Ruralite, Golden Valley Electric, August 2024

From left, Brad St. Pierre, executive director of the Tanana Valley Farmers Market, and Jo Heckman, Fairbanks podcaster and blogger, champion the movement toward food security and local food production in Interior Alaska.

PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON

FEELING REJUVENATED WITH CBD

Everyone feels the hurt as we age, but CBD can help you deal with it

By: Beth Giles

Life really does fly by. Before I knew it, my 60s had arrived, and with them came some new gifts from dear ol’ Mother Nature—frequent knee pain, stress, low energy and sleeplessness. Now, I’m a realist about these things, I knew I wasn’t going to be young and springy forever. But still, with “golden years” nearly on my doorstep, I couldn’t help but feel a little cheated. That is until I found my own secret weapon. Another gift from Mother Nature.

It began a few months back when I was complaining about my aches and pains to my marathon-running granddaughter, Jen. She casually mentioned how she uses CBD rub to help with her joint pain. She said that CBD gave her more focus and clarity throughout the day and that her lingering muscle and joint discomfort no longer bothered her. She even felt comfortable signing up for back-toback marathons two weekends in a row this year. That made even this self-proclaimed skeptic take notice.

But I still had some concerns. According to one study in the Journal of the American Medical Association, 70% of CBD products didn’t contain the amount of CBD stated on their labels. And, as a consumer, that’s terrifying! If I was going to try CBD, I needed to trust the source through and through. My two-fold research process naturally led me to Zebra CBD. First, I started calling my family and friends. Call me old fashioned but I wanted to know if

there were people whom I trusted (more than anonymous testimonials) who’ve had success using CBD besides my granddaughter.

Secondly, I wanted cold hard facts. Diving deep into the world of CBD research and clinical studies, I came across Emily Gray M.D., a physician at the University of California at San Diego (UCSD) Medical School and medical advisor to Zebra CBD who is researching the effects of CBD. Dr. Gray wrote “early results with CBD have been promising and we have a lot of research underway now. I’ve had several patients using CBD with good success. It’s important that you know your source of CBD and how to use it properly.”

After hearing it from the doctor’s mouth, I returned to my research, asking more people and was amazed by the number of close friends and family who were already on the CBD train. Apparently, I was the only one without a clue! And funny enough, a couple of friends who commented were using the same brand as my granddaughter—Zebra CBD. There was no consensus as to why they were using CBD, but the top reasons given were for muscle & joint discomfort, mood support, sleep support, stress and headaches, as well as supporting overall health & wellness.

Eventually, even the most skeptical of the bunch can be won over. With a trusted CBD source in mind, I decided to give it a go.

When I viewed Zebra CBD’s selection

online, I was impressed by its array of products, including CBD oils called tinctures, topicals, chewable tablets, mints and gummies. After reading on their website that all their products are made with organically-grown hemp, I ordered... and it arrived within 2 days!

The first product I tried was the Rub. Now this stuff was strong. Immediately after rubbing it on my knee, the soothing effects kicked in. It had that familiar menthol cooling effect, which I personally find very relieving. And the best part is, after two weeks of using it, my knee pain no longer affected my daily mobility.

The Zebra Sleep Gummies, on the other hand, had a different but equally positive effect on my body. To take it, the instructions suggest chewing thoroughly. This was simple enough, and the taste was, well, lemony. After about 15 minutes, a sense of calm came over my body. It's hard to describe exactly; it's definitely not a "high" feeling. It's more like an overall sense of relaxation—and then I was out. Needless to say, I slept great and woke up refreshed. I haven’t slept like that in a long time.

While it hasn’t been a catch-all fix to every one of my health issues, it has eased the level and frequency of my aches. And it sure doesn’t seem like a coincidence how rejuvenated I feel.

All-in-all, CBD is one of those things that you have to try for yourself. Although I was skeptical at first, I can safely say that I’m now a Zebra CBD fan and that I highly recommend their products. Also, I managed to speak with a Zebra CBD spokesperson willing to provide an exclusive. If you order this month, you’ll receive $10 off your first order by using promo code “RL10” at checkout. Plus, the company offers a 100% No-Hassle, Money-Back Guarantee. You can try it yourself and order Zebra CBD at ZebraCBD.com/CM or at 1-888-762-2699.

Ruralite

August 2024 • Volume 72, No. 8

CEO Michael Shepard

SENIOR VP OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mike Teegarden, CCC

DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Noble Sprayberry

SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC

ASSISTANT EDITORS Chasity Anderson, CCC; Victoria Hampton, CCC; David Herder, CCC

ASSOCIATE EDITORS

Valeri Pearon, Nina Todea

PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION SR. MANAGER

Elizabeth Beatty

PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR

Alyssa McDougle

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Strong Flavor, Strong Muscles

This month, we feature two stories that are nothing alike and yet so similar.

Our Spotlight feature highlights the Guerra family and how it grew a business quite literally from the ground up.

Starting small in the 1970s, family members began growing peppers on 5 acres. They later expanded to 30 acres and produced thousands of pounds of peppers. They eventually developed seasonings from their crops and found even more success. The key to their success, says Lino Guerra, is caring for the roots of the plants and the roots of their family.

Now Lucas is giving back as a gym owner, passing on his knowledge to the next crop of strongmen.

Both stories are inspirational and demonstrate we can overcome the challenges life throws at us if we keep working hard.

Are you beating the summer heat?

As I write this, we are enduring our first stretch of triple-digit temperatures. I have no doubt this is just the start of our summer sizzle. Western forest fires are breaking out as well.

Our Up Close feature profiles Lucas Hatton and his path from high school and small-college football to winning America’s Strongest Man competition. He also started small and worked his way up the ladder, overcoming challenges before finding success.

While summer is a great time to spend time outdoors, please be careful. The U.S. Forest Service says 85% of forest fires are caused by humans. Careless use of power tools, campfires, cigarettes and fireworks can start fires that are devastating for affected families. Please, use common sense and help prevent forest fires.

Sincerely,

Mike Teegarden Editorial Director

America’s Strongest Man

Lucas Hatton found a new hobby during the pandemic—strongman competitions—at which he quickly became one of the world’s best Up Close, Page 10

For supplemental and interactive content, search @Ruralite on your favorite social media sites. The

GVEA Member Spotlight

Growing a Path to Food Security in Interior Alaska

By Deb Hickok

Understanding the issue of food insecurity in Alaska is key to bolstering food systems in the state. Two local Fairbanksans are championing this issue, amplifying voices and working toward solutions in unique ways.

“If we want to see a change and make a difference in the strength of our food systems, Alaskan consumers need to make a choice to buy Alaska grown,” says Brad St. Pierre, who is serving his 11th season as executive director of the Fairbanks-based Tanana Valley Farmers Market.

“Alaska’s supply chain is vulnerable and in turn, our food supply is unstable, of which 95% of purchased foods are imported,” says the 2023 Alaska Food Security and Independence Task Force Report. “Additionally, by importing most of our food supplies, around $2 billion is sent out of state each year.”

The report also cites recent breakdowns in Alaska’s food supply chain from disrupting events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2018 earthquake in Southcentral Alaska. “Alaska is past due for activating a strategic approach to creating a more inclusive, equitable and resilient food system for all,” asserts the report.

“We are hostage to so many external factors in getting the food to us,” says Fairbanks podcaster and blogger Jo Heckman. She points out that this is a complex issue, and quick fixes will not solve the food supply problem.

“At best, we have five days of food supply available on the shelves,” Jo says. “So we have to do something.”

Under the banner of “Jo’s Table Alaska,” Jo shares insights on her podcast from knowledgeable and inspiring individuals who are working hard to bring nutritious food to the region.

Interior Alaska farmers display their vibrant fresh produce at the Tanana Valley Farmers Market. PHOTOS BY GRACE WILSON

She interviews a wide range of food entrepreneurs, such as growers, foragers, ranchers, butchers and greenhouse proprietors. Jo also spotlights worthy organizations that distribute food to community members who face day-today food insecurity.

Jo asks guests about what needs to be done to encourage more locally sourced food.

“They all pretty much come back to ‘we need more people to grow, we need more people who choose healthy nutritious food,’” she says.

Health professionals have long touted the benefits of eating food grown nearby.

Food harvested when it’s ripe and then sold direct to neighboring consumers provides more nutritious and flavorful fresh food choices. Imported produce is often picked before its prime nutritional value to endure long shipping distances, during which nutrients further deteriorate.

published every five years. Fairbanks saw an increase of 8% during the same period.

“What needs to happen is a shift in thinking about eating what is good for you,” Jo observes. “And then growing your own food and supporting those who are growing food.”

Who are our farmers?

Since Brad and his wife, Christine St. Pierre, established Goosefoot Farm in 2013 in Fairbanks, they have seen changes in the farming community.

From 2017 to 2022, while the number of farms and ranches nationwide declined by 7%, the number in Alaska increased by 18%—the highest percentage increase in the nation—according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Census of Agriculture,

Some Resources on Food Security in Alaska

To access “Jo’s Table Alaska” podcasts, go to www.jostablealaska.com or search for it on your favorite podcast app.

To find the location of farmers markets, food hubs, farm stands, or community supported agriculture in the state, visit the Alaska Division of Agriculture’s Alaska Grown website at www.buyalaskagrown.com/ buy.

For free classes and other resources on canning and growing food, go to

the University of Alaska

Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service website at www.uaf.edu/ces.

The “2023 Alaska Food Security and Independence Task Force Report” is available at www. alaskafoodsystems.com.

Summaries about Alaska agriculture from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s 2022 Census of Agriculture may be found on the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) website, https://bit.ly /3xFd5sF.

That increase in Alaska is mostly in those sized 9 acres and smaller, which account for 43% of the total 1,173 farms and ranches in Alaska.

Further, 93% of farms in Alaska are family-owned. The Alaska State Fair Association and the Alaska Department of Agriculture annually honor the Alaska Farm Family of the Year. The St. Pierre clan received the award in 2019. Also of note, Alaska has the highest proportion of females involved in food production in the nation at nearly 48%

Brad says that Alaskan farmers are primarily selling direct to consumers through farmers markets, community-supported agriculture programs, known as CSAs, and farm stands.

He notes that back in 2005, there were 13 registered farmers markets in the state and now there are 56. The Tanana Valley Farmers Market celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023 as the oldest continuously running farmers market in Alaska.

“A vibrant farmers market in each community is the piece that will get us closer to the strong food system the fastest,” says Brad, who also serves as president of the board of directors for Alaska Farmers Market Association.

The challenges for Alaska farmers are significant. Similar barriers exist nationally but can be more intensified in Alaska. The net cash income for an average farm in Alaska in 2022 was $10,681 which was a 27% decline from 2017, according to the USDA census.

A key obstacle to sustainable farms is the availability and cost of land accessible to city centers. Brad says that in the 1980s, farmers needed about 30 years to realize the value of what they expensed for their land. Today, that number has doubled to 60 years— longer than most people can expect to farm. Of note, farms and ranches use less than 1% of the land in Alaska.

Energy and transportation costs are also typically more expensive in the most northern U.S. state. Alaskan-based farms

Jo Heckman picks up delicious fresh mushrooms from Boreal Woods Mushroom Farm.

GOLDEN VALLEY ELECTRIC

and ranches using renewable energy systems increased by 19% over the five-year period most recently reported by the USDA. Of those employing renewables, 92% reported using solar panels.

As with other small businesses, farmers suffer from a lack of access to labor and affordable housing and health care.

In attracting younger farmers, student debt is also a factor. Most farmers, including Christine and Brad, are college educated.

“It’s important to have a broad range of knowledge,” Brad says.

Farmers need to have business acumen, agriculture expertise and technical skills.

Both Jo and Brad note the emergence of local food producers who are selling yearround. Examples are CSAs coordinated by farmers as well as Fairbanks retailers such as the Co-op Market Grocery & Deli and The Roaming Root Cellar.

“The farmers in Alaska are growing for Alaskans,” says Brad. “That is the only model that is viable for the size of the majority of farms in the state.”

“Why do farmers do it?” Jo asks when reflecting on farmers’ personal stories. “They love it. They love a healthy connection to the land. They want a healthy lifestyle for themselves and their family,” she says. “But they’re not just growing for themselves. They grow to sell.”

admiringly to those in the 1930s and 40s who grew an estimated 40% of food consumed in the area. Their legacy is reflected in the naming of Farmers Loop Road in Fairbanks, which originated from the prevalence of farms along the thoroughfare.

“Many people tell me that their parents and grandparents homesteaded and grew everything because they had to,” Jo says. “They canned what they could to help feed the family during winter months.”

“We need to support this concept of growing our own food, community gardens and school programs,” Jo says. “That focus is emerging—that you grow your own and you teach kids.”

She mentions that free resources are available through the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Office.

Jo is empathetic to modern families who may not have the space to grow, or the financial means to buy local. But she encourages individuals to do what they realistically can do to support local growers.

“In Alaska, the most patriotic thing that you can do is to buy from a local farmer,” Brad says. “I want to challenge Alaskans to make a difference in local food systems.”

Small farms are prepared to grow more to meet customer demand for local produce. “Would they grow more?” Jo continues. “They would if there was more demand for their product.”

What can the community do to ease Alaska’s food insecurity?

Jo relays comments from older farmers who harken back

Helping Those With the Most Need for Food

He urges residents to take on the Alaska Division of Agriculture’s Alaska Grown $5 Challenge. By spending $5 per week per household on locally grown products in the summer and fall, Alaskans would generate $33 million of revenue for farmers over the 6-month period.

“Where you can and when you can, support local,” Jo says. “Where you can and when you can, grow your own.” n

Jo’s Table Alaska podcast seeks to shine a light on local groups that serve community members who suffer from day-to-day food insecurity.

“There is obviously a need. Without these organizations, they wouldn’t have food,” Podcaster Jo Heckman says. “People needing food seem to be an increasing number in our community.”

As examples, she lists the Fairbanks Community Food Bank, Bread Line Inc., Immaculate Conception Church Food Pantry and the Golden Heart Angels in Motion.

“If we don’t have food, what happens to those people in our society?” she says to remind people that this aspect of food insecurity is not someone else’s problem. It’s an issue for the community to address.

Jo emphasizes that these charitable groups need the support of local residents through donations of money, food and time.

Brad St. Pierre also points out that local farmers markets accept vouchers from federally-funded programs, such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, Women, Infants, and Children, known as WIC, and the Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. These benefits may be doubled in value at participating farmers markets.

“These programs are expanding access to the most nutrient dense, locally produced foods to people who have the most need for that food,” Brad says.

Brad and Christine St. Pierre of Goosefoot Farm at their Farmers Market stand, bringing fresh, local food to Interior Alaska since 2013.

A Message from GVEA’s CEO

GVEA’s Concern for Community

Dear GVEA members,

Since joining the Golden Valley team, I have been continuously reminded of the unique and important role GVEA plays in the communities we serve. An essential aspect of being an electric cooperative is our commitment to the cooperative principle of “Concern for Community.” This commitment drives us to engage with and contribute to the well-being of our members, from Cantwell to Delta Junction and everywhere in between.

Recently, GVEA employees demonstrated this principle through their volunteer efforts at the Stone Soup Cafe’s community garden. This initiative brought together our team to support a vital community resource, highlighting our dedication to improving the quality of life for all residents. The community garden not only helps provide fresh produce to those in need but also fosters a sense of unity and cooperation among volunteers and community members alike.

Additionally, GVEA employees have delivered Meals on Wheels to seniors on a bimonthly basis since 2021. This initiative ensures that some of our most vulnerable community members receive nutritious meals and personal contact, helping to combat isolation and promote wellbeing. Throughout the year, GVEA employees volunteer with various other nonprofits and community events. From the Interior Center for Non-Violent Living and the Fairbanks Community Food Bank to the Heart Walk and Clean-Up Day, our team is dedicated to giving back. Each of these efforts is a testament to our employees’ commitment to the cooperative principle of Concern for Community.

The care and dedication GVEA and our employees have for our communities are reflected in every action we take. Together with our members, we continue to make significant positive impacts that enhance the well-being and resilience of our communities. Whether through scholarships, donations or volunteer work, our goal is to foster a supportive and thriving environment for everyone.

As GVEA’s CEO, I am committed to this principle and ensuring that our efforts continue to address the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve. Thank you for being a vital part of Golden Valley Electric Association and for supporting our mission to improve the lives of our members and neighbors.

Warm regards,

Travis Million President and CEO Golden Valley Electric Association

GVEA employees volunteering at Stone Soup Cafe’s community garden. PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON

By Rachael Kvapil

Cori Taylor: Supporting Leadership With Top-Notch Management Skills

Cori Taylor, administrative assistant-executive, is no stranger to the busy schedule of GVEA’s leadership team. Lots of information and logistics involved in running the utility have passed through Cori’s hands in the form of minutes, reports, forms and event preparation. And with a new incoming CEO, Cori is ready to provide the support necessary for a seamless transition.

“Travis Million will be my third CEO,” Cori says. “Once you’ve experienced a switch like this, it becomes easier every time.”

Cori started at GVEA in 2008 in the member services department. She had previously worked in customer service at College & Golden Heart Utilities, a water utility in Fairbanks. After some time in member services at GVEA, Cori moved to new construction, where she worked as an office assistant for four years. Around six years ago, she applied for her current position.

At that time, Cory Borgeson served as GVEA’s CEO. He retired in 2020, and John Burns took the reins. In June, John retired, and Travis, GVEA’s COO since 2023, stepped into the role.

“I love helping people,” Cori says. “I might be providing external assistance to members or helping my fellow employees. What seems like a big deal to most is what admins do daily.”

Over the years, she has developed a breadth of knowledge that has proved valuable throughout her career. However, she significantly enhanced her personal and professional growth when she decided to earn a formal degree. Thanks to GVEA’s tuition reimbursement program, Cori earned an Associate of Arts and Sciences in office management and Administrative Assistance and a Bachelor of Science in applied management, from Brigham Young University, Idaho. She encourages anyone who is interested in an administrative career to develop a wide skill set and learn everything about their assigned duties while also staying adaptable to change.

“Each CEO wants something different,” Cori says. “And so, you have to keep an open mind and be flexible.”

As the administrative assistant-executive, Cori assists the CEO and board of directors with travel, reports, requisitions, budgets, board meetings, minutes and planning events. She also manages travel and processes requisitions for the IT department. Additionally, Cori has planned and administered the yearly retreat and strategic planning for the board of directors for several years.

“Support staff is integral, and we represent the executive office in a positive manner,” Cori says.

She adds that she looks forward to helping Travis in his new role leading the company.

Cori grew up in Arizona, where she met her husband, who is originally from Alaska, and started a family. She first visited Alaska with her kids when her husband talked about wanting to move back to the state. Though she sometimes misses her family in Arizona, Cori says she has no regrets about moving to such a great place. She loves to spend time outdoors, hiking and camping and loves to read historical fiction and fantasy novels. n

PHOTO BY KELLY REYNOLDS

AMERICA’S STRONGEST

Lucas Hatton found a new hobby during the pandemic—strongman competitions, where he quickly became one of the world’s best

By David Herder

With one event left at the 2023 America’s separated Lucas Hatton from a first-place finish was a set of 400-pound weights and

A native of Eatonville, Washington, competition before the final event: the stair climb. Competitors in the stair climb lift weights of 440, 485 and 530 pounds up a flight of four steps. A fourth-place finish in the same event cost him a victory at the prestigious Arnold Amateur Strongman Competition a few months earlier.

never considered being a strongman. He grew up playing football and track and field for Eatonville High School, in a small town a little more than an hour south of Seattle. He continued with both sports at Pacific Lutheran University in Parkland, Washington. Lucas says teachers and coaches in high school and college noticed his passion for lifting weights and working hard and helped set him up for success.

“Those coaches that took that extra time—I don’t think they realize how impactful that was long term,” he says.

Lucas Hatton began competing in strongman competitions in 2020 and won the 2023 America’s Strongest competition. PHOTOS COURTESY OF LUCAS HATTON

STRONGEST MAN

After college, Lucas continued working out, focusing on powerlifting—a sport where the goal is to lift the heaviest weights possible. For work, he managed a company that provided security for local events, a job he’d started while in college.

When the pandemic hit, powerlifting competitions in his area were canceled. However, a local gym ran an outdoor strongman competition, and Lucas entered.

He won, and the victory qualified him for a national competition.

Once there, Lucas, who is 6 feet tall, was surprised at how much larger competitors were at nationals.

“The first guy I saw in the lobby was 6’5”, 400 pounds, and I thought I was in the wrong place,” Lucas says. “It was a big eye-opener for what the next level was like.”

He finished 35th that first year. After a year of training, he returned and finished fifth in 2021. The top three finishers at nationals earn pro cards and are eligible to compete in professional strongman competitions. Going pro became Lucas’ goal, but it would require a life change.

As Lucas transitioned into strongman, some of his friends bought a gym, Dungeon Strength RX in Auburn, Washington, between Eatonville and Seattle. After the fifth-place finish, Lucas quit his security job and began working

at the gym full time, helping to run the facility and coach young athletes. He has since become part-owner of Dungeon Strength RX and loves working with youngsters who have found powerlifting routines online and want to try it.

“It’s a blast, man,” Lucas says. “I would do that regardless of if I ever lifted in strongman again.”

Soon, Lucas began finishing on podiums. He came in second at the 2022 nationals, allowing him to turn pro.

As strongman turned from a hobby to a job, his progression came quicker. He finished second at the Arnold Amateur and North America’s Strongest Man. Those finishes helped bolster his reputation and earned him invitations to bigger and better events.

At the 2023 America’s Strongest Man, Lucas had just four steps and three weights on his way to his first strongman victory. His overall lead was large enough that he didn’t need a spectacular result to win the competition. But halfway through the stair climb, he realized he could win the event. With a push, he had the best stair climb time of any competitor.

“It was kind of just a cool redemption moment,” Lucas says. “I got a lot of seconds and thirds on the way up, and I think I learned a lot from those. It forced me to get a lot better at things. I didn’t win until I earned it.” n

What is Strongman?

Stongman competitions test competitors through various feats of strength. Competitions typically have five to eight events, each requiring competitors to lift something as heavy as possible, do something as quickly as possible or do something for as long as possible.  Every competition has a different event mix. At the 2023 America’s Strongest Man competition, won by Lucas Hatton, the events were:

X MAX AXLE PRESS: Similar to the clean and jerk you might see at the Olympics; competitors must lift the heaviest barbell possible above their heads.

X YOKE AND FARMER’S CARRY MEDLEY: In this medley, competitors must walk while carrying heavy weights two different ways. The yoke is a metal frame with a crossbar and weight added to the bottom, and is carried on the shoulders. In the farmer’s carry, competitors walk after picking up weights or dumbbells from the ground.

X UKRANIAN DEADLIFT: Competitors stand on a platform, and lift a handle connected to weights on the ground below. Competitors squat, grab the handle and lift the weight by standing up straight.

X DUMBBELL LADDER: As quickly as possible, competitors pick up a series of dumbbells one at a time, using both hands to get the weight to their shoulder, and then using one arm to hold it above their head.

X NATURAL STONES: As quickly as possible, competitors pick up rocks weighing between 280 and 366 pounds and place them on a chest-height platform.

X POWER STAIRS: As quickly as possible, competitors lift weights of 440, 485 and 530 pounds up a flight of four steps.

Lucas brought his family when competing in the Arnold Strongman Classic in the UK.

The Spice of Life: The Spice of Life: The Legacy of Guerra’s Gourmet Seasonings

By Chiara Profenna

On the outskirts of Sunnyside, Washington, it’s pepper harvest time.

From August to September, tens of thousands of peppers will be handpicked, sorted, dried and ground into powder for spice production. Running a farm is hard work, but help makes it possible.

Overlooking the beautiful Yakima Valley, the sprawling farm is run by Lino Guerra and his family. The farm has been passed down through generations and supports a flourishing seasoning business. However, Guerra’s Gourmet Seasonings, a natural spice line made with farm-grown peppers, is only one part of their story.

A Seed in the Ground

The Guerra family farm dates back to the 1970s, started by the father-son duo, Antonio and Lionel Guerra. At the same time, Lionel’s brother, Lino, was studying engineering at the University of Washington.

“My dad was a manager for a farmer here in the Yakima Valley,” Lino says. “And on his side business, he started doing a little bit of farm produce.”

With a 5-acre plot and the motivation to succeed, Antonio and Lionel began growing produce—tomatoes and peppers at first, then gradually expanding their offerings. They established Guerra’s Produce in 1978.

“We started mainly growing quite a bit of jalapenos, serranos, New Mexico chiles,” Lino says. “We had close to over 20 different varieties of chiles here, grown here in the Yakima Valley.”

Working as an engineer in lab research and development, Lino married his wife, Hilda, in 1982. He eventually joined his family on the farm to help with production. By 1986, he had taken over the family business, inspired by the love of cooking with seasoning. With Hilda and

two sons, Aaron and Chris, Lino began his life on the farm, slowly expanding the property into a 30-acre operation.

“I knew I had something here that nobody had in the Yakima Valley,” he says.

A Budding Family and Farm

By the 1990s, anyone in the vicinity could see that production was booming on the Guerra farm. Each acre produced between 7,000 and 10,000 pounds of peppers. After directing their focus on growing a wide variety of peppers, the Guerras began to strike deals with companies in Tacoma, selling the peppers picked and canned.

“And we had an abundance of peppers,” Lino says. “It was like, ‘What am I going to do with all this?’”

With a surplus of produce, Lino created a testing area on his farm to experiment with new recipes and uses for peppers.

“I started drying New Mexico chiles and a variety of different chiles— everything from Anaheim to Sandia peppers,” Lino says. “From there, we did a lot of dehydrating with the peppers, and I grinded the chiles up and blended the chiles with other spices and herbs to develop a nice seasoning. And that’s how everything started, right there.”

Their first recipe was Guerra’s Signature Seasoning. With a new product to share with the community, Lino decided to host a chile pepper festival on the farm. The event was an enormous success, featuring cooking and salsa demonstrations, children’s activities, tours of the farm and a celebration of Mexican culture, music and dancing.

“I noticed that everybody had an urge for seasoning,” Lino says. “There was no sugar, no MSG, gluten-free ... it just exploded.”

The Guerras ran the festival for another 13 years, eventually slowing down to prioritize family.

“We had to stop because my wife was involved in an accident, and at that same time, my dad got sick,” Lino says. “I had to slow down and sit back and start rethinking everything. My biggest thing is taking care of the family, and that’s what we did.”

With two more sons, Geraldo and Fabian, the Guerras had more than a full heart and home on the farm. They continued to broaden their business opportunities, trying their hand at running a cafe and a catering business while selling their seasoning at farmers markets throughout Washington.

A Flowering Business

By the time 2020 came around, the Guerras’ catering and seasoning businesses were flourishing.

“That’s when everything changed on us,” Lino says. “We just got into doing more producing for the seasonings and came out

The Guerra family gathers in spring to meticulously place each pepper plant on their 30 acres. PHOTOS COURTESY OF GUERRA’S GOURMET

with a new variety of the habanero seasoning and the rice seasoning. And that’s when we decided, ‘Hey listen, let’s start packaging this and getting it out to the public,’ and then we came out with the extra hot. Oh gosh, people were just loving it!”

Powering through the pandemic, the Guerras worked tirelessly to promote their seasoning line across the Pacific Northwest. As Lino’s sons pursued other careers, they found ways to support the family business wherever they were.

The Guerras partnered with other farms and businesses to develop new products, such as Fuego Cheese, a collaboration with Daniel’s Artisan, a Washington-based, small-batch cheese company.

According to Lino, farmers in the Yakima Valley support one another. And while the pandemic certainly posed its challenges, the Guerras were able to regroup and forge a new path that would propel their business into the future.

FROM TOP: The Guerras enjoy a meal at the family field table. Lino, Chris and Geraldo don chef coats, presenting Guerra’s Gourmet Catering—one of their culinary endeavors. Guerra’s Gourmet Signature Seasoning, the family’s original recipe, has been joined by rice seasoning, habanero sea salt and extra hot signature varieties in the past few years.

Lino and Hilda run their booth at the Pybus Public Market year-round in Wenatchee, Washington.

The Fruits of Labor

Today, Chris and Geraldo spend most of their time running the family business, while Aaron and Fabian help from Seattle when they can.

“We don’t do what my parents or my grandpa used to do anymore,” Chris says. “But we try to better what they started. We’re just trying to continue that tradition, work with people locally and continue to produce a more localized product.”

The work doesn’t come without its fair share of challenges. Ecological factors cause setbacks every season.

“This last year, we tried to plant 30,000 plants, but the grasshoppers ate all of our seed. We lost a lot,” Chris says. “There’s always something that comes up that makes it really hard.”

There’s also a fine balance between running the farm and attending farmers markets.

“It is a lot, but somehow we make it work,” Chris says. “At the same time, we’re visiting all these farmers markets, we’re also in the field pulling weeds, or we’re picking peppers and then we go into cooking for people sometimes. So, it’s a lot of stuff. It’s really hard, but I think that’s also the fun of it.”

Scaling back their pepper production and catering businesses has given them more breathing room. The brothers have focused on creating seasonings and recipes to accompany their products sold at farmers markets and regional retailers.

“Now that we’re not catering as much, we do get to spend more time together, which is definitely more enjoyable,” Chris says. “In the end, this is all better for us because we get to spend more time focusing on our product, and that is sustainable for all of us.”

Being able to spend more quality time together as a family has eased the changes and hardships over the years.

“As my dad would say, ‘You got to protect the root system and the base of the plant,’ just like us as a family,” Lino says. “You protect the people that are around you and help them out.” n

You can find Guerra’s Gourmet products year-round at the Ballard Farmers Market, Pybus Public Market and Hood River Farmers Market. A full list of retailers can be found online at guerras-gourmet.square.site.

Guerra’s Fresh Harvest Salsa Recipe

Medium Hot

1 small onion, diced 1/2 bunch cilantro, finely chopped

2 large limes

1 tablespoon Guerra’s Natural Seasoning

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 jalapeno*

1 serrano pepper*

1 Portugal pepper (remove seeds)

1 ancho pepper (remove seeds)

1 Anaheim pepper (remove seeds)

4 ripe tomatoes

In a medium-sized bowl, add the onion and cilantro. Squeeze the juice from both limes into the bowl and discard the fruit.

Add the seasoning and salt. Finely chop the remaining ingredients and add to the bowl. Stir all ingredients until well-mixed. Wait 10 minutes before serving. Serve with your favorite corn chips.

*Harvest Tip: Use all green peppers. As they ripen on the plant, you can also use the red ones.

Geraldo, Chris, Hilda and Lino Guerra all work full time on the family farm, managing the land, markets and seasoning production.

Throw a Party WITH COLD SUMMER DIPS

Caramelized Onion Dip

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

3 yellow onions, sliced

8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature

1 cup sour cream

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon kosher salt

Chives for garnish

Place oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat. Add onions. Cook, stirring occasionally until onions are soft and translucent, about seven minutes. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the translucent onions become brown, 10 to 15 minutes. Onions should be soft, semi-translucent and brown. They should not be crispy or have dark brown spots from contact with the pan.

With a mixer, beat together cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise on medium-high until smooth. Add Worcestershire sauce and salt. Stir to combine.

Add caramelized onion and incorporate with a spatula until evenly distributed. Chill for at least an hour. Garnish with chives.

Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway

ADOBE STOCK

PHOTO BY ALEX

BAYEV

Million-Dollar Dip

4 thick-cut bacon slices, chopped

71/2-ounce package chiveand-onion cream cheese, room temperature

1 cup mayonnaise

8 ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

¼ cup thinly sliced scallions

Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and crisp, about eight minutes. Remove from heat. Using a slotted spoon, transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Stir together cream cheese and mayonnaise in a medium bowl until fully combined. Fold in bacon, cheddar cheese and scallions. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to three days.

Creamy Crab Dip

12 ounces fresh lump crabmeat, drained and picked clean of shells

1/2 cup sour cream

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley

1 tablespoon Old Bay seasoning

1/3 cup chopped scallions

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

Chives, for garnish

Stir together first seven ingredients. Top with fresh chives. Chill for at least an hour before serving.

Cowboy Caviar Dip

2 cans black-eyed peas

1 can black beans

1 can corn

1 bell pepper red or green, finely diced

¼ cup red onion, finely diced

Vinaigrette

¼ cup olive oil

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed

2 tablespoons honey

2 to 4 jalapenos, seeded and finely diced

¼ cup cilantro, finely chopped

Ranch Corn Dip

1 ounce ranch seasoning

16 ounces sour cream

141/2-ounce can petite diced tomatoes, drained

15.25-ounce can whole kernel corn, drained

1/2 teaspoon cumin

¼ teaspoon paprika

¼ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Rinse and thoroughly drain the black-eyed peas and black beans. In a large bowl, mix together the black-eyed peas, black beans, corn, bell pepper, red onion and jalapenos. Add the vinaigrette ingredients to a high-speed blender or food processor. Blend for five to 10 seconds or until emulsified. Pour the vinaigrette over the bean salad. Toss until well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

Just before serving, add chopped cilantro. Toss to combine.

4.25-ounce can diced green chilies, drained

10-ounce can original Rotel

3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Mix all ingredients together. Chill for one hour before serving.

Creamy Cilantro Cucumber Dip

6 ounces plain Greek yogurt

4 ounces cream cheese, softened

¼ cup chopped cucumber

1 cup fresh cilantro leaves

2 to 3 stalks green onion

1 clove garlic

¼ teaspoon salt

Combine all ingredients in a food processor. Blend.

Garden Veggie Dip

11/2 cups sour cream

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

¼ teaspoon dried dill

2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

2 tablespoons fresh chopped green onion, plus extra to taste

¼ cup finely grated carrot

¼ cup chopped broccoli florets, no stems

Combine all ingredients. Mix. Adjust seasoning to taste as needed.

Refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to blend.

Spicy Dill Dip

1 cup Greek yogurt

1 cup sour cream

1 large jalapeno

¼ of an English cucumber

2 tablespoons minced fresh dill or 1 to 2 teaspoons dried dill

1 tablespoon chopped green onion

1/2 tablespoon dried parsley

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon salt

Combine Greek yogurt and sour cream in a medium bowl. Remove the jalapeno’s stem, then mince the jalapeno. Add to the bowl. Include all of the seeds for a spicy dip, half for a lightly zesty dip and no seeds for a mild dip.

Coarsely grate the English cucumber using a cheese grater. Wring out excess moisture in a paper towel, then mince with a knife. Add to the bowl.

Stir in dill, green onion, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder and salt.

Cover bowl with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least one hour.

READER EXCHANGE

Books/Magazines

Want to buy this book for my grandson: “Dalles Mountain Ranch Museum of Natural & Cultural Heritage of the East Columbia Gorge” by Darlene Highsmith Bleakney. Thank you for your help in finding this book.

Daryln Hansen

706 E. 14th St. The Dalles, OR. 97058 Pawhans@gmail.com

I have two paperbacks I would like to pass on to interested parties: “Genealogy of The Calvert Family (Cortland, New York branch)” by John B. Calvert, 1914, and C. Crossman Calvert, 1960; and “Pioneers of Molalla 1843-1900.”

Patt Moss P.O. Box 61155 Fairbanks, AK 99706

I am looking for one of my daughter’s favorite childhood books. It is “This Room is Mine” by Betty Ren Wright. I thank you in advance.

Jeanne Christie 4134 Filbert Meadows Way Springfield, OR 97478

I have a collection of Northwest Edition and Northwest Living Magazines from January 1984 through November/December 1990. I would like to pass them on to someone for cost of postage. Contact me, and we’ll make it work.

Pat Shira 111 Parson Lane Troy, MT 59935

Crafts/Hobbies

I’m looking for a Raggedy Ann doll pattern. Thank you.

Rosalyn Murphy

6557 Lucky Lane #802 Brookings OR 97415

Submitting Requests Is Free

Thanks to readers who have sent me jewelry before. If anyone has old jewelry or broken jewelry they do not want, I sure could use more. I am working on remaking and selling jewelry to benefit the Alturas Humane Society.

Carol S. Semenko 145 Chukar Lane Alturas, CA 96101 bunnyperson_8@yahoo.com

Looking for Hug Snug rayon seam binding, any color, for craft projects to make with my children. Any amount will be appreciated. Thank you very much.

Liz Burford 6111 Highway 57 Priest River, ID 83856

I am in search of any kind of Disney fabrics—any length or scraps. Also looking for birthday theme fabric, balloons, candles, cake, etc.—any length or scraps.

Anisa Troyer 35711 SE Kennel Road Albany, OR 97322

I am looking for green snuff can lids for a regalia outfit, jingle dress. Any donations would be appreciated.

Jessica Orr P.O. Box 939 Nespelem, WA 99155

My sister and I are making jewelry. We would appreciate unused beads or stones or any unwanted items. Thank you.

Marsha Holeik 16637 William Foss Road La Pine, OR 97739

My mom needs greeting cards—new or used. She makes card bowls with them and gives them away locally. Thank you from Peggy S.

Millie Shelton 85460 Christmas Valley Hwy Silver Lake, OR 97638

Send your request—no attachments, please—to readerexchange@ruralite.org or mail to Reader Exchange, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Fill in the subject line with Reader Exchange. Acceptance, scheduling and editing are at the editor’s discretion. Single requests only, please. No duplicates. Submissions are handled on a first-come, first-served basis and as space allows. We cannot honor every request. Please affirm you have authorization from all appropriate parties before submitting. By submitting, you indemnify Reader Exchange, Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., its officers, directors, employees, utility clients and insurers from all legal liability incurred by the publication of information.

We no longer accept pen pal requests. You may submit a pen pal request as a Marketplace ad. Marketplace pricing applies. When submitting a milestone request, please send it at least two months before the milestone. Phone numbers will not be published. Email addresses will be published if part of the ad, but you must include a postal address. Requests also must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.

I am looking for buttons for a game to teach children. Each child needs 50 to 100 buttons. They need five different types: leather, wooden, ceramic, shell and so on. Each child learns to sew on a button and then shares with a friend. I also need one or two large buttons to create button buzzers. Thanks in advance for your help.

Donita Culberson

P.O. Box 108 Baker City, OR 97814

I’m looking for any used or new greeting cards and unwanted scrapbooking supplies to put together scrapbooking albums to decorate for my grandchildren with our family photos and to track family genealogy. I use buttons, iron emblems and cutouts to decorate the pages. If local to Burns, Oregon, I’m willing to pick it up. Your help is greatly appreciated as I make these treasures for my grandchildren.

Peggy Lee Mazziotti

315 W. Johnson St. Burns, OR 97720

Milestones

My dad turns 90 this month. A retired U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean War era, he was a flight engineer and is one of the few remaining veterans of Underage Military Service (having enlisted at the age of 15). With the passing of his friends, my mom in 2016 and my bonus mom in 2023, he’s very lonely and spends many hours reading nonfiction. Since one of my dad’s daily highlights is “checking the mail,” I thought it would be wonderful if our community would help celebrate this milestone birthday and brighten his days with thoughtful cards throughout August. Once a trainer for Lockheed Martin Aircraft Service, he loves explaining details of old military aircraft and is volunteering at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in McMinnville, Oregon. Send cards to Jim Padden, 714 E. McKinley St., Carlton, OR 97111. Thank you.

Liz Kennedy Banks, Oregon

My mom turns 88 this month. Your wishes would make her day. Our house was neighborhood central—kick the can, sharing our big garden, cookies on the back porch—and she was director of Summer “Girls Camp.” Send your wishes with your own stories to Celia Davidson, 900 N. Western Ave. #103, Wenatchee, WA 98801.

Colleen Ward Washington Thanks

I have received 400 cards from you wonderful readers. Such nice words. Thanks to each of you. It has been such fun to read them.

Margaret McLaughlin Pendelton, Oregon

The family of Peter Cladouhous offers sincere thanks to the nearly 300 Ruralite readers who thoughtfully sent cards and letters to Peter when he celebrated his 100th birthday last year. Opening stacks of mail every day for almost two weeks and deeply touched by your kindness, he enjoyed all those beautiful cards and creative letters more than you can imagine. Always one to organize, he put them in a special box marked “save.” After he passed away, family had the pleasure of reading each one and feeling the warmth of your birthday wishes. Peter spent his final weeks in hospice and passed peacefully from this world on March 19. You can learn more by reading his obituary at www.schniderfuneralhome.com/obituary/peter-cladouhos.

Cladouhous Family Grangeville, Idaho

You don’t often get email from oohletmysee1@gmail.com. Learn why this is important. I wish to thank everyone who responded to my request for old jewelry. It was an incredible amount of gifts from our community. I tried to send as many thank you notes as I could, but for those who may have been missed, thank you.

Holly Hill Port Orford, Oregon

We want to thank Ruralite readers for sending my mother, Betty, birthday cards in December. She received more than 350 beautiful cards, many handmade. What a gift.

Gail Harrower & Family Bend, Oregon

We would like to thank you all for the shipments of yarn we have received to help us with our knitting project. It is so wonderful to receive the yarn that is being used to make hats, scarves and baby blankets for young mothers in need. We could not have made this possible without your donations. God bless you all.

Deb Darr Falls City, Oregon

Heartfelt thanks to every person who was so kind to send a birthday card to my mom (who has Alzheimer’s). She received over 500 cards. Each day was amazing as the postal carrier brought handfuls of cards every single day. We put all of the cards in scrapbooks for her. She delights in turning each of the pages many times a day to see the hundreds of beautiful cards. Thank you so very much.

Kathleen Ahern St. Maries, Idaho

Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout Hike into the sky at

What Is It?

Hike to the top of a roughly 8,500foot-tall mountain to find the Sierra Buttes Fire Lookout, built to provide panoramic views of Tahoe National Forest in Northeast California. The Sierra Buttes lookout was built in 1915.

What Is a Lookout?

Fires in 1910 burned more than 3 million acres of forest across the American West. In response, the U.S. Forest Service— which was created in 1906—began building fire lookouts. Forest Service rangers lived in the towers, scanning the horizon for smoke and reporting potential fires.

Difficult Hike

Reaching the fire lookout is a challenge. There are no amenities on the trail, and do not attempt it if you are afraid of heights. The hike is 5 miles round trip and includes 1,600 feet of elevation gain. To finally reach the lookout, visitors must climb 180 steep steps before they’re rewarded with sweeping views.

In the Area

Tahoe National Forest has plenty of things for visitors to do without climbing a mountain. Fishing and kayaking are common activities. Granite Chief Wilderness has granite cliffs and fir forests, and Placer Big Trees Grove is home to sequoias along a relatively easy half-mile trail.

More Information

The path to the lookout typically closes in November, when snow begins to fall. Look online for hike suggestions. To plan your trip to Tahoe, visit www.fs.usda.gov/ attmain/tahoe.

ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY MIKE LEE

e best walk-in tub just got better with breakthrough technology! Presenting the all new Safe Step Walk-In Tub featuring MicroSoothe. ® An air system so revolutionary, it oxygenates, softens and exfoliates skin, turning your bath into a spa-like experience. Constructed and built right here in America for safety and durability from the ground up, and with more standard features than any other tub.

✓ Heated seat providing warmth from beginning to end

✓ Carefully engineered hydro-massage jets strategically placed to target sore muscles and joints

✓ High-quality tub complete with a comprehensive lifetime warranty on the entire tub

✓ Top-of-the-line installation and service, all included at one low, affordable price You’ll agree – there just isn’t a better, more affordable walk-in tub on the market.

Seeing Light at Home

By Dave LaBelle

Recently, I challenged myself to see and photograph light as I found it entering our home, without any help or interference.

Determining not to move anything for better composition, I watched as morning and afternoon light crawled across tables, chairs, curtains and floors, illuminating things hidden in shadow: dusty furniture, hanging towels, baskets of fruit, our dog, even discarded toilet paper rolls on a window sill in the bathroom.

The temptation to move a towel, a napkin or a banana to create a better composition or add artificial fill light was great, but I resisted in the name of capturing only what I saw naturally.

Photographing the light and those things it touched was an exercise I faithfully maintained for 10 days, posting a picture every day on Facebook.

In the end, this modest exercise accomplished more than anticipated.

To begin, it slowed me down. I noticed a world I had ignored and saw details I had seldom paid attention to before, such as the carvings on a wooden sculpture, a nook for a phone, the glass doorknobs on my bedroom doors.

It helped me truly see light in a new light, as I watched color and intensity quickly change, and deep shadows

open and close again. Though I have always adored light from the time I opened my eyes, a new heightened awareness of its magical healing power and beauty washed over me.

More than once I breathed deeply and brushed away grateful tears. I was reminded that where there are shadows, there is light.

Lastly, the exercise offered me something to look forward to each morning, photography not assigned or driven by a deadline, something visually stimulating and soothing, like soft classical music.

What pleased me most was the response to the uncomplicated images after posting them online. Many friends and photographers whose work I greatly admire were encouraged to capture their own found images of light. n

Reader Challenge

Slow down and capture the beauty of natural light as it enters your home. Follow and study the light as it moves, illuminating and exposing. Watch how the morning light crawls through your house as you open your drapes and find things you often don’t notice. See if you can capture an image that celebrates the beautiful light.

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

Renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.

A shaft of morning light through a kitchen curtain temporarily reaches a wire basket of fruit my wife put there the night before. BY DAVE LABELLE

NIKON D810, 38mm lens ISO 100, f/4.5 at 1/200

“To you, it’s the perfect lift chair. To me, it’s the best sleep chair I’ve ever had.”

You can’t always lie down in bed and sleep. Heartburn, cardiac problems, hip or back aches – and dozens of other ailments and worries. Those are the nights you’d give anything for a comfortable chair to sleep in: one that reclines to exactly the right degree, raises your feet and legs just where you want them, supports your head and shoulders properly, and operates at the touch of a button.

Our Perfect Sleep Chair® does all that and more. More than a chair or recliner, it’s designed to provide total comfort. Choose your preferred heat and massage settings, for hours of soothing relaxation. Reading or watching TV? Our chair’s recline technology allows you to pause the chair in an infinite number of settings. And best of all, it features a powerful lift mechanism that tilts the entire chair forward, making it easy to stand. You’ll love the other benefits, too. It helps with correct spinal alignment and promotes back pressure relief, to prevent back and muscle pain. The overstuffed, oversized biscuit style back and unique seat design will cradle you in comfort. Generously filled, wide armrests provide enhanced arm support

— J. Fitzgerald, VA

when sitting or reclining. It even has a battery backup in case of a power outage.

White glove delivery included in shipping charge. Professionals will deliver the chair to the exact spot in your home where you want it, unpack it, inspect it, test it, position it, and even carry the packaging away! You get your choice of Luxurious and Lasting Miralux, Genuine Leather, stain and liquid repellent Duralux with the classic leather look, or plush MicroLux microfiber, all handcrafted in a variety of colors to fit any decor. Call now!

Pictured is Luxurious & Lasting Miralux™. Ask about our 5 Comfort Zone chair.

Now, THIS is a Knife!

EXCLUSIVE FREE

Inthe blockbuster film, when a strapping Australian crocodile hunter and a lovely American journalist were getting robbed at knife point by a couple of young thugs in New York, the tough Aussie pulls out his dagger and says “That’s not a knife, THIS is a knife!” Of course, the thugs scattered and he continued on to win the reporter’s heart.

Our Aussie friend would approve of our rendition of his “knife.”

Forged of high grade 420 surgical stainless steel, this knife is an impressive 16" from pommel to point. And, the blade is full tang, meaning it runs the entirety of the knife, even though part of it is under wraps in the natural bone and wood handle.

Secured in a tooled leather sheath, this is one impressive knife, with an equally impressive price.

This fusion of substance and style can garner a high price tag out in the marketplace. In fact, we found full tang, stainless steel blades with bone handles in excess of $2,000. Well, that won’t cut it around here. We have mastered the hunt for the best deal, and in turn pass the spoils on to our customers.

But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99, 8x21 power compact binoculars, and a genuine leather sheath when you purchase the Down Under Bowie Knife

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. 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.

Limited Reserves. A deal like this won’t last long. We have only 1120 Down Under Bowie Knives for this ad only. Don’t let this beauty slip through your fingers at a price that won’t drag you under.

Stauer® 8x21

Compact Binoculars -a $99 valuewith purchase of Down Under Knife

BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath!

Insider Offer Code: DUK404-01 You must use the insider offer code to get our special price. Down Under Bowie Knife $249* Offer Code Price Only $99 + S&P Save $150

What Stauer Clients Are Saying About Our Knives

“This knife is beautiful!”

— J., La Crescent, MN



“The feel of this knife is unbelievable...this is an incredibly fine instrument.”

— H., Arvada, CO

*Discount is only for customers who use the offer code versus the listed original Stauer.com price.

California residents please call 1-800-333-2045 regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.

• Etched stainless steel full tang blade ; 16” overall • Painted natural bone and wood handle • Brass hand guards, spacers & end cap • Includes genuine tooled leather sheath 14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. DUK404-01 Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

USDA Powering Affordable Clean Energy Loan

Golden Valley Electric Association awarded $100 million loan with $60 million in loan forgiveness

In June 2024, Golden Valley Electric Association was awarded a $100 million loan from the United States Department of Agriculture’s Powering Affordable Clean Energy program, with $60 million of this loan amount reduced through loan forgiveness. As part of its proposal, GVEA included:

• Battery Energy Storage System: Construction of a 46 megawatt / 92 megawatt-hour BESS in Fairbanks, Alaska, interconnecting at GVEA’s existing Wilson substation.

• Substation upgrades: Enhancements to the Nenana Substation to support a 16 MW solar Power Purchase Agreement with Nenana Solar Farm LLC.

• 24.9kV express distribution circuit: Installation of a halfmile-long circuit to connect the Nenana Solar Farm to the Nenana Substation.

These initiatives aim to reduce fuel costs, lower reliance on fossil fuels and enhance energy diversity to benefit GVEA members with more stable, affordable electric rates.

Loan Forgiveness

In addition to receiving the full amount of funding requested for these projects, GVEA obtained loan forgiveness at the maximum level of 60% through the support of Doyon, Limited during the application process.

“This is an exciting project for Doyon as it directly benefits our shareholder families and homes.” says Tanya Kaquatosh, Senior Vice President of Administration of Doyon, Limited. “Over a quarter of Doyon’s shareholder base resides in the GVEA service area. Doyon’s mission to promote the economic and social well-being of our shareholders and future shareholders, and to strengthen our Native way of life, directly aligns with the value this project will bring to its ratepayers by creating jobs and training opportunities, reducing the cost of electricity and improving long-term infrastructure for Interior Alaska. We’d like to thank GVEA for spearheading this project, and for their efforts and commitment to the members, which include our shareholders.”

In addition to the $60 million in loan forgiveness provided under the PACE program, the BESS could also qualify for an additional 30-50% in tax credits.

Community Benefit Plan

GVEA’s Community Benefit Plan is a core component of the successful loan award, a draft of which was shared with GVEA members in May 2024. The CBP will seek to extend benefits to the communities GVEA serves beyond the scope of the awarded project, guided by the PACE program goals to fortify the American workforce in Interior Alaska, promote energy efficiency and carbon reduction, integrate clean energy into traditional agriculture and increase diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility through a transformative clean energy economy. To review GVEA’s CBP, visit www.gvea.com/pace.

Looking Ahead

As work on these transformative projects begins, GVEA remains dedicated to our mission of providing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy solutions to our members. This substantial funding marks a significant milestone in the cooperative’s pursuit of more affordable, reliable energy.

“This funding will allow GVEA to significantly advance initiatives under our Strategic Generation Plan, benefiting our members and the broader community. We are committed to creating a sustainable energy future for Interior Alaska,” GVEA CEO, Travis Million says. “Our collaboration with Doyon underscores the importance of community partnerships in achieving these goals. We look forward to continued teamwork with additional community stakeholders as things advance.”

GVEA is enthusiastic about the positive impacts that these projects will bring, including job creation, reduced energy costs and improved infrastructure. GVEA will now work with Rural Utilities Service, the entity administering the PACE program, to negotiate the award agreement in the third quarter of 2024, and to finalize project milestones, construction and purchase agreements associated with these projects to begin the construction process. n

MARKETPLACE

Agriculture

Reinforced custom-sized pond liners (39 cents/sqft). Hay covers, greenhouse covers, any width and length. Truck tarps and more. High puncture and tear strength. Best price guaranteed. Celebrating 43 years in business. www.btlliners.com. 541-447-0712.

4x5 round bales, meadow foxtail orchard grass. 4x4 timothy, small square. 208-435-4637 or 208-435-4002; nas@cpcinternet.com.1224

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. 0924

Two antique outboard motors, AMC/SeaKing, $80. Two antique windup phonographs, console/portable, $40. Two antique wood tool boxes with misc. tools, $20. 530-257-4029; frnpeng@gmail.com. 0824

WC Collectibles. We buy comic books! Local to the Inland Northwest, willing to travel. WCCollectiblesCheney@gmail.com; 509-496-1835. 1024

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. 1024

King Zephyr alto saxophone. Professional quality; single owner. Recently repadded. Pearl keys, silver rods. $1K. 541-422-7445. 0824

Automotive

1980 GMC pickup. Good condition, runs well. $20K. 509-531-6660. 0824

Rare 1960 Chevy pickup 4x4. Shortbed. Not running now. Text or call 661-713-3377. Leave message. $7K. 0824

1985 Cad. Eldo Biarritz. 110K miles. Garaged; like new. $19K. 530-708-2321.

Books, Magazines, Videos

Book restoration. Bibles, cookbooks, cherished family heirlooms. Beautiful work. We give renewed life, more durable than original, to last for generations. 775-537-7066; salacanstudio@gmail.com. 0824AR

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): October issue—August 30, 2024.

„ If submitting ad by mail, send appropriate payment with your name, address, email, phone number and the name of the electric utility that provides your magazine to: Marketplace, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133. Make check or money order payable to Ruralite.

„ We accept credit card payments for ads submitted by email. Send ad to info@pioneer.coop.

Business Opportunities

Quaint hardware store in Maupin, OR, for sale. Inventory and interior store recently updated and refreshed. See ad on Bizbuysell.com or email Maupincountrystore@gmail.com. $275K. 0924

Community Events

“My Heart” (artwork by Brenna Kimbro) and “Arboreality: Poetry Broadsides” (curated by Nick Neely). Through August 31. Art Center East, La Grande, OR. artcentereast.org. 0824

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. 888-211-1715; tbsmads@yahoo.com. 0824AR

Furniture, Appliances

Barely used bed. Serta CA king w/lifts. $1.5K. 530-708-2321. 0824

Help Wanted

The Cape Blanco Heritage Society needs volunteers at the Cape Blanco Lighthouse Greeting Center and Hughes House for summer 2024. Background checks are required. Free RV hookups are available to volunteers. heritage32@frontier.com; 541-332-0521. 0824

Minister for rural community of 600 people, plus outlying communities. Surprise Valley Community Church UCC. Cedarville, CA 96104. surprisechurch@frontiernet.net. 0824

Hobbies,

Gifts, Games

Selling United States postage stamp collection. Mint plate blocks and sheets dating back to the 1940s. Photo available. Bob, 541-786-6195 or brown.donna50@gmail.com. 1024

Media

Watch Channel 25 (Southern NV)—on the go— for free on your TV, phone, tablet, computer or ROKU. Visit www.kpvm.tv and stream live today. 775-727-9400. 0924

Miscellaneous

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. 0824

Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Great for planter boxes, herb and flower beds, fencing or decks. Various sizes available. Pete, 541-206-0727. Lisa, 541-747-5025, ext. 21. 1224

Pets, Supplies

Border collies are the world’s smartest dog breed. Purebred puppies for therapy or service dogs, sports, herding or family companions. Excellent dispositions. Longhaired, various colors. Vet check, first vaccine and deworming. Raised in our home. $800. 541-979-5759; danita@centurylink.net. 0824

AKC-registered Airedales. Fort Sage Kennels, Patricia Sharp, P.O. Box 246, Doyle, CA 96109. 530-827-2271. 0924

Idaho shag (Border collie x Airedale). The best dog you will ever have. Farm/ranch dog. Males and females. $450 each. Colton, OR. 971-804-1706.

Wanted: a pure-bred female German shepherd puppy in Oregon. Ready after August 20. Call Shannon, 503-313-8029.

Maine Coon kittens for adoption. Grey and black colors male and females. kittensfind.net. 808222-1828; barloweemily852@gmail.com. 0824

Plants, Garden Supplies

Cactus for sale. Cold/winter hardy. Good for landscaping. Sunnyside/Mabton, WA, area. Local pickup only. 509-391-5546; marybarthlow@gmail.com. 0924

Real Estate

9.87 acres in Willard, WA. All harvestable timber. 100 ft. from Little White Salmon River. 17 miles north of Hood River, OR. $650K. 509-538-2187. 0824

15 off-grid acres. At 8,400ft. near Fort Garland, CO. Great view of CO’s fourth highest peak. On Person’s Road in Sangre de Cristo Ranches. Piñon trees, year-round access. $52.9K. 541-729-0374. 0924

Buying or selling in Brookings, OR? Call Pat Piper at Century 21 Agate Realty first. Experience. Empathy. Education. Exceptional. 541-251-2152; patpiperbroker@gmail.com. 1024

5-acre lots, $30K down and 5% interest. Recreational, beautiful view outside Cherry Creek, NV. Owner finance. Ray Bick, 775-5910420. 0824

$179.9K. Fully loaded, remote, AK property for sale. Log cabin, fully equipped with all living amenities, SeaArk river boat (less than 200 hrs), 5 acres, chain saw sawmill, tractor, DR mower, tool shed full of everything you will need and much more. River and trail access. Half hour boat ride up river from Nenana, AK, boat dock. Outside borough so no property taxes. Only serious buyers. 907-388-7080. 0824

Christmas Valley, OR. 40 acres with perimeter fence. 36x36 metal building, two carports, 370-ft. deep water well, storage container on chase. Taking only serious offers. 541-5365776. 0924

Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in OR. Fourth-generation Oregonian, prior ranch owner. For sale: central OR, 2-acre parcel. $624K. John Gill, 541-4809161; johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0824

Private 80-acre scenic setting in the timber, borders national forest, home, garage, barn, pond. $775K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-9872363; ddwr@ortelco.net. 0824

Off-grid homestead. Ideal for wind/solar power. NE Elko County, NV. Has equipment, quarters, shop. Year-round access. Water and power nearby. $35K. geopup58@gmail.com.

Recreational Rentals

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.

Fun in OR. Eagle Crest timeshare. $1, that’s right. Biannual; Nov.-Dec. and Jan.-Feb. 541-480-7219. 0824

Recreational Vehicles

1999 Dutch Star 38’ RV. Diesel pusher. 3126B Catepillar engine. Freightliner chasis. One slide. Excellent condition. 95,000 miles. Many upgrades. Asking $25K. 530-616-0388. 0824

2016 Thor 4 Winds RV. 28ft; 39,000 miles. Ford E450 generator, large kitchen slide, great condition. $59K. Jerryrudloff@yahoo.com. 541-788-0231. 0824

Services

Dawn Till Dusk Masonry. Brick, block, stone and pavers. Small jobs and repairs welcome. Check out our website at dawntillduskconstructionmasonry.com. 541-388-7605; 541-410-6945. License #245760 bonded and insured. La Pine, OR. 0824

Timeshare victims? Call TimeShareBeGone, 800-214-4460. We will get your timeshare legally canceled. A-plus BBB, 5-star reviews, 16 years experience. 100% money back guarantee. 1024

We all want delicious, fresh, nourishing food to feed our families. We’ve got pastured pork corn/soy/GMO free. Delivery to your door or drop sites. Order at www.rural-roots-ranch.com or text Christy at 541-589-4674. 1224

Want to Buy

Wanted: 1967-’72 Buick Skylark, GS, Stage 1, GSX. Cars, parts or leads. Or any ’60s or ’70s vehicles. billybibbett@hotmail.com. 0824

Wanted: Early Corvette ’58-’62, any condition. Call or text Randy, 503-544-3807. 0824

Old carpenter tools, planes (wood/metal), levels, chisels, slicks, adzes, axes, hatchets, handsaws, old rulers, spoke shaves, wrenches, shipwright tools, old tool chests. 503-659-0009 or 971-666-0659. 0824

Gold, silver, coins/currency, buy, sell. Collections wanted. Fair prices paid. 44 years in retail store. Baker City, OR. 800-556-2133; garrymclin@aol.com. 1024

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. 1024

Wanted: Old 501 Levi’s jeans and jackets with capital “E” on the red tag. Also Carhartts with red heart. Good prices. Text photos to 208-255-8030. 0824

Mind the Lines: Critical Steps for Your Safety

Look Up Before Cutting Trees

When preparing to cut or trim trees on your property, always check for power lines overhead. Trees that grow too close to power lines pose a serious hazard, and even a small branch can cause a dangerous situation if it comes into contact with a live wire. Before starting any tree work, identify the location of power lines and ensure there’s sufficient clearance. If you’re unsure, contact GVEA for advice or assistance.

What to Do if a Tree Falls on a Power Line

If you accidentally cut a tree and it falls on a power line, stay calm and do not attempt to move the tree or touch the power line. Immediately call GVEA to report the incident and keep yourself and others at a safe distance. Power lines can carry a deadly amount of electricity, and even nonmetallic materials like trees can conduct electricity when in contact with a live wire.

What to Do if You Come Across a Downed Line

If you encounter a downed power line, assume it is live and dangerous. Do not approach or touch the line or anything in contact with it, such as a fence or vehicle. Stay at least 30 feet away and immediately call GVEA or 911 to report the location of the downed line. Warn others to stay clear of the area until professionals can safely handle the situation.

Avoiding Power Poles with Large Equipment

When operating large equipment, such as tractors, cranes or construction vehicles, always be mindful of power poles and overhead lines. Maintain a safe distance to prevent accidental contact, which can lead to severe injuries or fatalities, as well as significant damage to the equipment and the power infrastructure. If your work requires operating close to power lines, contact GVEA to discuss safety measures.

Avoid Crews in the Field Who Are Working

When you see GVEA crews working on power lines or other electrical infrastructure, maintain a safe distance and avoid disturbing them. Their work is crucial for maintaining and restoring power safely and efficiently. Interfering with their operations can create hazardous conditions for the workers and the public. If you have questions or need assistance, contact GVEA directly rather than approaching the crew.

At GVEA, safety is the No. 1 priority. In June, Golden Valley’s line, right-of-way and e-shop crews participated in two intensive training programs designed to enhance their emergency response and fall protection skills, ensuring they are prepared for any situation they might encounter in the field. PHOTO BY KELLY REYNOLDS

BEFORE YOU GO

Share the Beauty in Your Backyard

For Jeri Rector, a late-night bout of acid reflux turned out to be a blessing.

“I peered out my kitchen window and saw a gray bow crossing the sky,” she says. “As colors began to appear, I ran out into our backyard in my bare feet and asked God if he was giving me a sign to get ready, then quickly ran back in for my phone and took this picture.”

Jeri says the rare moonbow—or lunar rainbow—lasted only a few minutes.

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

Moonbows are rare, occurring less than 10% as often as rainbows. Jeri captured this one in Parkdale, Oregon. PHOTO BY JERI

RECTOR

Paula Zanter-Stout shared this photo of a windmill on a particularly hazy morning at sunrise from her back porch, south of Moses Lake, Washington. The windmill has become a favorite subject of her photos. PHOTO BY PAULA ZANTER-STOUT

THE MOST PORTABLE MOBILITY SCOOTER MEET ATTO SPORT:

Where engineering excellence meets sleek design - a lightweight, safe, customizable, and stylish scooter for UNLIMITED FREEDOM.

Numerous scooters with various features and capabilities are on the market, making it crucial to select the one that best suits your requirements.

At the age of 56, a back operation left me dependent on a cane, significantly impacting my daily life. Simple tasks like going to the store or meeting friends became challenging, and I even had to cancel a long-awaited anniversary trip to Italy. My husband purchased a scooter for me, but it was cumbersome and uncomfortable for everyday use, leaving me feeling more constrained than liberated. However, everything changed when I came across the ATTO SPORT. This remarkable scooter proved to be a game changer. Not only is it robust and reliable, but it also conveniently splits into two pieces, allowing me to effortlessly lift it into my car trunk on my own. I was even able to stow it in the overhead compartment on the plane, enabling us to finally take that trip to Italy! I am now independent once more, able to go wherever I please and do so with a striking sense of style. In fact, I now find that my husband struggles to keep up with me!

Independence and convenience: Easy to use and conveniently folds into a compact suitcase size for simple storage. It easily separates into two parts in seconds, with the heaviest piece weighing just 37 pounds, making it easier to lift into your car trunk.

Go anywhere: Conquer any terrain with puncture-proof, shock-absorbing tires and a 4-inch ground clearance. Equipped with electronic stability control for added safety on descents and turns, it is also flight-approved, ideal for air travel and cruise ships. With a driving range of up to 12.5 miles (25 miles with the XL battery), a top speed of 6.2 MPH, and a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds, this durable scooter is designed for longevity.

Top-Notch Engineering: Guaranteeing both comfort and durability, this scooter offers ample legroom and a big comfortable seat. The ATTO is super portable and lightweight, and still rides like a heavy-duty scooter.

Unmatched Stylish Design: You deserve a mobility solution that doesn't just get you from A to B but makes you feel great while doing so. ATTO stands out from the crowd with its stunning design.

Airline approved. Spacious legroom, comfortable seat

Splits into 2 lightweight parts for easy

Folds in 3 seconds, rolls like a trolley suitcase

Owned By Those We Serve

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

800-770-GVEA (4832) Fax 907-458-6365

Delta Junction Office 1681 Richardson Highway Delta Junction, AK 99737

907-452-1151

800-770-GVEA (4832) Fax 907-895-5472

Report Outages:

907-452-1151

800-770-GVEA (4832)

Select: Option 1, Option 1

View Outage Map: gvea.com/outages

www.gvea.com

AK-37

YOU’RE NOT A CUSTOMER.

YOU’RE AN OWNER.

Capital Credits

There Are Benefits to Membership in Your Electric Cooperative

When capital credits are retired— currently in 25 years—GVEA issues a refund to you.

In 2023, Golden Valley refunded $7.1 million in capital credits to members who had service in 1998 and before.

Preparations are already underway for the capital credit check run that will take place this fall, after board approval.

It’s inevitable that some checks will not reach past members, due to invalid mailing addresses or missing W-9 tax information (required for capital credit checks of $600 or more).

GVEA requests your assistance to ensure your refund check makes it to you.

• If you are currently a member and receive mail from GVEA, you’re all set; no further action is needed.

• If you were a member in 1999 but no longer receive service and are unsure of the mailing address we have on file, contact GVEA at your earliest convenience.

There are a variety of ways to contact GVEA’s capital credits team:

• Visit: www.gvea.com/capital-credits where you can find capital credits information, news and resources.

• Call 907-451-5625 or 1-800-770-4832.

• Email capitalcredits@gvea.com.