Sdrea west river sign may

West River Electric May 2018 Vol. 19 No. 1

Energy Upgrades for a Happier Home Page 8

New Appliance Purchasing Tips Page 12

MANAGER’S NOTE

Strange Start to Spring?

Can We Call It Spring?

What a strange start to spring, or can we even call it spring! I think Punxsutawney Phil even missed this one! The moisture is fantastic and the cold weather helps our sales, but…….. I feel for the people calving and trying to get work done in this, including our crews who are battling the mud!

Dick Johnson dick.johnson@westriver.coop

We were able to energize our new Box Elder Substation in March.

I wanted to start my column by doing a special thank you to our employees during April. April 9 has been designated by the coops as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. Then on April 25, the day is declared Administrative Professionals Day for all of our “non-lineworker” folks. I feel every day our team of employees should be thanked for their hard work but this sets aside a day to celebrate their continued devotion to our members at the end of the line. We have a great group of employees; I, (I should say “we” as you are all member/ owners of the coop), am truly blessed to work side by side with them every day. On page 14, you will see a picture of all of our employees who work hard on your behalf.

Our bylaw committee met a few weeks ago to make the final changes and tweaks to our proposed bylaw amendments. Three directors and three members have been meeting for several months to look at some changes to our bylaws. Most of the changes have been made to bring more current the wording. Some changes have also been made to allow electronic means to accomplish various responsibilities if allowed by state law. We utilized several sources of information from our National Rural Electric Association and other cooperatives who have gone through the process recently. It has certainly been an interesting project, and one where I learned how we are all separate coops yet share the same values about our relationship with our members. You will be seeing more information prior to the annual meeting when you, the member/owners of West River, will give your final stamp of approval on the changes.

We were able to energize our new Box Elder substation in March. All the circuits have been switched over and are fully functional. With the added growth in that area, and it being one of our oldest subs, it was no longer meeting the needs of the members. The old Box Elder sub will be retired. The total to do the reconstruction will be just shy of $3.0 million. 10951200We started on the reconstruction about 4 years ago. You can see how long it takes in our industry to build something like this from concept, to design, to actual construction. Thanks to our staff and line crews, Rushmore Engineering, and Besler Inc., among others, who worked so diligently to get it to completion.

I hope you all have a great spring. REMEMBER take that extra step and STAY SAFE. We want you to be our members tomorrow too!

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Cooperative Connections | May 2018

EZ-Spot-UR removing a broken pole after a storm

EZ-SPOT-UR What are they for?

Pole Placement after a storm

Mike Letcher mike.letcher@westriver.coop

In past articles we have discussed the usefulness of the digger/derrick, whether mounted on a truck chassis or our track unit. But, there is another option for setting poles. Several years ago the Ez-Spot-Ur was introduced. It is an attachment for a skid steer loader that allows you to set poles up to 45 ft. in length. A large skid steer is required but if you equip it with tracks it will go almost anywhere the track digger will and at a fraction of the cost. The attachment is basically a hydraulic clamp that can grab a pole and then rotate to stick the pole in the ground. They are extremely useful in storm situations but also make building new line much quicker. We put an auger on one skid steer and it digs the holes while the skid steer with the Ez-Spot-Ur follows behind 1258501and sets the poles. A Hydraulic tamp attached to the unit allows the crews to make sure the poles are set firmly. This method is almost twice as fast as using the digger/ derrick and even with two skid steers is still less expensive than a digger/derrick. The digger/derrick will never be replaced as it can perform many other functions, but the Ez-Spot-Ur works great for setting poles and reduces wear and tear on the digger/derrick.

May 2018 | Cooperative Connections

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SAFETY TIPS

Fly Drones Safely Drones are unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) that are increasingly being used recreationally and professionally. As a result, there is an increasing need to ensure these craft are flown safely and within regulations.

Keep drones away from overhead power lines. If a drone flies into a power line, it could cause power outages. It could also result in downed lines, which pose a dangerous electrical safety hazard. The falling debris could also endanger public safety.

Touching a downed line or anything it has fallen on, like a fence or a tree limb, could get you injured or even killed. Stay away and instruct others to do the same. If you come across downed power lines, call 911 to notify emergency personnel and the utility immediately.

Follow federal guidelines for registering your drone or getting business approval, and be aware of and abide by community and state-specific legislation. Also, keep these FAA safety guidelines in mind: Before flying the drone, check it for damage. Have a damaged drone repaired before use.

Never fly drones higher than 400 feet.

Do not fly the drone beyond your line of sight.

Do not fly near airports, manned aircraft, stadiums or people.

Do not fly for commercial purposes, unless specifically authorized by the FAA. Do not fly in bad weather conditions, such as low visibility or high winds.

Never fly your drone recklessly. You could be fined for endangering people or other aircraft.

Source: safeelectricity.org 4

Cooperative Connections | May 2018

This month, we encourage all members to take extra time to plug into safety.

#ElectricalSafetyMonth

KIDS CORNER SAFETY POSTER “If a power line is touching a car, stay in the car or jump out!”

JaeShawnia Iron Hawk, Second-grader at Dupree Public School

JaeShawnia is the daughter of Lindsey Flying By, Dupree, S.D. She is a member of Moreau-Grand Electric Cooperative, Timber Lake, S.D. Kids, send your drawing with an electrical safety tip to your local electric cooperative (address found on Page 3). If your poster is published, you’ll receive a prize. All entries must include your name, age, mailing address and the names of your parents. Colored drawings are encouraged.

RECIPES

Comforting Casseroles Quesadilla Casserole 1 lb. ground beef

2 tsp. chili powder

1/2 cup chopped onion

1 tsp. ground cumin

2 (8 oz. each) cans tomato sauce

1 tsp. garlic, minced

1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 (8-3/4 oz.) can whole kernel corn, undrained 1 (4-1/2 oz.) can chopped green chiles, undrained

1/2 tsp. oregano leaves 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper 6 (8-inch) flour tortillas 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

Brown beef and onion in large skillet on medium-high heat; drain.

Add tomato sauce, beans, corn and green chiles; mix well. Stir in all seasonings. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; simmer 5 minutes.

Spread 1/2 cup of the beef mixture on bottom of 9x13-inch baking dish sprayed with no stick cooking spray. Top with 3 of the tortillas, overlapping as needed. Layer with 1/2 of the remaining beef mixture and 1/2 of the cheese. Repeat with remaining tortillas, beef mixture and cheese. Bake at 350째F. for 15 minutes or until heated through.

Let stand 5 minutes before serving. Makes 8 servings.

Nutritional Information Per Serving: Calories 391, Total Fat 19g, Sodium 950mg, Cholesterol 63mg, Carbohydrates 31g, Protein 24g, Dietary Fiber 4g Pictured, Cooperative Connections

Chicken Crescent Casserole 4 cups cubed cooked chicken or turkey 1 can cream of chicken soup 1 can cream of celery soup 1 (8 oz.) can sliced water chestnuts, drained 1 (4 oz.) can mushroom stems and pieces, drained 2/3 cup mayonnaise

4 cups chopped fresh cauliflower 1/4 cup butter, cubed

1/2 cup sour cream 2 cups cubed cooked ham

1/3 cup flour

1 (4 oz.) can mushrooms, drained

2 cups milk

Topping:

1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

1 cup soft bread crumbs 1 T. butter, melted

In a large saucepan, cover cauliflower with water. Bring to a boil.

Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 5 to 10 minutes or until tender.

Meanwhile, in another large saucepan, melt butter; stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk. Bring to a boil; cook and stir until thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in cheese and sour cream until melted. Drain cauliflower. In large bowl, combine cauliflower, ham and mushrooms. Add cheese sauce and toss to coat. Transfer to a greased 2-quart baking dish. Combine topping ingredients; sprinkle over casserole. Bake, uncovered, at 350째F. for 40 to 45 minutes.

Rebecca Hauser, Tripp, S.D.

1/2 cup chopped celery 1/2 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup sour cream 1 (8 oz.) can refrigerated crescent rolls 6 oz. shredded Swiss or American cheese 2 to 4 T. butter, melted

In a large saucepan, combine first 9 ingredients. Cook over medium heat until hot and bubbly. Pour into an ungreased 12x8-inch baking dish. Place rolls on top of hot chicken mixture. Combine cheese and butter; spread over rolls. Bake at 350째F. for 20 to 25 minutes or until crust is deep golden brown. Variation: Substitute 4 cups of imitation crabmeat for the chicken or turkey and 1 can cream of shrimp soup in place of the cream of chicken soup.

Mary Crane, Mitchell, S.D.

Jalapeno Tater Tot Casserole 1 (2 lb.) bag tater tots

2 (8 oz.) pkgs. cream cheese, softened

Ham and Cauliflower Casserole

Photo courtesy: McCormick

1 cup sour cream 2 cups Mexican Cheddar jack shredded cheese, divided

1 lb. bacon, cooked and crumbled 6 jalapeno peppers, deseeded and diced 6 green onions, thinly sliced

Line a casserole dish with tater tots. Bake at 425째F. for 15 minutes.

In a medium bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup Cheddar jack cheese, bacon (reserve some for topping), diced jalapeno peppers and sliced onions (save a few for the top). Stir to thoroughly combine ingredients. Spread the jalapeno mixture over the tater tots. Top with remaining cup of cheese. Sprinkle with reserved bacon pieces and onion. Bake for 20 minutes. Serves 12.

Sandi Litschewski, Spearfish, S.D.

Please send your favorite dairy, dessert and salad recipes to your local electric cooperative (address found on Page 3).

Each recipe printed will be entered into a drawing for a prize in June 2018. All entries must include your name, mailing address, telephone number and cooperative name.

5 May 2018 | Cooperative Connections

Hereford, SD 1910

HEREFORD Named for the Hereford Cattle Grazing Veronica Kusser veronica.kusser@westriver..coop

Hereford is an unincorporated community on the prairies of Western SD, 23 miles North of New Underwood. Hereford was named for the Hereford Cattle that were grazing the open range of the prairies that is with no fences. There were homesteaders on every quarter of land, so you didn’t have to wander far to reach a neighbors place.

The first post office of Hereford was started in 1894. It is hard for me to imagine getting mail to the community and only getting it once a week and sometimes less. The post office remained at Hereford until 1985 when the mail started delivery by rural carrier. The community had many hardships in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, but remain strong and supportive of each other today.

The community of Hereford started Sunday School in 1927 or 1928. The Hereford Community Church was organized by the American Sunday School Union, with the first pastor being Rev. Stahl. With the membership being 60-65 people on a reglar basis, it was a community gathering.

The young ones could be found regularly on Sunday morning attending Sunday School, but church services were only held when the minister 6

Cooperative Connections | May 2018

Hereford School 2018

HISTORY could come out.

Nineteen Hundred proved to be a very dry year, but there were plenty of cow chips for fuel. 1910 and 1911 were so dry many of the people of the community gave up their homesteads and headed back where they came from. That is one of the few times the Belle Fourche River stopped running.

A lot happened in the area in 1920, that is the year that a road was built going north out of New Underwood. Keep in mind it was not a paved road like we are used to today. It was little more than a buggy trail, but easier on the model T’s.

Along with the road came the Pratt bridge which was built across the Belle Fourche River, which was an exciting time for everyone. They could now cross the river any time, well not quite anytime, barring the bad snowstorms or the spring floods.

One Room Shanty

And wow who would have guessed it, communication became a whole lot easier.

A telephone line was built to those who could afford to have wire run to their place from the road, by Belle Telephone connecting them to New Underwood.

People relied on rain water, snow melt and carrying water from the creeks and rivers

for the laundry, watering the animals, drinking and cooking. Sod houses were constructed from strips of sod cut from the prairie which was turned up with a breaking plow. When the conditions got too dry, the sod strips could not be cut.

Lots of people lived in one room shacks or shanties that were unplastered and not

Homesteaders believed in mixing pleasure with hardships. very warm in the winter, but a little too warm in the summer. I say we are all very spoiled today. We worry if our kids have to share a room with their siblings.

pass the time. Box socials were a hit with the young men who had to cook for themselves. They would pay good money for a good meal cooked by who knows who.

This was a great opportunity for a homecooked meal. Remember May baskets; they were popular back then and made May 1st a fun day. It was always exciting to be invited to a house party, where you would get dressed in your Sunday best and went calling on the neighbors. I bet they didn’t have any issues getting in their 10,000 steps.

Mrs Harry Mick was a mid-wife or nurse for a time out on the prairies, but when there was real need for help Dr. Mathias, who lived up the Belle Fourche river was called on to help.

There were good years, and there were lean years, there were ups and there were downs, but this was a tight little community where neighbors helped neighbors. The old homesteaders believed in mixing pleasure with their hardships.

There were no schools in 1910, but it didn’t take long for make-shift buildings to be erected. The buildings were not warm enough for year round school, so students attended classes in the spring and fall.

The standard transportation for kids to get to and from school was to walk 2 miles up hill and then the 2 miles up hill to get back home. That is what my grandparents always said! When it was a longer distance to school, the children Fire Dept & Community came on horseback.

Center in 2018 In the early 1900’s one young man remembers people coming from miles It is so exciting to see a strong community around to a dance at their home. There that is still there for their neighbors after were a couple of fiddlers, an accordian 124 years. The children continue to be player and piano players. You could square educated right at home where they can dance, waltz, schottische and two-step till attend K-8th grade. The community sun up when everyone had to return home can still celebrate birthdays, anniversato do chores. ries, wedding and baby showers and get The settlers did a lot of visiting with their together for anniversaries so close to home neighbors, as there were no fast cars or big at the community hall. There is nothing cities to go to, and no movie theatres to better than knowing your neighbors!

Sod House 1917 May 2018 | Cooperative Connections

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YOUR HOME

Boosting attic insulation is one way to cut energy bills.

ENERGY UPGRADES FOR A HAPPIER HOME Boost Your Home’s Comfort And Cut Energy Use Diane Veto Parham Contributing Writer

Imagine your house is not just the place you sleep, eat and store your stuff, but more like a part of your family, with its own unique needs. Ignore those needs and both you and your home suffer the consequences. But, pay closer attention, and you can find ways to enjoy a more pleasant – and efficient – living environment.

“It’s amazing how much comfort you can provide by spending a few dollars,” says Brian Sloboda, program manager for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Arlington, Va., “You’re going to increase your quality of life.”

Knowing what your house needs is job one. Your heating-and-air system, your appliances, your insulation and even your lightbulbs can affect not only how your home is behaving, but also how much you’re paying to keep it all running.

Need some ideas to get started? Here are seven smart ways to invest in a comfortable and energy-efficient house.

1. Get a professional home-energy audit Cost: About $250 to $650.

Benefit: Making recommended improvements can cut energy use 10 percent to 40 percent.

DIY potential: None; use a certified professional.

A whole-house energy audit will take a few hours and evaluate household energy use, how the heating-and-air system is functioning and whether there’s adequate insulation. Using diagnostic 8 Cooperative Connections | May 2018

tools like a blower door and a thermal imaging camera, an auditor tests for leaks in ductwork and around windows and doors, plus other problems with the home’s “envelope” – essentially, the parts of the house that separate its insulated, air-conditioned interior from unconditioned spaces like attics and crawlspaces.

2. Seal your house Cost: Ranges from a few dollars for weather stripping and caulk to thousands of dollars for whole-house weatherization.

Benefit: Annual energy savings of 10 percent to 20 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

DIY potential: You can do simple tasks; professionals should handle large-scale insulation or ductwork improvements “Make sure your house is well insulated and well sealed,” says Alan Shedd, director of energy solutions for Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives. A handy do-it-yourselfer can tackle simple sealing tasks. Feel for drafts or look for cracks and gaps around windows and doors, around electrical outlets and light fixtures, where pipes and wires penetrate walls, floors or ceilings, around fireplaces and where ceilings meet walls. Basic DIY materials like weather-stripping tape, tubes of caulk and spray foam are available at home-improvement stores.

If you invested in a professional home-energy audit, you know exactly where air is leaking and what repairs are needed. For fixes outside your skill set – for example, adding insulation or repairing leaky ductwork – ask your co-op for a list of certified contractors or visit Building Performance Institute’s website.

YOUR HOME 3. Replace your HVAC system Cost: Ranges from a few thousand dollars for a single-zone, minisplit system up to tens of thousands to install a geothermal system.

Benefit: Upgrading to ENERGY STAR®-certified heating and cooling equipment can deliver annual energy-bill savings of 10 percent to 30 percent, according to the Department of Energy; geothermal systems can cut energy use for heating and cooling by 25 percent to 50 percent.

DIY potential: You’ll need a trained professional to properly size and install a system for your needs.

Heating and cooling account for about half of typical household energy costs. Minimize those expenses by upgrading to a more efficient system when your current unit ages out. Expect an HVAC system to last, on average, about 10 to 12 years.

Air-source heat pumps, which draw heat from the air and move it indoors or outdoors as needed, provide efficient heating and cooling from a single unit. Ground-source (geothermal) heat pumps are the most efficient, albeit more expensive, heating-andcooling option. Drawing heat from stable ground temperatures rather than fluctuating air temperatures, geothermal heat pumps use about 25 percent to 50 percent less electricity than conventional HVAC systems.

Geothermal is “the gold standard” for peak efficiency in heating and cooling, Shedd says, where the property can accommodate an extensive vertical or horizontal underground-loop system.

For any heating-and-cooling system, proper installation is essential to reap full benefits of energy-efficient performance. A certified HVAC contractor will do a load calculation to determine what size HVAC unit is right for your house and whether any special adjustments are necessary for your location.

4. Modernize major appliances Cost: Hundreds of dollars for major appliances; zero dollars for unplugging energy hogs that are not in use.

Benefit: Save anywhere from a few dollars up to hundreds of dollars a year.

DIY potential: You’ll need a professional to install some appliances, but you can unplug small appliances around the house in minutes.

Among your appliances, the two biggest energy users are water heaters and refrigerators, which are nearly always on duty. After that, you might be surprised by another energy hog: consumer electronics.

“The fastest-growing user of electricity in your house is all the things you plug in,” Shedd says.

5. Boost your attic insulation Cost: National averages range from $1,300 to $2,000, depending on home location, attic size and type of insulation.

Benefit: Reduce your energy bills by keeping heated and cooled air in your living space.

DIY potential: Handy homeowners can add insulation with

proper tools, safety gear and precautions, but it’s a job best left to professionals.

It’s all about the R-value. That’s the number assigned to insulating materials based on how well they resist the transfer of heat.

Higher numbers mean more resistance to heat flow and more effective insulation. For attics, recommended R-values range from 30 in warmer climates to 60 in colder regions. To learn what’s recommended for your climate zone, consult the R-values map at www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=home_sealing.hm_improvement_insulation_table.

Older homes are more likely to lack enough attic insulation for peak efficiency, because “energy-efficiency standards keep going up and getting higher,” Shedd says. “Thirty years ago, R-19 was standard practice.”

What you spend to upgrade your attic insulation will depend on multiple variables, including the type of insulation – for example, fiberglass or cellulose, batts or loose fill – as well as the size of the attic space and the contractor’s labor costs.

6. Switch to efficient light bulbs Cost: A few dollars per bulb .

Benefit: Save about $50 per year by replacing 15 traditional incandescent bulbs with more efficient energy-saving light bulbs.

DIY potential: You can handle this.

You’re going to change your light bulbs sooner or later. When you do, why not invest in bulbs that will save energy and create the lighting environment you want in your home?

When you’re shopping, pay attention to lumens – the brightness of the bulb – rather than watts, which indicate how much energy it uses. Packaging often refers to the wattage a new bulb can replace – for example, an energy-saving 800-lumen bulb can replace a 60-watt bulb. Look at the lighting-facts label for details about the bulb’s lumens, estimated yearly energy cost and lifespan and the lighting color. ENERGY STAR®-certified bulbs can deliver the brightness you want while using 70 percent to 90 percent less energy.

7. Install smart thermostats Cost: Products range from about $170 to $250.

Benefit: Manufacturers estimate annual savings of 9 percent to 23 percent on heating and cooling costs.

DIY potential: Video and written instructions can guide you through installation and Wi-Fi set-up.

Early versions of programmable thermostats were hailed as tools that would help homeowners save energy and money and increase home comfort, all by tailoring thermostat settings to daytime, nighttime, weekend and vacation schedules. And they did – but only for those who bothered to manually program them.

Thanks to the internet connection and remote-control options, smart thermostats are ideal for use in electric cooperative load-control programs. Across the country, cooperatives are testing new programs that use this technology to help members save energy and help co-ops reduce demand.

May 2018 | Cooperative Connections

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YOUTH

YOUTH TOUR UPDATE Our Future Leaders Educating our youth is important, not just in the school system, but educating them on what an electric cooperative is and what it means to them and their families is important as well. The Directors and employees here at West River Electric take this job very seriously.

For the past 6 years West River Electric has offered a Youth Tour trip for a student or students who are

going to be Seniors in the fall. This is a trip to our Nations Capital where they are given the opportunity to see how our government is involved in the electric cooperative and what the two have in common. This year Grace Brose and Morgan Smith1215801 will have the opportunity to be a part of the trip. Included are the essays they wrote, which were judged by our Member Communications Committee, to qualify for

Here is what Grace Brose has to say about what it means to be an American.

There is no way to look at a person and tell whether or not they are an American. There is no hair color, eye color, or skin color that makes a person American. No specific gender or body type makes a person American. No clothing or hairstyle makes a person American. Indeed, the only surefire way to tell an American is by what that person believes and exemplifies.

Americans are red. Red symbolizes passion, excitement and power.

Without a doubt, this country would not have survived beyond its fledgling stages, let alone the last 242 years if it were not for the people dedicated to the ideals this country was founded on. The nation would be powerless without its incessant striving for improvement. Red also means love. It means dreams of a place where all human beings can be counted as equals.

Perhaps most of all, though, red is the color of the blood shed by brave men and women in uniform, the only reason any of this is even possible.

Americans are white. White symbolizes purity, simplicity and hope. Of course, Americans are not entirely pure or perfect, but the ideals of a true American are fundamentally good. The United States is also a place where people have found, and continue to find, hope and refuge from persecution. It offers a clean slate to many, and chance to enjoy the pleasure of simplicity.

Americans are blue. Blue symbolizes stability, strength and trust. The Unites States of America is a strong country.

It is relatively stable and secure. Americans get the unique privilege of being able to depend on their country in times of turmoil. Even in times of distress, Americans are steadfast and resilient. An american is someone who others can depend on because they know that there will be times they will need the help of others.

Americans are every color. They find strength in their differences. Diversity is America’s superpower. It is a diverse land of brothers and sisters; it is a salad bowl, a melting pot. Americans have many different backgrounds and perspectives. An American can come from a low-income, single parent home and cure deadly diseases. An American can face adversity head-on. Every altercation is an opportunity for advancement.

A person cannot spot an American just by looking at them because Americans are not bonded by a common bloodline. Americans, instead are bonded by loyalty, patriotism and faith. Americans do not always have the same beliefs, but they believe in this country and what it stands for. Americans have the perogative to be a small part of something incredible. To be an American is a privilege and an honor. To be an American is something to be proud of.

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Cooperative Connections | May 2018

YOUTH

Here is what Morgan Smith has to say about what it means to be an American.

What does it mean to be an American? In my eyes to be an American means to have privileges, rights and freedom. America isn’t perfect, but it is one of the only countries that have rights given to people of different diversities and gender. America does not have tremendous poverty.

Instead, we have choices given to us by the people who fought and died for the American people.

Without George Washington and the other patriots who planted the first seed in the ground and helped develop the American nation, who knows what America would be like today.

The following the historian Philip Gleason put it this way, “To be or to become an American, a person did not have to be any particular nationality, learning languages, religious, or ethnic background. All he had to do was to commit himself to the political ideaology centered on the abstract ideals of liberty, equality, and republicanism. Thus the...character of American nationality meant that it was open to anyone who willed to become an American.” To be an American means, they have civic duties. They must pay taxes, vote in elections, and serve their country whether at home or abroad. They must be accepting of all religions, ethnicities and personal morals. First, an American has the right to speak their mind, which is freedom of speech. Being an American, we are given Human Rights that defines our freedom. This freedom helps us to run our country; an American stands up for what is right and just. Expressing your opnion is a big part of being an American. While a great novelist known as George Orwell states himself, “peace, freedom, and security. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise...we are given the opportunity to overcome our challenges by coming together and finding solutions that many people can’t do in other countries, but the freedom to come together...is one great thing to be proud of ”. Having the freedom to speak our minds, gives the American population a chance to change our government for the better. The American people are given the ability to peace, freedom and liberty.

In conclusion, the definition of an American is relating to or characteristic of the United States or its inhabitants. However, the real meaning of an American is someone who cherishes their freedom and their freedom to serve or maintain our country. An American is given the right to pursue their wildest dreams, or in other terms living the American dream. Being an American, I am one who truly values our freedoms and civil liberties. Because every citizen of our great nation is granted the opportunity to make a difference is the true meaning of being an American.

Youth Excursion West River Electric will sponsor area students to the South Dakota Rural Electric Youth Excursion. This four-day event will be headquartered out of Bismarck, North Dakota.

Deadline to apply is May 15, for the Youth Excursion Tour to Bismarck, N.D.

Young people attending the excursion will learn about the basics of cooperatives, how the region’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives work together and the career opportunities available at the cooperatives. The trip promises to provide an opportunity to meet new friends from other rural electric cooperatives across South Dakota.

Students will tour the Great Plains Synfuels Plant, Coteau Properties Freedom Coal Mine, Antelope 3950300Valley Station Power Plant and a drive thru the 40-mw Wilton Wind Farm north of Bismarck.

Name_____________________Male_____Female____

Evenings will be spent swimming, dancing, taking a cruise, shopping and making friends.

City______________________State_____Zip_______

All area high school freshman, sophomores and juniors whose parents or guardians are members of WREA are eligible to enter.

Students will be picked up Monday morning, July 23, and will arrive back home Thursday, July 26. The trip is funded by WREA except for personal/shopping money. Fill out the form on the right

School Attending________________Grade__________ Send to West River Electric Association, Youth Excursion, PO Box 3486, Rapid City, SD 57709. For more information regarding the Youth Excursion contact Veronica at 605-393-1500 or e-mail veronica.kusser@westriver.coop.

Parent or Guardian _____________________________ Address______________________________________ Telephone_____________T-Shirt Size_____ Age_____

May 2018 | Cooperative Connections

11

YOUR HOME

Make, Model, Capacity, Oh My! Tips for Purchasing New Appliances

Understanding the ENERGYGUIDE Label The ENERGYGUIDE label is a great tool that helps consumers compare the energy use and costs of new appliances. Use the sample below to better understand how to use the information found on the label.

By Paul Wesslund NRECA Contributing Writer

The No. 1 problem for homeowners is trying to determine which of the things actually presents value.

The Sloboda family needed a new refrigerator so Brian volunteered to do the shopping. After all, he’s a national expert on electric appliances.

He came home frustrated. There were just too many choices, even for the guy whose job title is program and product line manager for energy utilization, delivery, and energy efficiency at the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, Arlington, Va. “Just buy whatever you want,” he told his wife, Sami Jo. He finally got to use his in-depth knowledge when he looked over the model that Sami Jo brought home.

“Why didn’t you get the version that has a camera inside, so you can use your smartphone in the grocery store to see if we need more milk?” he asked.

“Because it costs $500 more,” she said.

That, said Brian, was a good reason.

That’s the kind of reasoning we’re all going to be doing in the coming months and years as we grapple with the newest trend in appliances – connection to the internet.

“The No. 1 problem for homeowners is trying to determine which of the things 12

Lists key features of the appliance and the similar models that make up the cost range below.

The cost range helps you compare the energy use of different models by showing you the range of operating costs for models with similar features.

An estimate of how much electricity the appliance uses in a year based on typical use.

Multiply this by your local electricity rate on your utility bill to better judge what your actual operating cost might be.

The make, model and size tell you exactly what product this label describes.

What you might pay to run the appliance for one year, based on its electricity use and the national average cost of energy. The cost appears on labels for all models and brands so you can compare energy use.

If you see the ENERGY STAR logo, it means the product is better for the environment because it uses less electricity than standard models.

Source: Federal Trade Commission

actually presents value,” says Sloboda. For example, when you’re on vacation you can use your smartphone to check whether you’ve left the oven on or the garage door open.

“There are infinite possibilities,” says Sloboda. “They sound nice when you first hear about them, but you have to remember you are paying more for those features.”

Sounds nice, but is it worth it?

Web-connected appliances could also offer online diagnostics. There might not be strong everyday reasons for a washing machine to be hooked into cyberspace, but

“There’s a Crock Pot® app,” he says. “Does that have value to you? It might if you use a Crock Pot® a lot.”

Cooperative Connections | May 2018

Home owners have a wide array of choices when it comes time to upgrade major energy-using appliances. if it broke, the manufacturer could log in to figure out what’s wrong. That could help decide the best way to repair or replace the equipment. But is it worth the extra cost?

“It’s a good feature,” says Sloboda, “but one you’re only going to use when the appliance breaks.”

If you’re longing for lower-tech help in decision-making, look to the yellow and black U.S. Department of Energy’s EnergyGuide label on each appliance.

“It’s one of the single greatest pieces of information that you can find when you buy an appliance,” says Sloboda.

He says the most useful info is the big dollar figure right in the middle of the label, showing what it will cost to use that appliance for a year.

Sloboda cautions that the number doesn’t tell you exactly what you will pay because it doesn’t use your local utility’s kilowatt hour rate. But it’s a perfect way to compare appliances because every appliance’s label is based on the same national average electric rate.

“You can stand in that aisle looking at all the washing machines and you can scan the entire row and narrow your options down from a dozen,” says Sloboda, “down to the three or four that use the least amount of money.”

Taking charge of your appliances Other especially useful parts of the label, he says, include the lower right corner – if you see an ENERGY STAR® logo it means the appliance will use less energy than one without. He also singles out the upper right corner that lists the manufacturer

and model number, which you can use for more detailed comparisons with other models.

Sloboda also advises to pay attention to the age of your major energy-using appliances.

In addition to dramatic energy efficiency advances over the past several years, motors start degrading in refrigerators and in heating and air conditioning systems.

He says to consider upgrading air conditioners and heat pumps older than 10 years and refrigerators older than eight years.

Pay attention to the age of your major energyusing appliances.

The Department of Energy offers a handy way to check whether it’s time to replace your refrigerator: visit the EnergyStar.gov website and in the search box, type “flip your fridge calculator.” You’ll find a link to a page where you can enter your type of refrigerator and its age to calculate how much you’d save buying a new one.

All these options mean more decisions for consumers. But help is on the way.

Sloboda says that electric co-ops are working with two national laboratories to study the most useful ways to connect appliances with the internet and with the utilities that provide the electricity. He says that over the next two years the study will report on how consumers can more easily make decisions on how to use appliances and even how to enhance cybersecurity for the growing number of internet-connected

devices in the home.

Sloboda says the aim of the study is “to understand what the value of internet-connected devices is to the consumer.

Then the manufacturers can start to build products that the consumer wants.”

The study will also look for futuristic-sounding ways that co-op members can sign up for optional utility programs to help homeowners decide how they want to use electricity.

“The appliances would be networked together and they would talk to one another,” says Sloboda. “In a very advanced scenario, the home could actually reconfigure the way appliances are being used depending on occupancy of the home at the moment and the weather conditions.”

That setup could even let homeowners decide if they are a person who wants to save as much energy and money as possible or if they would rather the house be warmer or cooler.

“They won’t have to figure out if they want to set the thermostat back,” says Sloboda.

“The homeowner would tell the system whether they wanted to maximize comfort or maximize savings, then the home would communicate to the utility. That way it won’t be the utility controlling the system, it won’t be the appliance manufacturer, but it will be the occupant of the house who is making the decisions.”

Paul Wesslund writes on cooperative issues for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the Arlington, Va.-based service arm of the nation’s 900-plus consumer-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperatives.

May 2018 | Cooperative Connections

13

NEWS BRIEFS

CAPITAL CREDIT ALLOCATION Notices Mailed in April Each member who was on service in 2017 will receive a capital credit allocation notice in the mail during April. West River Electric is a not-for-profit organization owned by you, its members. The revenue that covers day-to-day operating costs of the cooperative comes directly from members paying their monthly electric bills.

Member rates are established to provide: • A sufficient amount of revenue to cover all operating costs, • Funds for capital requirements, such as trucks, equipment, and other items not funded by the RUS loans, • Sufficient revenue to meet our financial requirements set by our lenders, • Revenue for additional capital items to keep pace with growth.

Revenue over the amount needed to keep the co-op operating is called a “margin”. These margins are allocated in the spring of each year based on the amount of electricity you have used for the previous year (your patronage) and are called “capital credits”.

The allocation notice you receive will state your balance prior to the 2017 allocation. In the middle it shows the amount that has been credited to your capital credit account for the year 2017 for each service location you 4371300have on service. At the end it will show your total capital credits allocated to date. These capital credits provide equity for the co-op and you. As a reminder, this allocation notice is not a check and cannot be cashed, nor can it be used as a credit on your energy account.

On the notice you will notice line items listed as “COOP”, “G&T” and “DGC”. The “COOP” line is for the margins derived strictly from West River Electric. The “G&T” line is for the margins that

have been allocated by our power supplier, Basin Electric Power Cooperative (BEPC), of which we are a member. The “DGC” line is for margins that BEPC derived from the coal gasification plant that BEPC owns, called Dakota Gasification Company (DGC).

“DGC” allocated a margin in 2008, when they had high natural gas prices resulting in a large margin. If you don’t have a dollar amount indicated for this line item, you would not have been on service with us in 2008.

Each year, the Board of Directors review the financial condition of West River Electric to determine if a capital credit “retirement” (payment of capital credits) will be possible for the year. If one is approved, you will find this information in the October edition of the Cooperative Connections.

If you have further questions, please contact our office at 279-2135 or contact us by email at info@ westriver.coop.

THANK YOU TO WREA EMPLOYEES Thank you to the WREA Lineworkers who have the interest of the membership on their minds at all times when out working on the powerlines in the area. April 9 has been designated by the coops as National Lineworker Appreciation Day. Thank you to all of our Administrative Professionals for their dedication to finding the answers when you call in. April 25, has been declared Administrative Professionals Day for all of our “non-lineworker” folks.

Not pictured below are Skyler Huber and Aimee Paulsen.

14

Cooperative Connections | May 2018

NEWS BRIEFS

Don’t post signs on our poles!

Posting signs and announcements on utility poles not only presents DANGER to WREA linemen, it is against the law.

Please don’t post your signs or posters on our utility poles. If you see announcements affixed to a pole, please feel free to remove them, but remember to pry the nails, staples & tacks out of the poles as well.

(USPS No. 675-840)

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

Our Mission: West River Electric Association, Inc. shall strive to continually improve customer service and satisfaction by providing safe, reliable, efficient and reasonably priced electricity and services, while leading in the development of our community for the well being of our members.

Did you know that 90 percent of the energy used to operate a washing machine comes from using hot water?

A simple switch from hot to cold can save energy and money. Also, consider air drying or line drying to save even more on your energy bill. Source: U.S. Department of Energy.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Board President: Andy Moon

Did you change your phone number or email It is important to keep your information updated with West River Electric, we would like to be able to keep you updated on planned outages or other important information that may affect your service. Contact us at 279-2135 or 393-1500 to make changes to your information.

Locate Your Account Number If you locate your account number anywhere in this issue of the West River Electric Cooperative Connections you will be a winner.

There will be five account numbers placed randomly throughout the Connections. If you spot your account number and notify our office before the 10th of the next month, you will receive a $10 credit on your next bill.

West River Electric Office Hours Rapid City Office

Wall Office

3250 E Hwy 44, Rapid City, SD Monday-Friday 7:00 am-5:00 pm 605-393-1500

1200 W 4th Ave, Wall, SD Monday-Friday 7:00 am-5:00 pm 605-279-2135

CEO and General Manager: Dick Johnson – dick.johnson@westriver.coop Editor Veronica Kusser – veronica.kusser@westriver.coop WEST RIVER ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS is the monthly publication for the members of West River Electric Association. Members subscribe to Cooperative Connections as part of their electric cooperative membership for $6 a year.

West River Electric Cooperative Connections purpose is to provide reliable, helpful information to electric cooperative members on matters pertaining to rural electrification and better living. Nonmember subscriptions are available for $12 per year. Periodicals Postageaid at Wall, S.D., and at additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to West River Electric Cooperative Connections, PO Box 412 , Wall, SD 57790-0412.

A night depository is available at both offices for your convenience.

Service & Billing Questions? Contact 605-279-2135 or 605-393-1500

during offices hours or e-mail us at info@westriver.coop.

Board of Directors Stan Anders – Vice President Jamie Lewis – Secretary Larry Eisenbraun – Treasurer Jerry Hammerquist Howard Knuppe Marcia Arneson Chuck Sloan Sue Peters

Other correspondence to: West River Electric Cooperative Connections, PO Box 3486, Rapid City, SD 57709; telephone (605)393-1500, Exts. 6519, 6517, 6531 or 6522; fax (605)3930275; e-mail veronica.kusser@westriver.coop.

May 2018 | Cooperative Connections

15

Now though May 24

Box Elder/Douglas School District Community Library, Monday-Thursdays, Douglas High School Library

April 21

The Catalyst/Good Neighbor Club Banquet, Honoring 6 Good Neighbors, Wall Community Center, Wall, SD

April 21

April 25

Day of Excellence, Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, Rapid City, SD, 1-800-GOT-MINE

April 27

7th Annual Starting Strong Breakfast, Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn, Rapid City, SD, 605-342-6464

April 27-29

Youth and Family Services Kids Fair, Civic Center, Rapid City, SD, 1-800-GOT-MINE

April 28

Walk Like Madd 5-K Dash, Old Storybook Island Shelter, Rapid City, SD, 605-343-5066

May 5

Relay for Life of Pennington Country, Rushmore Mall, Rapid City, SD, 605-490-3033

May 5-6

Spring Parade of Homes, Rapid City, SD, 348-7850, blackhillshomebuilders.com

May 6

Wellfully Stampede 5K Walk/Run & 10K Run, Old Storybook Island Shelter, Rapid City, SD, 605-718-4870, wellfully.org/stampede-2018

Photo courtesy: travelsd.com

Community Education, Introduction to Yoga, Wall Community Center, Wall, SD, 605-394-5120

May 5, 19; June 2, 16; July 7, 21; Aug. 25; and Sept. 8

Lawn Mower (Points) Races, Pukwana, SD, 605-680-1718 or 605-682-9781 May 8-9

First Annual Energize!

Exploring Innovative Rural Communities Conference, DeSmet, SD, igrow.org/events

May 10

Chris Young, Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, Rapid City, SD, 605-394-4115

May 12

High School Graduation, 3 p.m., Community Center, Faith, SD

May 12

High School Practice Rodeo, Wall Rodeo Booster Club, Wall, SD, 605-279-0112

May 15

Community Education, Create a Summer Planter, Philip Hardware Greenhouse, Philip, SD, 605-394-5120

May 19

Walk For Wishes, Main Street Square, Rapid City, SD, 605-791-4500

May 19

June 1-3

May 19

June 23

High School Graduation, 3 p.m., School Gym, New Underwood, SD High School Graduation, 1:30 p.m., Gym, Wall, SD

May 20

Rapid City Christian High School Graduation, 2 p.m., School Gym, Rapid City, SD

May 20

High School Graduation, 2 p.m., High School West Gym, Sturgis, SD

May 27

Central High School Graduation, 1:30 p.m., Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, Rapid City, SD

May 27

St Thomas More High School Graduation, 2 p.m., Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Rapid City, SD

May 27

Stevens High School Graduation, 5 p.m., Civic Center, Rapid City, SD

Regional High School Rodeo, Rodeo Grounds, Wall, SD, 605-685-4166 Pennington County 4-H Rodeo, Rodeo Grounds, Wall, SD, 605-515-3575

June 29

Shrine Circus, Rodeo Grounds, Wall, SD, 605-209-2556

To have your event listed on this page, send complete information, including date, event, place and contact to your local electric cooperative.

Include your name, address and daytime telephone number.

Information must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to your event. Please call ahead to confirm date, time and location of event.