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
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
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!
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
February 2024 • Volume 72, No. 2
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.
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Ruralite Celebrates 70
Ruralite magazine hits a milestone this year: 70 years of storytelling and serving readers throughout the Northwest.
Ruralite magazine started in 1954 with a handful of electric cooperatives. It now serves 46 public power utilities, including co-ops, PUDs and a municipal utility. Every month, we mail more than 360,000 magazines to readers across the region in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Nevada and California. Did you know Pioneer Utility Resources, which publishes Ruralite magazine, is a co-op? We are owned by the more than 250 utilities we serve. We don’t just tell the cooperative story; we live it.
Speaking of stories, our main feature in February shares tips for finding your healthy living bliss in 2024. Personally, I’m a big fan of yoga. The breathing techniques are useful in stressful situations, and the gentle stretching helps keep me in good shape for more strenuous activities such as golf and pickleball.
Our Up Close story shares the success of entrepreneur Jasmin Smith. The owner of Baby Vend sells baby supplies in vending machines in 23 cities across the country. She was inspired to start her business after realizing she was short on supplies during a trip to the mall with her twin babies. She understood if this was a problem for her, other parents might also need a hand, and she found a way to help.
Adults are not the only ones with great ideas. We want to feature youth entrepreneurs in a future issue of Ruralite. If you know someone in their teens or younger who is running a successful business, we would love to hear from you. You can share your idea by visiting www.wkf.ms/3idk8B6.
Sincerely,
Mike Teegarden Editorial Director
Innovation Can Happen Anywhere
Baby Vend CEO Jasmin Smith is changing the way families travel Up Close, Page 10
Health and Wellness
Small choices can result in big improvements
Spotlight, Page 12 Plugged In 6 In the Kitchen 16 Photo Hunt 22 Before You Go 30 Utility Pages: 4-5, 8, 25, 28-29, 32
Local Services and Amenities
Local services—including public safety, recreational facilities and cultural amenities—contribute significantly to the overall quality of life in rural communities. Well-equipped and well-trained fire and police departments provide security, while parks, community centers and cultural spaces enhance residents’ daily experiences. Access to such services ensures the community remains vibrant, providing opportunities for leisure and cultural enrichment.
Education
Education acts as a powerful catalyst for the development of rural communities. Quality schools, equipped with dedicated educators, lay the foundation for intellectual growth and empowerment and are vital for attracting new families. Accessible education ensures younger generations receive the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the community and beyond. In turn, a well-educated population becomes an invaluable asset for the sustainable growth of the entire region.
Economic Opportunities
Economic stability is a cornerstone of a flourishing rural community. Diverse job opportunities within the community prevent unemployment issues, fostering financial independence.
From agriculture and local businesses to innovative ventures, a healthy economic ecosystem is essential. It not only provides livelihoods but also enhances the overall resilience of the community against economic uncertainties.
Sustainable Environmental Practices
Most people who live in rural America recognize the importance of protecting and preserving our natural resources. As stewards of the land we call home, residents in rural communities embrace practices that ensure the longevity of the land, water, wildlife and other resources so they are here for future generations to use and enjoy as well.
Infrastructure for Connectivity
Reliable infrastructure is the backbone of
OREGON TRAIL ELECTRIC
any community, ensuring essential services reach every corner. Well-maintained roads, bridges and utilities facilitate the movement of people and goods.
Modern technology plays a crucial role in connecting rural areas to the broader world, bridging gaps in information and communication. Robust infrastructure enhances residents’ quality of life and supports the economic development of the community.
Community Engagement
Active community engagement is a key element in shaping the future of our communities. Residents’ participation in decision-making processes, local initiatives and civic activities fosters a sense of ownership and pride.
When people have a stake in the wellbeing of their community, they pave the way for sustainable development and ensure the unique needs of the population are considered in planning and governance.
Health Care
At the core of any healthy community lies a robust health care infrastructure. Accessible and quality medical services are fundamental for ensuring the well-being of residents. Residents of Baker, Grant, Harney and Union counties rely heavily on local clinics, hospitals and health care practitioners.
These facilities not only provide essential medical care but play a pivotal role in preventive health initiatives, education and community outreach.
The Cooperative’s Role
What does this have to do with Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative? OTEC is more than just a utility company. As a memberowned cooperative, we answer to you, our member-owners. We have a shared obligation to improve the health of our communities, which improves the health and sustainability of the co-op.
OTEC invests in our communities through educating and donating to our rural fire departments, providing academic and trade school scholarships, charitable giving and educating the community on public safety practices.
We work with businesses and community leaders to improve the economic opportunities for new and existing businesses in our service territory. We leverage the power of the cooperative network to add buying/borrowing power and tap into knowledge and expertise from other co-ops across the country.
OTEC contributes to strengthening the infrastructure of Eastern Oregon through upgrades to our system, making it more reliable and less susceptible to failures. We also continue to support partners to improve access to broadband throughout our rural communities. While high-speed internet is great for streaming movies or playing online with friends, it has a host of practical applications as well.
Broadband access helps improve efficiencies, gives rural students equal access to educational opportunities and allows rural communities to provide better health care at reasonable costs. High-speed internet service stimulates job creation and sparks innovation that enhances rural economic development.
Broadband access allows farmers and ranchers to follow commodity markets, communicate with customers and access new markets around the world. It also improves precision agriculture, which connects farm machines, people and technology while enabling farm managers to pull valuable agronomic data to reduce input costs, increase yields and run smoother operations.
Broadband also improves operations at OTEC. Broadband access at substations helps improve our ability to serve members, communicate and use remote devices throughout our system.
In the intricate tapestry of a healthy rural community, each thread plays a crucial role in weaving a narrative of prosperity and well-being. From health care and education to social bonds and economic stability, the strength of our rural communities lies in our ability to strengthen and harmonize diverse factors while laying the groundwork for a future where we can attract and retain future generations to our Eastern Oregon communities. n
The MysteriousCloud
And Other Internet Storage Enigmas
By Jen Calhoun
For years now people have been talking about the cloud. “That document is in the cloud,” they’ll say, or, “I saved those pictures in the cloud.” Meanwhile, nobody ever bothers to explain it.
Let’s end that vague talk once and for all. It’s time to get a grip on this shadowy figure known as the cloud.
What Is the Cloud?
Simply put, the cloud is the concept of using someone else’s computer server to store, host or process data. The cloud is a service offered by all kinds of companies. If you use a computer, smartphone, smart
TV or any other kind of electronic device that connects to the internet, chances are you’ve used some form of cloud service. There are all kinds of cloud services. Netflix is one. So are Google Drive, Apple iCloud, Yahoo Mail, Dropbox and Microsoft OneDrive. There are many more, but you get the drift.
Why Does the Cloud Matter?
The cloud allows us to access large amounts of information on any device with an internet connection. Think about streaming a movie or episodes of a show on Netflix. Now, imagine trying to store every single movie or show available on Netflix on your home computer. It would stop working. Cloud technology is how we can choose from tens of thousands of movies to watch at the touch of our remotes. Cloud services are how your child can write a paper on their laptop and you can edit it from an entirely different place, whether it’s your office
The cloud is a service.
The cloud.
NOTthe cloud.
or another city, state or country. The cloud’s remote servers handle much of the computing and the storage, so you don’t have to buy a Pentagon-worthy computer.
The cloud also allows us to store and back up our own data. For instance, you can store and view documents, videos and your photo collection on a cloud service without overloading your computer or smartphone’s internal storage.
If you use cloud services, anything you save is backed up and accessible from anywhere, provided you remember usernames and passwords. A fire, network outage or a power surge might destroy your devices, but your information can still be secure in the cloud if you backed it up.
Where Is the Cloud?
The cloud is not actually in the clouds. Cloud services are right here on Earth, stored inside computer servers that are most likely sitting inside server farms— giant, temperature-controlled facilities full of computer servers that store and transmit information. Next time you picture the
cloud, think of rows of black boxes with blinking lights.
Not-so Silver Linings
There can be downsides to storing and accessing information remotely, however. For one thing, many cloud services cost money. Some devices, such as iPhones, offer free cloud storage up to a certain amount of data. After that, you’ll need a subscription. Business cloud services often charge per gigabyte of storage.
Also, cloud services only work with internet access. Without the internet, there is no connecting to the cloud. And despite serious security measures set in place by cloud service companies, hackers can still find ways to get in. Other calamities that could disrupt your cloud services are natural disasters and other disruptions that cause network outages. n
Avoid QR Mischief
QR codes—short for quick response codes— pop up frequently. TV ads, restaurant menus and many more businesses and services rely on these little squares of blocky lines to link a smartphone user to handy information, a download or as a way to digitally send money to someone.
The FBI, however, has warned that cybercriminals may tamper with the codes. The FBI offers a few tips so you can take advantage of QR codes while staying safe and secure:
X After scanning a QR code, check the URL to make sure it is the site you want. A malicious domain name may be similar to the intended URL but with typos or a misplaced letter.
X Be cautious when entering login, personal or financial information.
X If scanning a physical QR code, ensure the code shows no signs of tampering, such as a sticker placed over the original.
X Do not download an app from a QR code.
X If you receive an email asking you to complete a payment through a QR code, call the requesting company to verify. Look up the company’s number on a trusted site—don’t use a number from the email.
X Do not download a QR code scanner app— the built-in phone camera is a safer option.
X If you get a QR code you believe to be from someone you know, contact them through a known number or address to verify.
X Avoid making payments through a site navigated to from a QR code. Instead, manually enter a known and trusted URL to complete the payment.
Better Way to hearTV®
“Now Jack can control the volume on his TV•Ears while I set the TV volume or mute it for complete quiet. Once again, he can understand every word and we can watch our favorite TV shows together.”
— Darlene
& Jack B., CA
Doctor recommended TV•Ears has helped millions of people with hearing loss enjoy their favorite television shows, movies and streaming content without disturbing others.
The Voice Clarifying Technology® reduces background noise and clarifies hard to hear television dialog making voices and words understandable. 120db of volume makes TV•Ears the most powerful television listening system on the market!
Quiet TV mode lets others mute the television or set the volume to their preferred level while you listen as loud as you want on the headset.
Innovation Can Happen Anywhere
Baby Vend CEO Jasmin Smith is changing the
way families travel
By Chiara Profenna
Jasmin Smith is no novice in the world of entrepreneurship. The prominent business owner has left her mark in Alaska, changing communities and increasing access to necessities in every way she knows how.
“In Alaska, I’m a pretty well-known serial entrepreneur,” Jasmin says. “I had a lot of award-winning experience in starting businesses in general and consulting, but I had just never had a product-based business.”
Her first product-based business, Baby Vend, introduces a vending machine that provides on-the-go travel essentials for parents in a pinch. By including a range of products—from diapers and baby wipes to activity kits and snacks—Baby Vend machines are raising the bar for convenience and access.
An Idea Is Born
The idea struck Jasmin in 2015 while she was out with her twins.
“I was shopping at a mall in Anchorage, and I didn’t have enough supplies with me,” she says. “I was telling myself, ‘If I don’t have what I need somewhere in this mall, I’m gonna go home because I don’t feel like coming back with twin babies.’”
Jasmin realized accessible child-care supplies are a necessity for many families traveling. She spent the next six months saving up to buy vending machines to see her vision come to life. By 2016, Jasmin had formed Baby Vend and started the lengthy process of running a startup and maintaining vending machines.
“It was just me navigating a startup, but also figuring out what exactly to do and who exactly to talk with,” Jasmin says. “I didn’t know, so it was literally just me planning by myself.”
Through perseverance and the support of the Anchorage community, Jasmin grew her business nationally in only a few years.
It Takes a Village
Although Jasmin has seen her business flourish beyond state lines, Anchorage was the scene of her first success.
“Being in a smaller community helped me a lot because I was able to fast-track contracts that I know I would have had to fight for in other cities,” she says. “Because I’ve been here my whole life
Small choices can result in big improvements
By Pamela A. Keene
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY DESIGNPICS
Although the COVID-19 pandemic has subsided, its effects linger. The pandemic changed the way we interact with each other, how and where we earn a living, how we spend our free time and how we approach the choices we make to keep us healthy. Life today is definitely different than it was five years ago.
“During the pandemic, people faced much more isolation, worry and fear, and this has left residual health and wellness issues,” says Dr. Ginger Nicol, associate professor of psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. “People stayed at home more, their circle of faceto-face relationships shrank. They became more sedentary, influencing mental and physical health and wellness.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 12% of those surveyed aged 18 and older in 2022 said they regularly had feelings of worry, nervousness or anxiety.
“These feelings can lead to more serious mental health issues,” Ginger says. “However, there are ways that can improve your overall health and wellness— both mental and physical—to result in more day-today enjoyment and health, and ultimately result in a better quality of life. Choosing to add more movement and activity, increasing time spent with family and taking time for personal reflection can all contribute to better health and happiness.”
The pandemic cannot be wholly blamed for a decline in people’s mental and physical health. Today’s society is less active and exponentially more sedentary than it was several decades ago.
Even before the pandemic, many Americans sat in front of some type of screen for much of their waking hours.
With COVID-19, dependence on screens and technology expanded.
During COVID-19, those with existing health issues were less likley to spend time outdoors—nor did they socialize with family or friends—so the feelings of isolation and angst were magnified. Depression, weight gain and other factors contributed to a decrease in physical fitness.
“Physical and mental health are inseparable,” Ginger says. “Research has shown that people who are active tend to have a better mental outlook and lead more enjoyable lives. The reverse is also true. People with a positive outlook are more likely to participate in some sort of regular activity.”
What Is Wellness?
Numerous factors contribute to a healthy life, from nutrition and exercise to ample sleep. Wellness encompasses physical and mental health, and taking care of mind and body promotes a balanced lifestyle.
“Our needs change as we grow older,” Ginger says. “As such, it’s important for us to be aware of these changes and how we can address and adjust to them without compromising our wellness. Being responsible for our aging can help us reduce risk of disease, such as diabetes, stroke, heart attack and cardiovascular issues, depression and anxiety.”
Many things can contribute to a longer and more fulfilling life, such as regular wellness visits with a primary care physician to stay on top of potential health concerns; completing age-appropriate testing, such as colonoscopies and cancer screenings; and being willing to adjust eating, behavior and lifestyle habits.
Being proactive with your health is the best way to manage aging.
“The sooner you can identify an issue the better chance you have of making a meaningful change,” Ginger says. “Starting good behavioral practices for both physical and mental health can help your body and mind be more resilient and handle more serious challenges.”
Physical Improvements
Making small physical changes to add movement every day is one of the first ways to improve health and fitness. Getting up from a chair can be a revealing way to test physical ability.
“Some people simply cannot rise from a seated position without either using their arms to push themselves up or rocking several times to gain momentum,” Ginger says.
“I’ve seen people in their 30s and 40s who have difficulty standing from sitting in a chair or on the sofa. If this is difficult for you, it’s a good idea to practice a little every day until you can rise unassisted.
“As we age, our muscles lose mass and volume, plus our tendons get tighter. By tackling this basic movement, you can begin to increase your physical strength and mobility, as well as improve your balance and help prevent falls.”
According to the CDC, one in five falls causes serious injuries. Each year, more than 3 million people 65 and older are treated in emergency departments for fall injuries.
Falls are one of the main causes of nonfatal and fatal injuries. Whether they’re caused by tripping, losing balance, vision problems or a health problem, they can
Find Comfort IN A BOWL OF SOUP
Minestrone
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 cup diced carrots
½ cup diced celery
½ cup chopped onion
4 garlic cloves, minced
32 ounces chicken broth
28-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
15-ounce can white beans, drained and rinsed
15-ounce can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
Parmesan cheese rind
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon fresh black pepper
1 fresh rosemary sprig
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley
1 medium zucchini, diced
2 cups baby spinach, chopped kale or chopped collard greens
Salt and pepper, to taste
Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes for garnish
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the carrots, celery, onion and garlic. Stir. Saute until tender and fragrant, about 15 minutes.
Add broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, beans, cheese rind, salt, pepper, rosemary, bay leaves, basil and parsley. Bring to a boil. Cover. Cook on low for 40 minutes.
Remove the bay leaves, rosemary and Parmesan rind. If you prefer a thicker soup, pulse a few times with an immersion blender.
Add the zucchini and spinach. Cover. Simmer until the zucchini is tender, about 8 to 10 minutes.
Season to taste with salt and black pepper. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
PHOTO BY KATIE WILCOX
Zuppa Toscana
16 ounces Italian sausage links, medium or hot
6 slices bacon
¾ cup chopped onion
1½ teaspoons minced garlic
2 tablespoons chicken soup base
1 quart water
Heat the oven to 300 F.
2 large potatoes, cut into ¼-inch slices
2 cups kale, washed, dried and shredded
1⁄3 cup heavy whipping cream
Parmesan cheese
Place sausage links on a sheet pan. Bake for 25 minutes or until cooked through. Cut links in half lengthwise, then cut at an angle into ½-inch slices.
Cook bacon and onion in a large saucepan over medium heat until onion is almost clear. Remove bacon and crumble. Set aside.
Add garlic to the pan with the onion. Cook together for about 1 minute. Add chicken soup base, water and potatoes. Simmer for 15 minutes. Add bacon, sausage, kale and cream. Simmer for about 5 minutes. Top with Parmesan cheese before serving.
Cream of Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
6 cups chicken broth
2 boneless chicken breast halves, cooked and cubed
6-ounce package long grain and wild rice blend, quick-cooking version with seasoning packet
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup butter
1 cup carrot, diced
1 cup celery, diced
1 cup onion, diced
3 cups half-and-half
Open rice package. Set aside the seasoning packet. In a small bowl, combine pepper and flour. Set aside. In a large pot over medium heat, combine broth and chicken. Bring to a boil, then stir in rice. Cover, and remove from heat.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add carrots, celery and onion. Saute for 5 minutes. Stir in the contents of the seasoning packet. Continue cooking vegetables until softened, about 5 minutes. Add seasoned flour gradually while constantly stirring to form a roux. Saute roux for 3 to 4 minutes to cook out raw flour taste.
Whisk in cream, a little at a time, until fully incorporated and smooth. Cook until thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir cream mixture into broth and rice. Cook over medium heat until heated through and rice is done, 15 to 20 minutes.
Loaded Baked Potato Soup
2 large onions, chopped
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups water, divided
4 cups chicken broth
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1½ cups mashed potato flakes
½ pound sliced bacon, cooked and crumbled
¾ teaspoon pepper
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon dried basil
1⁄8 teaspoon dried thyme
1 cup half-and-half
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 green onions, sliced
In a large skillet, saute onions in butter until tender. Stir in flour. Gradually stir in 1 cup water. Bring to a boil. Stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Transfer to a 5-quart slow cooker.
Add the broth, potatoes, potato flakes, bacon, pepper, salt, basil, thyme and remaining water. Cover. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until potatoes are tender. Stir in cream, and heat through. Garnish with cheese and green onions.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
4 tablespoons butter
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 stick of celery, diced
½ cup carrots, julienned
2 garlic cloves, minced
¼ cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups half-and-half
½ teaspoon thyme
½ teaspoon mustard powder
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
16 ounces potato gnocchi
1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1 pinch red pepper flakes,
Salt and pepper, to taste
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, celery and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic. Cook for 1 more minute.
Add the flour, and stir to combine. Cook until the flour begins to turn a golden color, about 2 minutes.
Add the chicken broth and half-and-half in splashes, stirring to incorporate. Don’t add it too quickly, or you will break the roux. Add the thyme and mustard powder.
Add chicken breasts to the broth. Bring it to a gentle boil. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through, about 10 minutes. Remove the chicken and let it rest for 5 minutes. Dice the chicken, and add it back to the soup. Let the soup simmer until reaching the desired consistency. It will continue to thicken as it simmers.
Add the gnocchi. Simmer according to package instructions.
Reduce heat to low. Add the spinach, red pepper, salt and pepper. Simmer until spinach is wilted, about 1 minute.
READER EXCHANGE
Books/Magazines
I am searching for a book by Amanda Grant: “Where has Jessie Gone.” If you have a copy you can part with, please let me know.
Caroline N. 4016 Berry Court Fairbanks, AK 99709
Crafts/Hobbies
I’m helping homeless people out on the streets. I recently learned how to knit and made scarves and hats for them as Christmas presents. I am looking for anyone willing to donate yarn and other things homeless people could use, as well as some words of encouragement.
Abigail Cowart 29 Hilltop Lane Wahkiacus, WA 98670 Cowartabigail26@gmail.com
I’m requesting old, broken and unwanted jewelry of any kind. I take it apart, clean it and repurpose it into decorative frames, mirrors, etc. Thank you in advance.
Holly Hill P.O. Box 1006 Port Orford, OR 97465 Turdsmama@outlook.com
Milestones
My stepdad turns 90 this month. He spent his 37-year career in law enforcement, retiring from the California Highway Patrol. He and my mom were married for 10 years before she passed in 2015. He loved her dearly. He spends his time with his dog, Polly. I know he would be surprised to receive birthday cards for this special birthday milestone. If you’d like to send a card, address it to Bob Allee, 1080 E. Lassen Ave., Apt 37, Chico, CA 95973. Thank you.
Pam Scheideman Chico, California
My mom will celebrate her 88th birthday in February. I would like to honor her and her special day by inviting you to send birthday wishes her way. She loves getting mail and would be most grateful to receive birthday cards. Thank you for your kindness. She will be delighted. Mail to Velma Larson, 1024 Anna St., Prosser, WA 99350.
Jeanne Whitenack Prosser, Washington
Music
I’m seeking cello sheet music—particularly upbeat Celtic tunes— and an instructor for beginner adults near Oakridge, Oregon. Thanks in advance.
Barbara Counsil
P.O. Box 899 Oakridge, OR 97463
Odds
I am a retired Navy veteran. I served my country from 1956-60. I had hoped to make the Navy a career, but situations existed that prevented this. Over the years, I gave away some of my uniform garments and wonder if anyone out there has some items I would like to have: a black silk neckerchief, watch cap, peacoat (extra large) and formal naval hat. Willing to pay postage and reasonable cost of objects. I do have a uniform and hat. Thank you for your help in advance.
Don Maddy 43 Mill Drive Wahkiacus, WA 98670
I’m looking for a cider press and fruit grinder for home use.
Rosemarie Hausmann P.O. Box 471 Reedsport, OR 97467
Recipes
I’m looking for an old recipe my mom had and said ran in one of the Bake Off cookbooks in the late 1960s or early ’70s. It’s a cheesecake made in a 9-by-13-inch pan, lined with a yeast-raised dough, and filled with a mixture of crushed pineapple, cottage cheese and cream cheese. I can’t remember the last part. I think this part is cooked on a stovetop before being put in the crust. It is topped with another crust, baked and glazed when it’s done, and cooled. It is super delicious.
Marcene Berends 52875 Ranch Drive La Pine, OR 97739 Otterlover1157@gmail.com
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ADVENTURE AWAITS
What Is It?
Mountains, ice and the ocean all come together in Kenai Fjords National Park in Southern Alaska. Just southwest of Seward, Alaska, and above the Gulf of Alaska, the fjords are home to behemoth fields of ice.
Nice Ice
The 23,000-year-old Harding Icefields and its outflowing glaciers are more than 700 square miles large. The ice is thousands of feet thick, but that isn’t always enough to cover the mountains underneath. The exposed mountaintops are called nunatak, or lonely peaks.
Kenai Fjords National Park
Drive a Fjord
The fjords are not the most accessible national park, given the giant glaciers that cover it. Many drive up the east side to see Exit Glacier—the only part of the park accessible by road—and see how glaciers reshape the landscape. Open year-round, Exit Glacier is home to a few trails of varying difficulty.
Take a Boat
Much of the park is only accessible by boat. Boat tours, available in the summer, offer the ability to see tidewater glaciers—the glaciers that reach the sea. When these glaciers calve ice into the sea, the ice serves as floats for local harbor seals. The waters around the park are also home to otters, porpoises, whales and more.
PHOTO COURTESY OF NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE/JIM PFEIFFENBERGER
More Information
Kenai Fjords National Park has no entrance fee. To plan your trip, call 907-422-0500 or visit www.nps.gov/kefj.
Grow Where Planted
By Dave LaBelle
It’s an old saying: “Grow where you are planted.”
Most of us struggle with being content, often feeling we want or even need to be somewhere else—maybe someplace more exotic? Anywhere other than where we are.
Generally, I am content wherever I am. But, admittedly, now and then I catch myself mentally whining—wishing I could be photographing international events in those glamorous places my
Dave
has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
globe-trotting friends go.
During these pity parties, pride seizes me, and I mumble under my breath, “I could make great pictures, too, if I could be where they are.”
Shame on me.
Truth is, beauty and heartache are present everywhere humans exist, and as a homeless friend once wisely advised, “It’s all a matter of putting on your perspecticles.”
I have lived and worked in many states across our great country and even in other countries, and each and every place has its unique beauty.
In California, I was obsessed with photographing the moody ocean, rolling hills and “two trees,” landmarks that stood on the foothills above Ventura for decades and could be seen from miles away. I never tired of trying to make a better, unique
photograph of these beloved twins.
We presently live in Iowa. How long we will live here, I do not know. But this I do know: If my heart is always wandering the hills and oceans of faraway places, my eyes of envy will rob me from seeing the unique beauty surrounding me right here.
Iowa is a land of seductive openness, uncluttered landscapes where dreams dance playfully between swaying oceans of corn fields. It is a comforting place where I can watch forever skies kiss the Earth.
It is also a special place that draws people from across the globe to experience the “Field of Dreams” movie site. One of my greatest joys has been getting to know and photograph some of the original Ghost Players who were in the 1989 movie. n
Reader Challenge
Ask yourself what makes where you live different, compelling, beautiful or even unique? Is it the way the winter light awakens a particular mountaintop? Or the color or life-rhythm of a fishing village? Perhaps it is a river or lake that brings you the greatest joy or comfort? If I came to your town or city, what would you want to show me?
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pur.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer
LaBelle
NIKON D800, 58mm lens ISO 100, f/3.2 at 1/320
Against a backdrop of dark skies and green hills, pickers cut and box celery in fields in Ventura, California. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
How to Be Cut Off From Civilization
You are 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.
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. When
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!
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V a l e n t i n e ’ s S a f e t y T i p ! protect yourself from germs by washing your hands before eating Valentine treats!
Lakefront home Eagle Lake, CA. 3-bd, 2-ba, 2-car garage, fully furnished and stocked, move-in ready, docks, boat lift. $299K or trade? 775-771-5263 or bdl1962@gmail.com.
$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
Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian, ranch owner. For sale: Sisters, OR, 40 acres. $1.7M. John Gill, 541-480-9161 or johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0224
Rare 1.34-acre, view lot for cabin/retreat in Mt. Aire Canyon, 4 minutes from Salt Lake City. 270º views, elevation 7,200 at confluence of 5 canyons. Water on-site, transformer adjacent. $325K. charles@cc-tdi.org; 801-232-8038; Instagram: @mtairekitebox. 0224
Newly constructed, beautifully finished home, open concept living, 4 bed, 2.5 bath, garage. $399.5K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363 or ddwr@ortelco.net. 0224
Off-grid homestead. Ideal for wind/solar power. NE Elko County, NV. Has equipment, quarters, shop. Year-round access. Water and power nearby. $35K. geopup58@gmail.com.
Recreational Rentals
Wavecatcher: Oceanfront. Central Oregon coast. Summer $175/night mid-May to mid-Oct.; $140/ night mid-Oct. to mid-May. (plus cleaning/tax). Three rooms w/double beds. Pets welcome. Wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. Reservations: 541-740-2846. 0324AR
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. 0224
Recreational Vehicle
Hook up a steelhead at The Hook Up RV Park in Ahsahka, ID. Daily or longer rents available. 208-391-2919; hookuprvpark@gmail.com. 0324
Services
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. 0324
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. 0624
Holistic nurse consultant. Herbal/natural nutritional advice. Complementary medicine practitioner. Free initial consultation. Available in Brookings, OR, area only. 707-951-1882. 0224
Want to Buy
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. 0224
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. 0224
Wanted: mid-1960s 2-door Ford Falcon, Fairlane or Mercury Comet/Cyclone. Grandkids have outgrown my ’66 Ranchero, need something with a backseat. Dan, 541-663-9091. 0224
Your ad could be here in April. See the opposite page for details.
Incorporating regenerative agriculture— a management philosophy that seeks to improve soil health—allows farmers to analyze the soil down to specific microbes, fungi and bacteria as well as the nutrients a specific plant takes out and puts back into the ground, all to improve the health of the crops and the land.
“In the past, they used to look at a particular region or county when determining what to grow and how to grow it,” Austin says. “But with modern advancements, we are able to home in and analyze different soil types, water supplies and other factors, which has led to discovering precisely what is needed in a specific part of an individual field. I don’t know if we are quite to the square foot yet, but eventually, we will be able to analyze the needs at an individual plant level.”
Austin says becoming more efficient on every square foot of ground—maximizing results and returns—fits hand-in-hand with making someone a better farmer and having a healthier farm, which feeds into a healthier community.
“We’re not gaining any more farmland or water resources, so we need to utilize
new techniques and technologies that help with conservation and improving our efficiencies,” he says.
Austin believes a quality education system that attracts new growth is important for a community to be healthy and thrive.
“It takes new blood to come in with new ideas to do something different than the way we have always done things,” he says.
The Role of Leaders
Austin takes a role as a local leader in agriculture by being involved with the community. He understands the importance of being positive toward local communities and what they’re doing.
“By being involved and learning about the needs and desires of others in our communities, we can better understand and support one another’s perspectives,” he says. “For instance, if I support Joe down the road, who is a teacher, in getting a new school building, that helps strengthen the community. In turn, Joe is going to want to make sure that our ag community is healthy.”
Austin emphasizes leaders aren’t just elected officials or folks who serve on local boards. They are anyone who has a sphere of influence.
“You can be a leader at home or when you speak to your friends and colleagues,” he says. “You can be a leader just by being a good human.”
Austin is glad to live in the OTEC service territory because he knows the co-op cares and is committed to being a
good partner. He acknowledges OTEC’s dedication to development and growth within its four-county service territory.
“Power isn’t just power anymore,” he says. “It’s about good power because all our electronics need good, clean electricity. I know OTEC provides that.”
Another reason an electric co-op is an asset to the community is because being a part of the cooperative network strengthens OTEC’s voice.
“We have people in Salem and in Washington, D.C.,” Austin says. “While we don’t have the numbers in our rural communities, through the co-op network, we gain a much larger voice.”
Austin is proud of the co-op’s capital credits program, which allows OTEC to use money to build and strengthen the grid in its territory and then return margins to member-owners.
“I don’t know any other company that returned $3 million to folks in our communities this year,” he says.
Austin acknowledges the combined value of education, OTEC, health care, roads, a strong infrastructure and residents who are involved in their communities.
“Every one of these is a leg to the stool,” he says. “The more legs we have, the sturdier the stool—or the stronger the community.”
Recognizing and supporting the significance of agriculture in Eastern Oregon is essential for fostering resilient and thriving communities now and in the future. OTEC is a proud supporter of its farmers and ranchers, as well as the next generation of agricultural experts. n
Modern agricultural technologies include using drones to survey fields and herds. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY VAKSMANV
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consult your equipment provider and/or your physician immediately. If
setting
USES: The Inogen Portable Oxygen Concentrator provides a high concentration of supplemental oxygen to patients requiring respiratory therapy on a prescriptive basis. It may be used in home, institution, vehicle, and various mobile environments. DO NOT USE IF: This device is not intended to be used in any way other than described in the indications for use. Do not use in parallel or series with other oxygen concentrators or oxygen therapy devices. This device is to be used as an oxygen supplement and is not intended to be life sustaining or life supporting. ONLY use this product if the patient is capable of spontaneous breath, able to inhale and exhale without the use of a machine. The conserving, or pulse dose, oxygen delivery technique used by this device is contraindicated in persons whose breathing during normal resting would be unable to trigger the device. Proper device triggering, setup and operation must be confirmed by an experienced clinician or other respiratory professional. Not for pediatric use. Not for use by tracheotomized patients. WARNINGS: The device produces enriched oxygen gas, which accelerates combustion. Do not allow smoking or open flames within 2m (6.56ft) of this device while in use. If you feel ill or uncomfortable, or if
and or a distributed alarm system to convey the information about the discomfort and or the medical
and to avoid the risk of fire and burns. To avoid
