Ruralite, Golden Valley Electric, May 2024

Golden Valley Electric Association’s rightof-way crews kicked off their busy 2024 clearing season by volunteering at Creamer’s Field. PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON

FEELING REJUVENATED WITH CBD

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

By: Beth Giles

Life really does y 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. at 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. at 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

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!

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 e ects 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. ere 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

e rst product I tried was the Rub. Now this stu was strong. Immediately after rubbing it on my knee, the soothing e ects kicked in. It had that familiar menthol cooling e ect, which I personally nd very relieving. And the best part is, after two weeks of using it, my knee pain no longer a ected my daily mobility.

e Zebra Sleep Gummies, on the other hand, had a di erent but equally positive e ect on my body. To take it, the instructions suggest chewing thoroughly. is 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 de nitely 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 x 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 rst, 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 o your rst order by using promo code “RL10” at checkout. Plus, the company o ers 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

May 2024 • Volume 72, No. 5

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

Ruralite (USPS 397-460) is published monthly for members for $4.83 per year, plus postage, by Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-for-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—to serve the communication needs of 47 consumer-owned electric utilities in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Nevada and California. Preferred periodical postage paid at Hillsboro, Oregon, 97123 and additional mailing offices. © 2024 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Ruralite, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124-6454

HOW TO CONTACT RURALITE

Subscription services:

Nonmember subscriptions $15 (U.S.) per year; $25 per year (foreign). Prepayment required. Allow 4-8 weeks for first issue. Be sure to identify which local edition you want to receive.

Address Changes:

Utility members, contact your local utility. Subscribers, call us at 503-357-2105 option 3 or email mailingdept@pioneer.coop.

Back issues:

Back issues and extra copies $3. Prepayment required. Supply is limited. Be sure to identify edition, month and year. Call first if ordering back issues to check availability.

To contact Ruralite: Ruralite magazine is published by Pioneer Utility Resources.

P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133-1306; 503-357-2105; email: info@pioneer.coop. For more information, visit www.pioneer.coop.

DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES

American MainStreet Publications 611 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 504 Austin, TX 78704 800-626-1181 or 512-441-5200

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

Celebrating Youth

When I was a child I lived out in the country on 50 acres. Opportunities to earn money were few and far between. I did earn 50 cents a day for feeding the sheep occupying our leased pasture. I also picked strawberries and boysenberries in the summer. My best days were when my mom came out and picked with me. To this day, I don’t know how she filled those containers so fast. Later, we moved to a more populated area and I was able to mow lawns. I think I was getting $5 a lawn at my peak.

I had a brief career in fruit sales. I set up a sign and a box of sad-looking apples at the end of our long driveway. Did I mention this was rural and few cars passed by each day? After one day and only one car stopping, I decided to pursue other opportunities.

Our Up Close story on Page 10 profiles a group of young people who are having a lot more success than I ever did as entrepreneurs. These

three young people are already dipping their toes into the business world by creating and selling their own products. From art to crafts and food, these entrepreneurs are making money and developing skills that will last a lifetime.

Our Spotlight feature starting on Page 12 highlights the creative way a small Oregon community has retained its local school by opening its doors to international students. With only 145 residents in the Spray community, dwindling numbers put the viability of the school at risk. Thirty years ago, the school started bringing in students from other countries to bolster their numbers. This year, nine international students live, learn and soak up rural American culture at the unique school.

The local students benefit too, because they can continue their education closer to home and are exposed to other cultures. Everyone wins. I hope you enjoy the story.

Sincerely,

Mike Teegarden Editorial Director

Young Minds, Big Dreams

Ambitious youth entrepreneurs of the Pacific Northwest excel Up Close, Page 10

The Global Experience

International students soak up culture at rural school Spotlight, Page 12

Democratic Member Control: Membership to Vote on Proposed Amendments to GVEA’s Bylaws

This year, all members have an opportunity to exercise their right to vote, as GVEA submits bylaw revisions to a vote of the full membership.

When GVEA was incorporated in 1946, the bylaws were approved to govern the cooperative. While sections of the bylaws have been amended over the years as needed (most recently in 2016), the board of directors felt strongly that a thorough review was needed to ensure the bylaws still meet the best interest of GVEA’s membership and provide the flexibility to run the cooperative in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

GVEA’s Bylaw Review Committee, which is comprised of board members, management and staff, met numerous times during the past two years to review GVEA’s bylaws and propose amendments to the full board for review and consideration.

GVEA’s board of directors reviewed and approved the proposed Bylaw amendments and has recommended they be considered as a general revision, presented to GVEA’s membership for a vote. The membership is asked to either vote yes or no, to approve or reject the proposed general revision of GVEA’s bylaws in their entirety. The recommendation from GVEA’s Bylaw Review Committee and GVEA’s board of directors is to vote yes to approve this general revision of GVEA’s bylaws as presented.

Friday, May 3

• All GVEA members of record are mailed a bylaw election packet that outlines the specific amendments being proposed and explains why the amendments are being recommended.

• Electronic voting opens at noon.

Tuesday, June 4

• All ballots must be returned by June 4. Online voting closes at 5 p.m.

Thursday, June 6

• Results of the director elections, as well as the results of the vote on the bylaws, are announced. If sufficient “yes” votes are received, the bylaw modifications go into effect August 1 of this year following the conclusion of the 2024 director election cycle.

What are the changes?

Many of the proposed amendments are housekeeping in nature, such as corrections to grammar and ensuring statements are gender neutral. For example, changing the term “chairman” to “chair.” Generally, these types of edits don’t need member approval to correct, but all are included in the mailed packet and online for members to review.

Other proposed edits are more substantive, such as eliminating the need for director candidates to receive 40% of votes cast to win the election, and instead providing that the candidate receiving the highest number of votes be declared the winner. This change is anticipated to reduce the possibility of costly run-off elections. Another example is modifying the bylaws to allow for both electronic and in-person participation in meetings and voting on cooperative matters. This provides additional flexibility to members’ participation in GVEA business.

Questions?

The full election packet, including all proposed amendments with explanations and GVEA’s full bylaws with tracked changes noting the amendments, are available to view at www.gvea.com/bylaws.

If you have any questions after reading details on the proposed general revision to GVEA’s bylaws, call GVEA at 907-452-1151 or email ms@gvea.com.

If you need assistance voting, call the election helpline at 855-761-9111 or email goldenvalley@alaska-cpas.com.

Vote for a Chance to Win Free Electricity for Six Months, Up to $1,110

All members who cast a valid ballot are entered into a drawing to win free electricity for six months, up to $1,110.* The winner is drawn June 6, 2024, following the ballot count. The winner is chosen by a random drawing of all valid bylaw returned ballots.

*Free electricity is based on the average residential use of 600 kilowatt-hours per month over six months. Total value will not exceed $1,110 and will be credited to the winning member’s account. Winner must remain a GVEA member for any months during which the credit is applied.

Coming to a Right-of-Way Near You!

Springtime in Fairbanks means our right-of-way crews are back in action at Golden Valley Electric Association. Our mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable electric service to our members, and right-of-way clearing plays a crucial role in fulfilling that mission. By maintaining clear rights-of-way, we ensure uninterrupted service and reduce outage durations.

GVEA Objectives for Clearing

• To prevent vegetation from contacting our lines. GVEA maintains more than 3,000 miles of power lines, and it is a priority to prevent trees and vegetation from falling or growing into our lines. Crews are working April-October to clear all rights-of-way easements scheduled for 2024 maintenance.

• To maintain access for maintenance and repair. When there is an outage, a clear rights-of-way allows our lineworkers fast and easy access to make necessary repairs.

• To keep lines of sight clear. During an outage, before crews can begin making repairs, they need to identify where issues are taking place. Keeping our rights-of-way clear makes it quick and easy to visually identify problems.

Right-of-Way Safety

Your safety and that of our employees is GVEA’s top priority. If your area is scheduled to have ROWs cleared this season, there are some important steps you can take to ensure a safe season for all.

• Please stay at least 300 feet away from clearing machines. These machines can throw debris a significant distance, causing serious injury.

• Do not stop to watch the equipment.

• Slow down and follow all warning signs. Signs may read “Brush Cutting Ahead” or “Tree Work Ahead.”

• Do not enter the work area of a bucket truck or tree workers. There is a risk of serious injury from falling trees or branches.

• Cutting trees is dangerous. Every month, people are killed or seriously injured from attempting to cut and prune trees. Please consider hiring a trained expert if you have a tree that needs to be removed from your property.

To review where GVEA is clearing this season, visit www.gvea. com/row-maintenance-program.

Clearing Challenges

• Access: Fences, sheds, vehicles, plants and other member property close to electrical equipment are a safety hazard to GVEA employees, can create longer restoration times and could potentially impede clearing of easements. It is important for members to keep easements clear of personal property.

• Weather: The extreme weather in Interior Alaska presents challenges not seen in many other areas in the United States. This leads to unique challenges for our crews and a shortened season where vegetation management and clearing is possible.

• Vegetation health and growth: Alaska’s short summers with long daylight results in rapid growth for much of the vegetation. GVEA is currently on a five- to seven-year clearing cycle, and our vegetation management plan is evaluated regularly to meet the unique environmental needs in Interior Alaska.

Rights-of-Way Are Private Property

Access to power line rights-of-way is granted to GVEA by our members. The property within the rights-of-way remains private and is not meant to provide public access routes. Therefore, keep these in mind before you consider trespassing:

• No legal public thoroughfare is created by the installation of a power line.

• Landowners retain all rights of ownership.

• Property owners can prosecute trespassers. Even though rights-of-way are private property, GVEA must retain access for regular maintenance, clearing and access to our equipment.

Crews clear rights-of-way on Esro Road using mechanical clearing with the Sky Trim. PHOTO BY TODD PARIS

Frequently Asked Questions

• What should I do if a tree falls into a power line?

If a tree is in the power line, call GVEA immediately. Stay out from under the lines. The lines could be damaged and fall to the ground. Do not go near the tree or touch it. Trees conduct electricity.

• Are property owners responsible for maintaining tree clearances within the power line easement? No. GVEA crews clear trees and brush and cut limbs away from electrical conductors.

• What is cleared and how much will be cleared?

Most ROW easements are 30 feet wide. GVEA normally cuts all brush to the ground so there is ground-to-sky clearance for our crews in the field.

• Will GVEA leave brush and logs behind?

GVEA will remove the brush. We usually leave logs behind, as most homeowners request the logs for firewood.

• What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees are trees with severe defects that may cause the tree to fall and damage lines. Hazard trees include dead trees, trees with decayed trucks or roots systems, severely leaning or overhanging trees or trees that have a high potential to fall when carrying a heavy snow load. GVEA has certified tree risk assessors who evaluate hazardous trees to determine the potential for danger. If you have a hazard tree, call 907-452-1151.

• What kind of equipment does GVEA use?

You will see us clearing with machines as well as hand tools. Mechanical clearing is done with a Kershaw brush mower, BobCat forestry mower and a Sky Trim. The mowers cut and mulch. The Sky Trim, which has a 75-foot boom with a rotating saw blade, cuts tree branches growing toward the power lines. Remember to stay at least 300 feet away from all equipment used to clear as they can throw wood and debris a great distance.

• Will you clear around my electrical service drop?

Service drops are the lines that connect your home or business to GVEA’s high-voltage lines. Because the service drop is owned by the homeowner, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain it. The service drop should be kept clear of trees and brush. GVEA can disconnect service for you in instances where it makes the felling of trees both safer and easier. There is no charge for this service during business hours, but we do ask for at least five days’ notice.

• How will I be notified of ROW clearing in my area? GVEA takes proactive measures to inform residents well ahead of the clearing season through various communication channels. If your area is scheduled for clearing in 2024, you should have already received an informative postcard or email and an automated phone notification. Even if no clearing is planned in your vicinity, there may still be a need to access our work area through a right-of-way on your property.

To ensure you stay informed about important updates from GVEA, please verify or update your contact details by contacting Member Services at 907-452-1151, available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For further inquiries regarding rights-of-way, call GVEA’s Operations Department at 907-452-1151, extension 5692. Stay connected for regular updates by following us on social media: Facebook at www.facebook.com/GoldenValleyElectric and Instagram at @goldenvalleyelectricassociation. n

Before Planting This Summer

Large trees near power lines can cause service disruptions and safety hazards for you and the community. To maintain reliable electric service and enhance public safety, it’s important to avoid planting large trees near power lines. This reduces the need for costly and unsightly pruning or removal due to electrical hazards. Selecting tree species that don’t interfere with power lines when landscaping can greatly reduce these risks.

Within a 15-foot radius around power poles and lines, refrain from planting trees or shrubs to allow for equipment access along the right-of-way. Consider planting grasses, annuals and herbaceous perennials as recommended by GVEA.

For areas spanning 15 to 20 feet from power poles, opt for small trees and shrubs that won’t exceed 20 feet in height when fully grown.

In zones extending 20 to 40 feet from power poles, choose medium-sized trees that reach a maximum height of 40 feet at maturity, taking into account both height and crown size.

For distances exceeding 40 feet from power poles, continue planting medium-sized trees that maintain a height under 40 feet, considering both height and crown size.

ROW Maintenance Foreman Luke DeBoard removes a hazard tree.

PHOTO BY TODD PARIS

Creamer’s ROW Volunteering

GVEA’s Right-of-Way Planner Sam Clark walks his dogs at Creamer’s Field every day. Recently, he couldn’t help but notice disrepair of the boardwalk on the Boreal Forest Trail.

It didn’t take him long to come up with a way to help Creamer’s Field and the community that spends time on the trails. Sam proposed that GVEA’s right-of-way crew help clear hazard trees from that trail.

“A lot of people use it,” he says. “I was just thinking of something that would benefit the entire community.”

GVEA offers employees 8 hours of service every year, which they can donate to a community project of their choosing.

That is how a right-of-way crew of 11 experts found themselves recently clearing a path through the soon-to-be upgraded trail.

“That Boreal Forest Trail was badly damaged,” Sam says. “We cut two new lanes across the slough there where they are going to rebuild the boardwalk, then around the Boreal Forest Trail.”

He and Refuge Manager Clint Cooper walked the trail first, targeting potential problem trees.

“We want to mitigate the risk, but also don’t want it to look like a bomb went off,” Sam says.

Clint was happy to have experienced experts help with the project.

The Boreal Forest Trail is a mile-long loop that winds through the boreal forest. Two sections run through a wetlands area. Over the years, the water has soaked the railroad tie supports and shifted the boardwalk bit by bit.

“Despite our best efforts to maintain and fix it, little by little, eventually it just got to be too big of an obstacle,” Clint says. “So that boardwalk became unusable. It’s getting to be too much of a liability.”

Two sections—one 200 feet long and another 500 feet long—need to be redesigned and rebuilt.

“I’m working on the design, and my hope is that we can get it completed next winter, so it is ready by summer of 2025,” Clint says.

Enter the right-of-way crew from GVEA.

“Those right-of-way guys definitely have the equipment and the expertise,” he says. “They cleared the path for two new sections and additionally, removed hazard trees around the rest of the trail.”

“They were able to get it knocked out in a day,” Clint says. “It

worked out great. They have the expertise and they felt like they were really putting their skills to good use.”

“This let us do something that most people aren’t prepared to do or have a skill to do,” Sam says.

It was such a successful collaboration, it may even continue on a personal volunteer basis.

“There were a couple things that didn’t get on our wish list,” Sam says. “Clint and I will go over that together on our own time.” n

11 GVEA right-of-way professionals make quick but safe work, clearing a path for a new boardwalk trail at Creamer’s Field. Bottom photo, left to right, are Eric Neumayer, Colton Meier and Aaron Worley. PHOTOS BY GRACE WILSON

By Rachael Kvapil

Right-of-Way Maintenance Planner Sam Clark is fairly new to the GVEA family, but he’s no stranger to making sure important infrastructure is clear of potential hazards. Sam has a lifetime of experience in forestry and related treefelling positions. Before coming to GVEA, Sam supervised microwave tower and remote power systems construction and maintenance work throughout Interior Alaska for a communications company based in the Netherlands. Now, he and his team plan and organize the clearing of trees that threaten to make contact with power lines.

Sam, along with another full-time planner and supervisor, annually devises a plan for Interior rights-of-way in need of clearing. The team analyzes existing reports of trees near power lines, locations with frequent outages due to trees on lines and places with high potential for outages. From there, they devise a schedule based on the available workforce and equipment and move them between areas in a way that makes the most sense.

Sam Clark: Clear the Way: Maintaining Utility Health by Removing Potential Hazards

through Delta Junction while addressing areas in South and East Fairbanks and North Pole. GVEA will also contract out sections of right-of-way clearing near College Road and the Johanson Expressway, along with parts of Goldstream Valley and the Elliot and Steese Highways.

Safety is the top priority for GVEA. As tempting as it is to question crews about their work, Sam recommends calling GVEA Operations directly with questions at 907-452-1151 extension 5692. Sam says it’s his team’s goal to keep the public informed by notifying residents of clearing plans well in advance by direct mail, email, automated phone messages and social media.

“We do our best to prioritize outage areas,” Sam says. “At the same time, we don’t want to send crews and equipment all over the place. We weigh outage rates and crew availability when creating a logistical plan.”

Sam says that anytime a member calls in with a concern about trees near a power line, they make sure someone goes to assess the potential danger. If danger is high, crews are dispatched as quickly as possible to take care of the problem.

Sam says catching up on maintenance is the main focus for his department for the next few seasons, and crews have started maintenance for the year. According to the GVEA Right-of-Way Maintenance plan, crews will work on Badger Road, parts of the Richardson Highway and into Delta Junction in early spring. In summer and fall, crews continue

“Some of the equipment can be dangerous, and we don’t want anyone to come into contact with trees or debris,” Sam says.

While keeping lines clear of trees is important for an efficient utility, Sam says it does alter the appearance of the landscape. Though tree selection and removal are done by the book, he says property owners are often surprised by cosmetic changes. Sam says his team does their best to explain the dangers of an unhealthy tree and the need for its removal.

“We pick the ones that are an obvious threat to the utility,” Sam says. “At times, we encounter someone who has a particular attachment to a tree, and we understand how hard it is to remove it. However, most of our members are understanding and pleasant to work with.”

Overall, Sam says he finds great fulfillment knowing he is helping members by doing his part to ensure power keeps flowing to homes and businesses.

Sam grew up in Maine and moved to Alaska in 1999. He lived in rural areas for 17 years before moving to Fairbanks. He enjoys any outdoor hobby, regardless of the season. n

PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON

Young

By Chiara Profenna

Ambitious youth entrepreneurs of the Pacific Northwest excel Big dreams: MINDS,

As the first days of summer emerge, countless youth eagerly embrace their newfound time for leisure and relaxation. But for a distinctive few, summer signifies an opportunity to refine their business skills and embark on entrepreneurial ventures.

Meet some youth entrepreneurs spending their free time blossoming small businesses in the Pacific Northwest. Spanning from the outskirts of Oregon to the northern reaches of Alaska, these young leaders are shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Fortitude Rural Youth Entrepreneurs

At 11 years old, Macy Richcreek, a fifth grader at McGovern Elementary School in Winston, Oregon, is taking over Fortitude Rural Youth Entrepreneurs from her brother, Ryder Sawyer.

The all-kids market operates out of Porter Creek Mercantile in Tenmile.

“My brother started it around 2020,” Macy says. “When he was little, he would sell stuff. He started doing adult events, but then he realized that kids should (be able to) make money.”

A seasoned entrepreneur, Macy began pastry and dessert venture Sassy Sweets when she was 6 years old. In addition to running her table, Macy oversees the market, which typically hosts about 15 children and their various goods.

“My brother has a Bigfoot section,” Macy says. “And we have a lot of different things, like wood carvings, shave ice, spray paint art, bath bombs.”

For the next step of her entrepreneurial journey, Macy is starting a new line—Sassy Sports—to sell sports-themed jewelry.

Managing all her business ventures has been a challenge, Macy says. However, the experiences have inspired her to continue branching out and trying new things.

Starting Sassy Sweets at 6 years old, Macy Richcreek is now ready to expand her business with a new line specializing in jewelry.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MACY RICHCREEK

Taking over the Fortitude Rural Youth Entrepreneurs from her brother, Macy steps into the larger role of managing a group of youth entrepreneurs while overseeing her businesses.

“I want to be a teacher,” Macy says. “I would like to do business and teaching when I get older.”

Alia’s Treasures Untold

Alia Halat, a sixth grader at Trailside Elementary in Anchorage, Alaska, was driven by her love of art to start her business, Alia’s Treasures Untold. She incorporates radio frequency identification locks built into painted boxes for a business that combines custom art with functionality.

Her magic boxes are hand painted and include an RFID lock with a key built into an outside item. After learning about RFID locks, Alia added one to a wooden box she had painted and made a key out of a toy wand.

“This was just something I had made for fun because I wanted to hide my treasures away from my sister,” Alia says. “I didn’t think of creating a business out of it or that anyone would be interested in having a painted magic box except for me.”

However, after Alia attended a summertime Junior Achievement Biz Camp, she decided to take her concept to the next level.

“During the camp, we worked on creating our own businesses,” Alia says. “At first, I didn’t know what to do my business on, but then I told my camp counselors about my magical treasure box I had made. They helped me come up with the idea to make Alia’s Treasures Untold.”

At the camp, Alia won the JA Biz Camp’s Shark Tank pitch competition.

“I won startup money and was able to invest it back into my business,” Alia says. “I used it to buy more supplies so I can sell more products, and I became a real entrepreneur.”

Contact Information

KB Pet Portraits

Krystal Beckman, a junior at Enterprise High School in the northeastern Oregon city of Enterprise, launched her business, KB Pet Portraits, in December 2023 with the support of Reinventing Rural’s Mentor Match Teen Entrepreneurship Program.

“I was very nervous to start a business, but I loved art so much,” Krystal says. “I was like, ‘OK, I’ll try to do this.’ And then I just went to bazaars, and I passed out info, and that’s how I started.”

Through the program, led by program founderStacy Green, Krystal and a group of teens learn the ins and outs of starting a small business. According to Krystal, the program has been helpful, teaching her about topics such as accounting and time management.

“One of the biggest things she told us was to be bold and don’t feel shy about sharing your business with others,” Krystal says.

Even though Krystal was unsure about starting a business, she was quickly encouraged by her customers and their willingness to pay for her art.

“They actually wanted (to pay) $50 more than I was offering,” Krystal says. “It just really brought up my confidence. I was just extremely excited and happy.”

With the support of the ongoing mentorship program, Krystal hopes to continue to improve and expand her custom pet portrait business. She encourages teens to delve into entrepreneurship in any way they can.

“It takes several times to fail before you succeed,” Krystal says. “That’s one thing we’re trying to focus on right now. And I think it’s a good lesson.” n

ALIA HALAT

Facebook at Alia’s Treasures Untold.

KRYSTAL BECKMAN

Creating custom-painted boxes with radio frequency identification locks, Alia’s designs are unique and practical. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALIA HALAT

Krystal Beckman’s business, KB Pet Portraits, is a blossoming passion project that began in December 2023. PHOTO COURTESY OF KRYSTAL BECKMAN

The Global Experience

at Spray High School

By Chiara Profenna

Those who step foot in Spray, Oregon, discover the epitome of a small town. With a population of 145, the Wheeler County community may be nothing more to those passing through than a stop on the John Day Highway. But to the international students at Spray High School, it’s their entire experience of America.

Nine students from around the world are attending high school in Spray this year. Housed in two separate dorms, the students live and breathe American culture for an academic year,

improving their language skills in the process.

The program helps keep Spray High School on the map and provides international and local students with culture and knowledge.

The History of the Program

The international program helps financially support the school, says Spray School Superintendent Lou Lyons.

More than 30 years ago, Spray High School began accepting

Spray High School’s international program has hosted hundreds of foreign exchange students since the 1990s. PHOTO BY CHIARA PROFENNA

international students in hopes of keeping its doors open. With a dwindling number of students, the school was at risk of being combined with nearby Fossil Charter School and Mitchell High School.

Having a school in each town is incredibly important to the parents and students, says Spray High School social studies teacher Marc Antonio. While the international students bring financial security to the school through district funding, their presence is valued far beyond the monetary contribution.

“We just enjoy the kids so much,” Marc says. “They really do infuse a light and a curiosity about things.”

Each year, Spray locals look forward to meeting the new boarders, according to dorm parent Sadie Garrett.

“When you come into a small community, it’s not just the kids at the school, it’s the staff,” Sadie says. “The whole town comes together.”

A small collection of rural schools throughout Oregon participates in similar programs to support their schools. Burnt River, Mitchell, Paisley and Huntington school districts all accept international students to fill their classes. The programs are served by different agencies, such as International Experience and International Student Exchange, both used by Spray School District.

Marc says the program has seen monumental success since its inception, benefiting the community, the school district and the students.

“With kids around here, a lot of them don’t travel,” Marc says. “Their world is small. And to have [international] kids come here, it’s huge. We learn about them as much as they learn about us.”

Why Spray?

In a town with only one major road, it’s hard to imagine students getting the complete American high school experience. However, the community in Spray begs to differ.

“Because it’s smaller classes, I think for them, they don’t feel swallowed,” Marc says. “They don’t disappear. And because of that, they get to know us teachers really well. They get to know the kids really well. I think their ability to absorb American culture increases so much because it isn’t this overwhelming 10 million people in their school.”

“The teachers are so kind, especially Mr. Marc and Mr. Starr,” says Phong Thai, a junior from Vietnam. “They will stop class or slow down to help explain things.”

Additionally, the relatively safe environment provides parents with peace of mind. The students live in dorms near the school with community members Crystal Rey and Sadie, who oversee

International students from Thailand, South Korea, Vietnam, Germany and Russia have become friends as they experience life together in small-town America. PHOTO COURTESY OF SADIE GARRETT

the girls’ and boys’ dorms, respectively.

“Most of them by now call me Mom,” Crystal says. “It’s a good feeling to know that they’re really comfortable with me and that it feels like a home to them.”

The small town allows boarding students to blossom throughout the year and create meaningful connections with locals. The students say their experience has been nothing short of wonderful.

Lucia del Carmen Garrido Anton, a student from Spain, says living in Spray has been a great experience that has broadened her horizons. Other students agree their friendships have been lifechanging and given them a lot to be grateful for.

“A lot of them have said that they really like the close-knit of the community,” Crystal says. “Everybody’s super nice and super helpful. They don’t feel out of place when they come here.”

The students spend most of their time in Spray, they also have opportunities to explore Oregon through various trips, including regular visits to Bend, the nearest city for shopping.

At the start of the 2023 school year, Sadie organized a trip to Rockaway Beach for the boys, giving them a few days to soak in the beauty of the Oregon Coast.

A Year in Spray

Over the course of their year in Spray, the boarding students are intent on absorbing the language and culture in America so they can further their academic and career goals back home.

“When they leave here, their English language flows, and comprehension is so much greater,” Marc says. “They really are setting themselves up for what they want to do.”

The students also become more sure of themselves as the year progresses.

“It’s great seeing them kind of blossom,” Crystal says. “When they get here, most of them are super shy, super quiet, super unsure. And by the time they leave, it’s like they’re an American kid.”

However, according to Sadie and Crystal, one of the most

The international students in Spray enjoy trips around Oregon for various breaks and holidays. At the beginning of the school year, Sadie took the boys to Rockaway Beach. PHOTOS ABOVE AND RIGHT COURTESY OF SADIE GARRETT

The girls’ dorm, across the street from Spray School and overseen by Crystal Rey, houses up to six international students at a time. PHOTO BY CHIARA PROFENNA

International students bond in Spray.

International students spend the full academic year at Spray School. PHOTO COURTESY OF SADIE GARRETT

notable changes is the friendships and connections that flourish during the school year. Both dorms form their own small families, treating each other like brothers and sisters while they live together.

Outside of their immediate cohort, international and local students from Spray, Mitchell and Fossil also participate in athletic programs together, forming bonds spanning across Wheeler County.

“It’s better to do the sports because you meet new friends,” Phong says. “It also helps build your personality for the future.”

For the students, these relationships are pivotal because they don’t return home at any point during the academic year, celebrating holidays and birthdays in America. According to Sadie, the shared experience creates a sense of belonging and support within the cohort.

While Spray may seem underwhelming at first, the students come away with a new appreciation for the town and an experience like no other.

“It’s really interesting to see how they relate to the community as it goes on,” Marc says. “First couple of days, they’re like, ‘This is it?’ And after a while, they realize that even small places have a lot going on if you just allow it.” n

The Wheeler County Falcons

Comprised of students from Fossil Charter School, Mitchell High School and Spray High School, the Wheeler County Falcons are a diverse bunch. With each school hosting its own international boarding program, the athletics department is constantly filled with new faces.

According to dorm parent Sadie Garrett, many boarding students have never participated in American sports but are always willing to try them.

“It’s a culture shock for all of them,” fellow dorm parent Crystal Rey says. “But the kids here are really great about incorporating them into the school and into the activities. And sports are a really big thing that helps the kids build relationships with the American kids.”

According to Crystal and Sadie, the emphasis on athletics as a means of integrating students into American life has proven to be a significant and positive influence on many of their lives, while fostering a sense of accomplishment and belonging in the Wheeler County communities.

As the volleyball coach for Wheeler County, Crystal sees the friendships develop before her eyes. As the girls convene, they often encounter other international students from their hometowns, sparking conversations in their native languages and forming connections that remind them of home.

Participating in athletics is a social and personal highlight for many students as they engage in physical activity and form lasting friendships.

“We’re just excited that they’re even trying something new,” Sadie says. “Every once in a while, we’ll get one of those kids that didn’t know they could play that becomes the star athlete.”

When this year’s male students arrived in Spray, Sadie says half had never played basketball.

“Just last game, one of them made a 3-pointer, and this other kid is now making shots left and right,” Sadie says. “It’s just amazing.”

The gymnasium at Spray is a social hot spot for students who spend a lot of their free time in athletics programs. PHOTO BY CHIARA PROFENNA

The teachers at Spray High School value the input and presence of international students in their classrooms.

PHOTO BY CHIARA PROFENNA

The boys’ dorm, overseen by Sadie Garrett, is down the street from Spray School. PHOTO BY CHIARA PROFENNA

Meatless Meals EAT YOUR VEGGIES

Cheesy Burrito Bake

2 tablespoons canola oil

2 bell peppers, sliced

1 medium onion, sliced

1 teaspoon cumin

2 cups water

1 cup brown rice, uncooked

12-ounce can evaporated milk, divided

Heat oven to 350 F.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

4-ounce can diced green chiles, undrained

16-ounce can refried beans

6 8-inch wheat tortillas

Salsa, optional

Guacamole, optional

In a large skillet, heat canola oil. Cook peppers and onion with cumin until tender. In a saucepan, add water and brown rice. Cook for 45 minutes.

In a second saucepan, add 11/4 cups evaporated milk, cheddar cheese and green chilies. Cook over medium heat until cheese is melted and smooth. Stir 3/4 of the cheese mixture in with the cooked rice. Set the remaining cheese sauce aside.

In a medium bowl, add refried beans and the remaining evaporated milk. Microwave for 3-4 minutes. Lay out tortillas. Layer refried bean mixture, rice mixture and pepper-onion mixture. Roll into burritos and place in a baking pan. Top burritos with the remaining cheese sauce. Bake for 20-25 minutes.

Garnish with salsa and guacamole, if desired.

Source: Culinary.net

Grilled Apple Portobello ‘Burgers’

1 large sweet apple

2 portobello mushrooms

1/4 cup olive oil, divided

1 tablespoon lemon juice

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup herbed goat cheese

2 brioche buns

2 large pieces butter lettuce

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Heat the grill to medium heat. Slice apples horizontally into thick round wedges. Remove seeds using a fork. Remove portobello stems.

In a small bowl, combine 1/8 cup olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano and salt.

Using a basting brush, coat portobellos on both sides with the olive oil mixture. Grill stem sides down for 2 minutes, then flip. Add goat cheese to portobellos. Grill for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted. Remove from grill. Use remaining olive oil to coat apple rounds. Grill apple rounds for 1-2 minutes per side to lightly char.

Serve portobellos with apple rounds on brioche buns with lettuce and mayonnaise.

Source: Envy Apples

Golden Beet and Rice Burger Sliders

71/2 ounces white beans, drained and rinsed

1 egg, beaten

1/2 tablespoon water

14 ounces jasmine rice, cooked and cooled

4 ounces golden beets, cooked and grated

3 ounces goat cheese, crumbled and divided

1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

12 leaves bibb lettuce

1 cup arugula

2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce

In a food processor, pulse beans, egg and water until mashed.

Transfer the bean mixture to a large bowl. Add rice, beets, 11/2 ounces goat cheese, dill, salt and pepper. Stir until combined. Divide the mixture into six portions. Shape into 1/2-inch-thick patties.

In a large, nonstick skillet over medium heat, heat 1 tablespoon of oil. Cook patties in two batches, 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through. Add remaining oil, as necessary.

Place two lettuce leaves together, overlapping ends to form a pocket. Place a patty inside the lettuce pocket. Top with arugula and remaining goat cheese. Drizzle with Sriracha sauce. Repeat with remaining burgers.

Source: Success Rice

Pomegranate and Arugula Rice Salad

1/3 cup olive oil

3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons minced red onion

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups jasmine rice, cooked and cooled

5 ounces arugula

1 cup pomegranate seeds

1/3 cup slivered almonds, toasted

Crumbled goat or blue cheese, optional

In a large bowl, whisk together oil, vinegar, red onion, mustard, honey, salt and pepper.

Add rice, arugula and pomegranate seeds to the bowl. Toss to coat thoroughly. Sprinkle with almonds.

For added flavor, top the salad with crumbled goat or blue cheese.

Source: Minute Rice

Cheesy Asparagus Tart

5 cups water

1 pound asparagus

Ice water

2 teaspoons vegetable oil

1/4 teaspoon salt, plus additional to taste, divided

1/4 teaspoon pepper, plus additional to taste, divided Flour, for dusting

Heat oven to 400 F.

1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed

1 cup grated fontina cheese

1 cup grated gruyere cheese

1 tablespoon shallot, minced

2 egg yolks

3 tablespoons milk

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

1 lemon, zest only

In a large skillet, add water and asparagus. Cook for 5-8 minutes until asparagus is bright green. Drain asparagus and soak in ice water.

In a large bowl, mix drained asparagus, vegetable oil, salt and pepper until combined.

Flour surface area. Using a rolling pin, roll out the pastry to a 10-by-16-inch rectangle. Transfer the pastry to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Prick the pastry with a fork. Bake for about 12 minutes or until golden brown. Cool slightly on the baking sheet.

In a large bowl, mix fontina cheese, gruyere cheese, shallot, egg yolks, milk, nutmeg, salt and pepper until combined. Spread cheese over the pastry, leaving 1 inch around the edges. Lay asparagus over the cheese mixture.

Bake for 5 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Sprinkle lemon zest over the tart before serving.

Source: Culinary.net

READER EXCHANGE

Books/Magazines

I’m looking for Ralph Compton’s “Trail Drive Series” books.

Elizabeth A. Samul P.O. Box 37 Antelope, OR 97001-0037

Crafts/Hobbies

We are gathering items again for Operation Christmas Child. If you sew, knit or crochet, we would love to have Barbie doll clothes, hats or finger puppets. We are also collecting Matchbox or Hot Wheels cars, cloth pencil pouches and Beanie Babies. Last year, we sent 558 shoeboxes worldwide. Our goal is to send as many or more this year. Many thanks to those of you who have sent items in the past, you have shared kindness and joy with children near and far, many of whom have never received a gift. If you have other gift ideas for children 3-14, let us know. Sometimes items are too large for the shoeboxes. We cannot send liquids or sweets.

Peggy Hodge 10106 Edgewood Drive Anderson Island, WA 98303 peggyocc2000@gmail.com

I’m requesting all types of yarn, old jewelry, cotton, fabric, buttons, wine corks and artificial flowers. I make things and donate to shelters, food banks, churches, pregnancy centers and anyone in need. Thank you in advance for anything you can send.

Christen Rath 6577 Lucky Lane #802 Brookings, OR 97415

I sew aprons, pot holders, etc. I would love to find an inexpensive source for fabric. Any good-sized scraps will work. Thank you.

Diane Sauer 17468 Auklet Drive Bend, OR 97707 dianelpn13@live.com

Milestones

Our amazing and precious mother, Verneil, is turning 100 years old in May. She has spent a lifetime helping others, never complaining, and always being there with a smile and a pleasant attitude. Please join us in celebrating this very special lady’s birthday. Send cards to Verneil Johnson, 611 S. Harriman Ave. #219, Amery, WI 54001.

Clayton Johnson Gold Beach, Oregon

At the end of May, mom will be 99 years old. I am thankful to still be able to receive her wisdom, reminisce memories and traditions, or sort buttons from the “purple tin” with great-grandkids. Birthday wishes from readers would be special. Betty Beckwith, The Forum at Town Center, 8709 SE Causey Ave. #226, Happy Valley, OR 97086.

Nancy Welfelt Redmond, Oregon

A very good friend of mine turns 97 in May. She would be tickled to receive a mailbox full of birthday wishes. She was a nurse for many years, raised her family and has always been a loving, giving person. Thank you so much. Send cards to Trudy Schoelkoph, 160 Joshua St., Grants Pass, OR 97526

Missy Murphy Bend, Oregon

Submitting Requests Is Free

Thanks

I would like to thank all the readers who sent crochet cotton to me. What generous members there are. I have more than enough to finish my tablecloth, and enough to do another tablecloth, plus place mats and a table runner. The colors are so bright and cheerful. Thank you all so much.

Patty Gassner Scio, Oregon

My mother, Gail Simmons, of Eugene, turned 80 in January. I requested birthday cards for her birthday and words of encouragement for still being a nurse in these difficult times. I was there when she checked her mailbox the first time, and the look on her face was priceless. She received more than 700 cards from all over the United States thanking her for her dedication to the medical field. I wanted to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for making her 80th birthday special. She read every one of the cards, some homemade and with hand-drawn pictures from children. What a blessing that something so small as a stamp and words of kindness go so far displaying the humanity left in the world. For those who wrote, God bless you, and thank you to the magazine for allowing us to share kindness in Milestones.

Robert Shafer Heppner, Oregon

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.

Now you can finally have all of the soothing benefits of a relaxing warm bath, or enjoy a convenient refreshing shower while seated or standing with Safe Step Walk-In Tub’s FREE Shower Package!

✓ First walk-in tub available with a customizable shower

✓ Fixed rainfall shower head is adjustable for your height and pivots to offer a seated shower option

✓ 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

Now you can have the best of both worlds–there isn’t a better,

See how landscapes can change in an instant at Arizona’s

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument

What Is It?

Walk over the most recent lava flow in Arizona at Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument. The monument—just outside Flagstaff— shows just how radically an eruption can change the landscape.

History

Many native tribes witnessed the volcano’s eruption just under 1,000 years ago, around 1,085 C.E. After days or weeks of earthquakes, a nearly 6-mile-long fissure split the Earth’s surface, and lava spouted up to 850 feet. The eruption covered 900 square miles with lava and ash, and the ash cloud could have been seen from as far away as presentday Tucson and Las Vegas.

Finding Flows

The main cinder cone you can visit today—the monument’s namesake Sunset Crater Volcano—formed around one of the main vents of the fissure. While the area surrounding the eruption was once fertile soil, it is now covered by the 10-story-deep lava flows. The oldest pine trees in the landscape are just 250 years old and are believed to be the first to grow since the eruption.

Nearby Monuments

Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument is one of three national monuments in the Flagstaff area. If you drive about a half-hour, you reach Wupatki—a pueblo community from around 1100 C.E. near the painted desert—and Walnut Canyon, home to cliff dwellings.

More Information

The national monument is open daily from sunrise to sunset. The visitor center is open every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s and operates from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. To plan your trip, call 928526-0502 or visit www.nps.gov/sucr.

PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE/L.CARTER

A Time to Honor

By Dave LaBelle

It’s a real paradox for me: I hate war, but I love and honor those who have sacrificed their lives for the freedoms we enjoy.

Michael Rummel called me from his Southern California home and asked if we could talk. He had met my son at Field of Dreams in Iowa and had read my latest book. Michael was struggling with some unfinished business—a promise he had made in Vietnam to fellow Marine Ron Denton some 50 years earlier. While drinking beer in Vietnam, the men had made a pledge: Whoever died first,

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.

the other was to visit the deceased’s grave, drink a beer, say a few choice “Marine things,” then crumple the can and spike it into the earth. Silly perhaps, but a promise nonetheless.

Michael didn’t know where Ron was buried, but a search led him to Bowling Green, Kentucky, where Ron had lived the last part of his life.

“Fate is telling me to go to Bowling Green and say my special goodbye to Ron,” Michael said.

But he was still on the fence about going. Hearing how troubled he was, I encouraged him to find Ron’s grave and keep his promise. Because I once lived in Bowling Green while teaching at Western Kentucky University, I told him I would meet him there.

“I have struggled with that decision for seven years now,” Michael confessed. “Your response has tipped the scale in

favor of doing it.”

He made the trip and completed his mission, thankful he did.

This brings me to another short but important story.

A young soldier from the small town I was living in had been killed in action. Out of respect, I dressed appropriately and photographed the sensitive outdoor burial service from a distance using a telephoto lens.

Upon seeing me, a decorated military officer assigned to the burial detail left the grave site and approached me as I photographed the interment. He firmly asked me not to photograph.

I respectfully refused his request.

“This young man died for the very freedoms you are asking me to deny,” I told him.

Unsure how to respond, he left me alone.

Reader Challenge

On this Memorial Day, make a photograph that honors the day and those who gave their lives in service. Remember, you are not taking anything but giving and honoring the fallen and their families when you celebrate their sacrifices. Move slowly and with reverence when documenting any service. Not overshooting is important.

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 meant no disrespect to the officer, the family or the fallen soldier. To the contrary, I was showing them respect for the laws and rights of our nation and honoring the young man’s service. n

Vietnam veteran Michael Rummel fulfills a promise to a brother in arms. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE

NIKON D700, 180mm lens ISO 200, f/4 at 1/400

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.

We know you. You’re not interested in everyday, runof-the-mill, common cutlery. You want something with a story, a unique feature that you can brag about. We’ve got just the thing for you. Our Mighty Conifer Knife is a unique tool with a Damascus steel blade and a handle crafted from an enhanced and stabilized natural pinecone. Each pinecone — and therefore, each knife — has its own unique characteristics. And the back of the handle features hand tooling, a further demonstration of each piece’s individual nature.

Constructed of Damascus steel, a modern reworking of the legendary metal forged by ancient swordsmiths, this nearly 5-inch blade features 256 layers that have been folded on top of each other to increase its durability. Our competitors are charging hundreds for boring, run-of-the-mill knives with no features worth bragging about. We’re asking JUST $99 for a knife unlike any you’ve seen before!

With full-tang construction and a genuine leather sheath, it’s the choice for those who crave distinction. Call now and be among the first 700 587 callers to receive free Stauer 8x21 Compact Binoculars, valued at $99. Satisfaction guaranteed or your money back!

overall length. Full-tang construction • Damascus steel blade and natural pinecone handle • Genuine leather sheath Mighty Conifer Knife $299 $99* + S&P Save $200

*You must use Insider Offer Code: MCK179-01 to get this price. California residents please call regarding Proposition 65 regulations before purchasing this product.

Your Insider Offer Code: MCK179-01

Do You Want to Keep Receiving Ruralite Magazine? Opt In!

Members received their first issue of GVEA’s Ruralite magazine back in 1977! While we know there are many members who still love this publication, we also know others prefer alternative forms of communication from their electric cooperative.

GVEA has a fiscal responsibility to spend money wisely, and, in an effort to save costs, we are proceeding with an opt in program for members who wish to continue receiving Ruralite.

Members have until July 31, 2024, to opt in.

How do I opt in?

• Visit www.gvea.com/optin, then complete and submit the form. You will need your name, mailing address and member number.

• The June and July issues of Ruralite will include a tear-off postcard. It will already include your information, so all you need to do to continue receiving your magazine is tear it out and put it in the mail.

Questions? Email ms@gvea.com or call 907-452-1151.

Rate Change

At the March 26 meeting, GVEA’s Board of Directors approved a 5% rate increase to the utility and demand charges on members’ bills, which will result in an increase of less than $0.01 per kilowatt-hour. The rate change begins June 1, and applies to all members. The rate change does not impact the quarterly Fuel and Purchased Power charge. To learn more, visit www.gvea.com/newsroom.

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

305-gallon Norwesco water storage tank, $285. Clean, used. Excellent condition: black poly 4-ft. tall by 4-ft. diameter, 59 lbs. Elko, NV. Text 775-275-0746 or email rwf175@gmail.com.

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

Antique general store collection, reproduced in our home. 35 years of collecting. Bean counter, cash register, tins, coffee grinder, advertising, more. Selling as complete set. Pictures available. Sisters, OR. Sandy Boyer, 541-480-7090. 0524

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. 0524

Wanted: 1937 Crosley Exervac machine also any Exervac instruction and maintenance information. mcbug26@gmail.com; 907-452-5234. 0524

WC Collectibles. We buy comic books! Local to the Inland Northwest, willing to travel. WCCollectiblesCheney@gmail.com; 509-496-1835. 0724

Rural collector buying any old clothing, shoes, hats, purses, undergarments from years 18601915. Anything from LoneRock and Condon, OR, saloon tokens. Let me know what you have. Dl_pappas@yahoo.com; 971-404-8332. 0524

Automotive

1970 Datsun 1600 Roadster. 40K miles since body-off restoration, always garaged. Engine modified to stroker. Near perfect. Lots of extras. Asking $17K. Philomath. blwilson@peak.org. 0524

Quick, Affordable: How to Place an Ad

„ Ads 25 words or fewer are $35 a month. An extended ad of up to 35 words is $50 a month. Contact information is included in the word count. Phone numbers and emails count as one word.

„ Longer ads may be placed. Contact 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop for pricing information.

„ Ads are for customers of member co-ops, public utility districts and municipals only. Subscribers and nonmembers may inquire about pricing at 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop.

„ Ads must be direct and in first person, and are subject to approval and editing.

„ Closing deadlines (in our office): July issue—May 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.

Call 503-357-2105 to pay by credit card.

Advertisements are accepted in good faith. Pioneer Utility Resources is not liable for interactions between buyers and sellers.

Books, Magazines, Videos

More “Montello Remembered” novels available. I’m also liquidating my NV history collection. Many rare and hard-to-find books now available. pruitt2010@frontier.com; 775-753-3254. 0524

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. 0524AR

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.

Community Events

5th annual Ely Rock and Gem Swap is 10 a.m. -4 p.m. June 21-22. Buy-sell-trade. Presented by the White Pine Public Museum, 2000 Aultman St., Ely, NV 89301. Entry fee: adults $7, children $4. Children’s activities and more. www.wpmuseum.org; 775-289-4710; wpmuseumnv@gmail.com. 0624

High Desert Music Jamboree at Harney County Fairgrounds in Burns, OR. June 13-15, 2024. Oregon Oldtime Fiddlers District 9. www.ootfa.org; 541-573-1323. 0524

Equipment/Tools

Caterpillar D-2 dozer, ‘40s vintage, ROPS, hydraulic blade, ponymotor start. Not started since pre-COVID, now diesel engine stuck. $3.7K OBO. Also “Woodchuck” tree chipper, 6-cylinder Ford engine, manuals, spare. $2.K OBO. Near Dayton, SE WA. 208-284-5073. 0524

Farm Equipment

Needed for AK homestead: Ford 601/2000, MF 35/135. 2 or 4WD, gas or diesel, live PTO, loader, power steering, ROPS or cab, wheel weights, track kit. Ready for work haying airstrip/ski strip, snow removal. 8N needs help. 907-322-5846. Lower 48 OK. 0524

Free Items

To give away at no cost. Square dance dresses for a small to medium person. 135-145 lbs. William L. Guthridge, 541-573-2772. 0524

Free materials church, government uniting, suppressing “religious liberty,” enforcing NationalSunday Law. Be informed. Need mailing address only. TBS, P.O. Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. tbsmads@yahoo.com; 888-211-1715. 0824AR

Media

Watch local TV on the go for free on your TV, phone, tablet, computer or ROKU. Visit www.kpvm.tv and stream live today. 775-727-9400. 0624

Miscellaneous

Local commercial fisherman sells summer catch of preserved freshness by blast freezing at sea, gourmet canned tuna on internet. Sept.-June. 100% guaranteed the best canned tuna you ever tasted. Original, jalapeno and garlic flavors available. Twofisherstuna.com. Call 206-799-1082 to place your order. 0624

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. 0624

Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. For more info: Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or 541-815-8906; www.highdesertmemorials.com. 0524

Pets, Supplies

Traditional ragdoll kittens: www.rockinragdolls.com. Minature AKC poodle puppies: www.peachypoodles.net. Idaho. 208-627-7101. 0524

Border collie/McNab puppies. The best dog you will ever have. Males and females, $450 each. Colton, OR. 503-314-0145. 0524

Real Estate

40 acres in Christmas Valley, OR. Water well, metal barn 36x36’, two open carports, one container. Send offers to 52485 Sunrise Blvd., La Pine, OR 97739. 0524

$600K interior Alaskan turnkey roadhouse and 2 dry cabins. Well-maintained on 5 acres with pond. 50 scenic miles south to Denali Park entrance. 907-460-9292. 0524

1 acre Sunnyside, NV. 2,150 sqft. Well-kept mobile home, 35X35’ garage/shop. MLS#: 2507213. Desert Mountain Realty, Shannan Cessford #S.0186536. 775-289-3038. 0524

Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian. For sale Sisters, OR, 40 acres. Price reduced $1,595,000. John Gill, 541-480-9161 or johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0524

North ID forested 20-acre property. Multiple building sites, power at property line, 6 miles to Bonners Ferry. $380K. Offers considered. 530-715-0030; bgbkkr@gmail.com. 0624

320 acres east of Adel, OR. Borders Hart Mountain views, Steens Mountain, and Beaty Butte. Landowner tags, very rural. $267K. For maps contact: 541-659-1573; thejugglingman3@gmail.com. 0524.

Peaceful serene setting on 160 acres bordering BLM. Home, shop, meadow, 2 creeks, timber, LOP tags. $739.5K Duke Warner Realty, 541987-2363; ddwr@ortelco.net. 0524

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

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. 0524

15 off-grid acres. At 8400 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 midMay to mid-Oct.; $140/night mid-Oct. to mid-May. (plus cleaning/tax). Three bedrooms w/double beds. Pets welcome. Wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. Reservations: 541-740-2846. 0624AR

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.

Vacation Rental - Syringa, ID. Rustic, 2-bed, furnished frame cabin. Near 3 rivers, mountains, wilderness. www.airbnb.com/rooms/356491; glenscott.swearingen@gmail.com. 0624 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 or 541-410-6945. License #245760 bonded and insured. LaPine, OR.

Looking for an elevator repair person for an older elevator, residential, in the Sierra Valley. 415-710-2544. 0524

Call Pahrump Lock and Safe for all your residential, commercial and safe services. 24-hour emergency service in Pahrump, NV. 702-379-8441; Jim@pahrumplockandsafe.com. 0624

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. 0724

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

Old postage stamp albums. 253-307-1881; brashearsj@hotmail.com. Please send photos and contact info. 0524

Wanted: small, working oven element for a 1967-ish flair, double wall oven. 15 inches long, including 3-prong plug-in, 10.5 inches wide. 541-256-0990. 0524

Wanted by Papa and grandson: old car or pickup for project 1930s to 1970s. Call Bill, 503-995-3194. 0524

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. 0524

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. 0524

Wanted: early Corvette ‘58-’62, any condition. Call/text Randy, 503-544-3807. 0824

Electric Energy Monitors and Applications

By Richard Brock, GVEA Energy Efficiency Engineer

What are energy monitors?

Commonly referred to as energy monitors, electric use monitoring devices count the amount of electrical energy passing through a circuit, usually measured in kilowatt-hours. Most energy monitors also have power monitoring capabilities that generally make them more efficient for finding high-use devices.

Energy monitors vary in price and complexity. Watt meters cost approximately $20-$30, and residence-wide monitors cost approximately $300. GVEA’s meter data, which can be accessed through MyGVEA, can be an effective and inexpensive solution to monitor use and cost.

Why use an energy monitor over other solutions?

There are generally only two ways to chase down high use, by manually checking circuits with a current meter or using an energy monitoring device. Manually checking circuits with a current meter works well for constant loads with a high energy draw. Energy monitors excel when you want to check how much electricity each device or group of devices use over time.

Electricians generally have a difficult time reliably tracking down sources of high use. This method is difficult due to the limited amount of information that can be gathered during a brief visit. For example, let’s say most of a member’s use comes from a truck that is plugged in, drawing 1,200 watts per day for an entire month. An electrician may not have the time available to track the wiring that would lead him or her directly to the truck. Additionally, the member’s dishwasher may be running during the electrician’s visit, causing the hot water heater to use significantly more electricity than the truck. The electrician will see the hot water heater running and may think it’s the largest cause of high use over the month simply because it was using the most power at the time of his or her visit.

Energy monitors provide an advantage when it comes to discerning use of inconsistent loads such as computers, refrigerators, boilers and water heaters. Because energy monitors look at use over an extended period of time, they can be used to measure the cost of devices much more accurately than other methods.

Simply put, using an energy monitoring device is the most efficient and accurate way to monitor your homes energy use.

Variations Between Different Energy Monitoring Devices

There are three types of energy monitoring devices that are recommended for monitoring your home’s energy efficiency: GVEA meters monitored through MyGVEA, plug-in monitors, and residence-wide monitors.

GVEA’s AMI meters monitor energy use and provide interval data to members through the MyGVEA mobile or desktop app. GVEA interval meter data can be used to identify use of specific devices to some extent, but requires a lot more work and knowhow compared to other devices. GVEA’s meters are a type of energy monitoring device, and utility meter. This data can be

used like that of an energy monitoring device, but has some limitations.

Plug-in meters are the simplest energy monitoring devices. These devices are capable of measuring energy use for plugged in devices like microwaves, refrigerators, TVs, computers, etc. Plug-in meters can only measure devices with 120V plugs. They cannot measure higher-use appliances, such as stoves, ovens, water heaters, dish washers, clothes dryers, wall lighting, circulation pumps, well pumps, etc. Despite their limitations, plug-in meters are easy to use and more affordable than most other energy monitors.

The most complex energy monitors are residence-wide monitors, generally installed inside the main breaker panel of a home. These units require an electrician to install and a wireless connection. Depending on the model, residencewide monitors may measure the entire home or have multiple sensors to measure individual circuit breakers and areas of the house. Monitors, such as Sense, measure the total house load and use analytical software to identify use of individual devices.

Which energy monitoring device would be best for you?

Choosing the most suitable option depends on your specific circumstances. If you prefer a hands-off approach and are focused on long-term monitoring without investing much time into diagnosing your home’s use, the Sense energy monitor is an excellent choice. The Sense is among the more expensive residence-wide monitors, costing approximately $300, it is able to identify individual devices by interpreting use patterns. With a relatively simple installation, you’ll generally get better use data than other energy monitors. Due to how they identify loads, Sense energy monitors will work with homes where electrical circuits aren’t clearly or correctly labeled.

By using the plug-in watt meter, you can find out how much energy and power all the plug-in devices in the house use. To identify all the use in your house, you can use meter data in conjunction with a plug-in monitor. By turning off or on hardwired and 240V devices and checking meter interval data, you can determine the power use of devices that the watt meter isn’t capable of monitoring. This method is the most affordable, but it requires more time than using the more advanced residence-wide energy monitors.

Watt’s the point?

Energy monitoring devices are best used to measure the energy use of individual devices within the home to promote long-term energy efficiency. Energy monitors come in different forms and each one has advantages and disadvantages. No single energy monitor is perfect for every circumstance. Energy monitors are a tool to gather information to make educated decisions on how to improve your home’s electrical efficiency in the long run. For additional information on energy efficiency, visit www.gvea.com/energy-saving-tips. n

BEFORE YOU GO

Share the 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 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

This tree on top of Likely Mountain in Likely, California, has a unique shape. When the fog dissipates, there is a view of the South Fork Valley.

PHOTO BY RICHARD FIRMAN

DO IT RIGHT WITH DR® POWER

the Power and Precision of a

• 5X the power of a handheld trimmer

• Trim precisely with-out arm fatigue

• Mow where a bladed mower can’t

• Toughest trimmer cord available

• Up to 2X the power of the competition

• Cut 3" thick brush and tall field grass with ease

• Commercial, Electric, Walkand Tow-Behind models available,

Sacred Stone of the Southwest is on the Brink of Extinction

Centuries ago, Persians, Tibetans and Mayans considered turquoise a gemstone of the heavens, believing the striking blue stones were sacred pieces of sky. Today, the rarest and most valuable turquoise is found in the American Southwest–– but the future of the blue beauty is unclear.

On a recent trip to Tucson, we spoke with fourth generation turquoise traders who explained that less than five percent of turquoise mined worldwide can be set into jewelry and only about twenty mines in the Southwest supply gem-quality turquoise. Once a thriving industry, many Southwest mines have run dry and are now closed.

We found a limited supply of turquoise from Arizona and purchased it for our Sedona Turquoise Collection . Inspired by the work of those ancient craftsmen and designed to showcase the exceptional blue stone, each stabilized vibrant cabochon features a unique, one-of-a-kind matrix surrounded in Bali metalwork. You could drop over $1,200 on a turquoise pendant, or you could secure 26 carats of genuine Arizona turquoise for just $99

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. If you aren’t completely happy with your purchase, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price.

The supply of Arizona turquoise is limited, don’t miss your chance to own the Southwest’s brilliant blue treasure. Call today!

Jewelry Specifications:

• Arizona turquoise • Silver-finished settings

Sedona Turquoise Collection

A. Pendant (26 cts)

B. 18" Bali Naga woven sterling silver chain $149 +s&p

C. 1 1/2" Earrings (10 ctw) $299 * $99 +s&p Save $200

Set

**Complete set includes pendant, chain and earrings.

You

A.

B.

Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color

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

Get Involved

If you’re interested in:

• Learning about what goes into your electric rates;

• Having a chance to meet with members of GVEA’s Board of Directors once a month;

• Taking on special projects from the Board to benefit the membership;

• Participating in your electric cooperative

Consider joining Golden Valley’s Member Advisory Committee. It’s a great way to get involved, learn more about your electric co-op and provide valuable feedback.

Join GVEA’s Member Advisory Committee

The MAC comprises members from each of GVEA’s seven geographic districts. MAC members:

• Serve three-year terms, beginning in September.

• Meet monthly, typically on the second Wednesday.

• Receive $60 per meeting, plus standard mileage rates for round-trip travel.

All GVEA members in good standing (except employees) are eligible to serve on the MAC. Apply at www.gvea.com. Applications must be completed and submitted by July 31, 2024. n

Current MAC Members

Marcus Chappel

Helen Connor

Karl Gohlke

Leslie Greenfield

Peter Hallgren

Jamie Hansen

Anita Hartmann

Katherine Hennigan

Terry Hinman

Laura Jacobs

John Kelleher

Thomas Kelly

Eric Lanser

Karen Lipari

Korene Long

Kacie Mason

Alyssa Millard

Mathew Mund

John Rathbun

Angela Ritchie

Richard Theilmann

Heidi Titchenal

Philip Wight

Danielle Wiley

MAC members touring GVEA’s battery energy storage system in July 2023. PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON