out in front of you. First Chair kind of captures that spirit, and that’s something that we’re always working to bring to our community— that participation and sense of adventure.”
Go to oregonadaptivesports.org for more information.
Nick Weiss first hit the basketball court in his wheelchair with Seattle Adaptive Sports at age 10. Today, he’s the nonprofit Paralympic sports organization’s operations manager.
“This is year 23 for me as far as playing wheelchair basketball,” Nick says. “This is the program that set me up to go play college ball. And for me, this is very full circle. I get to lead this organization, which has really impacted my life. I’m fully invested in this program and what we do.”
Originally managed by parents, the organization now sees athletes competing at elite levels. The goalball team just won a national championship, sled hockey is poised to launch a new youth team, and the power soccer program just received a grant to establish a competitive team.
The organization serves athletes ages 6 and older. But Nick hopes to reach families even earlier, perhaps even offering support and information to expectant parents whose child may
As athletes compete, Nick says they gain skills and make
“These are friendships that they’re going to have the rest of their lives,” he says. “And I say that from experience. I’m friends with the people I met when we all started playing when I was 10 years old.”
Learn more at seattleadaptivesports.org.
Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, prioritizes adaptive recreation, from a giant accessible playground built at McEuen Park in 2013 to newly paved hiking trails. The city’s biggest project was inspired by a wheelchair user who described the struggle of accessing the water at Atlas Mill Park. She said when she wanted to swim, she had to
Families
wheel herself to the sand, throw herself out on the ground and crawl to the river’s edge.
“I said, ‘Well, we’ve got to do better than that,’” says Parks and Recreation Director Bill Greenwood.
He worked with an engineer and the Post Fallsbased Idaho Disability Action Center to develop an accessible swim entry point on the beach at Atlas Mill Park. Resembling a boat launch, the ramp allows wheelchair users to roll themselves into the water, secure their chairs and swim off on a flotation device. The same location also features an accessible kayak launch, dog park and picnic area.
For more information on the Idaho Disability Action Center, go to dacnw.org. Details on Atlas Mill Park are at cdaid.org/5883.
Along the Oregon coast, communities offer accessible kayak launches and mobility mats known as Mobi-Mats—portable, durable pathways laid out seasonally to facilitate beach access. Some municipalities also loan out Mobi-Chairs, floating beach wheelchairs.
Lincoln City provides beach wheelchairs on a firstcome, first-served basis year-round. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the city rolls out mobility mats at multiple beach access points. To reserve a chair, go to explorelincolncity.com/wheelchair.
Visitors to San Diego will find accessible mats at Moonlight Beach and beach wheelchairs at Newport Beach.
Go to traveloregon.com/things-to-do/trip-ideas-accessible-travel for accessible travel ideas in Oregon. In San Diego, find details at sandiego.org.
The Grand Canyon’s South Rim offers barrier-free experiences. Departing daily from Williams, Arizona, the Grand Canyon Railway's trains feature accessible seating in coach and first class. The South Rim also offers several wheelchair-accessible viewpoints, paved scenic trails like the Rim Trail and shuttle buses equipped with lifts.
Learn more at thetrain.com/the-train and grandcanyontrust.org/ hikes/cpe-grand-canyon-rim-trail.
When David Hartrick was diagnosed with ALS, the Oregon outdoorsman was determined to seize the time he had left. But how do you hunt, hike or fish when you can’t leave the pavement? The answer was an all-terrain track chair, essentially a one-person tank. Facing a $20,000 price tag that his insurance company wasn’t willing to cover, David turned to his buddy, Steve Furst.
“It was stumble and bumble and find our way,” Steve says.
“We raised money for the one chair, and we had some leftover, so we bought a youth chair, also.”
Steve credits David with the plan to share the chairs.
“It goes back to his insight and his vision,” Steve says. “He talked about giving the chair to somebody else. ‘You give it to somebody, and one person gets in the chair a few times a year, maybe. But, hey, what if we come up with a plan so anybody can use the chair?’ And then we just fumbled through the nonprofit stuff and put it together.”
On Jan. 11, 2018—only 11 months after his diagnosis—David died, leaving behind a growing legacy. With Steve as CEO, David’s Chair now manages 23 track chairs and three golf chairs available for free to people with mobility challenges.
Partner organizations and volunteers manage the chairs at fixed locations like beaches, golf courses and trails. Most of the chairs are at Oregon beaches, but reservable chairs are also available in the California Redwoods, at the Rosewood Nature Study Area in Reno and Ten Mile Ranch in Texas. Tow ’N Go chairs also allow users to enjoy independent outdoor adventures.
Steve sees familiar names come through the reservation system that serves just under 1,000 people annually.
“There’s about three or four that regularly will go up and down the coast enjoying it, and that’s awesome,” he says.
Learn more about the nonprofit or reserve chairs at davidschair.org.
All abilities and ages are served by the Oregon-based adaptive and inclusive outfitter Adventures Without Limits. The organization hosts private groups and community trips, and, in winter, it leads snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trips.
Participants with ambulatory challenges participate on sit-skis. Spring through fall, there are more outdoor activities.
“We raft, kayak, canoe, paddleboard, hike and camp—a little bit of rock climbing, as well,” Director of Outreach and Development Jennifer Wilde says.
Using adaptive equipment, patience and sometimes a bit of foam, duct tape and creativity, the organization ensures outdoor recreation is available to all.
“We want to share all these beautiful spaces and activities in Oregon with everyone and believe that nature should be accessible for everyone,” Jennifer says. “We’re always excited to connect new folks to the outdoors and come up with creative solutions to meet their individual needs to make it accessible for them in whatever way that means.”
“They can go hunting, camping, fishing, wherever they want to go for seven days at a time,” Steve says.
Many organizations provide information on accessible locations and activities.
Visit Idaho offers an online accessibility tool packed with resources. Go to visitidaho.org/ things-to-do/accessible-activities for firsthand accounts of locations from Craters of the Moon National Monument to Shoshone Falls to College of Southern Idaho’s Centennial Observatory.
“We’ve realized that while we can make the outdoors more accommodating, it’s challenging for visitors to enjoy if we don’t provide the needed information when they are planning their trip,” says Andrea Rayburn, a Visit Idaho tourism specialist.
In addition to destination information, Visit Idaho highlights organizations working to help, like People Need People, a group that brings
Learn more at awloutdoors.org. n
in volunteers to help trail explorers by pulling and pushing them in all-terrain wheeled chairs through the hills. There’s also Boise Adaptive Snowsport Education, a 100% volunteer-staffed program offering adaptive ski lessons. Western Adaptive Veteran Education Snowsports provides adaptive equipment, ski and snowboard instruction, and therapeutic experiences for veterans.
Disabled Hikers, a Carlsborg, Washingtonbased nonprofit, offers resources, events and group hikes. Its website, disabledhikers.com, is packed with detailed trail guides to accessible destinations like Rialto Beach in Olympic National Park, Big Creek Nature Trail near Hoodsport, Washington, and entire regions like the guide to the Boise, Idaho, area.
Access California’s website, accessca.org,
is packed with detailed guides to accessible trails, parks, gardens, lodging and resources for adaptive equipment.
Folks looking for accessible lodging, transportation or location booking information internationally should visit accessiblego.com. Wheel the World also helps with bookings and lists accessible group tours, activities and equipment rentals.
The Administration for Community Living maintains a list of centers for independent living on its website, acl.gov. These organizations, found in every state, provide accessibility tools. One example is Ability 360. With Arizona offices in Phoenix, Gilbert, Pima County, Glendale and Pinal-Gila County, Ability 360 is a home for accessible sports, fitness and lifestyle transition education.
Garlic and Rosemary Grilled Lamb Chops
2 pounds thick-cut lamb rib chops
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
11/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup olive oil
Combine the garlic, rosemary, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, lemon zest and olive oil in a measuring cup.
Pour the marinade over the lamb chops, flipping them over to cover completely. Cover and marinate the chops in the refrigerator for at least one hour or up to as long as overnight.
Let the lamb chops come to room temperature before grilling.
Grill the lamb chops on medium heat for 7 to 10 minutes or until the internal temperature reads 135 F.
Allow the lamb chops to rest on a plate covered with aluminum foil for 5 minutes before serving.
2 pounds fresh asparagus
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Heat oven to 400 F.
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 lemons, cut in wedges
If the stalks of the asparagus are thick, peel the bottom half of each. Lay them in a single layer on a sheet pan spread with aluminum foil. Drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with pepper and salt.
Roast until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, and return to the oven for another minute. Serve with lemon wedges.
2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Salt
1/4 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 large egg yolks
Place potatoes in a medium to large pot, and cover with a few inches of cold water. Add a few teaspoons of salt to the water. Bring to a simmer. Cook until the potatoes are forktender, about 20 to 25 minutes.
While the potatoes are boiling, melt 2 tablespoons of butter, and set aside. You will use this butter to coat the potatoes right before they go into the oven.
Heat the oven to 425 F.
When the potatoes are cooked, drain in a colander. Put the potatoes back in the pot, and set over low heat. Allow them to release steam for a minute or two.
Add 2 tablespoons of butter, and mash the potatoes until the butter has been incorporated. Add the nutmeg, black pepper and heavy cream. Continue mashing the potatoes. Once everything is incorporated, add salt to taste. Add the egg yolks. Continue to mash until the mixture is smooth. Do not over-mash, or your potatoes will end up with a gluey consistency.
Put the mashed potatoes in a piping bag with a large star point. Pipe the potatoes onto a cookie sheet. Brush the swirled edges with melted butter so they brown nicely in the oven.
Bake until nicely browned, about 20 minutes. Serve hot from the oven.
Salad
10-ounce bag baby spinach leaves, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup walnut pieces
1/2 cup crumbled feta
Vinaigrette
1/4 cup aged balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 to 3 tablespoons honey
1/4 medium red onion, sliced thin
1/4 cup alfalfa sprouts
1/2 cup pomegranate seeds
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper
Combine all vinaigrette ingredients. Shake well.
Place spinach in a salad bowl. Top with walnuts, feta, red onion, alfalfa sprouts and pomegranate seeds. Drizzle with vinaigrette.
1 package yellow cake mix
3.4-ounce package instant pistachio pudding mix
3.4-ounce package instant pistachio pudding mix
1 cup cold heavy whipping cream
3/4 cup cold whole milk
Heat oven to 350 F.
4 large eggs
1 cup club soda
1/2 cup canola oil
2 teaspoons confectioners’ sugar
1/2 cup chopped walnuts for garnish
In a large bowl, combine the cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, soda and oil. Beat on low speed for 30 seconds. Beat on medium for 2 minutes.
Pour into a greased and floured 10-inch fluted tube pan. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan to a wire rack to cool completely.
To make the frosting, beat the pudding mix, cream, milk, and confectioners’ sugar on high in a large bowl until stiff peaks form. Frost cake. Sprinkle with walnuts. Refrigerate until serving.
I am looking for booklets for beaded Christmas ornaments. Possibly called “Beaded Fantasies.” I am willing to purchase and refund postage. Thank you.
Betty Mercado
1820 E.10th St. The Dalles, OR 97058 bettym@centurylink.net
My daughter, sister and I would like more unwanted jewelry. We are making jewelry for seniors.
Marsha Holeik
16637 William Foss Road LaPine, OR 97739
Looking for old-style 9-pound 100% cotton typing paper for my hobby. It is very thin and may be called onion skin or parchment paper. Any color of paper. Willing to pay postage. Thank you.
Robert Pierce
9715 Buckingham Drive Pasco, WA 99301 Rcpljp@aol.com
I am starting sewing lessons for young children. In need of small printed fabrics, lace, trims and buttons. Doll or stuffed animal patterns. Will pay postage. Thanks.
Jan Dwyer
19111 Buck Drive Bend, OR 97703
I have an 11-year-old dressage saddle that is not rideable anymore because of a compromised tree. The black leather is in excellent condition. If you are a leather artisan, there is a lot of beautiful, usable leather. Come to pick it up and it is yours.
S. Stelzer
P.O. Box 352
The Dalles, OR 97058
My dad turns 90 in early spring. He is a cowboy at heart; you never see him without a cowboy hat on. He loves John Wayne and has watched all of his movies multiple times. He is an avid reader and had a large Louis L’amour collection. He loves old Ford trucks—the older, the better. He plants and maintains six large flower beds at home. He is easy-going and always has a smile on his face. He would love to hear from readers for this milestone. Please send to Don Whitehead, 590 NW 23rd St. #124, Redmond, OR, 97756.
Lori Blackburn Redmond, Oregon
Our mother, Myrtle, will be celebrating her 100th birthday in April. She was raised in Lonerock, Oregon until her older sister started high school in Condon. Myrtle completed school in Condon and married her sweetheart, Garland, right after her graduation. They raised five children. She spent many years tending to plants in their country home yard, vegetable garden and green house. Now she lives at Summit Springs Village in Condon and enjoys getting mail other than bills. Please send cards to Myrtle Potter at P.O. Box 116, Condon, OR 97823. Thank you.
Sharon Hamner Condon, Oregon
Looking for intermediate to advanced sheet music or books for one or two violins, any style. I am willing to reimburse for shipping.
Ilya Perry
P.O. Box 404 Lyle, WA 98635
My mom, Susan Monihan, had her 80th birthday in December, and she was so amazed at all the love she received from Ruralite readers! She received more than 200 cards and gifts. She is still reading your lovely notes. You really blessed her and made her birthday memorable.
Kristi Snyder
Trout Lake, Washintgon
Thank you to the readers who showered my father, Doug Nelson, with cards for his 98th birthday. I was able to be there for a couple days and see the joy on his face when my mom returned each day with a bag full of cards. Each card was carefully opened and read before saving the stamp and recording the town it was sent from. It brought so much happiness to their home. Thank you for showing him how much he matters.
Leslie Feltman Stanley, Idaho
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.
Thousands of years of geological history stacked atop each other are visible to all at Canyonlands National Park in Utah. The state’s largest national park at more than 330,000 acres, Canyonlands has four sections: Island in the Sky, Needles, The Maze and The Rivers. Split by the Green and Colorado rivers, all four sections are separate, and travel between them is difficult.
Much of the rock in Canyonlands National Park was once under water, carried in by rivers and tributaries. Over millions of years, movements in the Earth’s crust have raised the rock to more than 5,000 feet above sea level. The Green and Colorado rivers eroded the exposed rock, creating deep canyons.
With cliffs rising 1,000 feet above its surroundings, Island in the Sky is a tall mesa and the easiest part of Canyonlands to visit. The 34-mileround-trip scenic drive up the mesa has many beautiful viewpoints. Popular hikes for the whole family include the .6-mile hike to the Mesa Arch. In summer, rangers sometimes host nighttime stargazing events on the island.
Striped sandstone spires rise out of the ground in the Needles district (pictured), which makes up the southeast corner of the park. The district is great for longer hikes, with more than 60 miles of interconnected trails. The Cave Spring Trail is popular for families, while the roughly 11-mile Chesler Park Loop is a popular, albeit strenuous, hike.
Directions into each district can be difficult, and satellite navigation can be misleading. The National Park Service suggests following a physical map. As with many national parks, Canyonlands requires a pass. To start planning your trip, visit www.nps. gov/cany or call 435-719-2313.
Story and photo by Dave LaBelle
As a small child, I was spellbound by giant rainbows stretching across the valley near our home. The magnificent bands of glistening colors felt so close I could almost touch them, bathe in them. Believing there was a pot of gold buried where each end of the rainbow touched the earth, my siblings and I sometimes raced barefoot across the fields hoping to find the treasure before the magical bow disappeared.
I’m not sure at what age I outgrew the legend of hidden treasure. Perhaps it was the same time I began questioning the Easter Bunny?
Sadly, as I grew older and wiser, the awe I once had for those fading, magical colors also disappeared. As a teenager, rainbows no longer held the same allure.
But then, not long after my mother disappeared in floodwaters and our home was washed away by endless days and nights of torrential rains, I was reading in the book of Genesis how God set a bow in the sky after the great flood as a sign the Earth would never again be destroyed by water. As you can imagine, the story stirred my heart, and I have never viewed a rainbow the same since. And soon that mystery—that childhood wonder—even returned.
I believe rainbows will forever capture our imagination.
Whether you believe the Bible story or are simply touched by those colorful, curved ribbons of light stretching across the sky or magically appearing in the mist above a lake or river, there is something beautifully comforting and hopeful about seeing a rainbow appear.
Photographer, author and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century, sharing photo tips and life perspectives with readers. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and his blog at bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
NIKON D810 70mm lens ISO: 125 f/5 at 1/640
Including an interesting foreground creates scale, depth and dimension. A vibrant rainbow can be the star of your photograph or an unexpected accent to complement an already colorful scene, such as pitcher Max Steffens, of Epworth, Iowa, competing in a semipro baseball tournament.
Keep your camera close and be ready as storms clear and rains cease. Often after a rainy day, clouds part before a sunset, and a rainbow alone can be a breathtaking sight.
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.
You may think you know what“priceless” means—usually, it just means “astronomically expensive.” But not at Stauer. Priceless means FREE.
Stauer is smashing luxury norms with our FREE 77-Carat Durango Howlite Necklace. at’s right—zero dollars.* is genuine howlite piece, valued at $299, is yours for FREE—just cover $24.95 for shipping and processing. Plus, we’ll send a $25 Discount Coupon, making shipping Better an Free! No tricks, no obligation—though resisting our luxury deals won’t be easy.
Why give away jewelry? Because once you see Stauer’s rare gemstones and vintage-inspired watches, we know you’ll fall in love. If not, keep your FREE necklace—no hard feelings.
Howlite, discovered in Nova Scotia, has been a gemologist’s secret, often compared to turquoise. Our Durango Collection channels classic Southwest jewelry, featuring blue-green beauty in oxidized silver settings. Get nearly 160 carats for just $79!
is deal won’t last—we only have 2,500 left. Call now to claim your FREE necklace and experience a new kind of priceless luxury!
Jewelry Speci cations:
• Enhanced howlite.
• Oxidized silver finish.
• Necklace: 23" + 2", lobster clasp.
• Earrings: 3" drop, French wire.
• Bracelet: 7", elastic.
Durango Collection— Call In Only
ctw)
B. Earrings (23 ctw) $199 $49* +
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.
With more than 200 recipes, this cookbook from our 2007 contest offers options for potlucks, family reunions or picnics. As a bonus, additional pages feature previously unpublished barbecue recipes from a 2006 contest. The 8½-by-11-inch indexed book is $10 (includes postage).
Recipes submitted by Readers for the March 2007 Contest
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.
By Rachael Kvapil
Charles Merritt was caught off guard when Golden Valley Electric Association contacted him for a job interview. He soon discovered that his wife Elizabeth, who had always dreamed of living in Alaska, had seen an opening for a lineworker in Fairbanks and had applied on his behalf. Three weeks after accepting the position in 2023, he and his family moved to Alaska in the middle of winter to begin a new chapter in their lives.
“We left Montana and arrived in November, surviving a blizzard in British Columbia,” Charles says. “It took about a week, but it was worth it.”
Charles is no stranger to adapting to new environments. After working his first power line job at 19, he has traveled to many locations to assist with power emergencies. Early in his career, he traveled to Grenada to help get the power back on after the island was hit by a Category 5 hurricane. Likewise, he has aided communities after hurricanes Katriana and Irma. He has also supported efforts to restore power during California fires. At this point, Charles has worked in nearly every state and the territory of Puerto Rico.
“I have gotten to see all the different parts of America and the world,” Charles says.
As a GVEA lineworker, Charles and his crew are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the power grid and responding to outages in addition to new service and line extensions. During extensive storms, this means spending long hours outside in all types of inclement weather. Last October, Charles worked 30-hour shifts
with eight-hour breaks in between as crews reconnected residents after 10 inches of snowfall followed by freezing rain. With 20 years of experience, Charles says the stamina needed for long shifts is second nature. However, when he first started, he would marvel at the ability of older lineworkers to just keep working without tiring out.
“You get used to it over time, and urgency keeps you grinding away,” he says.
He adds that a deep satisfaction comes from serving an appreciative community. Though lineworkers are not officially recognized as first responders by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, crews address their jobs as if they are. In many of the lower 48 states, EMTs and firefighters can’t respond to any incident involving a power line until lineworkers first secure the area, clear hazards, and de energize the line. Charles says lineworkers in these locations expedite their efforts so other emergency crews can address problems as quickly as possible.
Charles’ dedication to his work has inspired his sons to consider the trade. He advises anyone interested in his line of work to apply for an apprenticeship through their local union. Though the work is labor intensive, Charles says it’s the kind of job that will open many doors in many places.
Originally from Oklahoma, Charles and his family established a homestead in Alaska. They raise their own animals, keep bees, hunt, fish and enjoy outdoor activities. n
4x5 round bales, Meadow foxtail orchard grass. 4x4 Timothy, small square. 208-4354637 or 208-435-4002; nas@cpcinternet.com. 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
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 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. 0625
WC Collectibles. We buy comic books! Local to Inland Northwest. Willing to travel. WCCollectiblesCheney@gmail.com; 509-496-1835. 0525
1976 GMC half-ton pickup sitting for 20-plus years. Body good, runs when parked. Interior needs rehab. Reno, NV. $4.5K. Dale, 775-742-2989. 0425
Wanted: running board for 1928-29. AA express truck. 69 ¾” x 9 ½” with Ford script in middle. Allen Piquet, 541-571-4506; Piquetat1967@gmail.com. 0425
Health forces sale. Two-for-one: 1971 Ranchero and 1974 race car. Ranchero needs work; race car for parts. $1.75K. garyvavzycki@gmail.com. 0425
Books, Magazines, Videos
“The Bunny Book; What Would You Name a Book about Bunnies and God?” Bunnies learn about matches, separation, bullying, fear, death, God and more. 626-482-4955. 0425
Business Opportunities
Urgently needed: company that can raise up a foundation in Fairbanks, AK area. My house is sinking. John, alaskamoose@yahoo.com and 812-896-9951; or leave a voice message at 812-967-3220. 0425
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): June issue—April 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.
Turnkey cafe, pizza, bakery in the picturesque town of Cedarville, CA. Newly renovated, fully equipped commercial kitchen, cozy dining and bar room, potential mini brew pub. Priced for quick sale, $225K. Shelia, 530-569-0529. 0425
Community Events
Eastern Oregon University student art exhibit, plus work by artist Genevieve Gaudreau Thompson. April 4-26. Art Center East in La Grande, OR. artcentereast.org. 0425
Equipment/Tools
Farmi JL 300 logging winch, small woodlands, $1K. 13 push-pull control cables, $50 each. 60 16-inch nylatron and steel sheaves, 1/2-inch rope, $50 each. 4-ft. tow-behinds, Land Pride mower, $800. Kubota rototiller, near new, $1.5K. Ted, 458-910-3727. 0625
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. 0625AR
The Wheat Land Communities’ Fair in Ritzville, WA, is seeking a reliable and responsible summer groundskeeper/camp host. Responsibilities include mowing, watering, general maintenance, overseeing the campground and other duties as needed. Would ideally be on-site May through midSeptember. Full hook up provided. Contact Dan at skamaniadan@gmail.com or mail a letter of interest to, P.O. Box 14, Ritzville, WA 99169. 0425
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. 0525
Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. For more info: Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or 541-815-8906; www.highdesertmemorials.com. 0425
Fort Sage Kennels, closing. AKC-registered Airedales. Females, 1 year old. Males 2 to 3 years old. 530-827-2271 or 530-249-7896. 0425
320 acres east of Adel, OR. Borders Hart Mountain views, Steens Mountain and Beaty Butte. Landowner tags, very rural. $263K. For maps: thejugglingman3@gmail.com; 541-659-1573. 0425
$180K. 160 acres, proven gold claims. 131 miles north of Fairbanks, AK. 50-yard-per-hour shaker plant. Complete water system. Text, 907-223-3036. 0525
John Day, OR. Palm Harbor energy efficient 3-bd., 2-ba. home on 1.99 acres. 50-gpm well, heat pump. $389K with mower, $386K without. 541-633-3614; steve@crestviewcable.com.
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. 0525
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, 541-4809161; johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0425
82 acres with Doug Fir (planted 2008) and permitted rock quarry. Approx. 27 miles north of Roseburg, near I-5 exit 50. $2.1M. Lee Real Estate: john@northwestfarmbroker.com; 503-245-9090. 0525
20 acres in northeast NV. Comes with real and personal property. Year-round access. Ideal off-grid homestead. Water, power close by. $35K. geopup58@gmail.com. 0425
Looking to purchase small-to medium-size cattle ranch in Northeast CA, Southern OR, Western NV. Have cows, capital, ability to finance. Will consider seller finance and life estate. Brushpopper65@gmail.com. 0425
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., 2½ ba. home with knotty pine interior. 2-car garage, plenty of room for kayaks and a short walk to a beautiful beach. $549K. steelheadsteven@gmail.com; 503-680-9799. 0425
Great live/work opportunity in Dayville. See to appreciate the endless possibilities within this 2-story building. $325K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363; ddwr@ortelco.net. 0425
Pahrump, NV, city 1/4 acre lots. Good for off grid or investment. $100/mo for 10 years. Walmart and food stores close by. garyvavzycki@gmail.com. 0425
Recreational Rentals
Bed and Birds; a guesthouse. Wet meadows, range, forest, dark sky. Sleeps 9. Lakeview, OR. Explore or ride? Near ski hill. Reasonable. 541-219-2044. 0425
Bend country cabin. Very clean and fully furnished cabin on private ranch. Close to recreation areas. Very nice. $95/night. 541382-3050; bendcountrycabins@gmail.com. 0525
Wavecatcher: oceanfront cottage. Central OR coast. $175/night (plus cleaning/tax). Open April through Oct. Holds up to 6-plus. Children and pets. Wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. Reservations: 541-740-2846. 0425
Enjoy your ideal Maui getaway. This updated two-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. www.cbislandvacations.com/vrp/ unit/Kihei_Garden_Estates_G204-643-15. 0425 Recreational Vehicles
2015 Momentum 380ToyHauler. Garage 9.7 x 7.9 ft. Sleeps 6, center island, pantry, fireplace, 3 slides, Onan generator. Excellent condition. Photos available. $55K. 406-827-0618; shoffland54@gmail.com. 0525
1964 Airstream Land Yacht trailer. 22-ft. Body good, interior needs total rehab. Towable. Reno, NV. $5.5K. Dale, 775-742-2989. 0425 Services
Dawn Till Dusk Masonry. Brick, block, stone and pavers. Small jobs and repairs welcome. dawntillduskconstructionmasonry.com. 541388-7605; 541-410-6945. License #245760 bonded and insured. La Pine, OR. 0525
All types of roofing and repairs, family business since 1956 where integrity prevails. Dave, 541-852-2816. Josh, 541-255-6031. 0425
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. 0425
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. 0625
1963 Corvette car; split window coupe. Some repairs okay. Numbers need not match. Grampa Don, 541-232-3748. 0425
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.
On March 1, Golden Valley Electric Association’s fuel and purchase power rate increased by $0.00557, less than 1 cent, from 12.607¢ to 13.164¢ per kilowatt-hour. This rate is in effect through May 31. Residential members will see their total monthly electric bill go up by approximately $3.34, based on an average use of 600 kWh per month. This increase can be attributed to projections for this quarter that take into account required annual maintenance at GVEA’s lower-cost generating facilities. During this time, more electricity needs to be generated using higher-cost fuel sources.
As a reminder, the fuel and purchased power rate is a pass-through charge. It is not a surcharge and there is no markup. GVEA’s members are only charged the actual cost to generate and buy power. This charge is an estimate of what GVEA anticipates will be its costs over the next three months to generate and buy the energy necessary to meet the electrical needs of its members,
and a true-up of actual versus projected costs from the prior quarter.
GVEA is a cooperative, and as such, it is important that every member-owner understands how their bill is calculated and what factors into any rate increases or decreases. The F&PP rate is recalculated quarterly, more often than any other rate on members’ bills. It can also fluctuate heavily, with members sometimes seeing large increases or decreases. The frequency of these rate changes helps ensure members are charged for actual costs tied to fuel and power purchase expenses.
To help ensure members better understand this rate, we’ve compiled some of GVEA’s most frequently asked questions about the fuel and purchased power rate so members can be as informed as possible on the subject. Read on to learn more. Do you have a question that is not answered here? Give us a call at 907-452-1151 or visit gvea.com.
What is the fuel & purchased power (F&PP) rate?
The F&PP rate is a component on a member’s bill and is applied based on kilowatt-hour use. The F&PP rate is determined by the cost GVEA incurs to generate power to meet the needs of our members, based on fuel prices, availability of generating units and our ability to buy power from other local and southcentral utilities and/or entities.
How is the fuel & purchased power rate calculated?
The calculation is adjusted quarterly and includes two components: (1) what we project will be our cost of power over the next quarter, and (2) a true-up of any over- or under-collections from the previous quarter (i.e. the difference between what we projected the previous quarter and what costs were actually incurred). The F&PP rate is a pass-through of GVEA’s actual fuel and purchased power costs. It is not a surcharge and there is no markup whatsoever.
Why does the fuel & purchased power rate fluctuate?
Just like gas prices at the pump when you fill up your vehicle, the F&PP rate is affected based on the price of fuel. Unlike the price of natural gas in Southcentral Alaska, GVEA’s price for fuel can be unpredictable and susceptible to changing fuel market conditions.
There are also other factors that contribute to fluctuations in the F&PP rate, such as unexpected outages and shifting availability of power to purchase. All of these have an impact on the calculation of the F&PP rate.
Why is the fuel & purchased power rate changed quarterly instead of once a month or once a year?
Like other regulated electric utilities, GVEA is required by its governing body, the Regulatory Commission of Alaska, to update its F&PP on a quarterly basis. Additionally, quarterly adjustments allow GVEA to charge for actual costs of GVEA’s fuel expenses and generation purchases.
Who determines GVEA can raise or lower the fuel & purchased power rate?
GVEA follows the same Regulatory Commission of Alaska approved methodology every quarter to calculate the F&PP rate. The projected rate is then filed with the RCA. Under the RCA’s regulations, the F&PP rate change takes effect immediately upon filing with the RCA. However, the rate is subject to the RCA’s subsequent review, adjustment and approval.
On a hot July day, Wren Zielinski took her turkey, Mr. T, to the Linn County Fair in Albany, Oregon. Wren raised the turkey from a tiny 1-day-old poult in the spring until he was a full-grown tom ready for the summer fair.
As the two enjoyed the cool breeze from nearby fans, Wren’s mom, Katie, took a photo of them.
“I’m not sure what she was thinking at that moment or what Mr. T was thinking either, but they seemed so content,” Katie says. 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
Make Your Driveway Like New with a DR® Power Grader
• Fill in potholes and smooth out washboards
• Loosen and redistribute existing material
• Tow with your ATV, UTV, or tractor
Chippers Help You Clean Up and Clear Out
• Chip and shred with power to spare
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Discover all 13 of our Recipe Contest cookbooks. Each is 8½-by-11” with index. Prices shown include postage and tax.
Please allow two - three weeks for delivery; include your email address if you would like a shipping confirmation.
By
Tom DeLong, Chair, District 2
Chris Bunch, Vice-Chair, District 5
David Messier, Treasurer, District 1
Gary Newman, Secretary, District 4
Todd Adams, District 7
Fred Sheen, District 6
Rick Solie, District 3
Corporate Headquarters
758 Illinois St.
P.O. Box 71249
Fairbanks, AK 99707-1249
907-452-1151
1-800-770-GVEA (4832) Fax 907-458-6365
Delta Junction Office 1681 Richardson Highway Delta Junction, AK 99737
907-452-1151
1-800-770-GVEA (4832) Fax 907-895-5472
Report Outages:
907-452-1151
1-800-770-GVEA (4832)
Select: Option 1, Option 1
View Outage Map: gvea.com/outages
www.gvea.com
AK-37
9 a.m.-noon, Saturday, May 17
Delta: GVEA Delta office parking lot, 1681 Richardson Highway
Fairbanks: GVEA Fairbanks campus parking lot, 758 Illinois St.
Healy: Denali Chamber of Commerce, Mile .4 Healy Spur Road
10 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday, May 24
Nenana: Nenana Civic Center during the Agriculture Expo, while trees last!
This year’s trees are late lilac, amur maple and serviceberry.
Since 1991, GVEA has given away more than 87,000 trees and shrubs in an effort to educate our members on the importance of planting the right trees in the right place.
Learn more about GVEA’s Plant Smart landscaping recommendations and guidelines at gvea.com/ plant-smart.
Thursday, May 1 at 8 Star Events Center
Meeting begins at 6:15 p.m.
Attend for your chance to win a retired fleet vehicle!
The meeting is in person and livestreamed on GVEA’s YouTube and Facebook channels. Family-friendly activities and educational booths are open prior to the meeting. Stay tuned for additional details.