Congratulations, 2024 Academic Scholarship Recipients
Baker City Celebrates 150th Anniversary
Kendall Case presents the flag at the Elgin Stampede. PHOTO BY COVER CONTEST WINNER
JADA FOLLETT
Ruralite
July 2024 • Volume 72, No. 7
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 46 consumer-owned electric utilities in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Nevada and California. Preferred periodical postage paid at Hillsboro, Oregon, 97123 and additional mailing offices. © 2024 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited.
Postmaster: Send address changes to Ruralite, 5625 NE Elam Young Pkwy. Ste. 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124-6454
HOW TO CONTACT RURALITE
Subscription services:
Nonmember subscriptions $15 (U.S.) per year; $25 per year (foreign). Prepayment required. Allow 4-8 weeks for first issue. Be sure to identify which local edition you want to receive.
Address Changes:
Utility members, contact your local utility. Subscribers, call us at 503-357-2105 option 3 or email mailingdept@pioneer.coop.
Back issues:
Back issues and extra copies $3. Prepayment required. Supply is limited. Be sure to identify edition, month and year. Call first if ordering back issues to check availability.
To contact Ruralite: Ruralite magazine is published by Pioneer Utility Resources.
P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133-1306; 503-357-2105; email: info@pioneer.coop. For more information, visit www.pioneer.coop.
DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES
American MainStreet Publications
611 S. Congress Ave., Ste. 504 Austin, TX 78704 800-626-1181 or 512-441-5200
For supplemental and interactive content, search @Ruralite on your favorite social media sites.
Travel, Triumphs and Trials
The heart and heat of summer are here.
Gardens are flourishing, and farmers markets are bursting with fresh produce. Outdoor activities are at their peak. I hope you have found ways to enjoy summer while staying cool.
If travel is part of your summer plans, you are not alone. July is one of the busiest travel months of the year, and if you love to include your pets on your vacations, you must read our story on Page 10 about pet-friendly adventures. We offer suggestions and resources to make your time on the road with your pets safe and fun.
Our Spotlight feature, beginning on Page 12, focuses on Amanda McGahen, who likes to travel fast in small circles. Amanda competes on a roller derby team in Walla Walla, Washington. Her sisterhood of athletes has been part of her healing after the death of two children. Part of her journey includes leading the group’s Care
Committee, which celebrates milestones and supports teammates in need. She is paying forward to help others.
Milkweed Update: For those following along, my latest effort to grow milkweed was shortlived and ended tragically. If you will remember, I first attempted to grow plants from seeds. Attempt No. 2 was a 6-inch store-bought start. After only a few days, something stripped all the leaves from my milkweed, and it died. I’ll try again, though—I’m stubborn. I’m going to look for a larger, more established plant. I may also put netting over the milkweed to protect it. Wish me luck.
Sincerely,
Mike Teegarden Editorial Director
Pet-Friendly Adventures
Map out trips with furry friends Up Close, Page 10
Wheels Roller derby family provides structure and support Spotlight, Page 12
Photo Hunt
Powering the Future of eastern oregon
OTEC Member Foundation awards 2024 academic scholarships
The OTEC Member Foundation and Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative Board of Directors congratulate the following local graduating high school seniors and returning college students who were each selected to receive a $5,000 academic scholarship. Through the OTEC Member Foundation, you can make tax-deductible contributions directly to the scholarship fund by donating your capital credit retirements, one-time gifts or creating a named scholarship fund. A named scholarship fund can be directed to support students in specified career fields or communities. They are often created as family funds or memorial scholarships. Learn more at otec.coop/member-foundation.
graduating high school senior scholarship recipients
Bailey McCracken Grant Union High School
Ayla Davies Burns High School
Abbie Justice Grant Union High School
Liam McLain Burns High School
Ryann Paulsen Baker High School
Axel Marvin Baker High School
Hunter Bingham North Powder High School
returning college student/adult scholarship recipients
Avie Durrant La Grande High School
Carson Weaver Grant County
Jake Cuzick Baker County
Parker Manitsas Grant County
Neah Thomas Baker County
Avery Myer La Grande High School
Mason Wolcott La Grande High School
Lydia Hasbell Elgin High School
Ayla Bingham North Powder High School
Katie Perry Union County
Reese Rothwell Harney County
Arie Farnam Union County
Tayleur Baker Harney County
That seamlessness and nimble control is one of the technological advances putting VPPs at a tipping point.
Puget Sound Energy in Washington worked with software provider AutoGrid to launch its first VPP that already has tens of thousands of customers participating as of late last year. The company used the program seven times this past winter to get through peak-demand events.
“What we’re trying to do is this idea of energy orchestration, where we’re working with and for our customers to make sure that we’re maximizing the potential that all these connected devices will bring,” says Aaron August, PSE senior vice president, chief customer and transformation officer.
The utility, which serves more than 1 million electric service consumers, expects to have 30 megawatts of battery capacity by the end of the year and at least 86 MW by the end of 2025.
The utility is focused on adding battery storage to the VPP but Aaron says the vision is to use energy-efficiency practices, distributed energy resources and battery storage systems. The utility also plans to use vehicle-to-grid storage, which enables energy to be pulled back to the power grid from an electric vehicle battery. The utility encourages its consumers to lower or shift their electricity use during daily peak times when energy use is highest and power is most expensive.
“Each one of those assets ... it’s like a musical instrument,” Aaron says. “If you keep adding instruments together, you can
create this orchestra.”
In the San Francisco Bay area, MCE is assembling its own orchestra in Richmond, California. The electric service provider expects to unveil the first house this summer in its inaugural VPP program, which will start with 100 homes and larger commercial and industrial sites, MCE Chief Operating Officer Vicken Kasarjian says.
The program overhauls abandoned homes and sells them at a discount to low-income, first-time homebuyers. The VPP will harness an array of clean-energy technologies in the refurbished homes, including energy storage, smart thermostats, rooftop solar, heat pump water and space heating, and electric vehicle charging.
Participants agree to connect their smart appliances to the grid. MCE will bundle the devices and operate them based on market signals, which, according to MCE, will increase grid reliability, cut consumers’ power bills and reduce emissions.
Other communities have contacted MCE about the program, and it is looking to expand, Vicken says.
VPPs could play a critical role in transforming the energy grid, but that is not a foregone outcome,
Bill says.
“There are a lot of opportunities but a lot of work that needs to be done to get these working on the grid,” he says. n
Rocky Mountain Power’s Wattsmart program uses battery systems in homes and businesses to meet energy demand during peak times. This allows the utility to rely on local generation instead of buying from the power market when it is most expensive. PHOTO COURTESY OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN POWER
OREGON TRAIL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Shining a Light on Solar Scams
By Shane Stenquist
In recent years, there has been a significant surge in the popularity of home solar power systems. This surge has fueled intense competition among solar panel suppliers. While there are many honest and reputable solar companies, the industry has been flooded with scams, schemes and fraud. Distinguishing trustworthy solar providers from shady ones can be challenging.
Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative is fully owned by the people who receive power from us. If you receive an OTEC power bill, you are an OTEC member-owner. We care about our member-owners and want you to avoid falling victim to any unscrupulous sales tactics.
Avoiding solar scams requires vigilance and informed decision-making. Scammers often promise unrealistic returns and hefty savings or use aggressive sales tactics.
Claims that “You will never have to pay another electric bill” and “If you buy solar panels, you will still have power during an outage” may sound enticing, but they do not tell the whole story. Most people still need a connection to the power grid, which means they still receive a monthly bill from their electric utility company and still lose power during an outage.
To completely disconnect from the grid requires the ability to store the generated power to use when the sun is not shining. Battery storage systems are expensive and often not feasible to buy for personal use.
To avoid getting scammed, you need to know what to look out for, what to ask and when to walk away. There are a few things to keep in mind if solar—or a particular company—is right for you.
Fully research the company to determine if it is reputable. Can you find reviews and testimonials online, in places other than the company’s website? Check to see if the company is rated with the Better Business Bureau. Established companies with strong track records are generally safer bets.
Does the company make outlandish
claims or employ high-pressure sales tactics, urging you to sign contracts quickly without adequate time to review? We all know the phrase, “If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.” That saying is true with solar as well.
While solar power may be right for some, it is not the solution for all. Make sure you thoroughly understand what you are agreeing to before signing any contracts.
Sometimes, a solar company’s proposal shows potential savings by comparing solar costs versus average electric utility costs. These comparisons are often not reflective of the cost of power from OTEC.
OTEC has some of the lowest power rates in the country, and we have not implemented a rate increase since 2019. If you want to compare our rates to a proposal you have received, give us a call.
Another misleading tactic is to show a customer how much energy each solar panel can produce without showing the realistic expectations in your area.
For example, most residential solar panels can produce between 250 and 450 watts per hour of direct sunlight. A scammer might try to convince you each panel can
produce 6,000 to 10,000 watts a day.
In reality, those panels do not produce energy when the sun is not out, which can be an issue in Eastern Oregon, especially during the winter when our daylight hours are short.
Across the nation, many attorneys general are warning consumers targeted by unscrupulous sales people trying to mislead and scam consumers out of their hardearned money. If you encounter scammy behavior, consider reporting it to the authorities and OTEC.
We at OTEC care about our memberowners and our communities. We are proud that 85% of the electricity we provide is produced by clean, carbon-free hydroelectricity.
We also recognize there are alternatives—such as solar—growing in popularity. If you are interested in solar power—or other forms of alternative electricity—we encourage you to do your homework and make an informed decision to avoid being taken advantage of. n
Visit otec.coop/community-solar to learn how you can make OTEC community solar part of your energy mix.
Do your homework before deciding if solar power is a good fit for you and your home.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY DIYANADIMITROVA
Tears From a Volcano
Uniquely American stone ignites romance
OnMay 18, 1980, the once-slumbering Mount St. Helens erupted in the Pacific Northwest. It was the most impressive display of nature’s power in North America’s recorded history. But even more impressive is what emerged from the chaos... a spectacular new creation born of ancient minerals named Helenite. Its lush, vivid color and amazing story instantly captured the attention of jewelry connoisseurs worldwide. You can now have four carats of the world’s newest stone for an absolutely unbelievable price.
Known as America’s emerald, Helenite makes it possible to give her a stone that’s brighter and has more fire than any emerald without paying the exorbitant price. In fact, this many carats of an emerald that looks this perfect and glows this green would cost you upwards of $80,000. Your more beautiful and much more affordable option features a perfect teardrop of Helenite set in gold-covered sterling silver suspended from a chain accented with even more verdant Helenite.
Helenite Earrings -a $129 valuewith purchase of Helenite Necklace
Limited Reserves. As one of the largest gemstone dealers in the world, we buy more carats of Helenite than anyone, which lets us give you a great price. However, this much gorgeous green for this price won’t last long. Don’t miss out. Helenite is only found in one section of Washington State, so call today!
Romance guaranteed or your money back. Experience the scintillating beauty of the Helenite Teardrop Necklace for 30 days and if she isn’t completely in love with it send it back for a full refund of the item price. You can even keep the stud earrings as our thank you for giving us a try.
Helenite Teardrop Necklace (4 ¼ ctw) $299* Only $129 +S&P
Helenite Stud Earrings (1 ctw) ....................................... $129 +S&P
Helenite Set (5 ¼ ctw) $428* Call-in price only $129 +S&P
(Set includes necklace and stud earrings)
Call now and mention the offer code to receive FREE earrings. 1-800-333-2045
Offer Code HEN472-01
You must use the offer code to get our special price.
* Special price only for customers using the offer code versus the price on Stauer.com without your offer code.
Limited
“I love these pieces... it just glowed... so beautiful!” — S.S., Salem, OR
4 carats of shimmering Helenite
PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Map out trips with furry friends
By Kathy Denes
Summer typically means travel, whether it’s scenic road trips or flights to vacation destinations. More than ever before, beloved pets are tagging along for the ride.
If you want to take your four-legged companion on your next vacation, here are some pet-friendly resources to make the most of your trip.
Conde Naste Traveler has an online list of nationwide hotels and Airbnbs it deems best for accommodating pets, especially dogs.
Meanwhile, on travelandleisure.com, search “pets” and you’ll unleash a wealth of helpful articles. Even financial companies are weighing in. NerdWallet compiled a list of Best Hotels for Pets in 2024, based on factors such as fees and amenities, and rated air travel options, topped by Alaska Airlines. If you don’t want to do the research yourself, there are travel agencies that specialize in taking care of the details for you.
Also, hotels, resorts, parks and campgrounds usually post their pet policies, fees and amenities, as do airlines, trains and even cruise lines that allow furry passengers. Many websites are focused entirely on pet-friendly travel. Just browse by city, state or destination at resources such as:
• bringfido.com.
• petswelcome.com.
• tripswithpets.com.
Healing on Wheels
Roller derby family provides structure and support
By Vicki Hillhouse
Amanda McGahen’s roller derby journey started in 2023 in a parked car. The night of an open-house-style recruitment meeting for the Walla Walla Sweets Rollergirls, the 42-year-old drove from just across the state line in Milton-Freewater, Oregon, then debated whether to get out from behind the wheel.
“I actually sat in the parking lot and thought, ‘Am I going to go to this all by myself, not knowing anybody?’” she says.
It wasn’t the roller-skating that worried her. As a child in Lebanon, Oregon, she spent weekends at the skating rink, racing girls a couple of years older than her around the wooden floor.
“I skated every chance I could get, and I was fast,” she says. “I felt like I was flying. I felt invincible. I loved skating.”
She wanted that again, and the enticement of a contact sport intrigued her even more.
“I’ve always been interested in sports— boxing, martial arts,” she says. “I like anything that can challenge me, that pushes me harder.”
She’d started home workouts with lunges, squats and cardio.
But there was one condition to joining as she summoned the nerve to enter the orientation with a room full of strangers that night: “I don’t think I can make practices if we have them on Sundays,” Amanda told one of the cocaptains at the end of the session. “Every other practice day works for my schedule but Sundays. My husband has work, and I won’t leave my children with anyone else.”
Like many parents who seek out a new hobby or activity, she looked forward to the dedicated time to focus on herself. But she carried into the space a loss from 11 years before, shaping every decision she makes around the care of her children.
Amanda
joined roller derby in 2023. The sport has had such an impact on her that she commemorated it with a tattoo of a skate and her number on her foot.
the
LEFT:
“Camanda” McGahen
PHOTO BY VICKI HILLHOUSE ABOVE: As jammer, Amanda makes her way through the pack against Rodeo City in Ellensburg, Washington, in April. BELOW: Wearing
black-and-white helmet, Amanda works with her fellow blockers to hold a Rodeo City jammer. PHOTOS BY SCOTT BUTNER
How Is Roller Derby Played?
Roller derby is contested by two 15-skater teams. There are two 30-minute periods. Each period includes multiple “jams,” which can last up to 2 minutes or end before that when the lead jammer calls it off.
Teams field one jammer and four blockers per jam. Jammers must navigate through the blockers. The first jammer to pass all skaters in the pack legally is called the “lead jammer.” This happens on the first pass. In subsequent passes, jammers earn 1 point for each opposing player they pass legally. Both jammers can score once they’ve made it through the pack.
Blockers work to prevent the jammers from passing by using their hips, rears and shoulders. Skaters may not block to the back of another skater, or trip or elbow them. Illegal actions are penalized with 30 seconds in the penalty box. During that time, the team plays short.
A Crushing Loss
“They were 13½ months old when it happened,” she says of her twin girls, Kylie and Kalise.
Amanda and her husband, Darren, were living in Las Vegas at the time. She had night school and worked the graveyard shift. She left them with a family member. On the twins’ first night away from home, Amanda got the worst call of her life. Kylie had rolled off a bed in her sleep and onto a pile of pillows, lodged between the bed and a wall. She suffocated.
The scene at the hospital was like something from a movie—the frantic pace of doctors, police interviews, she says.
“Walking out of the hospital with only one daughter when you’re supposed to have two—coming home to all these memories and knowing you don’t have one of your kids with you—it was the worst pain imaginable,” she says.
The couple lumbered through the pits of grief with an older son, Evan, single twin, Kalise, and support from their community of loved ones. A happy addition came a couple of years later with
the birth of daughter Aubrey. Eventually, they left the difficult memories of Nevada and returned to Oregon.
In December 2020, they moved to Milton-Freewater. Five months later, Evan died on his 22nd birthday.
“That first year in Milton-Freewater, I had just gone through survival mode,” Amanda says.
Unknowingly, she had more in common than she imagined with other recruits that January evening. On some level, they all were looking at derby to bring something new to their lives, whether it be friendships, intensity or a daring opportunity to do something out of the box. Among them, Amanda found her people: 40-somethings, mothers, competitors and even those who had faced similar losses.
The Sisterhood
With its fast-paced, eight-wheeled action, focus on empowerment, inclusivity, fun personas and spirited competition, roller derby draws people of every size and background. Many come to the sport in search of something—a
The Walla Walla Sweets began in 2009 and celebrate the organization’s 15th year with three home bouts and three on the road in 2024. PHOTO BY SCOTT BUTNER
ADOBE STOCK
IMAGE
BY CYBERUSS
Serve Tasty SUMMER SALADS
Orzo Salad With Shrimp and Lemon Dressing
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon lemon zest
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
11/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup uncooked orzo
8 ounces fresh asparagus, trimmed and diagonally sliced into 1-inch pieces
4 ounces fresh sugar snap peas, trimmed
1 cup fresh or frozen English peas, thawed if frozen
12 ounces medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh chives
1/4 cup coarsely chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
Whisk together oil, zest, juice, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Set aside. Prepare orzo according to package directions, omitting salt and fat. Drain. Transfer orzo to a bowl. Cool to room temperature, about 10 minutes.
While orzo cooks, bring a large saucepan of water to boil over high heat. Add asparagus and sugar snap peas to boiling water. Cook until bright green and tender-crisp, about 2 minutes. Add English peas. Stir until softened, about 30 seconds. Using a slotted spoon, transfer vegetables to an ice bath, reserving boiling water in saucepan. Add shrimp to boiling water. Cook until opaque, about 3 minutes. Drain. Transfer shrimp to ice bath with vegetables. Let stand until chilled, about 3 minutes. Drain. Toss together shrimp-vegetable mixture with orzo, and drizzle with dressing. Add chives and parsley. Toss to combine. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway
PHOTO BY KATIE WILCOX
Fresh Peach Salad
Salad
1/4 cup slivered almonds
6 to 8 cups mixed butter
lettuce
3 small ripe peaches, sliced
Dressing
11/2 tablespoons white balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1/2 cup canned corn, drained
4 ounces soft goat cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup olive oil
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh ground black pepper
Place the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Heat, shaking the pan and stirring often with a wooden spoon, until the nuts are fragrant and golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes. Remove immediately from the heat and transfer to a plate.
To make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, mustard, maple syrup, olive oil, kosher salt and several grinds of fresh ground black pepper until thick and emulsified.
To serve, top the greens with almonds, peaches, red onion, corn and goat cheese. Drizzle with dressing. Serve immediately.
Southwestern Salad
Dressing
1 ripe avocado, pitted and peeled
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Salad
2 heads romaine lettuce, chopped
15-ounce can black beans, drained and rinsed
11/2 cups grape tomatoes, cut in half
1 orange bell pepper, seeded and chopped
1 cup frozen corn, thawed
1/2 jalapeno, seeded and coarsely chopped
1 clove garlic, coarsely chopped
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
4 green onions, sliced
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 ripe avocado, peeled, pitted and cubed
1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips or strips
To make the dressing, add the avocado, red wine vinegar, lime juice, cilantro, jalapeno, garlic, salt and pepper to a food processor. Blend or pulse until almost smooth. There should still be bits of cilantro. Add the oil. Blend until incorporated.
To make the salad, add the lettuce, black beans, tomatoes, bell pepper, corn, cheese, green onions, cilantro, avocado and tortilla chips to a large bowl. Drizzle with the dressing, and toss to combine. Serve immediately.
Ranch Potato Salad
24 ounces baby red potatoes, scrubbed and halved
10 cups water
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
4 thick-cut bacon slices, chopped
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup mayonnaise
11/2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
1 tablespoon chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
11/2 teaspoons fresh dill
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon grated garlic
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 ounces mild cheddar cheese, shredded
Place potatoes, water and 1 tablespoon salt in a large pot. Cover pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Uncover pot and reduce heat to medium-high to maintain a moderate boil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until potatoes are fork-tender, about 12 minutes. Drain potatoes. Cool for 20 minutes.
While potatoes boil, cook bacon in a nonstick skillet over medium, stirring often until crisp, about 9 minutes. Remove from heat. Transfer bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Set aside until ready to use.
In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, mayonnaise, chives, parsley, dill, lemon juice, garlic, black pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Add sour cream mixture, bacon and cheese to cooled potatoes in bowl. Toss to combine. Serve immediately, or cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 12 hours.
Greek Salad With Feta Salad
1 cucumber, unpeeled, seeded and sliced 1/4-inch thick
1 red bell pepper, large-diced
1 yellow bell pepper, large-diced
1 green bell pepper, large-diced
Vinaigrette
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved 1/2 red onion, sliced in half-rounds
1/2 pound feta cheese, 1/2-inch diced
1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup olive oil
Place the cucumber, peppers, tomatoes and red onion in a large bowl.
To make the vinaigrette, whisk together the garlic, oregano, mustard, vinegar, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Still whisking, slowly add the olive oil to make an emulsion. Pour the vinaigrette over the vegetables. Add the feta and olives. Toss lightly. Set aside for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend. Serve at room temperature.
READER EXCHANGE
Crafts/Hobbies
I have 10 handmade porcelain and cloth dolls ready to dress along with many patterns. They are various sizes and include Tom Sawyer and Chief Crazy Horse. I will donate if shipping is paid.
Janet Dixon P.O. Box 969 Priest River, ID 83856 Jkdixon14@gmail.com
Would you be willing to part with a Christmas hanky that is tucked away just waiting for a home? Be sure it will receive tender care as it becomes part of a Christmas Tree project. Thank you.
Kathy Heitkemper
1302 Hermits Way The Dalles, OR 97058 jandktd@gmail.com
I have scads of stamps. Most canceled and some are collectors. I’ll send them to you with the postage paid.
Judith Sather 65067 Webster Road La Grande, OR 97850
Milestones
Please help us celebrate our dear mother’s birthday as she turns 90 in a couple of months. She is a social butterfly who sees the best in everyone she meets and dearly loves old-fashioned snail mail. Birthday wishes would mean so much to her. Thank you. Send cards to Kay Elmes, 25363 Arnold Lane, Elmira, OR 97437.
Mary A. Minyard Elmira, Oregon
My dad will turn 90 this month. He would thoroughly enjoy receiving birthday cards celebrating his milestone birthday. Thank you for your consideration. Please send cards to Michael Martell, 17501 Killdeer Drive #399, Bend, OR 97707.
Donna Poirier Sweet Home, OR
My sweet father is turning 100 years old this month. His career was in helping those who were disabled on the job find retraining for a new vocation. He has always enjoyed seeing those he has helped succeed. I would love to inundate him with birthday wishes from readers all over the country. Please send birthday cards to Rulon Ogden, 8131 Beaver Lake Drive, San Diego, CA 92119. Thank you so much.
Pam Anderson
West Richland, Washington
I have met a very nice lady through the Elks as we play poker together once a week in Springfied, Oregon. She doesn’t miss many nights and she really enjoys playing. Her name is Elsie Bergold and she will be 105 years old at the end of July. Please send her cards to my address and they will be delivered at our weekly poker party, and what a surprise it will be. Elsie Bergold, C/O Martha Curl, 81851 River Drive, Creswell, OR 97426.
Martha Curl Creswell, Oregon
Odds
To the lady from Fort Rock/Christmas Valley area who was interested in the Palomino painting that hung at La Pine Law. I have the painting. Please let me know if you’re still interested. Thank you.
M. Van Dyke
P.O. Box 1049 La Pine, OR 97739
Recipes
Avid carp angler seeks Asian, European and American carp cooking recipes. Also interested in recipes for bait concoctions: paste/dough baits, boilies, particle baits, etc.
D. A. Blanco
P.O. Box 8805 Moscow, ID 83843
Thanks
What a nice surprise to receive so many cards, notes and little gifts in the mail from thoughtful readers. I enjoyed every one of them. Thank you for making my 90th birthday in November so special. Also, thank you to all the veterans for your service to our country.
Jean Bartholomew Oakland, Oregon
Have a safe Fourth of July!
Submitting Requests Is Free
Send your request (no attachments) to readerexchange@ruralite.org or mail to Reader Exchange, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Fill in the subject line with Reader Exchange.
Acceptance, scheduling and editing are at the editor’s discretion. Single requests only, please. No duplicates. Submissions are handled firstcome, first-served as space allows. We cannot honor every request.
Please affirm you have authorization from all appropriate parties before submitting. By submitting, you indemnify Reader Exchange, Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., its officers, directors, employees, utility clients and insurers from all legal liability incurred by the publication of information.
We no longer accept pen pal requests. You may submit a pen pal request as a Marketplace ad (pricing applies).
When submitting a milestone request, please send it at least two months before the milestone.
Phone numbers are not published. Email addresses are if they are part of the ad, but you must include a postal address.
Requests must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.
TASTE THE GOOD LIFE
Try the world’s most tender steaks, extra-aged 28+ days to perfection. Discover premium quality beef that’s grain-finished for exquisite flavor.
Experience the juiciest air-chilled chicken, tastiest pork, and so much more.
The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in
those cost reductions have not been passed on
If
Capturing the Joy of Summer
By Dave LaBelle
As a school-age child, I could hardly wait for the last day of school and the beginning of summer vacation, where freedom, sunshine, time with my dogs, fishing in the creeks, baseball games, watermelons, swimming pools and working with my grandfather on his fishing boat awaited.
As an adult, those carefree summer memories still bring me joy and serve me faithfully in storytelling, whether with words or photographs. In fact, beginning writers, unsure what to write about, are often encouraged to start with their childhood, a treasure chest rich with stories.
While childhood memories are a good source of inspiration for activities, making photographs that capture the essence of summer requires thought.
“Don’t just show me what something looks like,”
Renowned author, photographer and lecturer
Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
Reader Challenge
I often admonished my photojournalism students.
“Show me what it feels like.”
That was a common theme in all of my classes, and it remains sound advice for anybody using photography to communicate. If you want to reach people with your photographs, aim high. Those images connect us and make us smile or remember.
Consider what is in the frame when you press the shutter. Being patient and watching for storytelling moments is critical. The act of fishing might not be nearly
as storytelling as the reaction of the angler once the fish is caught.
Conversely, an overall scene of a fisherman in a beautiful stream might best evoke the serenity of the moment. Sometimes the liberal use of negative space—that which is not occupied by people or objects—helps humble us and wrap us in wonder.
Finally, consider the angle from which you photograph. A child’s perspective is different than an adult’s, and subtly helps take us back to those long, carefree summer days. n
See if you can make a photograph that captures the joy or the essence of summer. Reach into your memory bank and consider what you loved most about summers. Chances are the places and activities that brought you joy in the past—lakes, campgrounds, fishing villages or swimming pools—will lead you to where you find the best pictures today.
Email your best image (just one, please) with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to GPH@pur.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.
I spent about 30 minutes folded beneath a diving board on a hot and muggy summer day watching and waiting for the right moment, the right gesture and composition. I knew I wanted a picture that felt like the joy of summer. PHOTO BY DAVE LABELLE
NIKON D800, 24mm lens ISO 100, f/10 at 1/800
2025
By Walt Amacher, Oregon—Tillamook PUD
Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest
It is time to share your favorite photos for a chance to appear in our 2025 Ruralite calendar.
Up to 13 winners will be selected and receive $100. Photos must be submitted by July 15, 2024.
The contest is open to recipients of Ruralite and Currents magazines. Each person may only submit up to two photos. Each photo submission must include:
• Photographer’s name, address and electric utility.
• A short description of what is shown.
• Photographer’s email address and phone number.
• Digital JPEG photos only. Photos must be horizontal or landscape format and at least 300 dpi at 11 inches wide by 9 inches tall. Vertical photos and files larger than 30 megabytes will not be accepted. Send submissions to calendar@ruralite.org. Put “2025 Calendar Photo Contest” in the subject line.
Winning Tips
• Use the highest resolution setting on your digital camera.
• Photograph beautiful places and wildlife.
• Capture scenes full of vivid color.
• Reflect the seasons.
• Focus on the beauty of your geography.
• Make us feel something (awe, joy).
Visit ruralite.com/2025contest for more information and an FAQ about entering the contest.
How a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can change your life
Remember when…
Think about the things you loved to do that are dif cult today — going for a walk or just sitting comfortably while reading a book. And remember the last time you got a great night’s sleep? As we get older, health issues or even everyday aches, pains and stress can prevent us from enjoying life.
So what’s keeping you from having a better quality of life? Check all the conditions that apply to you.
Then read on to learn how a Safe Step Walk-In Tub can help.
Feel better, sleep better, live better
A Safe Step Walk-In Tub lets you indulge in a warm, relaxing bath that can help relieve life’s aches, pains and worries.
It’s got everything you should look for in a walk-in tub:
• Heated Seat – Providing soothing warmth from start to nish.
• MicroSoothe® Air Therapy System –helps oxygenate and soften skin while offering therapeutic bene ts.
• Pain-relieving therapy – Hydro massage jets target sore muscles and joints.
• Safety features – Low step-in, grab bars and more can help you bathe safely and maintain your independence.
• Free Shower Package – shower while seated or standing.
MARKETPLACE
Agriculture
Reinforced custom-sized pond liners (39 cents/sqft). Hay covers, greenhouse covers, any width and length. Truck tarps and more. High puncture and tear strength. Best price guaranteed. Celebrating 43 years in business. www.btlliners.com. 541-447-0712. 0425
4x5 round bales, meadow foxtail orchard grass. 4x4 timothy, small square. 208-435-4637 or 208-435-4002; nas@cpcinternet.com. 1224
Antiques and Collectibles
Buying antiques and collectibles: advertising signs, porcelain signs, gas pumps, beer signs, antique toys, cast-iron coin banks, neon signs and more. Jason, 503-310-3321 or tjabaughman@yahoo.com. 0924
WC Collectibles. We buy comic books! Local to the Inland Northwest, willing to travel. WCCollectiblesCheney@gmail.com; 509-496-1835. 0724
Automotive
Rare 1960 Chevy pickup 4x4. Shortbed. Not running now. Text or call 661-713-3377. Leave message. 0724
Books, Magazines, Videos
Idaho author Tova R. Cladouhos offers children’s books on Amazon or by email at tovarae@gmail.com. These books are perfect for elementary-aged children; factual stories based on friendship, affection, protection and farm animal adventures. Tova loves barns, pastures, dogs, cats, sheep and ponds. Her books include, “The Nine Lives of Milo the Cat,” “Saving Lily,” “Little Molly” and “Little Molly’s Secret.” 0724
Book restoration. Bibles, cookbooks, cherished family heirlooms. Beautiful work. We give renewed life, more durable than original, to last for generations. 775-537-7066; salacanstudio@gmail.com. 0724AR
Business Opportunities
Quaint hardware store in Maupin, OR, for sale. Inventory and interior store recently updated and refreshed. See ad on Bizbuysell.com or email Maupincountrystore@gmail.com. $275K. 0924
Community Events
Exhibits “My Heart” by artist Brenna Kimbro and Arboreality: Poetry Broadsides curated by Nick Neely. Art Center East in La Grande, OR. artcentereast.org. 0724
Quick, Affordable: How to Place an Ad
Ads 25 words or fewer are $35 a month. An extended ad of up to 35 words is $50 a month. Contact information is included in the word count. Phone numbers and emails count as one word.
Longer ads may be placed. Contact 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop for pricing information.
Ads are for customers of member co-ops, public utility districts and municipals only. Subscribers and nonmembers may inquire about pricing at 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop.
Ads must be direct and in first person, and are subject to approval and editing.
Closing deadlines (in our office): September issue—August 1, 2024.
If submitting ad by mail, send appropriate payment with your name, address, email, phone number and the name of the electric utility that provides your magazine to: Marketplace, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133. Make check or money order payable to Ruralite.
We accept credit card payments for ads submitted by email. Send ad to info@pioneer.coop.
503-357-2105 to pay by credit card.
Advertisements are accepted in good faith. Pioneer Utility Resources is not liable for interactions between buyers and sellers.
Equipment/Tools
1 set Hitachi-Deere 12-131/2 ton and CAT 215 tracks. 44 links/roll. 24” HD BERCO shoes. New surplus from closure of Tacoma store. FOB, my ranch, Eugene. Ted Brown, 541-556-0517. 0724
Free Items
Free materials: church, government uniting, suppressing “religious liberty,” enforcing National Sunday Law. Be informed. Need mailing address only. TBS, P.O. Box 374, Ellijay, GA 30540. tbsmads@yahoo.com; 888-211-1715. 0824AR
Help Wanted
The Cape Blanco Heritage Society needs volunteers at the Cape Blanco Lighthouse Greeting Center and Hughes House for summer 2024. Background checks are required. Free RV hookups are available to volunteers. heritage32@frontier.com; 541-332-0521. 0824
Hobbies, Gifts, Games
Selling United States postage stamp collection. Mint plate blocks and sheets dating back to the 1940s. Photo available. Bob, 541-786-6195 or brown.donna50@gmail.com. 1024
Media
Watch Channel 25 (Southern NV)—on the go— for free on your TV, phone, tablet, computer or ROKU. Visit www.kpvm.tv and stream live today. 775-727-9400. 0924
Miscellaneous
Alaskan Yellow Cedar. Great for planter boxes, herb and flower beds, fencing or decks. Various sizes available. Pete, 541-206-0727. Lisa, 541-747-5025, ext. 21. 1224
Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. For more info: www.highdesertmemorials.com; Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or 541-815-8906. 0824
Pets, Supplies
German shepherd puppies and one male shar-pei puppy left for adoption. 907-803-1005; myakdogs@gmail.com; Akceuropeangermansherpherd.com. 0724
Border collies are the world’s smartest dog breed. Purebred puppies for therapy or service dogs, sports, herding or family companions. Excellent dispositions. Longhaired, various colors. Vet check, first vaccine and deworming. Raised in our home. $800. 541-979-5759; danita@centurylink.net. 0824
Border collie/McNab puppies. The best dog you will ever have. Males and females, $450 each. Colton, OR. 503-314-0145. 0724
Idaho Shag (Border collie x Airedale). The best dog you will ever have. Farm/ranch dog. Males and females. $450 each. Colton, OR. 971-804-1706. 0724
AKC-registered Airedales. Fort Sage Kennels, Patricia Sharp, P.O. Box 246, Doyle, CA 96109; 530-827-2271. 0924
Plants, Garden Supplies
Cactus for sale. Cold/winter hardy. Good for landscaping. Sunnyside/Mabton, WA, area. Local pickup only. marybarthlow@gmail.com; 509-391-5546. 0724
Real Estate
Christmas Valley, OR. 40 acres with perimeter fence. 36x36 metal building, two carports, 370-ft. deep water well, storage container on chase. Taking only serious offers. 541-536-5776. 0724
Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in Oregon. Fourthgeneration Oregonian, prior ranch owner. For sale: central OR, 2-acre parcel. $624K. John Gill, 541-480-9161; johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0724
117 acres in central OR; very private. No neighbors. Cabin, mostly fenced. Great recreation opportunities. For more info, 541-548-6284. 0724
9.87 acres in Willard, WA. All harvestable timber. 100 ft. from Little White Salmon River. 17 miles north of Hood River, OR. $650K. 509-538-2187. 0824
Beautiful setting on 1.58 acres. Mountain views, 4x4, finished basement, large fenced yard, garage. $449.9K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363; ddwr@ortelco.net. 0724
$179.9K-fully loaded, remote, AK property for sale. Log cabin, fully equipped with all living amenities, SeaArk river boat (less than 200 hrs), 5 acres, chain saw sawmill, tractor, DR mower, tool shed full of everything you will need and much more. River and trail access. Half-hour boat ride up river from Nenana, AK, boat dock. Outside borough, so no property taxes. Only serious buyers. 907-388-7080.
Comfortable 2 bd, 1 ba, 1,200 sqft. Eagle, AK, home, on Yukon River. 4 lots. 2 cabins. $175K, OBO. Ann, 907-251-9094. Gary, 907-505-8263. See listing on Land.com. 0724
Buying or selling in Brookings, OR? Call Pat Piper at Century 21 Agate Realty first. Experience. Empathy. Education. Exceptional. 541-251-2152; patpiperbroker@gmail.com.
Off-grid homestead. Ideal for wind/solar power. NE Elko County, NV. Has equipment, quarters, shop. Year-round access. Water and power nearby. $35K. geopup58@gmail.com.
Farm for sale. Large house, shop and barn near Goldendale, WA. With 5, 10 or 25 pasture acres. 25 includes Little Klickitat River. David, 541-580-2060. 0724
Summer getaway. 2 bd, 1 ba on lot located in Mountain City, NV. Needs work. $40K. Call 775-304-2398. 0724
15 off-grid acres. At 8,400-ft., near Fort Garland, CO. Great view of CO’s 4th highest peak. On Person’s Road in Sangre de Cristo Ranches. Pinon trees, year-round access. $52.9K. 541-729-0374. 0924
Recreational Rentals
Wavecatcher: oceanfront cottage. Central Oregon Coast. Summer $175/night mid-May to mid-Oct.; $140/night mid-Oct. to mid-May. (plus cleaning/tax). 3 bd, w/double beds. Pets welcome. Wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. Reservations: 541-740-2846. 0724AR
Bend country cabin. Very clean and fully furnished cabin on private ranch. Close to recreation areas. Very nice. $95/night. 541-382-3050; bendcountrycabins@gmail.com. 0824
Recreational Vehicle
Sunseeker 24 on Mercedes Sprinter classic. 57K miles. 50% tires. Good condition. 8-ft, slide out. $53.9K. FOB. Eugene or Bend. 541-556-0517. 0724
Services
Are you a business that provides sustainable transportation options for your employees? Get recognition and free technical assistance through the Electric Vehicle Adoption Leadership certification. To find out more, visit www.evalcertification.org. 0724
Dawn Till Dusk Masonry. Brick, block, stone and pavers. Small jobs and repairs welcome. Check out our website at dawntillduskconstructionmasonry.com. 541-388-7605; 541-410-6945. License #245760 bonded and insured. La Pine, OR. 0824
We all want delicious, fresh, nourishing food to feed our families. We’ve got pastured pork corn/soy/GMO free. Delivery to your door or drop sites. Order at rural-roots-ranch.com or text Christy at 541-589-4674. 1224
Timeshare victims? Call TimeShareBeGone, 800-214-4460. We will get your timeshare legally canceled. A+ BBB, 5-star reviews, 16 years experience. 100% money-back guarantee. 1024
Want to Buy
Looking for: ’62-’67 Corvette, ’64-’65 GTO, ’62 Chev. 409. Prefer manual transmission, no tribute cars, as close to stock as possible. Willing to pay up for great car. No junk or projects. 503-799-3835. Text with pictures or call. 0724
Wanted: Old 501 Levi’s. Jeans, jackets with capital “E” on the red tag. Also, Carhartts with red heart. Good prices. Text photos to 208-255-8030. 0724
Wanted: 1967-72 Buick Skylark, GS, Stage 1, GSX. Cars, parts or leads. Or any ’60s or ’70s vehicles. Email billybibbett@hotmail.com. 0824
Gold, silver, coins/currency, buy, sell. Collections wanted. Fair prices paid. 44 years in retail store. Baker City, OR. 800-556-2133; garrymclin@aol.com. 1024
Old carpenter tools, planes (wood/metal), levels, chisels, slicks, adzes, axes, hatchets, handsaws, old rulers, spoke shaves, wrenches, shipwright tools, old tool chests. 503-659-0009 or 971-666-0659. 0724
Need parts for a 1998 Yamaha Grizzly 600 ATV or a nonworking for parts. Matsmaps@hotmail.com; 503-290-6755. 0724
Wanted: Early Corvette ’58-’62, any condition. Call or text Randy, 503-544-3807. 0824
Baker City Celebrates Sesquicentennial
James gang. Philadelphia opened the first zoo in the country. The United States was in the middle of the Second Industrial Revolution, which brought millions of immigrant workers with the promise of new opportunities. It was also in the midst of a great westward expansion. Oregon’s population ballooned from 90,923 in 1870 to 174,768 in 1880.
Settling the West was neither glamorous nor easy. The Library of Congress describes the people who moved West as experiencing tough lifestyles, including long, hard hours of labor, poor living conditions and economic hardship.
Also in 1874, a small town was officially incorporated in Eastern Oregon when a city charter was approved by the state Legislature. Baker City—and Baker County—was named to honor Edward Dickinson Baker (1811–1861), Oregon’s first senator and the only sitting member of Congress killed in military conflict.
Throughout 2024, Baker City commemorates its 150th anniversary, which presents many opportunities to celebrate the history and the people who helped shape our region. Whether or not you are a history buff, we hope you take the time to learn, reflect and celebrate the rich history of Baker City. n
OREGON TRAIL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
LEFT: Baker City Pottery and Contract Co. was established in 1892 at the end of Elm Street, south of the railroad tracks.
BELOW: The sign at the McCord farm implement store reads, “S.B. McCord, dealer in Agricultral Implements, Farmer’s & Mechanic’s Tools, Stoves & Tinware, Etc.” S.B. was on Baker City’s first board of trustees in 1874. When city government was reorganized and received a new charter from the state in 1887, he was elected Baker City’s first mayor.
OPPOSITE PAGE: By 1900, Baker City was the third-largest city in Oregon. PHOTOS COURTESY OF BAKER COUNTY LIBRARY DISTRICT’S HISTORIC PHOTO COLLECTION
BEFORE YOU GO
Beauty In Your Backyard
The readership area of this magazine is vast and beautiful, containing everything from mountains to deserts and lakes to oceans. Some of you have views from your homes that rival the views of national parks.
From time to time, we will share some of the excellent reader photos in this space. If we use your photo here, we will send you your choice of a $25 gift card to REI or Amazon.
To submit your high-resolution photo, email a JPEG file to photos@pioneer.coop. Include “Before You Go” in the subject line. Please share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo. n
Ray DeBaun says that he and his wife like to look for rainbows after rainstorms in Mitchell, Oregon. They found this one in their front yard. PHOTO BY
RAY DEBAUN
• Up to 2X the power of the competition
• Cut overgrown brush, tall field grass, and saplings up to 3" thick
• Commercial, Electric, Walk- and Tow-Behind models available, including the NEW PRO MAX60T!
District Offices
4005 23rd St. P.O. Box 226
Baker City, OR 97814 541-523-3616
567 W. Pierce St. Burns, OR 97720 541-573-2666
400 Patterson Bridge Road P.O. Box 575
John Day, OR 97845 541-575-0161
2408 Cove Ave. La Grande, OR 97850 541-963-3155
www.otec.coop communications@otec.coop Report Outages at 866-430-4265
Facebook.com/OTECoop
Follow Us on Instagram otec_coop
Follow us at twitter.com/ OTECoop (@OTECoop)
Board Members
President Aletha Bonebrake, Baker County
Vice President Gary Miller, Grant County
Secretary-Treasurer
Cory Miller, Union County
George “Austin” Bingaman, Union County
David Baum, Union County
Robert Cargill, Harney County
Charlene Chase, Baker County
Jeff D. Clark, Union County
Wayne Overton, Baker County
Les Penning, CEO
Ron Williams, Attorney
OR-48
Embracing Innovation
From time to time, we hear someone pining for “the good old days.” The nostalgia of a bygone era is strong in our memories, reminding us of all the ways things were “better back then.”
While there are many reasons we might long for a return to some of the old ways, we are also blessed to live in a time when we enjoy so many modern innovations that make our lives better today. This time of year, many of us are extremely grateful for air conditioners and refrigerators.
From the time humans discovered fire and invented the wheel, they have dreamed of ways to innovate and create. Each new generation stands on the shoulders of those who went before and dreams of what is next.
Today, artificial intelligence stands out as a transformative technological advancement with farreaching implications across almost every industry. The importance of AI in modern innovation cannot be overstated, as it is a catalyst for efficiency, new opportunities and enhanced problemsolving capabilities.
AI has already become integral to many fields, such as health care, finance, transportation and manufacturing. In health care, AI-powered systems can improve diagnostics, personalize treatment plans and streamline administrative tasks. For example, AI algorithms can analyze medical images with extremely high accuracy, often detecting anomalies that human eyes might miss. This can lead to earlier and more accurate diagnoses, which can significantly improve patient outcomes.
In the energy sector, AI can enhance grid management, optimizing the distribution of electricity based on real-time demand and supply data. This leads to more efficient energy use and reduces the likelihood of power outages. Furthermore, AI can predict equipment failures and schedule preventive maintenance, ensuring a more reliable power supply.
The importance of AI extends beyond specific industries. It fundamentally alters how we approach problem-solving. AI systems can process and analyze huge amounts of data far quicker than humans, identifying patterns and insights that might otherwise go unnoticed. This capability enables businesses and researchers to make data-driven decisions, fostering innovation, solving problems and improving outcomes.
AI also promotes the development of new products and services, driving economic growth and creating new job opportunities. While concerns about AI displacing certain jobs exists, it also creates demand for new skills and roles, such as AI ethics, data science and machine-learning engineering. AI gives areas with workforce shortages, such as rural areas, a renewed opportunity to innovate and grow, solving problems that have long plagued small communities and businesses due to shortage of resources.
AI is quickly becoming a cornerstone of modern innovation, often working behind the scenes in ways that are not obvious to enhance efficiency, create new opportunities and transform how we solve problems. Its importance will continue to grow as technology evolves, making it an indispensable tool. In the months ahead, we will explore the potential and implications of AI for our industry, our communities and our global landscape.
Recently, OTEC and the OTEC Member Foundation announced the recipients of our 2024 academic scholarships. It is exciting to think about the possibilities for the future of these young men and women. What will they discover? What will they create? What innovative new tools will they be able to use to help us—and future generations—live better lives?
CEO Les Penning