Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre founder Bruce Rogers plays the role of King Lear this summer. PHOTO COURTESY OF BRYAN WHITTEN AND JESSE BARTLETT
1920s Style for a 1920s Price
It was a warm summer afternoon and my wife and I were mingling with the best of them. The occasion was a 1920s-themed party, and everyone was dressed to the nines. Parked on the manse’s circular driveway was a beautiful classic convertible. It was here that I got the idea for our new 1920s Retrograde Watch.
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With its remarkable retrograde hour and minute indicators, sunburst guilloche face and precision movement, this design is truly one of a kind. What does retrograde mean? Instead of displaying the hands rotating on an axis like most watches, the hands sweep in a semicircle, then return to their starting point and begin all over again.
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Ruralite
July 2024 • Volume 72, No. 7
CEO Michael Shepard
SENIOR VP OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mike Teegarden, CCC
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Travel, Triumphs and Trials
The heart and heat of summer are here.
Gardens are flourishing, and farmers markets are bursting with fresh produce. Outdoor activities are at their peak. I hope you have found ways to enjoy summer while staying cool.
If travel is part of your summer plans, you are not alone. July is one of the busiest travel months of the year, and if you love to include your pets on your vacations, you must read our story on Page 10 about pet-friendly adventures. We offer suggestions and resources to make your time on the road with your pets safe and fun.
Our Spotlight feature, beginning on Page 12, focuses on Amanda McGahen, who likes to travel fast in small circles. Amanda competes on a roller derby team in Walla Walla, Washington. Her sisterhood of athletes has been part of her healing after the death of two children. Part of her journey includes leading the group’s Care
Committee, which celebrates milestones and supports teammates in need. She is paying forward to help others.
Milkweed Update: For those following along, my latest effort to grow milkweed was shortlived and ended tragically. If you will remember, I first attempted to grow plants from seeds. Attempt No. 2 was a 6-inch store-bought start. After only a few days, something stripped all the leaves from my milkweed, and it died. I’ll try again, though—I’m stubborn. I’m going to look for a larger, more established plant. I may also put netting over the milkweed to protect it. Wish me luck.
Sincerely,
Mike Teegarden Editorial Director
Map out trips with furry friends Up Close, Page 10
GVEA Member Spotlight
The Sun Doth Shine on Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre
By Deb Hickok
“We have a lot of very, very seasoned performers this year,” says Emily Yates, executive director of the Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre (FST), when describing the upcoming performances of “King Lear.” “I am really thrilled with the quality of the performers and the level of their devotion to the company.”
A troupe of 34 thespians, including FST founder Bruce Rogers acting the titular role of King Lear, were cast in the play by William Shakespeare.
“I wouldn’t feel comfortable doing it if I didn’t have such a strong production team working with me,” says Emily about her taking on the tasks of casting the roles and directing the play.
A graduate of the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York City, Emily returned to her Alaskan stage roots after acting in off-Broadway, regional and touring stage productions, as well as serving as an instructor in voice and speech warmups. “I told my mother when I was 3 years old that I wanted to be an actor,” recounts Emily.
Among her many other professional credits, Emily was a principal dancer for the Los Angeles Theater Alliance’s Ovation Awards. She also dubbed the voice of Pilar on the English-speaking version of the Netflix hit, “Money Heist,” a Spanish television crime series.
Emily describes “King Lear” as a play that wrestles with themes of “cognitive decline, losing your mind to find your soul and using humor to deal with mortality.” The Shakespearian tragedy was written toward the end of the bard’s life.
Performances are scheduled Thursdays through Sundays from July 11 to 28 at Jack Townshend Point on the University of Alaska Fairbanks campus. This is the company’s first time performing “King Lear” as its mainstage summer show.
The outdoor setting will feature a stage with a sturdy platform and upper staircase. Initially constructed last summer, the stage was built with the help of a grant of $5,666 to the theater group from the GVEA Good¢ents Foundation.
Using the Sun to Power the Production FST plans to use a recently awarded Good¢ents grant of $7,275 to buy and install a solar-powered generator. Among its uses will be to run the tools for set construction and power refrigerators and lights in tents used for dressing rooms and storage areas.
“It’s a quiet solution versus a dieselpowered generator,” Emily says. “It also gives us a lot more options in the future, such as possibly having an on site food booth”.
“The solar-powered generator is part of a long-term goal of sustainability that’s been maintained by the theater company for the last 30 years.”
“The portable nature of it (the solar generator) will allow us to use it not only at the UAF location but for other upcoming events,” Emily says. “It is heavy, but it’s portable.”
Since its inception in 1994, FST has repurposed materials. In true Alaskan fashion, they’ve scavenged materials for sets from recycling bins, transfer stations and old construction sites.
“That comes both from economic necessity and an underlying philosophy of utilizing materials at hand,” Emily says. “The sun is one of the most readily available resources that we have.”
GVEA Offers Solar Programs
GVEA Energy Efficiency Engineer Richard Brock agrees that using the generator has multiple pluses for the summer operations of FST. In addition to the noise reduction and plenty of sun when operating in summer, they are also not burning greenhouse gases by using fuel.
Richard’s responsibilities at the cooperative center on renewables for residential and commercial use, as well as public awareness of renewables. A UAF graduate with an electrical engineering degree, he focused on utility engineering work and took courses on renewables and integration.
What is renewable energy integration?
“Basically, it’s integrating energy that doesn’t run on fossil fuels,” he says.
Understanding the role of energy integration on both the macro and micro levels is more complex.
On the macro scale for GVEA, renewables are a component of its Strategic Generation Plan to diversify its generation sources and address the variances in the cost of fuels.
“At its core, the plan is there to reduce the cost of power to our members while not reducing reliability,” says Richard.
“Most of the cost of renewables are upfront, and they remove a lot of the volatility of the fuel market,” Richard says.
Expenses may include a turbine, panels and battery system. Some maintenance costs need to be added to the fixed costs.
“For the GVEA and alot of other utilities, there is other funding—a lot of state and federal grants—to make renewables more affordable,” he says.
“The grants help to reduce the risks of the upfront capital expenditures.”
He notes that GVEA is seeing more individual businesses installing solar with grant assistance. The trend is also true for larger companies striving to maintain the support of investors’ requirements for integrating renewables.
Using solar as a renewable in Fairbanks during the summer is a practical solution for residents and businesses.
OPPOSITE PAGE: The full ensemble of last year’s performance, “Romeo and Juliet.”
FROM TOP: In 2019, FST performed “Macbeth.” Pictured here are Phyllis Morrow playing Hecate and the Ensemble Witches. Tom Robenolt performs at Macbeth in 2019. Keaton Evans and Lily Larson on the set of “Romeo and Juliet.” Mary Conlin, Diane “Bunny” Fleeks, Eugenia Merrifield play The Weird Sisters in “Macbeth.”
PHOTOS COURTESY OF FAIRBANKS SHAKESPEARE THEATRE
GOLDEN VALLEY ELECTRIC
“Non-summer solar tends to not produce particularly well here,” adds Richard. “The sun isn’t there when we need the most energy from it.” Also, snow will block the sunlight if panels are not constantly cleaned.
“You can generally predict what sunlight generation is going to be during the day,” Richard says.
Wind as a renewable energy source is less predictable than the sun.
“When you’re integrating wind, a battery system is not an option anymore—you absolutely need it,” he says.
FST Community Opportunities
FST is introducing a Pirate Camp this summer open to children in grades 2 and 3. The camp runs from August 5 to 9 at the Georgeson Botanical Garden on the UAF campus.
“Get ready to practice your ‘ARRRS’ and ‘AYES’ and learn how to dress, walk, and talk like the buccaneer you were born to be!” touts the promotion for the camp.
Emily, also an experienced summer camp teacher, says the week will provide a good introduction to basic theatrical skills. The young sailors will gain experience in public speaking, be introduced to stage combat and makeup, learn about character building, and use their imagination and sense of play.
Also this summer, FST’s schedule will feature a two-man performance titled “Thy Hard.” Written and performed by former Fairbanksan Michael Shaeffer, the show is his Shakespearean
reimagination of “Die Hard,” the popular action thriller film.
Michael will end his tour at fringe festivals with this performance on the evening of Saturday, August 24, at The Basement in downtown Fairbanks.
Local resident and theater aficionado Scott McCrea will play the offstage role during the performance and serve as the emcee for the evening.
The performance is a fundraiser for FST, and a concurrent silent auction aims to benefit Interior Independent Theater, founded by Gwen Brazier.
“I think that it’s important that we support one another,” Emily says. “It’s that spirit of cooperation that makes this community so beautiful.”
FST is known for providing high-quality theatrical productions. The company works to expand and diversify the audience for Shakespeare, especially among young people.
A popular program is the “Bard-a-thon,” a 24-hour-a-day, weeklong reading of the complete works of Shakespeare held in the first part of the new year.
“Bard-a-thon brings together people of all stripes—elders, youth and participants of all levels of acting experience or not— who bring the poet’s words to life in the dark of Alaskan winter,” Emily says.
Emily arrived back in Fairbanks in February 2022 after COVID-19 derailed a lot of nonprofits and small businesses.
“I am so encouraged by the level of support and all the people who have shown back up—the artists and the audience,” she says.
“I want to express my gratitude to GVEA Good¢ents and all the individuals and entities that support FST and the arts community at large.” n
To buy tickets for “King Lear” and sign up for UAF Summer Sessions visit www.fairbanksshakespeare.org.
Thank you to the GVEA members who voluntarily round up their monthly billing statement to the next highest dollar. This contribution to Good¢ents is greatly appreciated. You are making a difference for the people residing within the communities that GVEA serves. To learn more about the Good¢ents program, go to the Community section of the GVEA website or directly to www.gvea.com/ community/goodcents-program.
Shannon Luster poses for his lead role as King John in FST’s 2017 performance.
By Rachael Kvapil
Richard Possenti: Building a Successful Utility Inside and Out
Richard Possenti, GVEA land & construction services supervisor, enjoys building careers as much as he enjoys building utility infrastructure. For 19 years, Richard has gained experience and knowledge about the utility industry and always looks for ways to impart what he’s learned to other team members.
“I love mentoring people and passing knowledge along,” he says. “I find helping others in this way very satisfying.”
Richard started in a seasonal right-of-way maintenance position in the spring 2005. Soon after, he applied for the job training and safety assistant position within the Safety Department. In June 2006, he moved into a position in New Construction as a construction field representative. He worked for 12 years in that position, with an additional three years as the lead construction field representative, before moving into his current position.
“I loved my time in that position,” Richard says. “It was a great opportunity to help our membership determine their electrical needs, solve problems and grow within the cooperative.
Eventually, Richard wanted to expand his horizons further. At the time, the current land management supervisor had just retired, so he thought it would be a great opportunity to expand his breadth of knowledge, and he jumped at the chance. After a couple of years in that role, GVEA merged the land management supervisor position with new construction. Richard took this newly combined position as the land & construction services supervisor last summer. On the new construction side, he and his team work with members on the application process for the installation of new services, such as new lines and poles, upgrades to existing services, and relocation of a service. They also ensure that Golden Valley can accommodate future growth and development.
On the land management side, right-of-way agents work closely with new construction to form a legal agreement between the property owner and GVEA for an easement/
right-of-way before new construction occurs. Richard describes the right-of-way agents in charge of completing this background work as the unsung heroes of his department.
“They are doing the deep research, communicating with the member and facilitating the legal precedence for our lines to exist,” he says.
Without the right-of-way agents, much of the infrastructure would be nonexistent.
Richard doesn’t like to micromanage. Instead, he likes to guide his team toward empowerment by sharing goals and participating in the decision-making process. Mentoring careers and watching people grow is as important to his work as tackling larger projects. Like many departments, recent recruitment challenges sometimes make filling positions difficult. However, he understands people make career changes for many reasons, including the desire to work in a different field, family needs, and even promotion. He says a good team makes work easier and encourages anyone applying for a position with the utility to stay positive and enthusiastic.
“You may not love everything about what you’re doing at the moment,” he says. “It might not be exactly what you want right now. But if you put in the effort and stick with it, what you do now will help you find future success.”
The future of his department is bright, Richard says. They have a stable team that works hard all year round, hustling to complete new construction in the spring, summer and fall while attending to administrative tasks in the winter. He says when changes in his department happen, they are usually on a smaller scale such as when combining his position.
Possenti was born and raised in Fairbanks. Though he has lived briefly in other places and traveled extensively with his wife and four children, he can’t imagine living elsewhere. As a lifelong Alaskan, he grew up loving many outdoor activities such as downhill skiing, fishing, camping, flying, hunting and snow machining. n
PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON
Tears From a Volcano
Uniquely American stone ignites romance
OnMay 18, 1980, the once-slumbering Mount St. Helens erupted in the Pacific Northwest. It was the most impressive display of nature’s power in North America’s recorded history. But even more impressive is what emerged from the chaos... a spectacular new creation born of ancient minerals named Helenite. Its lush, vivid color and amazing story instantly captured the attention of jewelry connoisseurs worldwide. You can now have four carats of the world’s newest stone for an absolutely unbelievable price.
Known as America’s emerald, Helenite makes it possible to give her a stone that’s brighter and has more fire than any emerald without paying the exorbitant price. In fact, this many carats of an emerald that looks this perfect and glows this green would cost you upwards of $80,000. Your more beautiful and much more affordable option features a perfect teardrop of Helenite set in gold-covered sterling silver suspended from a chain accented with even more verdant Helenite.
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PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Map out trips with furry friends
By Kathy Denes
Summer typically means travel, whether it’s scenic road trips or flights to vacation destinations. More than ever before, beloved pets are tagging along for the ride.
If you want to take your four-legged companion on your next vacation, here are some pet-friendly resources to make the most of your trip.
Conde Naste Traveler has an online list of nationwide hotels and Airbnbs it deems best for accommodating pets, especially dogs.
Meanwhile, on travelandleisure.com, search “pets” and you’ll unleash a wealth of helpful articles. Even financial companies are weighing in. NerdWallet compiled a list of Best Hotels for Pets in 2024, based on factors such as fees and amenities, and rated air travel options, topped by Alaska Airlines. If you don’t want to do the research yourself, there are travel agencies that specialize in taking care of the details for you.
Also, hotels, resorts, parks and campgrounds usually post their pet policies, fees and amenities, as do airlines, trains and even cruise lines that allow furry passengers. Many websites are focused entirely on pet-friendly travel. Just browse by city, state or destination at resources such as:
• bringfido.com.
• petswelcome.com.
• tripswithpets.com.
Expert Advice
“Before deciding to bring your pet along on a trip, you need to ask yourself whether or not it’s in your pet’s best interest to do so,” says Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
What’s a fun adventure for you might be an overwhelming experience for your dog.
“If you choose to include your pet, a pre-trip veterinary visit is a good idea to make sure your pet is healthy and up to date on vaccinations and microchip registration, and to obtain a health certificate, which is required by law if you’re traveling to a different state with your pet,” Rena says.
Your veterinarian can also provide vital information about the risk of parasites and other diseases that your pet may be exposed to at your destination, as well as possible preventive steps or treatments.
“Make sure to plan for their comfort in transit, whether by land or air, with regular breaks and by choosing the least stressful travel options,” Rena says. “Confirm in advance that your destinations are pet-friendly, and try to maintain your pet’s routine as much as possible to help them feel secure. Your careful planning can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for everyone involved.” n
Your Own Massive Backyard
Whether you plan to explore the rugged coast or hike trails through vast mountain forests, the Pacific Northwest offers plenty of options for bringing your pet along. State departments of tourism have resources for trip planning, and many pet owners post blogs sharing their own experiences. Here are a few insights:
X From the riverfront and downtown areas of Spokane, Washington, to the base of Schweitzer Mountain in Sandpoint, Idaho, the Ruby Hospitality family of hotels welcomes dogs—limit of two per room and registration required—for a daily fee of $25 each. The Ruby River Hotel location in Spokane has a dog park, and Spokane River Centennial State Park Trail is nearby. The hotel is also just a 10-minute walk from BARK, A Rescue Pub, where your pet can join in for food and refreshments. The pub partners with the local humane society to help rescue dogs and cats find new families, so you may leave there with more than just a full stomach.
X Less than an hour away, the largest state park in Washington, Mount Spokane, welcomes leashed pets at campsites and on most of its more than 100 miles of trails. As with all state recreation lands, vehicle entry requires the Discover Pass, costing $10 per day or $30 a year. AllTrails reviewers say the most pet-friendly hikes are the challenging 12.6-mile trail to the top of Spokane Mountain and Tripps Knob and Linder Ridge Loop, along with moderate Day Mountain and Mount Kit Carson trails, Shadow Mountain Loop and Trail 121/Trail 122 Loop.
X Alaska, large enough to cover 20% of the continental U.S., has immense vacation potential, but the vast wildness that draws visitors also requires travelers with pets to take extra care. Veterinary health certificates must be shown on entering the state, and most Alaska destinations and activities require that dogs be kept on a short leash—no longer than 6 feet, or 9 feet in a state park.
X The Oregon Coast is doggy heaven, with a vast amount of room for running and sniffing. Lots of shops are pet-friendly, and some even offer water dishes near their entrances. Many restaurants have outdoor dining areas where pets are welcome. A number of hotels that allow pets, just ask about their policy when you make your reservation.
Healing on Wheels
Roller derby family provides structure and support
By Vicki Hillhouse
Amanda McGahen’s roller derby journey started in 2023 in a parked car. The night of an open-house-style recruitment meeting for the Walla Walla Sweets Rollergirls, the 42-year-old drove from just across the state line in Milton-Freewater, Oregon, then debated whether to get out from behind the wheel.
“I actually sat in the parking lot and thought, ‘Am I going to go to this all by myself, not knowing anybody?’” she says.
It wasn’t the roller-skating that worried her. As a child in Lebanon, Oregon, she spent weekends at the skating rink, racing girls a couple of years older than her around the wooden floor.
“I skated every chance I could get, and I was fast,” she says. “I felt like I was flying. I felt invincible. I loved skating.”
She wanted that again, and the enticement of a contact sport intrigued her even more.
“I’ve always been interested in sports— boxing, martial arts,” she says. “I like anything that can challenge me, that pushes me harder.”
She’d started home workouts with lunges, squats and cardio.
But there was one condition to joining as she summoned the nerve to enter the orientation with a room full of strangers that night: “I don’t think I can make practices if we have them on Sundays,” Amanda told one of the cocaptains at the end of the session. “Every other practice day works for my schedule but Sundays. My husband has work, and I won’t leave my children with anyone else.”
Like many parents who seek out a new hobby or activity, she looked forward to the dedicated time to focus on herself. But she carried into the space a loss from 11 years before, shaping every decision she makes around the care of her children.
Amanda
joined roller derby in 2023. The sport has had such an impact on her that she commemorated it with a tattoo of a skate and her number on her foot.
the
LEFT:
“Camanda” McGahen
PHOTO BY VICKI HILLHOUSE ABOVE: As jammer, Amanda makes her way through the pack against Rodeo City in Ellensburg, Washington, in April. BELOW: Wearing
black-and-white helmet, Amanda works with her fellow blockers to hold a Rodeo City jammer. PHOTOS BY SCOTT BUTNER
How Is Roller Derby Played?
Roller derby is contested by two 15-skater teams. There are two 30-minute periods. Each period includes multiple “jams,” which can last up to 2 minutes or end before that when the lead jammer calls it off.
Teams field one jammer and four blockers per jam. Jammers must navigate through the blockers. The first jammer to pass all skaters in the pack legally is called the “lead jammer.” This happens on the first pass. In subsequent passes, jammers earn 1 point for each opposing player they pass legally. Both jammers can score once they’ve made it through the pack.
Blockers work to prevent the jammers from passing by using their hips, rears and shoulders. Skaters may not block to the back of another skater, or trip or elbow them. Illegal actions are penalized with 30 seconds in the penalty box. During that time, the team plays short.
A Crushing Loss
“They were 13½ months old when it happened,” she says of her twin girls, Kylie and Kalise.
Amanda and her husband, Darren, were living in Las Vegas at the time. She had night school and worked the graveyard shift. She left them with a family member. On the twins’ first night away from home, Amanda got the worst call of her life. Kylie had rolled off a bed in her sleep and onto a pile of pillows, lodged between the bed and a wall. She suffocated.
The scene at the hospital was like something from a movie—the frantic pace of doctors, police interviews, she says.
“Walking out of the hospital with only one daughter when you’re supposed to have two—coming home to all these memories and knowing you don’t have one of your kids with you—it was the worst pain imaginable,” she says.
The couple lumbered through the pits of grief with an older son, Evan, single twin, Kalise, and support from their community of loved ones. A happy addition came a couple of years later with
the birth of daughter Aubrey. Eventually, they left the difficult memories of Nevada and returned to Oregon.
In December 2020, they moved to Milton-Freewater. Five months later, Evan died on his 22nd birthday.
“That first year in Milton-Freewater, I had just gone through survival mode,” Amanda says.
Unknowingly, she had more in common than she imagined with other recruits that January evening. On some level, they all were looking at derby to bring something new to their lives, whether it be friendships, intensity or a daring opportunity to do something out of the box. Among them, Amanda found her people: 40-somethings, mothers, competitors and even those who had faced similar losses.
The Sisterhood
With its fast-paced, eight-wheeled action, focus on empowerment, inclusivity, fun personas and spirited competition, roller derby draws people of every size and background. Many come to the sport in search of something—a
The Walla Walla Sweets began in 2009 and celebrate the organization’s 15th year with three home bouts and three on the road in 2024. PHOTO BY SCOTT BUTNER
ADOBE STOCK IMAGE
BY CYBERUSS
new challenge, a community, a bold disruption—some having no skating experience when they start.
Walla Walla’s roller derby team shot up from the derby revival energy of the early 2000s. The grassroots movement of flat-track derby made skater-operated leagues more accessible in remote areas with no rinks. Started in September 2009, Walla Walla’s amateur team of recreational skaters competes against other Northwest teams. It is fed with new skaters making the roller derby discovery for themselves.
Practices are twice a week, infusing skating skills, endurance training, strategy and game play.
One year after joining, Amanda—“The Camanda”—is on the verge of her first competitive season.
“At the beginning, it was hard,” she says. “I felt like I could do a lot of the things, but there was a lot I had to do more precisely. Now, it’s just getting out of my own head. The rules are all making sense. The more we get out there, the more I understand.”
Practices have become sacred time for her.
“I’m disappointed when I miss,” she says. “There are times when I don’t want to go. Maybe I slept like crap the night before or my body hurts. But I’m always glad that I went. When it gets to the end of the night, I don’t want to leave.”
She’s also excited about her new role as secretary of the nonprofit league’s board and head of its Care Committee. The committee helps as the heart of the team, celebrating skater birthdays and stepping in to organize help for those in need.
“I’m really excited about it,” Amanda says. “When we lost Kylie, friends set up a meal train. We didn’t have to cook for almost two months. I’m hoping I can bring something to the team through the committee. That’s where my heart is. I always want to pay it forward.” n
Roller derby history
The sport of roller derby got its start in 1935 when Chicago-based promoter Leo Seltzer first introduced it as an endurance race—capitalizing on the popularity of marathon activities of the era as well as the nation’s love of roller skating. The first Transcontinental Roller Derby pitted 25 couples in a simulated cross-country race on a banked wooden track.
Leo joined with sports reporter Damon Runyon two years later and built a more competitive framework for roller derby. It had physical contact, speed, teams and a new era of drama. As a touring act, it drew throngs of adoring fans. But it truly became a craze in late 1948 when it was first broadcast on television.
Within a few years, consumer fervor for the touring professional sport began fluctuating. In 1958, Leo’s son, Jerry Seltzer, took the reins and renewed derby’s exposure to the masses. He reportedly sent in tapes of the San Francisco Bay Bombers to the local news, which delightfully received it. Eventually, this practice grew so that derby staff members drove game tapes to stations, hitting markets throughout the country, and ultimately creating an early version of syndication.
Venues, including Madison Square Garden, had sell-out crowds, and more than 100 networks broadcast the events every week. By 1973, however, the sport disappeared. Some reports point to the economic recession and the oil crisis as having harmed the operation’s travel, as well as budgets for entertainment.
This marked a 30-year hiatus for the sport.
In 2001, resurgence came from Austin, Texas, along with a new way to operate. The Texas Rollergirls launched the modern-day framework that includes a DIY approach to the sport. With a a flat track that can be laid more easily and affordably with tape, tracks can be available anywhere space is large enough. Ownership changed, too. Rather than one company operating teams, modern derby leagues are financed and operated by the people who skate in them, as well as a community of volunteers—officials, medics, photographers and announcers.
The creation of a governing body came in 2004 with the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association, followed three years later by the Men’s Roller Derby Association. WFTDA sets international standards for rankings, rules and competitions, as well as guidance and resources for the sport.
WFTDA has 435 member leagues spanning six continents, but the sport has even more nonmember leagues that may use WFTDA rules as guidance and compete without rankings on a recreational level.
Serve Tasty SUMMER SALADS
Orzo Salad With Shrimp and Lemon Dressing
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
11/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup uncooked orzo
8 ounces fresh asparagus, trimmed and diagonally sliced into 1-inch pieces
4 ounces fresh sugar snap peas, trimmed
1 cup fresh or frozen English peas, thawed if frozen
12 ounces medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Whisk together oil, zest, juice, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside. Prepare orzo according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain. Transfer orzo to a bowl. Cool to room temperature, about 10 minutes.
While orzo cooks, bring a large saucepan of water to boil over high heat. Add asparagus and sugar snap peas to boiling water. Cook until bright green and tender-crisp, about 2 minutes. Add English peas. Stir until softened, about 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer vegetables to an ice bath, reserving boiling water in saucepan. Add shrimp to boiling water. Cook until opaque, about 3 minutes. Drain. Transfer shrimp to ice bath with vegetables. Let stand until chilled, about 3 minutes. Drain. Toss together shrimp-vegetable mixture with orzo, and drizzle with dressing. Add chives and parsley. Toss to combine. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
PHOTO BY KATIE WILCOX
Fresh Peach Salad
Salad
1/4 cup slivered almonds
6 to 8 cups mixed butter
lettuce
3 small ripe peaches, sliced
Dressing
11/2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup canned corn, drained
4 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh ground black pepper
Place the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat, shaking the pan and stirring often with a wooden spoon, until the nuts are fragrant and golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove immediately from the heat and transfer to a plate.
To make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, kosher salt and several grinds of fresh ground black pepper until thick and emulsified.
To serve, top the greens with almonds, peaches, red onion, corn and goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing. Serve immediately.
Southwestern Salad
Dressing
1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Salad
2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped
15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
11/2 cups grape tomatoes, cut in half
1 orange bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1/2 jalapeno, seeded and coarsely chopped
1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
4 green onions, sliced
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and cubed
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips or strips
To make the dressing, add the avocado, red wine vinegar, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, salt and pepper to a food processor. Blend or pulse until almost smooth. There should still be bits of cilantro. Add the oil. Blend until incorporated.
To make the salad, add the lettuce, black beans, tomatoes, bell pepper, corn, cheese, green onions, cilantro, avocado and tortilla chips to a large bowl. Drizzle with the dressing, and toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Ranch Potato Salad
24 ounces baby red potatoes, scrubbed and halved
10 cups water
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
4 thick-cut bacon slices, chopped
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
11/2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
11/2 teaspoons fresh dill
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon grated garlic
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 ounces mild cheddar cheese, shredded
Place potatoes, water and 1 tablespoon salt in a large pot. Cover pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Uncover pot and reduce heat to medium-high to maintain a moderate boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender, about 12 minutes. Drain potatoes. Cool for 20 minutes.
While potatoes boil, cook bacon in a nonstick skillet over medium, stirring often until crisp, about 9 minutes. Remove from heat. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Set aside until ready to use.
In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, chives, parsley, dill, lemon juice, garlic, black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Add sour cream mixture, bacon and cheese to cooled potatoes in bowl. Toss to combine. Serve immediately, or cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours.
Greek Salad With Feta Salad
1 cucumber, unpeeled, seeded and sliced 1/4-inch thick
1 red bell pepper, large-diced
1 yellow bell pepper, large-diced
1 green bell pepper, large-diced
Vinaigrette
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
1/2 red onion, sliced in half-rounds
1/2 pound feta cheese, 1/2-inch diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
Place the cucumber, peppers, tomatoes and red onion in a large bowl.
To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the garlic, oregano, mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Still whisking, slowly add the olive oil to make an emulsion. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables. Add the feta and olives. Toss lightly. Set aside for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve at room temperature.
READER EXCHANGE
Crafts/Hobbies
I have 10 handmade porcelain and cloth dolls ready to dress along with many patterns. They are various sizes and include Tom Sawyer and Chief Crazy Horse. I will donate if shipping is paid.
Janet Dixon P.O. Box 969 Priest River, ID 83856 Jkdixon14@gmail.com
Would you be willing to part with a Christmas hanky that is tucked away just waiting for a home? Be sure it will receive tender care as it becomes part of a Christmas Tree project. Thank you.
Kathy Heitkemper
1302 Hermits Way The Dalles, OR 97058 jandktd@gmail.com
I have scads of stamps. Most canceled and some are collectors. I’ll send them to you with the postage paid.
Judith Sather 65067 Webster Road La Grande, OR 97850
Milestones
Please help us celebrate our dear mother’s birthday as she turns 90 in a couple of months. She is a social butterfly who sees the best in everyone she meets and dearly loves old-fashioned snail mail. Birthday wishes would mean so much to her. Thank you. Send cards to Kay Elmes, 25363 Arnold Lane, Elmira, OR 97437.
Mary A. Minyard Elmira, Oregon
My dad will turn 90 this month. He would thoroughly enjoy receiving birthday cards celebrating his milestone birthday. Thank you for your consideration. Please send cards to Michael Martell, 17501 Killdeer Drive #399, Bend, OR 97707.
Donna Poirier Sweet Home, OR
My sweet father is turning 100 years old this month. His career was in helping those who were disabled on the job find retraining for a new vocation. He has always enjoyed seeing those he has helped succeed. I would love to inundate him with birthday wishes from readers all over the country. Please send birthday cards to Rulon Ogden, 8131 Beaver Lake Drive, San Diego, CA 92119. Thank you so much.
Pam Anderson
West Richland, Washington
I have met a very nice lady through the Elks as we play poker together once a week in Springfied, Oregon. She doesn’t miss many nights and she really enjoys playing. Her name is Elsie Bergold and she will be 105 years old at the end of July. Please send her cards to my address and they will be delivered at our weekly poker party, and what a surprise it will be. Elsie Bergold, C/O Martha Curl, 81851 River Drive, Creswell, OR 97426.
Martha Curl Creswell, Oregon
Odds
To the lady from Fort Rock/Christmas Valley area who was interested in the Palomino painting that hung at La Pine Law. I have the painting. Please let me know if you’re still interested. Thank you.
M. Van Dyke
P.O. Box 1049 La Pine, OR 97739
Recipes
Avid carp angler seeks Asian, European and American carp cooking recipes. Also interested in recipes for bait concoctions: paste/dough baits, boilies, particle baits, etc.
D. A. Blanco
P.O. Box 8805 Moscow, ID 83843
Thanks
What a nice surprise to receive so many cards, notes and little gifts in the mail from thoughtful readers. I enjoyed every one of them. Thank you for making my 90th birthday in November so special. Also, thank you to all the veterans for your service to our country.
Jean Bartholomew Oakland, Oregon
Have a safe Fourth of July!
Submitting Requests Is Free
Send your request (no attachments) to readerexchange@ruralite.org or mail to Reader Exchange, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Fill in the subject line with Reader Exchange.
Acceptance, scheduling and editing are at the editor’s discretion. Single requests only, please. No duplicates. Submissions are handled firstcome, first-served as space allows. We cannot honor every request.
Please affirm you have authorization from all appropriate parties before submitting. By submitting, you indemnify Reader Exchange, Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., its officers, directors, employees, utility clients and insurers from all legal liability incurred by the publication of information.
We no longer accept pen pal requests. You may submit a pen pal request as a Marketplace ad (pricing applies).
When submitting a milestone request, please send it at least two months before the milestone. Phone numbers are not published. Email addresses are if they are part of the ad, but you must include a postal address.
Requests must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.
TASTE THE GOOD LIFE
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See ice reshape the landcape in Alaska at
Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve
What Is It?
See the scouring power of nature, the deep greens of forest and the clear blue of glacier ice come together at Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Southeastern Alaska. Glacier Bay encompasses 3.3 million acres of fjord, coastline and forest.
What Makes It Special?
Glacier Bay lets visitors see many different environments close together. Mountains and freezing glaciers show harsh, majestic environments and demonstrate how the glaciers can reshape a landscape. Forests grow nearby and are great for hiking. The waters are home to sea otters, porpoises and whales.
What to Do
When visiting on land, head to Bartlett Cove and the visitor center. The Forest Trail is an easy path that leads to a beach. Consider looking into a tour to explore the bay’s water by boat. Glacier Bay Lodge runs a tour with a a park ranger naturalist on board.
How Did It Form?
Glacier Bay sits at the collision point of the North American and Pacific crustal plates, which has led to the formation of the bay’s tall, coastal mountains. The summits foster and form glaciers, which in turn carve a rugged landscape. Retreating glaciers have left room for a young temperate rainforest to grow.
More Information
The Glacier Bay visitor center is open daily from May to September. To start planning your trip, call 907-6972230 or go online to www.nps.gov/glba.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE
The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in
those cost reductions have not been passed on to
Capturing the Joy of Summer
By Dave LaBelle
As a school-age child, I could hardly wait for the last day of school and the beginning of summer vacation, where freedom, sunshine, time with my dogs, fishing in the creeks, baseball games, watermelons, swimming pools and working with my grandfather on his fishing boat awaited.
As an adult, those carefree summer memories still bring me joy and serve me faithfully in storytelling, whether with words or photographs. In fact, beginning writers, unsure what to write about, are often encouraged to start with their childhood, a treasure chest rich with stories.
While childhood memories are a good source of inspiration for activities, making photographs that capture the essence of summer requires thought.
“Don’t just show me what something looks like,”
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.
Reader Challenge
I often admonished my photojournalism students.
“Show me what it feels like.”
That was a common theme in all of my classes, and it remains sound advice for anybody using photography to communicate. If you want to reach people with your photographs, aim high. Those images connect us and make us smile or remember.
Consider what is in the frame when you press the shutter. Being patient and watching for storytelling moments is critical. The act of fishing might not be nearly
as storytelling as the reaction of the angler once the fish is caught.
Conversely, an overall scene of a fisherman in a beautiful stream might best evoke the serenity of the moment. Sometimes the liberal use of negative space—that which is not occupied by people or objects—helps humble us and wrap us in wonder.
Finally, consider the angle from which you photograph. A child’s perspective is different than an adult’s, and subtly helps take us back to those long, carefree summer days. n
See if you can make a photograph that captures the joy or the essence of summer. Reach into your memory bank and consider what you loved most about summers. Chances are the places and activities that brought you joy in the past—lakes, campgrounds, fishing villages or swimming pools—will lead you to where you find the best pictures today.
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.
I spent about 30 minutes folded beneath a diving board on a hot and muggy summer day watching and waiting for the right moment, the right gesture and composition. I knew I wanted a picture that felt like the joy of summer. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
NIKON D800, 24mm lens ISO 100, f/10 at 1/800
2025
By Walt Amacher, Oregon—Tillamook PUD
Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest
It is time to share your favorite photos for a chance to appear in our 2025 Ruralite calendar.
Up to 13 winners will be selected and receive $100. Photos must be submitted by July 15, 2024.
The contest is open to recipients of Ruralite and Currents magazines. Each person may only submit up to two photos. Each photo submission must include:
• Photographer’s name, address and electric utility.
• A short description of what is shown.
• Photographer’s email address and phone number.
• Digital JPEG photos only. Photos must be horizontal or landscape format and at least 300 dpi at 11 inches wide by 9 inches tall. Vertical photos and files larger than 30 megabytes will not be accepted. Send submissions to calendar@ruralite.org. Put “2025 Calendar Photo Contest” in the subject line.
Winning Tips
• Use the highest resolution setting on your digital camera.
• Photograph beautiful places and wildlife.
• Capture scenes full of vivid color.
• Reflect the seasons.
• Focus on the beauty of your geography.
• Make us feel something (awe, joy).
Visit ruralite.com/2025contest for more information and an FAQ about entering the contest.
How a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can change your life
Remember when…
Think about the things you loved to do that are dif cult today — going for a walk or just sitting comfortably while reading a book. And remember the last time you got a great night’s sleep? As we get older, health issues or even everyday aches, pains and stress can prevent us from enjoying life.
So what’s keeping you from having a better quality of life? Check all the conditions that apply to you.
Then read on to learn how a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can help.
Feel better, sleep better, live better
A Safe Step Walk-In Tub lets you indulge in a warm, relaxing bath that can help relieve life’s aches, pains and worries.
It’s got everything you should look for in a walk-in tub:
• Heated Seat – Providing soothing warmth from start to nish.
• MicroSoothe® Air Therapy System –helps oxygenate and soften skin while offering therapeutic bene ts.
• Pain-relieving therapy – Hydro massage jets target sore muscles and joints.
• Safety features – Low step-in, grab bars and more can help you bathe safely and maintain your independence.
• Free Shower Package – shower while seated or standing.
A Message from GVEA’s NEW CEO
Earning Your Trust and Supporting Our Membership
Dear GVEA members,
I am honored and privileged to introduce myself as the new president and CEO of Golden Valley Electric Association. My family and I have felt incredibly welcomed by this vibrant community since I joined GVEA in September 2023 as chief operating officer, overseeing our operations, engineering and power supply divisions. Serving as COO for the past eight months has deepened my appreciation for the unique challenges and opportunities our utility faces and I am eager to contribute to the collective success and growth of the communities we serve.
I am writing this letter not to speak on any specific topic relating to GVEA, but instead to shed some light on my background, qualifications and values I am taking into this role. My experience in leadership and subordinate roles has provided me the expertise to understand the technical intricacies of GVEA’s system capabilities and current limitations, and I believe having worked in the field will help foster respect and trust among employees and facilitate solid collaboration within GVEA. Ultimately, I hope our members and employees will feel confident in who is leading their cooperative.
My background is in electrical engineering. I am proud to have started my career in the electric utility industry nearly 25 years ago with hands-on experience in various engineering roles with Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories, Inc., and the High Frequency Active Auroral Program. Prior to joining the GVEA team, I spent over a dozen years with Copper Valley Electric Association, first as manager of power generation, then as COO where I was responsible for the operations, power production, engineering, environmental and regulatory compliance, and safety departments. I ultimately took on the role of CEO in 2020. I am tremendously grateful for my time at CVEA, both because of the relationships that I built and the progress the cooperative made during my tenure. Involvement with state and national trade associations, such as the Alaska Power Association and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, have also helped broaden my knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing the electric utility industry. I served on APA’s board of directors as chair of its government affairs committee and was involved with creating its Safety Committee, also serving as chair. Additionally, I’m proud to participate as a member of NRECA’s Generation Advisory Committee and on the Alaska Broadband Advisory Board. Not only have these positions strengthened my understanding of electric utility issues, specifically those faced by the Railbelt, but they’ve allowed me to cultivate a strong network of collaborative relationships that I intend to lean on for the betterment of our cooperative.
Relationships are very important to me. As part of my vision for GVEA, I am genuinely committed to building strong connections with community members and enhancing the trust and reputation of our cooperative. I believe that open communication and active engagement with our members are key to GVEA’s success. I look forward to connecting with many of you and hearing your thoughts on how we can be of better service to the communities of Interior Alaska.
As I step into the role of your cooperative’s CEO, my focus will be on earning the trust and support of you, our members. I look forward to working together to ensure a bright and sustainable future for GVEA and the communities we serve.
Warm regards,
Travis Million President and CEO Golden Valley Electric Association
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. 0425
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
WC Collectibles. We buy comic books! Local to the Inland Northwest, willing to travel. WCCollectiblesCheney@gmail.com; 509-496-1835. 0724
Automotive
Rare 1960 Chevy pickup 4x4. Shortbed. Not running now. Text or call 661-713-3377. Leave message. 0724
Books, Magazines, Videos
Idaho author Tova R. Cladouhos offers children’s books on Amazon or by email at tovarae@gmail.com. These books are perfect for elementary-aged children; factual stories based on friendship, affection, protection and farm animal adventures. Tova loves barns, pastures, dogs, cats, sheep and ponds. Her books include, “The Nine Lives of Milo the Cat,” “Saving Lily,” “Little Molly” and “Little Molly’s Secret.” 0724
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. 0724AR
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
Exhibits “My Heart” by artist Brenna Kimbro and Arboreality: Poetry Broadsides curated by Nick Neely. Art Center East in La Grande, OR. artcentereast.org. 0724
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): September issue—August 1, 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.
503-357-2105 to pay by credit card.
Advertisements are accepted in good faith. Pioneer Utility Resources is not liable for interactions between buyers and sellers.
Equipment/Tools
1 set Hitachi-Deere 12-131/2 ton and CAT 215 tracks. 44 links/roll. 24” HD BERCO shoes. New surplus from closure of Tacoma store. FOB, my ranch, Eugene. Ted Brown, 541-556-0517. 0724
Free Items
Free materials: church, government uniting, suppressing “religious liberty,” enforcing National Sunday Law. Be informed. Need mailing address only. TBS, P.O. Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. tbsmads@yahoo.com; 888-211-1715. 0824AR
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
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
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
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
Pets, Supplies
German shepherd puppies and one male shar-pei puppy left for adoption. 907-803-1005; myakdogs@gmail.com; Akceuropeangermansherpherd.com. 0724
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
Border collie/McNab puppies. The best dog you will ever have. Males and females, $450 each. Colton, OR. 503-314-0145. 0724
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. 0724
AKC-registered Airedales. Fort Sage Kennels, Patricia Sharp, P.O. Box 246, Doyle, CA 96109; 530-827-2271. 0924
Plants, Garden Supplies
Cactus for sale. Cold/winter hardy. Good for landscaping. Sunnyside/Mabton, WA, area. Local pickup only. marybarthlow@gmail.com; 509-391-5546. 0724
Real Estate
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. 541-536-5776. 0724
Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian, prior ranch owner. For sale: central OR, 2-acre parcel. $624K. John Gill, 541-480-9161; johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0724
117 acres in central OR; very private. No neighbors. Cabin, mostly fenced. Great recreation opportunities. For more info, 541-548-6284. 0724
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
Beautiful setting on 1.58 acres. Mountain views, 4x4, finished basement, large fenced yard, garage. $449.9K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363; ddwr@ortelco.net. 0724
$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.
Comfortable 2 bd, 1 ba, 1,200 sqft. Eagle, AK, home, on Yukon River. 4 lots. 2 cabins. $175K, OBO. Ann, 907-251-9094. Gary, 907-505-8263. See listing on Land.com. 0724
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.
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.
Farm for sale. Large house, shop and barn near Goldendale, WA. With 5, 10 or 25 pasture acres. 25 includes Little Klickitat River. David, 541-580-2060. 0724
Summer getaway. 2 bd, 1 ba on lot located in Mountain City, NV. Needs work. $40K. Call 775-304-2398. 0724
15 off-grid acres. At 8,400-ft., near Fort Garland, CO. Great view of CO’s 4th highest peak. On Person’s Road in Sangre de Cristo Ranches. Pinon trees, year-round access. $52.9K. 541-729-0374. 0924
Recreational Rentals
Wavecatcher: oceanfront cottage. Central Oregon Coast. Summer $175/night mid-May to mid-Oct.; $140/night mid-Oct. to mid-May. (plus cleaning/tax). 3 bd, w/double beds. Pets welcome. Wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. Reservations: 541-740-2846. 0724AR
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. 0824
Recreational Vehicle
Sunseeker 24 on Mercedes Sprinter classic. 57K miles. 50% tires. Good condition. 8-ft, slide out. $53.9K. FOB. Eugene or Bend. 541-556-0517. 0724
Services
Are you a business that provides sustainable transportation options for your employees? Get recognition and free technical assistance through the Electric Vehicle Adoption Leadership certification. To find out more, visit www.evalcertification.org. 0724
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
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 rural-roots-ranch.com or text Christy at 541-589-4674. 1224
Timeshare victims? Call TimeShareBeGone, 800-214-4460. We will get your timeshare legally canceled. A+ BBB, 5-star reviews, 16 years experience. 100% money-back guarantee. 1024
Want to Buy
Looking for: ’62-’67 Corvette, ’64-’65 GTO, ’62 Chev. 409. Prefer manual transmission, no tribute cars, as close to stock as possible. Willing to pay up for great car. No junk or projects. 503-799-3835. Text with pictures or call. 0724
Wanted: Old 501 Levi’s. Jeans, jackets with capital “E” on the red tag. Also, Carhartts with red heart. Good prices. Text photos to 208-255-8030. 0724
Wanted: 1967-72 Buick Skylark, GS, Stage 1, GSX. Cars, parts or leads. Or any ’60s or ’70s vehicles. Email billybibbett@hotmail.com. 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
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. 0724
Need parts for a 1998 Yamaha Grizzly 600 ATV or a nonworking for parts. Matsmaps@hotmail.com; 503-290-6755. 0724
Wanted: Early Corvette ’58-’62, any condition. Call or text Randy, 503-544-3807. 0824
Members Approve Amendments to GVEA’s Bylaws and Elect Director for District 4, with District 7 to be Decided in a Runoff Election
On June 6, six election judges from GVEA’s Member Advisory Committee certified the election results for Districts 4 and 7 directors, as well as the results for the full membership vote on proposed amendments to GVEA’s bylaws. Incumbent Director Gary Newman was reelected to represent District 4. In District 7, a runoff election is taking place between the two candidates who received the most votes, incumbent Todd Adams and Krista Zappone. Additionally, the proposed amendments to GVEA’s bylaws passed and will take effect on August 1, following the District 7 runoff election.
In order for an election to be valid, GVEA’s bylaws require at least 10% of the members to vote in director elections and a minimum of 3% vote on changes to the bylaws. These percentage thresholds were surpassed in all three elections.
Thank you to members in Districts 4 and 7 who took the time to vote for your GVEA director, and all members who voted on the proposed amendments to GVEA’s bylaws.
GVEA also extends our sincere appreciation to all of the candidates. We recognize the commitment required to run for a seat on the board of directors and we thank you for your willingness to serve the membership.
Congratulations to Gary. He was officially reseated to the GVEA Board of Directors at the June 25, board meeting. The winner in the District 7 runoff will be seated at the July 23, board meeting
Next year, seats on GVEA’s board of directors for Districts 5 and 6 will be up for election. Those seats are currently held by Chris Bunch and Fred Sheen, respectively. For more information about the GVEA Board of Directors, visit www. gvea.com/board-of-directors. n
2024 Director Election Results
Runoff ballots were mailed and electronic voting opened to members in District 7 on June 21. Voting closes and ballots must be returned by 5 p.m. on July 16. Information on the runoff election, including how and when to vote, can be found at www.gvea.com/elections.
Please be advised: GVEA recognizes that some members may receive this issue of Ruralite magazine after the voting deadline has passed. We are making every effort to inform members in District 7 of the runoff election timeline through various traditional and social media channels. If you have any concerns, email pr@gvea.com.
General Revision to GVEA’s Bylaws Results
In addition to the director elections, proposed amendments to GVEA’s bylaws were presented to the full membership as a general revision, with the option to vote yes or no to approve the proposed general revision in its entirety.
Together We Make a Big Difference
K9, a second quarter Good¢ents grant recipient, is a volunteer nonprofit that provides free expertly trained search-and-rescue dogs to assist the
The Good¢ents Board of Trustees awarded six grants totaling $39,053.49 on May 16.
All grants from the Good¢ents Foundation are awarded to nonprofit organizations within GVEA’s service territory. Applications are reviewed quarterly in February, May, August and November by a volunteer board of trustees.
The next application deadline is July 31. Applications and more information about the program can be found online at www.gvea. com/goodcents. Good¢ents is funded by the generous members of Golden Valley Electric Association. Since the program began in 2011, GVEA members have funded grants totaling $1,714,568.93. Here’s a summary of the recent grants:
• Fairbanks Community Garden: $6,201 for the construction of a 12-by12 foot picnic shelter to be used for community classes, meetings and fundraising activities. The food grown at the Fairbanks Community Garden is used to feed families and individuals throughout the Fairbanks North Star Borough. Some individuals donate large amounts of produce to the food bank, soup kitchen, friends and neighbors. Many immigrant families garden there, growing traditional crops from their country of origin and sharing them with other gardeners.
• Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre: $7,274.99 to buy a 7,200-watt solarpowered generator and warranty for use in their outdoor productions and events. The mission of the Fairbanks Shakespeare Theatre is to contribute to the Fairbanks and Alaska arts communities by offering high-quality Shakespeare and classical theater productions and educational programs. This new equipment will support their commitment to sustainability and ensure their performances and events can continue smoothly, regardless of location.
• J.P. Jones Center: $5,200 for participation in the Fairbanks Solarize BRITE program, which is building an energy-efficiency and resiliency component to local Solarize campaigns. As part of the BRITE program, various nonprofits, including J.P. Jones Center, are undergoing energy
audits and pursuing building retrofits. J.P. Jones provides a firstclass facility to the Fairbanks community for hosting family-friendly, fun, community-focused events, weddings, receptions, memorials, graduations, rallies and more.
• Moore Street Seniors Inc.: $11,000 to install four electromagnetic door holders in their two laundry rooms, craft room and community room doors. The fire code does not allow these doors to be propped open. Several of their seniors use walkers and wheelchairs, and all the seniors carrying laundry to the laundry room have a difficult time moving through these doors when they are not propped open. Having electromagnetic holders will keep them compliant with the fire code and make moving throughout the building safer for seniors.
• PAWS Search and Rescue: $4,907.50 to fund a trailing workshop in August 2024. PAWS Search and Rescue, based in Fairbanks, is an all-volunteer organization dispatched by the Alaska State Troopers to assist in locating lost individuals. This three-day workshop will cover both advanced trailing skills and basic drills necessary for successful Search and Rescue operations. The grant will cover travel, lodging, per diem and training for All Day Dog Adventures based in Columbia Falls, Montana. Hosting two instructors will allow up to 14 K9 and handler teams from across Alaska to attend, enhancing the capabilities of K9 SAR groups statewide.
• Yukon Quest International: $4,470 to support their dogs and veterinarians, ensuring they continue to provide world-class dog care before, during and after races. Treating the teams as dogs is not enough; Yukon Quest vets treat them as athletes. Ten years ago, a dog that strained a shoulder muscle or developed tendonitis in a front leg would have had to be removed from its team. Now, mushers and veterinarians can use special shoulder wraps and wrist wraps at rest stops to keep the dog healthy, happy and fit while moving down the trail. To provide this care and a safe, warm area for resting, their vets and checkpoints need to have readily available equipment.
PAWS
Alaska State Troopers.
PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON
BEFORE YOU GO Beauty In Your Backyard
The readership area of this magazine is vast and beautiful, containing everything from mountains to deserts and lakes to oceans. Some of you have views from your homes that rival the views of national parks.
From time to time, we will share some of the excellent reader photos in this space. If we use your photo here, we will send you your choice of a $25 gift card to REI or Amazon.
To submit your high-resolution 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
Ray DeBaun says that he and his wife like to look for rainbows after rainstorms in Mitchell, Oregon. They found this one in their front yard. PHOTO BY
RAY DEBAUN
• Up to 2X the power of the competition
• Cut overgrown brush, tall field grass, and saplings up to 3" thick
• Commercial, Electric, Walk- and Tow-Behind models available, including the NEW PRO MAX60T!
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
