Ruralite, Golden Valley Electric, October 2024

Cohen W. shops at the Fairbanks Co-op Market Grocery and Deli, where every purchase

PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON

Ruralite

October 2024 • Volume 72, No. 10

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

SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR

Alyssa McDougle

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The Power of Public Power

When I began working here at Ruralite magazine, I had no idea what a wonderful world I had fallen into. But it didn’t take me long to figure out that working in the public power/co-op utility world was a fabulous opportunity.

The people I have met and work to serve—those same people who bring power to your homes—are earnest, hardworking individuals who care deeply about the safety and success of their communities.

This month, through National Cooperative Month and National Public Power Week from Oct. 6-12, we celebrate these entities and their teams who brighten your day with electricity.

Pioneer Utility Resources, the company that publishes this magazine for your utility, is such a fan of the cooperative business model that we are a cooperative ourselves.

If you happen to visit your utility office this month, please take a moment to appreciate

the value it brings to your life. Affordable and reliable electricity is a foundational service that affects every corner of our days.

Our Spotlight feature this month highlights the Gorge Farmer Collective in the Columbia Gorge that sprung up after COVID-19 hampered growers in Washington and Oregon accustomed to selling directly to buyers at farmers markets and restaurants.

The savvy farmers formed a cooperative to leverage their sales opportunities and developed an online store allowing buyers to place orders and pick them up outdoors. The group has continued to evolve as COVID-19 has receded.

Our Up Close feature this month will challenge you with presidential trivia, just in time for our upcoming elections next month. Impress your friends with obscure knowledge about the highest office in the United States. And, of course, please make sure you vote.

Sincerely,

Mike Teegarden Editorial Director

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

Presidential Trivia

How much do you know about past presidents? Up Close, Page 10

GVEA Member Spotlight

Celebrating National Co-op Month with a Spotlight on

Fairbanks Co-op Market and Deli

By Deb Hickok

“Most of Alaska is a food desert,” says Hilary Shook, president of the board of directors for the Fairbanks Co-op Market Grocery & Deli, 526 Gaffney Road.

“Anything that the local community can do to help support themselves and the local economy is important to their self-sufficiency,” she says.

The co-op does its part to help the region. Opened in 2013, the market’s purpose is to provide easy, year-round access to sustainable, healthy and locally produced food, goods and services.

“We’re the only full-service grocery store downtown, anybody can shop here. Our GM is super strategic in how he is pricing food,” Hilary says.

General Manager Christopher Hutchquist was hired last January.

Shoppers may take advantage of discounts, called Co+op Basics, on more than 200 staple items found throughout the store, as well as Co+op Deals. The store accepts coupons from SNAP, a federally funded food program for low-income families.

“We are working to lower the margin that you would normally put on local foods, so that they will remain affordable,” Hilary says. “If you are looking at Co+op Basics, bulk food and produce, we are in line with the rest of Fairbanks.”

While the market is open to all shoppers, more than 4,800 owners have invested a onetime $200 allocation for their households, which may be paid in installments.

“Owners vote, and there is a direct line to the board,” Hilary says. They may also run for a board seat and receive special sale prices on goods.

The Co-op Market Distinguishes Itself “We’re careful about the types of products we sell,” Hilary says.

The market features products that are, in general, ethically produced, frequently organic and clean, meaning foods that do not have a lot of preservatives. Hilary also notes that it is the only grocery store in Fairbanks that currently sells bulk food.

“One of the reasons that I became a member of the board is to be a part of the food economy of our local community,” Hilary says, while also pointing out the importance of corporate grocery stores in town.

“We need to do our best to support local farmers,” she says. “Our co-op is nonpolitical in everything except food security.”

Hilary cites the recent passage of Alaska House Bill 251 as an example of a positive step forward. Entitled “Food Freedom Act,” the bill in part reduces the red tape for small volume food producers, such as those operating out of home kitchens.

“People get started through the cottage industries, and this helps them to expand,” Hilary says. “With this new legislation, hopefully we can expand our local offerings.”

It Takes a Community

When founded, the cooperative was partially funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Economic Development Loans and Grants program. The no-interest loan came through Golden Valley Electric Association, a reliable USDA borrower since 1949. The market received a $360,000 loan from this funding, which it paid off last year.

program. Customers may opt to round up their shopping bills to the nearest dollar with the difference donated to support the work of a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit. All donations are given to the organization selected for the month.

Serve on the Co-op Board

“I am passionate about food security, food production, nutrition and cooperatives, and thought that the co-op was a good fit,” says Board Secretary Callen Christensen.

Callen coordinates the Alternative Fairbanks Farming Education Cooperative Training, known as AFFECT, a training program for farmers that emanates from the Fairbanks Soil and Water Conservation District. In 2018, he founded the Chaga Co-op, a foraging cooperative featuring medicinal and edible mushrooms.

“No. 1 thing to do, if they’re interested, is to join the board of directors,” Callen advises Co-op Market owners. “And help us build a food security community. It’s rewarding, fun, educational.”

“One of the most important ways that the community can support us is to join the board of directors,” agrees Hilary who is in her second and final three-year term on the board due to term limitations.

“Last year was 10 years since our doors opened,” she says. “Most small businesses don’t make it past five years.”

She notes that, like other brick-and-mortar stores, the Co-op Market was in survival mode during the pandemic. Now the cooperative is stable again and ready for its next stage of growth.

Hilary says another key element in opening the doors of the co-op was the support of owner loaners who lent money to the startup. She says some forgave their loans, some gave additional loans and most of the loans have been paid off.

“This really demonstrates the support that we have had from the community,” Hilary says.

Beyond grocery product offerings, the cooperative also facilitates giving back to the community through its Lend a Hand

“It’s time for new people to come in with fresh energy to continue the momentum and energy,” Hilary says. n

OPPOSITE PAGE: Co-op Market member Ana M. and her son Cohen W. browse the fresh, locally grown produce at Co-op Market & Deli, which supports sustainable, community-driven shopping.

ABOVE: Co-op Produce Lead Jen McLeod carefully arranges vibrant heirloom tomatoes at Co-op Market & Deli.

PHOTOS BY GRACE WILSON

Cooperatives Nationwide Celebrate National Co-op Month During October

Throughout the month of October, National Co-op Month acknowledges the more than 65,000 cooperatives and credit unions around the country. This year’s theme is “The Future is Cooperative.” The International Cooperative Alliance describes co-ops as people-centered enterprises that are jointly owned and democratically controlled by and for their members to realize their common economic, social and cultural needs and aspirations.

The Fairbanks Co-op Market Grocery & Deli is planning festivities during the month. The cooperative will roll out a bumper sticker and a T-shirt saying, “Resist food monopolization. Support your local co-op.“ Board members will be on hand in the store to answer customer questions, such as how to become an owner or board member. The co-op tentatively will host a Halloween concert and trick-or-treating event on October 26. Also, it may arrange a viewing of “100 Years of Cooperation,” a 1-hour documentary that follows the work of the National Cooperative Business Association CLUSA International. For information on the cooperative as well as up-to-date details on October activities, visit www.coopmarket.org.

GOLDEN VALLEY ELECTRIC

GVEA’s Beginning

Electric cooperatives in the U.S. were established in the 1930s as part of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal. The Rural Electrification Administration was created in 1935 to provide low-cost loans to electric cooperatives, enabling them to build infrastructure and bring electricity to rural areas that private companies deemed too unprofitable. This transformed rural America by improving the quality of life, boosting agriculture and fostering economic growth. In Alaska, electric cooperatives like Golden Valley Electric Association played a critical role in electrifying the Interior, connecting remote communities and powering their development.

1946

January 7 Nine pioneers executed the Articles of Incorporation for GVEA. We are grateful for the vision, tenacity and hard work of our founders and original members.

January 31 GVEA held its first membership drive and 101 memberships were confirmed. Today, GVEA serves more than 36,000 members with more than 45,000 meters— that’s nearly 100,000 residents across the Interior, from Fairbanks to Delta Junction, Nenana, Healy and Cantwell.

1950

February 5 Power poles were set along Farmers Loop and College Road. Between 1950-1952, GVEA made great strides in its mission to bring electricity to its members at the lowest possible cost, adding 70 miles and 700 members during that time. Only five years after the first meeting of incorporators, GVEA was well on its way to becoming one of Fairbanks’ largest local enterprises.

1953

March 26 GVEA signed its first union contract with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 1533. In 1953, GVEA line workers serviced 160 miles of line that provided power to 1,700 members and were essential in the rapid expansion of service in years to follow. Since GVEA’s founding In 1946, our member-owned electric cooperative has been a powerful catalyst for economic development in Interior communities and we have remained committed to supporting our workers and unions.

Three members of the original board of directors of GVEA are, from left, Clift Hayden, Ben Stimple and Carl Mock.

Six of the nine original incorporators of GVEA were honored in 1972.

1958

March 21 GVEA began delivering power to Delta Junction in 1958 after purchasing Northern Lights Utilities from Delta under advisement from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association and has since played an integral role in Delta’s economic growth and expansion. Delta Junction is home to Fort Greely Army Base, near Pogo Mine and hosts a thriving agricultural and tourism industry.

1966

March 30 Nenana was fully tied into GVEA’s system, thanks to the completion of the first high-voltage transmission line running from Healy along the Railbelt to Nenana and across to Fairbanks. At the time, Nenana served one-third of Alaska by receiving freight via the Alaska Railroad and then delivering goods to communities up and down the Tanana and Yukon Rivers.

1967

November 20 Healy Unit 1, a coalfired 25-megawatt power plant, came online and has faithfully served GVEA members since.

1968

May 25 The F.E. (Fairbanks Exploration) Power Plant was retired after being the primary source of power for Fairbanks for 41 years. First constructed in 1927 by the F.E. Co. to power its large-scale dredge operations, the F.E. Power Plant was the largest in Alaska at the time. GVEA bought the plant from the F.E. Co. in 1959. After retiring the plant in 1968, GVEA sold it to Oregon’s Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs in 1973.

The story continues next month.

Together We Make a Big Difference

• North Star Imagination Library: $4,000 to support the distribution of free, age-appropriate books to children from birth through age 5. This grant will help children across the Interior of Alaska receive up to 60 books of their own by the time they start school, fostering improved educational outcomes. Since its inception in 2008, the program has mailed more than 600,000 books, with nearly 650 new children receiving their first book this year alone. As the program continues to grow, it provides a crucial resource for young readers, enriching their early learning experiences and building lifelong literacy skills.

The Good¢ents Board of Trustees awarded six grants totaling $41,000 on August 15.

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 October 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 $1,755,568.93.

Here’s a summary of the recent grants:

• Fairbanks Resource Agency (FRA): $15,000 for the purchase of a new accessible van for its Day Habilitation program, which supports children and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. This grant will replace an aging vehicle that is critical to the daily operations of the program, ensuring that 50 participants continue to receive essential therapeutic and educational services without interruption. The new van will enhance transportation accessibility, allowing FRA to maintain the high-quality support and programming that benefit individuals across the community.

• Delta Youth Hockey & Skate Association (DSA): $4,000 to support the operation and maintenance of the Liewer-Olmstead Arena in Delta Junction. Since 1982, DSA has thrived on the dedication of its volunteers and the partnership with the city of Delta Junction, managing a key facility that fosters community engagement through hockey and skating. With a board of nine officers and an average of 90 youth hockey members annually, DSA is a cornerstone of local youth sports. This grant will enhance their ability to provide high-quality programs, continuing to develop top hockey athletes and keep young participants active, engaged and fit throughout the winter months.

• Fairbanks Children’s Museum (FCM): $5,000 to enhance the infant and toddler areas, ensuring they remain engaging and welcoming for families. This grant will fund the replacement of outdated seating with new, aesthetically pleasing, and breastfeeding-friendly options, as well as the addition of updated toddler toys and a new small climber to support gross motor skill development. By investing in high-quality, durable items from reputable vendors, FCM aims to maintain a safe and stimulating environment that supports both children and caregivers while upholding its mission to be a valuable resource for all families in the Interior.

• Interior Alaska Land Trust: $9,000 to enhance public access at Chinook Conservation Park (CCP). This grant will support the completion of a critical project to create a year-round loop trail by adding decking to two bridge frames already in place. CCP, divided by Cripple Creek, currently allows winter crossings, but this project will provide a continuous, accessible trail throughout the year. By improving access and connectivity, the Land Trust aims to further its mission of conserving natural, scenic and recreational lands north of the Alaska Range for the benefit of the community.

• Morris Thompson Cultural & Visitor’s Center (MTCVC): $4,000 to fund essential energy retrofits for its facility on the Chena River in downtown Fairbanks. This grant will support upgrades to achieve significant energy savings, reduce maintenance costs and enhance building comfort and resilience. By improving energy efficiency, MTCVC can allocate more resources and staff time toward enhancing services for the Interior Alaska community and preparing for future retrofits aimed at reducing summer cooling needs. As a participant in the Solarize Fairbanks Building Resiliency for the Interior program, MTCVC is committed to increasing community resilience through energy audits and technical assistance.

FRA staff and clients pose in front of their new accessible van. Thanks to a $15,000 Good¢ents grant, 50 participants in their Day Habilitation program will continue receiving essential services with improved transportation. PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON

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How much do you know about past presidents?

By Sydney Turner

Presidential elections can cause passionate emotions, but one thing we can all agree on is the office of the president of the United States has a long and interesting history. We last ran presidential trivia in 2008, but a reader recently suggested we do it again. We dug up some of our favorite trivia questions to test your knowledge. Information sources are included, too, in case you want to dig deeper.

Q: During which presidency did Queen Victoria of Great Britain and Ireland give the Resolute Desk to the United States?

A. Rutherford B. Hayes

B. Chester A. Arthur

C. Ulysses S. Grant

D. Benjamin Harrison

A: A., Rutherford B. Hayes. The HMS Resolute was sent to the Arctic in 1852 as a rescue ship in search of missing explorer Sir John Franklin. When it too became iced in, her crew eventually abandoned her in 1854, and she drifted as a ghost ship. In 1855, the Resolute was discovered by the New London, Connecticut, crew of the George Henry, made seaworthy and sailed to New London Harbor, arriving Dec. 24, 1855.

The Resolute was soon returned to England and served the Royal Navy for 23 more years until she was decommissioned. It was then that Queen Victoria ordered that a desk be made of the Resolute’s best timbers and sent to the United States as a symbol and seal of the two countries’ lasting friendship.

The desk was first used by President Hayes and was first used in the Oval Office by President John F. Kennedy. The desk has been moved in and out of the Oval Office throughout history, but has been used by every president since Jimmy Carter. https://tinyurl.com/y4mfjyc3

Q: Presidents have had many jobs. Which of the following has been held by presidents either before or after office?

A. Supreme Court justice

B. Farmer

C. Haberdasher

D. All the above

A: D. Earlier in his life, President Harry Truman was indeed a haberdasher in Kansas City, Missouri. Jimmy Carter is well known as a peanut farmer from Georgia, though many of our founding fathers held the title of gentleman farmer in addition to president. In perhaps the most unprecedented postpresidential move, William Howard Taft became chief justice of the United States after his presidency. Much preferring law to politics, Supreme Court justice was the job he wanted all along.

https://tinyurl.com/yj7em57p

Q: Which president was also a U.S. National Park Service ranger?

A: Gerald R. Ford. In the summer of 1936, Ford worked as a seasonal park ranger at Yellowstone National Park. Ford later recalled that time as “one of the greatest summers of my life.”

https://tinyurl.com/5ewn2yb6

Q: Which presidential family member can be closely connected to three presidential assassinations?

A: Robert Todd Lincoln. He was in the Petersen house when his father, Abraham Lincoln, died April 14, 1865, the day after being shot by John Wilkes Booth. In 1881, Lincoln was only a few feet away from President James A. Garfield at the train station in Washington, D.C., when Garfield received the shot that took his life. Lincoln found himself in Buffalo, New York, in 1901 when President William McKinley was shot at the Pan-American Exposition and later died.

https://tinyurl.com/5n7ka5xu

Q: Which former president was issued the first Medicare card?

A: Harry Truman. President Truman had fought passionately to establish Medicare and Medicaid while in office but was ultimately unsuccessful. Later, when President Lyndon B. Johnson signed Medicare into law in 1965, he traveled to Independence, Missouri, to sign the bill and present former President and First Lady Truman with the first Medicare cards.

https://tinyurl.com/yeyph99x

Presidential

Presidential Trivia

Q: The presidential family’s household expenses, such as groceries, toiletries and dry cleaning, are paid for by the government. True or false?

A: False. The next time the media reports the president had sushi brought into the White House, you can rest easy. Those are not your tax dollars at work.

https://tinyurl.com/235p6639

Q: How many presidents were unmarried when they took the oath of office?

A. 5

B. 3

C. 6

D. 4

A: C. Presidents Thomas Jefferson and Martin Van Buren were widowers when they took the oath of office. Andrew Jackson was married when he was elected but widowed by the time he was sworn in. Chester A. Arthur was a widower as vice president and remained so when he inherited the presidency after the death of President James Garfield. President Grover Cleveland was a bachelor when he took the oath of office for his first presidency but married during his first term in office. The American presidency has only seen one true bachelor, President James Buchanan. He never married, so his niece, Harriet Lane, served as his first lady.

https://tinyurl.com/2whjzdnz

Q: How many years is “four score and seven?”

A: 87 years. The iconic line “Four score and seven years ago,” from President Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, refers to 1776. https://tinyurl.com/yc3hsv4v

Q: Under which president was the west wing constructed?

A: Theodore Roosevelt. Among other reasons, the White House—as it existed in 1901 when the Roosevelt family moved in—was not suited to hold both his rambunctious family of six children and the business of the nation. So, construction of the west wing began.

https://tinyurl.com/yu92ka49

Q: During which presidency did the term first lady become synonymous with the president’s spouse or attending female relative?

A: Grover Cleveland. Though varying terms to describe the president’s spouse have been used throughout history— including Mrs. President—it was during Grover Cleveland’s second term as president that his wife, Frances Folsom Cleveland, inspired the term we use today. https://tinyurl.com/597pmcsu

Q: How many presidents also served in Congress?

A: 26. Ten former presidents served in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, nine served in the House, and seven served in the Senate. One president, John Quincy Adams, served in Congress after his presidency.

https://tinyurl.com/23fb7vrz

Q: Which item in this list is a fact about George Washington?

A. He had wooden teeth.

B. He did not grow hemp at Mount Vernon.

C. He chopped down a cherry tree.

D. He had no natural children.

A: D. All the children George Washington helped raise were from his wife, Martha’s, first marriage and other family members.

https://tinyurl.com/yeynk339

Q: Who was the last president born as a British subject?

A. William Henry Harrison

B. Millard Fillmore

C. Martin Van Buren

D. Zachary Taylor

A: A. William Henry Harrison, the ninth president of the United States, was the last president born under British rule and, unrelatedly, the first to die in office—after only one month’s service.

https://tinyurl.com/3wwtar66

Q: What were the country’s first two political parties?

A. Whigs and Democratic-Republicans

B. Democratic-Republicans and Federalists

C. National Republicans and Democrats

D. Democrats and Republicans

A: B. Is this question causing anyone else to start humming tunes from “Hamilton,” or is that just us?

https://tinyurl.com/sweuyfdy n

ADOBE STOCK ILLUSTRATIONS BY ALIAWINDI, SNAP2ART, NORDIC

Growing Collectively

Farmer cooperative members navigates success together

By Lori Russell

Farmers are no strangers to challenges. In the Columbia River Gorge, which serves as the border between Oregon and Washington, adapting to changes in weather, soil, pests and diseases comes with the territory. But when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down restaurants and farmers markets in the region, local growers weren’t adapting to conditions or pests. They had to figure out how to get their products to the public.

Five local growers responded quickly, joining forces to sell their crops—together.

“All of our accounts shut down overnight, and people had already started seeding,” says Kiara Kashuba, executive director, co-founder and member of the Gorge Farmer Collective.

Within two months, the group created an online, direct-toconsumer marketplace where Gorge residents could place orders and pick them up outdoors.

“It served the needs of farmers to sell their stuff and for the customers to be able to access local, healthy food in a safe way,” Kiara says.

Since planting its humble roots, the GFC has continued to grow and thrive. It now has more than two dozen members and sells items for a range of local producers. Customers—ranging from individuals and families to caterers and restaurants—can check out the weekly list of seasonal produce, meat, eggs, mushrooms, bakery items, honey and other products on the website and place any size order from a bag of apples to multiple pallets of food.

Cooperative Ownership

2021. Member-owners have an equal share of the business and participate in decision-making, including setting the annual budget and electing directors to the board. In years of excess profit, dividends are returned to the members.

Kiara says the cooperative model encourages producers to lean into their market niches.

“There are so many microclimates in the Gorge,” Kiara says. “At a traditional farmers market stall, you can’t just sell greens or peppers. You need variety. But, it is a lot of work to take care of many different types of plants. In the cooperative, everyone grows what they’re good at. They work together, and it boosts everyone up.”

Before joining the GFC two and a half years ago, Paul Hansen of Total Eclipse Farm outside of Parkdale, Oregon, sold his summer fruit and vegetables directly to restaurants and farmers markets.

“Restaurants need what they need when they need it, and I have what I have when I have it,” Paul says. “Often, those two would not match up. With the co-op, I walk out in my field and predict what I’ll have available next week. If I have a lot of carrots, lettuce and strawberries coming in, I list that on the website on Wednesday.”

On Thursday, customers begin shopping, and Paul gets a list of what they have purchased the following Monday. He harvests and delivers his orders to a central warehouse Wednesday morning for delivery.

Initially established as a multimember limited liability company, the Gorge Farmer Collective became a domestic cooperative in

“At a farmers market, you’ve harvested all that produce, and because you’ve harvested it all, if you don’t sell it all, you give it to a food bank right then or compost it,” he says. “With the GFC, I can harvest 26 heads of lettuce and deliver it in a clean, efficient way with no waste. It’s a really cool system.”

FROM TOP: Onions dry a on rack at Total Eclipse Farm, owned by Paul Hansen, above. Thanks to the Gorge Farmer Collective, a known quantity of produce can be harvested each day, based on the needs of customers. PHOTOS BY WILL MATSUDA

FROM TOP: Mary Kleihege of The Little Seven Seven Ranch raises beef she sells through the co-op. PHOTO COURTESY OF MARY KLEIHEGE Paul stocks an order at the collective warehouse. Evan Menzel of Killer Tomato tends to his crop.

Small farmers aren’t in competition with one another. We’re really on the same team.

—Kiara Kashuba, Gorge Farmer Collective executive director

The GFC has taken cooperation to another level, partnering with other organizations to serve a larger, more diverse group of neighbors in the region. It supplies local school districts with fresh fruits and vegetables, introducing students to a variety of produce they might not otherwise sample. The co-op participates in the Gorge Grown Food Network’s Veggie Rx. This fruit and vegetable prescription program addresses food insecurity and increases access to fresh produce. It also works with area food banks and local, regional and state programs that provide nutritious food to Gorge residents who need it.

Shared Vision, Shared Success

Co-op members aren’t just business owners; they are also co-workers. Everyone works at least one shift a month—from loading the delivery vehicles at the warehouse to helping at the pickup sites where customers receive their orders.

“It’s really wonderful to see all this synergy of people working together for our shared business,” Kiara says.

Mary Kleihege of The Little Seven Seven Ranch in Lyle, Washington, enjoys staffing the pickup site in the nearby town of White Salmon. It is one of nine such sites in the Gorge and Portland area. During her shifts, she ensures customers have everything they need and that everything runs smoothly.

“People are always happy with what they get and are so appreciative,” she says. “They know we are working to get them what they want.”

Mary and her husband, John, raise grass-fed Highland cattle, long-haired, long-horned creatures bred to roam in large pastures. The animals are particularly well-suited for the Gorge environment and produce high-quality beef known for its flavor and tenderness.

“The GFC gives us access to the market for the beef and connects us directly to consumers who are looking for something different—and we say something better—than you can get in the grocery store,” John says.

Like many of the co-op’s owners, the Kleiheges are also customers.

“Everything that I can get from the co-op, we buy from them,” Mary says. “It’s the best food you can get. I don’t just know it’s local and it’s fresh; I know the producers. They care about the quality of everything and use best-growing practices.”

“These kinds of cooperatives make rural America strong,” John adds. “We are competing with the mega-corporations that are taking jobs away from rural America. We think that supporting the local community really matters, and the Gorge Farmer Collective is essential to building the community. It lets us keep our way of life and our lifestyle.” n

Food Hubs: Building Stronger Communities

Farmers markets, community-supported agriculture and fruit stands provide consumers access to fresh local produce and products. Food hubs are another increasingly popular model. A food hub serves as a central gathering place where local farmers bring fresh produce and products to be sorted, stored and distributed. It connects farmers with retail, wholesale and institutional buyers like restaurants, schools, grocery stores and hospitals to increase access to seasonal, locally-grown food.

One of the biggest benefits of a food hub is its support of local farmers. By providing a centralized market, food hubs help farmers sell their goods more efficiently and at fair prices. This support encourages farmers to continue producing high-quality, sustainable food, which benefits the local economy and environment. Working collaboratively also allows farmers to access larger markets they may not be able to approach independently.

Food hubs also play an important role in supplying diverse food sources to their communities and reducing dependence on large-scale, out-ofthe-area suppliers.

Two Pacific Northwest groups are good resources for those interested in learning more about this collaborative model, says Kiara Kashuba, the Gorge Farmer Collective executive director. The Oregon Food Hub Club, a program of The Oregon Community Food System Network, is a peer learning community of projects in primarily rural areas of the state. It includes nonprofit organizations, farmers, ranchers, fishermen, small food businesses and rural economic development agencies. Find out more at ocfsn.org. The Northwest Food Hub Network—nwfoodhubnetwork.com—is comprised of farmer‐owned cooperative food hubs and partner organizations, including more than 200 farmers and local food producers. It serves markets across Montana and Washington.

“Small farmers aren’t in competition with one another,” Kiara says. “We’re really on the same team.”

Creamy Comfort: GET COZY WITH CHOWDER

Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway

BY KATIE WILCOX

Mexican Street Corn Chowder

4 tablespoons butter

1½ cups finely chopped yellow onion

½ cup seeded, stemmed and finely chopped poblano pepper

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chili powder, plus more for garnish

1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano

4 cups chicken stock

3 medium Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into ½-inch pieces

24 ounces frozen corn

1 cup heavy cream

2 teaspoons sugar

½ cup crumbled cotija cheese, plus more for garnish

¼ cup minced cilantro, plus more for garnish

1 tablespoon lime juice

Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

½ cup Mexican crema or sour cream, for garnish

Lime wedges, for serving

Sliced jalapenos, for serving

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and poblano, and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, about 7 to 8 minutes. Add the garlic, chili powder and oregano. Saute for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the chicken stock and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to maintain a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Stir in the corn, cream and sugar. Cook for 5 minutes, until warmed through.

Transfer 1½ cups of the soup to a blender, and puree until smooth. Stir the pureed soup back into the pot of remaining soup. Add cotija cheese, cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper.

Garnish with additional cilantro, cotija, chili powder and crema. Serve with lime wedges and jalapenos.

PHOTO

Cajun Shrimp Chowder

1 pound shrimp, deveined and tails removed

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

6 slices bacon, chopped

1 tablespoon butter

1 medium onion, chopped

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 pound yellow potatoes, chopped

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3 thyme sprigs

2 sliced green onions, plus more for garnish

3 cups sweet corn

3/4 cup heavy cream

½ teaspoon paprika

Season shrimp with Cajun seasoning, salt and pepper. In a large pot over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy, about 6 minutes. Place bacon pieces on a paper towel–lined plate. Add shrimp to bacon fat. Cook until pink, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer shrimp to plate with bacon. Drain bacon fat. Melt butter in the pot, scraping up any browned bits with a wooden spoon. Add onion. Cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in flour and garlic, and cook 30 seconds more. Add potatoes, broth, thyme and green onions. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover, and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in corn and cream. Simmer for 5 minutes. Turn off heat. Stir in shrimp. Season with salt, pepper and paprika. Garnish each serving with bacon and green onions.

Clam Chowder

4 slices bacon, for garnish

1 large onion, chopped

1 celery rib, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

¼ teaspoon dried thyme

3 small potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 cup water

8 ounces clam juice

1 tablespoon chicken base

2 cups half-and-half, divided 1/3 cup all-purpose flour

3 6½-ounce cans chopped clams, undrained

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste Oyster crackers, for serving

In a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat, add bacon and cook until crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove bacon from pot. Drain on paper towels. Crumble bacon, then set aside. Add onion and celery to the bacon fat. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and thyme until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Stir in potatoes, water, clam juice and chicken base. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer uncovered until potatoes are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes.

In a small bowl, whisk together 1 cup half-and-half and flour until smooth. Gradually stir into soup. Return to a simmer. Cook until thickened, about 1 to 2 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Add clams and their juice and remaining cup of halfand-half. Stir until heated through, about 1 minute. Garnish each serving with bacon and oyster crackers.

Slow Cooker Corn Chowder With Bacon

2 large carrots, chopped

1 large onion, chopped

4 potatoes, chopped

32 ounces corn, drained

32 ounces creamed corn

4 cups chicken broth

1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled

½ teaspoon thyme

1 teaspoon dried parsley

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

12 ounces evaporated milk

2 tablespoons cornstarch

3 tablespoons butter

Place everything except the evaporated milk, cornstarch and butter into the slow cooker. Add just enough chicken stock to cover the ingredients. Cook on high for 5 hours or low for 7 to 8 hours until vegetables are softened.

Combine cornstarch and evaporated milk. With the butter, stir into slow cooker 30 minutes before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, to taste.

Broccoli Cheddar Potato Chowder

5½ tablespoons butter, divided

11/3 cups chopped carrots

2 stalks celery, chopped

1 small yellow onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

3½ cups peeled and cubed russet potatoes, cut ½inch to 3/4-inch thick

¼ teaspoon dried thyme

3 cups chopped broccoli florets

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

6 tablespoons all-purpose flour

3 cups milk

½ cup heavy cream

2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

In a large pot over medium heat, melt 1½ tablespoons of butter. Add carrots, celery and onion. Saute for 3 to 4 minutes. Add garlic, and saute 30 seconds longer.

Stir in chicken broth, potatoes and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium. Cover, and cook for 15 minutes. Stir in broccoli. Cook 5 minutes longer or until vegetables are tender.

Meanwhile, melt remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook, whisking constantly, for 1 minute. While whisking vigorously, slowly pour in milk. Whisk well until no lumps remain.

Cook, stirring constantly, until mixture begins to thicken. Stir in heavy cream. Remove from heat. Add tender vegetables to the milk mixture, and stir. Remove from heat. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted. Serve warm.

READER EXCHANGE

Books/Magazines

I am a senior looking for hardback books by Janice Holt Giles. I can pay media shipping and a small amount for each. Contact me at kingsvalley42@gmail.com with any offers. Thanks to all who sent me George MacDonald books. I was so blessed.

Helen Wilder

24751 Maxfield Creek Road Monmouth, OR 97361

Crafts/Hobbies

I would appreciate any broken jewelry, chains, beads or pearls you may no longer need.

Susan Bybee

16637 W.M. Foss Road La Pine, OR 97739

I rely on a wheelchair, and there are a lot of things I am no longer able to do, but my son comes and stays to help when he can. He and I take donations of denim pants to make quilts. We give the quilts to folks in need. I have asked readers before, and we received many responses. We have been so busy, we now have to ask again for more denim or other fabrics. Thank you.

Shirley and Matt Egbert 190 S. Crystal Drive Rupert, ID 83350

Retired couple would like to learn new languages. We are looking for Rosetta Stone in cassettes or CDs. Thank you.

Mr. and Mrs. Hendrix P.O. Box 299 Doyle, CA 96109 Chariotsofchoice@yahoo.com

I would like to get some wallpaper sample books or individual wallpaper samples for the grandchildrens’ school art project. Please do not fold them, as that will cause creases in the paper. Thank you very much in advance.

Bob Pagani P.O. Box 686 Pacific City, OR 97135

Milestones

Please help us celebrate our mother’s 90th birthday in October. She loves people and making special cards and writing letters. She would be beyond thrilled if everyone sent her birthday wishes. Thank you for your consideration. Please send cards to Wylene Vinall, 2942 W. Fairway View Circle, Tucson, AZ 85742.

Georganne Bryant Nehalem, Oregon

My son-in-law’s mother turns 100 years young early this month. I would very much appreciate her hearing from you with a card. She does jigsaw puzzles. Her name is Louise Taggart, and please send cards to: 8090 Fairview Road, Tillamook, OR 97141. Thank you in advance.

Darlene Walker Tillamook, Oregon

Please help us surprise our amazing mother for her 100th birthday this month. She has always been interested in other people and would love receiving cards or letters in the mail. Thank you for your thoughtfulness. Send mail to Lorna Staveland at 24997 Sturtevant Drive, Veneta, OR 97487.

Judy Hillman Eugene, Oregon

Recipes

I am looking for a recipe for pecan praline fudge. I have one, but each time I’ve used it, it failed. Can you help? Thank you in advance.

Pat Moss P.O. Box 6115 Fairbanks, AK 99706

Thanks

Thank all of you who responded to my request for Crown Royal bags to replace the ones a quilter had lost. The generosity from readers was unbelievable. I feel the friendships and am reminded there are so many caring people.

Cindy Fay Troy, Montana

Submitting Requests Is Free

Send your request—with no attachments—to readerexchange@ruralite.org or mail to Reader Exchange, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Fill in the subject line with Reader Exchange. Acceptance, scheduling and editing are at the editor’s discretion. Single requests only, please. No duplicates.

Submissions are handled on a first-come, first-served basis and as space allows. We cannot honor every request.

Please affirm you have authorization from all appropriate parties before submitting. By submitting, you indemnify Reader Exchange, Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., its officers, directors, employees, utility clients and insurers from all legal liability incurred by the publication of information.

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When submitting a milestone request, please send it at least two months before the milestone.

Phone numbers will not be published. Email addresses will be published if part of the ad, but the request must include a postal address.

Request must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.

Meet the Beauty in the Beast

Discover this spectacular 6½-carat green treasure from Mount St. Helens!

For almost a hundred years it lay dormant. Silently building strength. At 10,000 feet high, it was truly a sleeping giant. Until May 18, 1980, when the beast awoke with violent force and revealed its greatest secret. Mount St. Helens erupted, sending up a 80,000-foot column of ash and smoke. From that chaos, something beautiful emerged… our spectacular Helenite Necklace

Helenite is produced from the heated volcanic rock of Mount St. Helens and the brilliant green creation has captured the eye of jewelry designers worldwide. Today you can wear this massive 6½-carat stunner for only $149!

Helenite Earrings -a $149 valuewith purchase of Helenite Necklace

Make your emeralds jealous. Our Helenite Necklace puts the green stone center stage, with a faceted pearcut set in .925 sterling silver finished in luxurious gold. The explosive origins of the stone are echoed in the flashes of light that radiate as the piece swings gracefully from its 18” luxurious gold-finished sterling silver chain. Today the volcano sits quiet, but this unique piece of American natural history continues to erupt with gorgeous green fire.

Your satisfaction is guaranteed. Bring home the Helenite Necklace and see for yourself. If you are not completely blown away by the rare beauty of this exceptional stone, simply return the necklace within 30 days for a full refund of your purchase price.

JEWELRY SPECS:

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Helenite Necklace (6 ½ ctw) ...................... Only $149 +S&P

Helenite Stud Earrings (1 ctw) $149 +S&P

Helenite Set $298 Call-in price only $149 +S&P

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Please mention this code when you call. Limited to the first 2200 orders from this ad only

14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. HNN158-03, Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

“My wife received more compliments on this stone on the first day she wore it than any other piece of jewelry I’ve ever given her.” - J. from Orlando, FL Stauer Client

Necklace enlarged to show luxurious color.

Doctor urges seniors to carry medical alert device

Seniors snap up new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills

People don’t always do what their doctor says, but when seasoned veteran emergency room physician, Dr. Philip B. Howren, says every senior should have a medical alert device, you better listen up.

“Seniors are just one fall away from being put in a nursing home,” Dr. Howren said. “With a medical alert device, seniors are never alone. So it keeps them living independently in their own home. That’s why seniors and their family members are snapping up a sleek new medical alert device that comes with no monthly bills ever,” he said.

Many seniors refuse to wear old style help buttons because they make them look old. But even worse, those medical alert systems come

with monthly bills.

To solve these problems Universal Physicians, a U.S. company went to work to develop a new, modern, state-of-the-art medical alert device. It’s called “FastHelp™” and it instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

“This slick new little device is designed to look like the pagers doctors wear every day. Seniors love them because it actually makes them look important, not old,” Dr. Howren said.

FastHelp is expected to hit store shelves later this year. But special newspaper promotional giveaways are slated for seniors in select areas. ■

■ NO MONTHLY BILLS: “My wife had an old style help button that came with hefty bills every month and she was embarrassed to wear it because it made her look old,” said Frank McDonald, Canton, Ohio. “Now, we both have FastHelp™, the sleek new medical alert device that our grandkids say makes us look ‘cool’ not old,” he said. With FastHelp, seniors never have to worry about being alone and the best part is there are no monthly bills ever.

Seniors born before 1956 get new medical alert device with no monthly bills ever

The phone lines are ringing off the hook.

That’s because for seniors born before 1956, it’s a deal too good to pass up.

Starting at precisely 8:30am this morning the Pre-Store Release begins for the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp™ One-Touch E 911 Button that instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever.

“It’s not like old style monitored help buttons that make you talk to a call center and only work when you’re at home and come with hefty bills every month. FastHelp comes with state-of-the-art cellular embedded technology. That means it works

(Continued on next page)

■ FLYING OUT THE DOOR: Trucks are being loaded with the new medical alert devices called FastHelp.

(Continued from previous page)

at home or anywhere, anytime cell service is available whether you’re out watering the garden, driving in a car, at church or even hundreds of miles away on a tour or at a casino. You are never alone. With just a single push of the One-Touch E Button you instantly get connected to free unlimited help nationwide with no monthly bills ever,” said Jack Lawrence, Executive Director of Product Development for U.S. based Universal Physicians.

“We’ve never seen anything like it. Consumers absolutely love the sleek new modern design and most of all, the instant rebate that practically pays for it and no monthly bills ever,” Lawrence said.

FastHelp is the sleek new medical alert device with the best of combinations: a quality, high-tech engineered device that’s also an extremely great value because there are no monthly bills ever.

Better still, it comes with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever – which makes FastHelp a great choice for seniors, students and professionals because it connects to one of the largest nationwide networks everywhere cell service is available for free.

And here’s the best part. All those who already have an old style monitored medical alert button can immediately eliminate those monthly bills, which is why Universal Physicians is widely advertising this announcement nationwide.

“So if you’ve ever felt a medical alert device was too complicated or expensive, you’ll want to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device with no monthly bills,” said Lawrence.

The medical alert device slugfest was dominated by two main combatants who both offer old style monitored help buttons that come with a hefty bill every month. But now Universal Physicians, the U.S. based heavyweight, just delivered a knockout blow sending

the top rated contenders to the mat with the unveiling of FastHelp. It’s the sleek new cellular embedded medical alert device that cuts out the middleman by instantly connecting you directly to highly trained 911 operators all across the U.S. There’s absolutely nothing to hookup or install. You don’t need a land line and you don’t need a cell phone. Everything is done for you.

“FastHelp is a state of

the art medical alert device designed to make you look important, not old. Old style monitored help buttons you wear around your neck, or require expensive base station equipment or a landline are the equivalent of a horse and buggy,” Lawrence says. “It’s just outdated.”

Millions of seniors fall every year and spend hours lying on the floor helpless and all alone with no help. But seniors who fall and

HOW TO GET IT:

get immediate help are much more likely to avoid getting sent to a nursing home and get to STAY living in their own home independently. Yet millions of seniors are still risking their safety by not having a medical alert device. That’s because seniors just can’t afford to pay the monthly bills that come with old style medical alert devices. That’s why seniors born before 1956 are rush-

ing to cash in the whopping $150 instant rebate before the 21 day deadline ends. So there’s no need to wait for FastHelp to hit store shelves later this year because seniors born before 1956 can get it now just by using the $150 instant rebate coupon printed in today’s newspaper before the 21 day deadline ends. If lines are busy keep trying, all calls will be answered. ■

IF BORN BEFORE 1956: Use the rebate coupon below and call this Toll-Free Hotline: 1-800-330-4294 DEPT. HELP8317

IF BORN AFTER 1956: You cannot use the rebate coupon below and must pay $299 Call: 1-800-330-9423 DEPT. HELP8317

THE BOTTOM LINE: You don’t need to shop around. We’ve done all the leg work, this deal is too good to pass up. FastHelp with the instant rebate is a real steal at just $149 and shipping and there are no monthly bills ever.

PROS: It’s the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp One-Touch E 911 Button that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available with no contracts or deposits. It connects you to the vast available network of cellular towers for free and saves seniors a ton of money because there are no monthly bills ever making this deal irresistible. Plus it’s the only medical alert device that makes seniors look important, not old.

CONS: Consumers can’t get FastHelp in stores until later this year. That’s why it’s so important for seniors born before 1956 to call the National Rebate Center Hotline within the next 21 days. For those who miss that deadline, the sleek little medical alert device will set you back over $300 bucks.

Reader Challenge

Today’s word is “comfort.” Show me in a photograph what comfort looks and feels like. Think about what the word means to you, and then challenge yourself to make a photograph that communicates how you see or feel. Just as many find doing word puzzles stretches the mind and keeps the brain awake, you may discover that choosing a word to photograph might be an equally valuable exercise.

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.

Making Pictures From Words

By Dave LaBelle

Decades ago, magazines like Popular Photography offered monthly photo challenges. Often, abstract word prompts such as “red,” “love” or “happiness” were given. I never took the challenge, but now I wish I had.

As a teacher and photography director, I learned not all students or staff shared the same ability to give shape to abstract ideas or concepts. While most were proficient when asked to photograph an event, a person or an object,

many were unable to grasp nonlinear assignments requiring interpretation. One student even angrily confessed he had to seek mental help because I had asked the class to make two interpretive photographs: one of how they saw themselves and the other of how they felt others saw them. He said he didn’t know what he felt about himself, and it stressed him so severely he sought counseling.

Years ago, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, I taught a multiweek photo class for inner-city youth. In one assignment, I asked the young students to

photograph something they loved or thought was beautiful and, in contrast, something they didn’t like or would like to change.

The dozen or so students came back with pictures of pets, family members, friends, parks and trees by the water. But they also shared photos of broken windows, graffiti on walls and trashy front yards. I was so impressed with their willingness to put in pictures what they felt was ugly and distasteful.

Interpretive photography— trying to illustrate an abstract concept or a word—requires

some introspection and a desire to share how you see and feel. Sometimes, it is a matter of setting aside your literal, documentary eyes and awakening your artistic, imaginative vision. Hopefully, those who view our photographs can see what we see and feel what we feel. n

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.

NIKON D810, 31mm lens ISO 1250, f/2.8 at 1/100

If I asked myself what photographs I have made lately that illustrate comfort, this unrehearsed scene of Maggie Kotz, lying near her dying husband, Vince, less than 24 hours before he died, would be at the top of my list. Though this is a spontaneous, documentary image, made as I stepped into the Kotzs’ bedroom to check on Vince, it also illustrates the word, “comfort.” PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE

Introducing the lightest folding power chair in the world

The Journey Air Elite features the latest carbon fiber technology for the ultimate in portability and performance

Mobility issues affect over 1 in 5 Americans. These individuals, and their loved ones, know how decreased mobility can result in loss of independence, pain and falling hazards. They are often stuck at home, missing out on a variety of activities, in a vicious cycle that diminishes their quality of life. In the past, mobility devices like scooters and power chairs were too heavy and bulky to transport easily. Now, carbon fiber material invented for the aerospace program has been used to create the ultimate mobility device. It’s called the Journey Air Elite … and there’s nothing else like it on earth.

At only 26 pounds, the Journey Air Elite combines lightweight portability with world class performance. It’s simple to use joystick and powerful dual-motor drive system enables you to zip around quickly and safely. Its easy to maneuver, never tips, fits easily through doorways, and can go right up to a table or desk. Once you are done, just one pull on the seat handle folds it up. There’s a fold-down back to make it even easier to stow and store. It features flat-free tires and rear anti-tippers for added convenience and safety.

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Just imagine how this chair can improve your life and make it easier for loved ones and caregivers to accompany you to activities and events you would have missed in the past. Don’t spend another day stuck at home. Call today, and a helpful, knowledgeable consultant will help you get a Journey Air Elite of your very own. Don’t wait – call now!

Folds flat in seconds

DR® Walk-Behind Leaf and Lawn Vacuum

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• Includes onboard caddy for extra bags

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

• Up to 2X the power of the competition

• Commercial, Electric, Walkand Tow-Behind models available, including the NEW PRO MAX60T!

By Rachael Kvapil

Melissa Connor: Making Changes for Improved Service

Greek philosophy Heraclitus said, “The only constant in life is change.” And for some people, change is hard. However, GVEA member services manager Melissa Connor is dedicated to helping make that change more manageable for staff and members alike.

Melissa oversees GVEA’s frontline, billing, credit and Delta member service departments. She also works on the larger projects and initiatives throughout GVEA that impact the member services department. These projects can range from software and phone systems to internal policy and tariff changes.

“If it can directly impact our members, we want to make sure it makes sense,” Melissa says.

Within months of starting her position in 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Melissa and other GVEA employees suddenly needed to adjust to keep the utility running smoothly and assist members during this challenging time.

This required reevaluating multiple processes simultaneously to keep operations running, including working with GVEA’s IT team to reprogram large portions of its software to accommodate members and meet all mandates.

“We would come in every day knowing yesterday’s work may already be obsolete,” Melissa says.

Many beneficial system changes have resulted from the COVID years, allowing for new ways to help GVEA members. The conversion to the latest software system required mass coordination across the company to complete testing and training. Likewise, Melissa says her department continues to improve in other areas, such as providing further training for advancement within the member services department. This involves cross-training member service representatives to work in any of the billing, credit and member services departments, allowing smoother coverage when and where needed.

“One benefit we have seen from this has been lower hold times and quicker email and MyGVEA responses to our members,” Melissa says. “Our team’s development is a key focus, as we believe their growth is integral to our success.”

She adds that the member services team is 100% dedicated to helping members find solutions. Whether it’s

a simple sign-in or sign-out of a service location, setting up autopay, helping understand a bill or going through the options available to a member when they are behind on a bill—Golden Valley employees want to help.

Though people often resist change, Melissa says change is necessary. In her position, she looks to the future to identify things that need to change and seeks ways to minimize the impact of these changes to employees and members. When prioritizing and implementing changes, Melissa says buy-in from the team is essential.

“They have to understand the whys and believe that the benefits are worth it,” Melissa says. “Without your team’s buy-in, you cannot be successful.”

Melissa is excited about the future of the member services department. As technology changes, she says there are more opportunities to assist and communicate with GVEA members than ever before. She believes it’s crucial to continually review what they’re doing and ask if there is a better way to accomplish things. Her department looks for ways to simplify GVEA members’ experiences and develop tools that enable members to access a wide range of information quickly.

“There’s a wealth of knowledge that people across the company are eager to share, so you’re constantly learning new things,” Melissa says. “This continuous learning fosters growth and opens up opportunities for employees to explore new careers within GVEA.

In addition to career advancement, Melissa says there is a real sense of family at GVEA. She feels people genuinely care about each other and the community, which is evident whether they’re celebrating each other’s personal or professional success or volunteering together in the community.

Melissa was born in Fairbanks and grew up in the North Pole. She graduated from University of Alaska Fairbanks with a Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting. She enjoys spending time outdoors with friends and family, fishing, hiking, experiencing nature and traveling to new places. n

PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON

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.

Grass hay 60-pound square bales very good quality. Cloverdale, OR. 503-812-2313 or 503-812-6539.

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. 1024

WC Collectibles. We buy comic books! Local to inland Northwest. Willing to travel. WCCollectiblesCheney@gmail.com; 509-496-1835. 1024

Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo blankets and rugs, baskets, beadwork, etc. Also, quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Call 760-409-3117 or send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com. 1024

Mantle, Mays, Aaron, Koufax, etc. If interested in buying 1957-73 vintage baseball cards, let’s talk. Jim, 530-283-2826 or 530-394-8668. 1024

Griswold cast iron collection of pots, pans, trivets and cake molds for sale. For more info, 503-557-2933.

Condon, OR. In need of downtown building photos. 1800s-1940. Research project. Good prices. Interior scenes a plus. Debbie, 971-404-8332. 1024

Automotive

1955 Chevy 5-window PU, 1st series 3100. Frame-off restoration by Glenn Vaughn Restorations, Post Falls, ID. Mostly all original. $38K. Text or call 206-351-2623. 1024

Books, Magazines, Videos

Book restoration. Bibles, cookbooks, cherished family heirlooms. Beautiful work. We give renewed life, more durable than original, to last for generations. 775-537-7066; salacanstudio@gmail.com. 1024AR

Business Opportunities

For sale: quaint hardware store in Maupin, OR. Inventory and interior store recently updated and refreshed. See ad on Bizbuysell.com or email Maupincountrystore@gmail.com. $239,999. 1024

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): December issue—Oct. 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.

A great business opportunity in Boardman, OR. A small cafe you can use your imagination in. Frontage view of freeway, quick in and out access. A coffee shop on property for extra income. $1.1M. For more information, call Karen at 541-571-0636. 1024

Community Events

“Racing to Change: Oregon’s Civil Rights Years,” Oregon Black pioneers in partnership with Eastern Oregon Sunrise Project. Oct. 4-26. Art Center East, La Grande, OR. 1024

RAM Columbia River Circuit Finals Rodeo, Oct. 17-19. “The Best of the Northwest.” Deschutes County Expo Center - Redmond, OR. columbiarivercircuit.com. 1024

Equipment/Tools

DR multitrimmer, $350. Kubota roto-tiller. Only 25 hours use. $1.15K. 11 push-pull control cables $40-$90 each. Fob Eugene, OR. Ted, 458-910-3727. 1024

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. 1024AR

Help Wanted

Cape Blanco Heritage Society needs volunteers at Cape Blanco Lighthouse Greeting Center and Hughes House for 2024 and 2025. Background checks are required. Free RV hookups are available to volunteers. heritage32@frontier.com; 541-332-0521. 1024

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

Santa letters and cheerful artwork for gift giving and holidays, made in Alaska. We ship high-quality gifts and custom artwork, including letter bundles, totes, jewelry, prints, cards, relief prints, tiles. GV10 saves 10%. www.PamelaSueArtandDesigns.com. 1024

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. To order: twofisherstuna.com or call 206-799-1082. 1124

Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. For more info: Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com, 541-815-8906; www.highdesertmemorials.com. 1124

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

If you have a large property in Oregon and can afford a fabulous, small-gauge, coal-fired RR locomotive, I’ll help you create your own private railroad. Contact me at malarkeywall@outlook.com. 1024

Pets, Supplies

Due to health reasons, 4-year-old friendly, registered male bloodhound needs rehoming. Kelly Cooper, 208-289-8524.

Real Estate

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.

Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in OR. Fourth-generation Oregonian, prior ranch owner. For sale: Sisters, OR. 40 acres. Price reduced. $1.55M. John Gill, johngill@landandwildlife.com or 541-480-9161. Land And Wildlife brokerage.

Beautiful, serene setting with views located in Seneca! Approximately 2.5 acres; home, garage, metal pole barn, gated entry. $489K. Duke Warner Realty, ddwr@ortelco.net or 541-987-2363. 1024

First home with 3 decks and second home with 2 decks, carport with 40-ft. container, 2 sheds, tack building, mature shade and fruit trees on fenced 2.5 acres. White and Silver Peak Mountains. $425K. 775-966-9009.

Last chance to get an undeveloped buildable lot (8,000 sqft.) in Sportsman’s Park (Wasco County, Tygh Valley, Oregon). Sewer to property line, water on property, power available. National forest on backside. 7 miles to Wamic. $86.6K. Eric, 971-370-0220. 1024

Become an instant Nevadan. Wells: fully equipped, nonoperating, bar/grill, 479 6th St., $395K. 3/2 home, 1355 Lake Ave., $230K. 160 acres with water rights and structures, $160k. Goldfield: ruins of Catholic Church, $65k. Pahrump: resort membership $1.8K. kisciniello@yahoo.com; 775-550-2263. 1024

20 acres unimproved land N.E. NV. Yearround access. Ideal for solar-/wind-powered homestead. Travel trailers, CONEX, tractor and other equipment included. $35K. geopup58@gmail.com. 1024

Bed and Birds; a guesthouse. Very private. Wet meadows, range, forest, dark sky, lakeview. Explore or ride? Near ski hill. Reasonable. 541-947-5435. 1024

Recreational Rentals

Bend country cabin. Very clean and fully furnished cabin on private ranch. Close to recreation areas. Very nice. $95/night. 541-382-3050; bendcountrycabins@gmail.com.

Services

Dawn Till Dusk Masonry. Brick, block, stone and pavers. Small jobs and repairs welcome. Check out our website at dawntillduskconstructionmasonry.com. 541-388-7605; 541-410-6945. License #245760 bonded and insured. La Pine, OR. 1124

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

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

Swaps/Trade

Will trade full roof replacement 40-year limited lifetime Malarkey shingle for class B RV. Certified master installation. Will travel, OR/WA. Rick, 503-544-2716.

Want to Buy

Wanted: 1967-’72 Buick Skylark, GS, Stage 1, GSX. Cars, parts or leads. Or any ’60s or ’70s vehicles. billybibbett@hotmail.com. 1124

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. 1024

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

Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo blankets and rugs, baskets, beadwork, etc. Also, quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Call 760-409-3117 or send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com. 1024

October is National Cooperative Month

You might think of GVEA as the local electric company, and you’d be right: We’re led by members like you, created by and for the communities we serve. Electric cooperatives are community-focused organizations that work to deliver affordable, reliable and sustainable energy to our members.

October is National Cooperative Month. It’s a time to celebrate the cooperative spirit that’s always been one of the best things about living in our communities: Neighbors looking out for neighbors and people working for the

GVEA’s MAC

The Member Advisory Committee welcomes new members

Golden Valley Electric Association welcomed new members to the Member Advisory Committee following approval from the GVEA Board of Directors at the August 27 board meeting. The function and purpose of the MAC is to inform the board of directors regarding issues and concerns of GVEA’s membership or work on special projects assigned by the board. The committee is made up of members from each of GVEA’s service areas and meets once a month to hear presentations from GVEA staff on major projects.

GVEA is excited to welcome new and returning MAC members to another year of informative meetings.

2024-25 MAC Members

Kari Brinks

Nicholas Cantrell

Marcus Chappel

Helen Connor

Conor Dennehy

Leslie Greenfield

Karl Gohlke

Peter Hallgren

Jamie Hansen

Anita Hartmann

Katherine Hennigan

Terry Hinman

Thomas Kelly

Korene Long

Kacie Mason

Cody Miller

Mathew Mund

Gary Pedretty

John Rathbun

Heidi Titchenal

Ana Vang

Philip Wight

Danielle Wiley

Erik Winters

common good. Even as we celebrate our differences and our individual achievements, we know that we can’t do everything alone—we’re all in this together, and we are stronger and better for it. The power of community is what being an electric cooperative is all about.

Check out GVEA’s Facebook page this October as we explore the many benefits of co-op membership. This month, we’ll feature highlights like the Member Advisory Committee and Capital Credits.

Interested in joining the Member Advisory Committee?

Applications to serve on the MAC are accepted each year in June and July. It’s a great way to get involved, find out more about your electric co-op and to provide valuable feedback.

The MAC is made up of three 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 roundtrip travel.

All GVEA members (except employees) are eligible to serve on the MAC. Visit www.gvea.com/member-advisorycommitee-mac to learn more about the MAC and eligibility requirements.

MAC members tour GVEA’s operations department in July 2023.

PHOTO BY GRACE WILSON

Capital Credits

Were you a GVEA member in 1999?

At the September 2024 regular board meeting, the decision was made to retire all capital credits from 1999 and earlier. All refunds will be distributed by the end of November 2024.

The Benefits of Membership

Capital credits are one of the most unique and rewarding benefits you enjoy as a member of an electric cooperative. Golden Valley Electric returns funds to members based on their electric consumption.

One of the cooperative advantages is that we provide our members with “at cost” service. Other utilities, such as investor-owned utilities, maximize profits from customers for the purpose of paying dividends to their stockholders. At GVEA, there is no stock to be bought or sold. Our members are the owners of the business.

Because GVEA is a not-for-profit cooperative, any funds left over at the end of the year are eventually returned to members after 25 years. These funds are called capital credits.

Capital credits are only assigned for a year in which GVEA earns margins. Since capital credits are shares of the margins, no credits are assigned for a year with no margins. Also, you would not earn capital credits for any year that

How It Works

PHOTO BY TZIDO

you did not buy electricity from GVEA. The amount of your capital credits varies from year to year, depending on margins and how much electricity you bought in a given year.

Allocation vs. Retirement

Assigned capital credits are the amounts allocated to each member who bought electricity from GVEA during a given year.

While the credits are assigned to members, they are retained by the co-op for a period of time eventually returned to members after a designated period. They are reinvested in the system for projects and maintenance, such as building substations or replacing power lines.

If GVEA refunded the total amount of allocations, the co-op would have to borrow that amount of money and repay it with interest. This is because the co-op operates at cost and there are no profits to take these funds from.

Retirement of capital credits is not automatic. GVEA’s board of directors

must specifically authorize each retirement after considering the financial impact to the co-op. When capital credits are retired, GVEA issues a refund to you. n

GVEA would like to request your assistance to ensure your refund check makes it to you.

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

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

There are a various ways to contact GVEA’s Capital Credits Section:

• Visit gvea.com/capital-credits where you can locate a variety of forms to fit your needs and see if you have any unclaimed capital credits.

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

• Email capitalcredits@gvea.com.

Perfect for a Potluck

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation

Required by 39 USC 3685

Filed with the USPS on 9-20-24

Ruralite (publication number 397-460) is published monthly at 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Twelve issues are published annually with a subscription price of $8.48 paid by utility members in their electric bills.

The name and complete mailing address of the publisher is: Pioneer Utility Resources, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. The name and complete mailing address of the editor is Mike Teegarden, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Ste. 100 Hillsboro, OR 97124. The owner is Pioneer Utility Resources (PUR). There are no known bondholders or other security holders.

PUR is a nonprofit organization mailing under DMM Section 423.12. Its purpose, function and nonprofit status for federal income

in the preceding 12 months.

Perfect for a Potluck

With more than 200 recipes, this cookbook from our 2007 contest offers options for potlucks, family reunions or picnics. As a bonus, additional pages feature previously unpublished barbecue recipes from a 2006 contest. The 8½-by-11-inch spiral-bound, indexed book is $10 (includes postage).

Recipes submitted by Readers for the March 2007 Contest

TO ORDER BY MAIL:

Submit payment with cookbook title, your name, address and number of cookbooks wanted to:

Ruralite Cookbooks

P.O. Box 1306 North Plains, OR 97133

TO PAY BY PHONE: Call 503-357-2105 for credit card payments with Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express.

TO ORDER ONLINE: Visit www.ruralite.com.

Please allow two to three weeks for delivery.

When it’s you against nature, there’s only one tool you need: the stainless steel River Canyon Bowie Knife—now ONLY $49!

Youare a man of the wilderness. The only plan you have is to walk up that mountain until you feel like stopping. You tell your friends that it’s nothing personal, but this weekend belongs to you.

You’ve come prepared with your River Canyon Bowie Knife sheathed at your side. This hand-forged, unique knife comes shaving sharp with a perfectly fitted hand-tooled sheath. The broad stainless steel blade shines in harmony with the stunning striped horn, wood and bone handle. When you feel the heft of the knife in your hand, you know that you’re ready for whatever nature throws at you.

This knife boasts a full tang blade, meaning the blade doesn’t stop at the handle, it runs the full length of the knife. According to Gear Patrol, a full tang blade is key, saying “A full tang lends structural strength to the knife, allowing for better leverage ...think one long steel beam versus two.”

With our limited edition River Canyon Bowie Knife you’re getting the best in 21st-century construction with a classic look inspired by legendary American pioneers. What you won’t get is the trumped up price tag. We know a thing or two about the hunt–– like how to seek out and capture an outstanding, collector’s-quality knife that won’t cut into your bank account.

How to Be Cut Off From Civilization

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

This quintessential knife can be yours to use out in the field or to display as the art piece it truly is. But don’t wait. A knife of this caliber typically cost hundreds. Priced at an amazing $49, we can’t guarantee this knife will stick around for long. So call today!

What customers are saying about Stauer knives...

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the sale price. But we believe that once you wrap your fingers around the River Canyon’s you’ll be ready to carve your own niche into the wild frontier.

“First off, the shipping was fast and the quality is beyond what I paid for the knife. Overall I am a satisfied customer!”

— D., Houston, Texas

14091 Southcross Drive W., Dept. RCK492-01

Burnsville, Minnesota 55337 www.stauer.com

Not shown actual size.

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

Fred Sheen, District 6

Rick Solie, District 3

Krista Zappone, District 7

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

GVEA Board of Director Applicants Needed

Nominating committees in GVEA districts 5 and 6 are seeking board of director applicants. If you live in one of these districts and are interested in serving your electric cooperative, find everything you need at www.gvea.com/elections, including

• Candidate application.

• Policy outlining directors’ qualifications.

• Application checklist.

Directors attend monthly board meetings and frequent committee meetings. Some travel and national certification are required. On average, directors can expect to spend 500 hours a year on GVEA-related business. Board members are paid meeting fees, plus standard mileage rates for travel. Health insurance is available n

Application deadline: 5 p.m. Wednesday, January 22, 2025 Applications must be submitted online.

District 5

Includes the general area of North Pole; the Richardson Highway from Mile 352 and the east side of Woll Road; Nordale Road; the area north of Chena Slough, excluding the general area of Chena Hot Springs Road; Moose Creek; Eielson; and south to the Salcha River.

District 6

Includes Delta Junction, Fort Greely and all areas south of the Salcha River including Harding and Birch lakes.

Applications and maps of each district can be found at www.gvea.com/elections.

If you have questions, call 907-458-4518, or email pr@gvea.com.