JUNE 2014
VOL. 15 NO. 2
Co-op
News
Scholars Honored at Banquet Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives in eastern South Dakota and western Minnesota honored some of the area’s most impressive high school seniors Saturday, May 3, during the annual Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Year banquet and recognition on the campus of Mitchell Technical Institute. The event honored the 34 high school students who were chosen each week throughout the school year as the Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week which recognizes Shelby VanDriel, left, with Bon Homme Yankton students for academic Electric General Manager Merlin Goehring. VanDriel achievement, co-curricular won a $1,000 scholarship from Touchstone Energy® involvement and community Cooperatives for being chosen as the Scholar of the Year. service. The students are featured in weekly segments Year banquet. He told the students to which air on KSFY Television and each find something they’re passionate about student receives a $100 scholarship for and pursue it. being chosen as the Scholar of the Week. “When you’re going into the next Shelby VanDriel, a senior at Scotland step, one thing that you need to keep High School, was honored during the in mind is that there are going to be banquet and recognition after being a lot of people who will have certain chosen as a Scholar of expectations of you. They might the Week last September. say, ‘You should be a At that time she received doctor, or you should a $100 scholarship from Bon be a lawyer,’ because Homme Yankton Electric, a that’s how other people Touchstone Energy Cooperative. define success. Don’t At the Scholar of the Year banquet worry about that,” Johnson Saturday, May 3rd, VanDriel was the said. “What you should worry about is lucky winner of a $1,000 scholarship what you’re passionate about because if and the title of Touchstone Energy you find that thing, if you pursue that Scholar of the Year. The attendees had area that you really care about, you’re their names entered into a drawing for going to be a leader in that field. Find the top prize of $1,000 or a pair of $500 out what you’re interested in and pursue scholarships. VanDriel’s was the first it.” name to be drawn. She is the daughter Touchstone Energy Cooperatives of Bill and Tina VanDriel of Scotland in eastern South Dakota and western and plans to attend South Dakota State Minnesota provide safe and reliable University in the fall. electricity to more than 113,000 homes KSFY News anchor Brian Allen and businesses. The cooperatives have served as the master of ceremonies and sponsored the Scholar of the Week Brendan Johnson, U.S. Attorney for program since 2002. In that time the district of South Dakota, was the Touchstone Energy Cooperatives have keynote speaker for the Scholar of the awarded over $67,000 in scholarships. 2 June 2014 • Cooperative Connections
Board
Report
Audit Results Presented (USPS No. 018-973)
Bon Homme Yankton Electric Assn, Inc. PO Box 158 134 S Lidice Tabor, SD 57063 Office Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30am to 4:30pm
To Report an Outage or For Internet Tech Support, Call: Local From Tabor, Tyndall and Yankton 605-463-2507 or Toll Free in South Dakota 1-800-925-2929 NOTICE: Electric bills must be paid by 10:00am on the 20th of each month to avoid a $10 late fee. Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections is published monthly by Bon Homme Yankton Electric Association, Inc., PO Box 158, 134 S. Lidice St., Tabor, SD 57063-0158 for its members. Families subscribe to Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections as part of their electric cooperative membership. Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connection’s purpose is to provide reliable, helpful information to electric cooperative members on matters pertaining to rural electrification and better rural living. Subscription information: Electric cooperative members devote $6.00 from their electric payments annually for a subscription. Nonmember subscriptions are available for $12 annually. Periodicals Postage Paid at Tabor, SD 57063 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections, Bon Homme Yankton Electric, PO Box 158, Tabor, S.D. 57063 TELEPHONE (605)463-2507: FAX (605) 463-2419. Design assistance by TDG Communications, Deadwood, S.D.
Cory Van Maanen from the Eide Bailly CPA firm reviewed the audit of the 2013 financial reports in detail and responded to questions posed by the board members. It is the auditor’s responsibility to express an opinion on the financial statements based on their audits. They conducted their audit in accordance with auditing standards general accepted in the United States and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards, issued by the Comptroller General of the United States. These standards require
that they plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement. In their opinion, the financial statements in support of the financial position of the cooperative were found to be in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. The actual financial report will be published in the August issue of this newsmagazine and then presented to the members at the Annual Meeting on August 19, 2014.
Summer Energy Efficiency: Myth vs. Fact Myth: Closing vents on my central air conditioning system will boost efficiency. Fact: Closing vents can cause the compressor to cycle too frequently and the heat pump to overload. You’ll also use more energy. Myth: Time of day doesn’t matter when it comes to running my appliances. Fact: Time of day does matter when running electrical loads. For example, take advantage of the delay setting and run your dishwasher at night to avoid peak times of use and save energy. Myth: Bigger is always better when it comes to cooling equipment. Fact: Too often, cooling equipment isn’t sized properly and leads to higher electric bills. A unit that’s too large for your home will not cool evenly and might produce higher humidity indoors. Myth: Cranking the thermostat lower will make the house cool faster. Fact: Usually not. Most homes’ units have just a single fan speed—on. As such, the house’s temperature
will always adjust at a fairly set rate and will continue to run until the desired temperature is reached. Contact the Energy Experts in the Bon Homme Yankton Electric Member Service Department for more information on using energy wisely. Find out if you qualify for rebates and/ or a bill credit for using energy efficient heating and cooling equipment.
Welcome New Members Mission Hill Korman, Joy Scotland Flynn, Emma M Springfield Cvrk, Charles & Janet Settje Jr, Harold & Terris Tabor Goeden, Shannon Utica Ansel, Adam William Stahly, Kim Yankton Falkenberg’s Herrboldt, Debra Lamb, Jason T Schley, Randy Wade Wagner, Gary Cooperative Connections • June 2014 3
SafetyTips
Summer Safety Tips for Dogs Hot weather can make us all uncomfortable and it poses special risks for your dog. Keep the following safety concerns in mind as the temperature rises and follow these tips to keep your dog cool. Heat Hazards • If your dog is outside on a hot day, make sure he has a shady spot to rest in. Doghouses are not good shelter during the summer as they can trap heat. You may want to fill a child’s wading pool with fresh water for your dog to cool off in. • Never leave your dog in a closed vehicle on a hot day. In bright sunshine, your car acts like an oven, becoming much hotter inside than the outside air even. In fact, on a sunny 70 degree day, your car can heat up to more than 100 degrees within minutes. • Always provide plenty of cool, fresh water. • Avoid strenuous exercise on extremely hot days. Take walks in the early mornings or evenings, when the sun’s heat is less intense. • Try to avoid prolonged exposure to hot asphalt or sand, which can burn your dog’s paws. • Dogs that are brachycephalic (short-faced), such as Bulldogs, Boxers, Japanese Chins, and Pekingese, have an especially hard time in the heat because they do not pant as efficiently as longer-faced dogs. Keep your brachycephalic dog inside with air-conditioning. General Health • Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date, especially since dogs tend to stay outdoors longer and come into contact with other animals more during the summer months. • Keep dogs off of lawns that have been chemically treated or fertilized for 24 hours (or according to package instructions), and away from potentially toxic plants and flowers. • Keep your dog well-brushed and clean. • Fleas and ticks, and the mosquitos which carry heartworm disease, are more prevalent in warmer months. Ask your veterinarian for an effective preventive to keep these parasites off your dog. Source: akc.org and petmd.com 4 June 2014
•
COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS
Kids’ Corner Safety Poster “Attention Diggers: Beware of underground power lines. Call BEFORE you dig.“ Albert Wurtz III, 12 years old Albert is the son of Albert and Sarah Wurtz, Delmont, S.D. They are members of Charles Mix Electric Association, Lake Andes, 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.
Reader Recipes
Ethnic Eats Rosettes (Scandinavian)
2 eggs 1/4 tsp. salt 1 cup flour 2 T. sugar
1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup milk Hot oil
Beat eggs slightly. If beaten too much, rosettes will blister. Add sugar, salt and vanilla. Lemon extract may be substituted. Add flour and enough milk to make a smooth batter. Gradually add the rest of the milk and stir until smooth. The batter should be the consistency of cream. Heat oil in an electric skillet set at 400°F. Dip molding iron in hot oil for about 30 seconds then drain and dip into batter, being careful not to let any of the batter cover over the top of the iron. Immerse in hot oil and fry until light brown in color, 20 to 25 seconds. Place upside down on rack or absorbent paper. Dip top in sugar while warm. Amy Schoenfelder, Cavour
Knoepfla Hot Dish (German) 1 lb. ground beef 1 small onion Salt and pepper 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 can sauerkraut
Knoepfla: 4 cups flour 1/4 tsp. baking powder 1 egg 1 tsp. salt Water
Brown ground beef and onion; drain. Add salt and pepper to taste. In a separate skillet, fry potatoes; set aside. Prepare knoepfla by mixing flour, baking powder, egg and salt; add enough warm water to make a stiff dough. Snip with a kitchen shears into 1/4inch pieces. Drop in boiling water; boil until knoepfla floats to the top. Drain. Add to hamburger and potatoes. Add undrained sauerkraut. Simmer 30 minutes. Add water if needed. Rebecca Hauser, Tripp
Mexican Meat Loaf 1-1/2 lbs. ground beef 2/3 cup milk 1 cup salsa, divided 1 T. Worcestershire sauce 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. ground mustard 1/4 tsp. pepper 1/8 tsp. garlic powder
1 large egg 3 slices bread, torn into small pieces 1 small onion, chopped 1/2 cup shredded Colby Monterey Jack cheese 1 (4.5 oz.) can chopped green chilies, drained.
In a large bowl, mix all ingredientes except 2/3 cup salsa. Spread mixtrure in ungreased 8x4 or 9x5-inch loaf pan. Spread 2/3 cup salsa over top. Bake at 350°F., uncovered, for 1 hour to 75 minutes or until beef is no longer pink in the middle. Drain meat loaf. Let stand 5 minutes, remove from pan Stephanie Fossum, Hudson
Southwest Skillet Chicken and Rice 2 tsp. chili powder 2 tsp. Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, divided 1-1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breast halves 1 T. oil 1 cup frozen corn
1 (15 oz.) can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 (14.5 oz.) can petite diced tomatoes, drained 1 cup instant white rice 1 cup water
Mix chili powder and seasoned salt in small bowl. Sprinkle chicken with 1 tsp. seasoning mixture. Heat oil in large nonstick skillet on medium heat. Add chicken; cook 5 minutes per side or until lightly browned. Stir in corn, beans, tomatoes, rice, water and remaining seasoning mixture. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 5 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and rice is tender. Let stand 5 minutes. Cut chicken into serving size pieces. Fluff rice mixture with fork before serving. Makes: 6 servings Nutritional information per serving: Calories 294; Fat 6g; Protein 32g; Carbohydrates 28g; Cholesterol 73mg; Sodium 778mg; Fiber 4g Pictured, Cooperative Connections
Rice Pancakes (Czech-Rye Livanec) 2 eggs 1/2 tsp. salt 1 cup milk 2 tsp. baking powder
1/2 cup flour 2 T. butter, melted 1 cup rice, cooked
Beat eggs thoroughly. Add salt and milk. Mix baking powder with flour. Combine with egg mixture. Add butter and rice; mix until smooth. Cook on hot griddle, browning on both sides. Betty Cihak, Lake Norden
Kilich (Russian Easter Bread)
2-1/4 to 2-3/4 cups flour, divided 1 tsp. salt 1/4 cup sugar 1 tsp. lemon peel, grated 1 pkg. yeast 1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup water 2 T. margarine 1 egg 1/4 cup almonds, chopped 1/4 cup raisins Powdered sugar frosting Colored sprinkles
Mix 3/4 cup flour, salt, sugar, lemon peel and yeast in large bowl. Combine milk, water and margarine in saucepan; heat over low until warm. Add to dry ingredients and beat 2 minutes at medium speed with electric mixer. Add egg and 1/2 cup flour or enough to make a thick batter. Beat at high 2 minutes. Stir in enough extra flour to make a soft dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, 8 to 10 minutes. Place in greased bowl. Cover, let rise until double, about 1 hour. Punch down. Knead in almonds and raisins. Divide dough in half. Shape into ball and place each half in a greased 1 lb. metal coffee can. Cover, let rise until double, about 1 hour. Bake at 350°F. for 30 to 35 minutes. Remove from cans. When cool, frost with powdered sugar frosting and top with sprinkles.
Please send your favorite dessert, salad and garden produce recipes to your local electric cooperative (address found on page 3). Each recipe printed will be entered into a drawing for a prize in December 2014. All entries must include your name, mailing address, telephone number and cooperative name.
Mary Jessen, Holabird
COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS
• J une 2014
5
Energy Cents
Ideas
Finding the Right AC Contractor
Jim Dulley www.dulley.com
Dear Jim: When my central air conditioner conks out, it is always on one of the hottest days. What is the best way to pick a good repair contractor? Is there any pre-season maintenance I can do myself? – Barb H.
Dear Barb: An old central air conditioner or heat pump does typically conk out on the hottest days. This is because it is running almost nonstop to keep the house cool. Also, the efficiency and cooling output of the unit drops as it gets hotter outdoors, putting even more strain on the old compressor, especially the bearings and valves. Finding a good contractor to repair or replace an old air conditioner is important because you expect your system to keep running for a long time after their repairs. The refrigeration system in an air conditioner is a complicated piece of equipment. You have no way to determine if things are set properly, so you have to trust that the contractor did it correctly. When selecting a contractor, first check with your relatives and friends about who they have used and their satisfaction. Also, when a contractor gives you a list of references, you should call each one. People often are afraid to offend a “nice guy” contractor, so they do not tell them of problems. They will, however, share any negative experiences with you, which will help you make your hiring decision. If you do not have a source for contractor names, check with the Air-Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) and the Sheet Metal and Air-Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA). Reputable contractors will belong to one or both of these organizations, which can give you a list of members in your area. When installing a new system, the contractor should do a thorough analysis of your house and calculate its cooling needs. This should involve more than just measuring the outside dimensions and then recommending the same size unit (one ton is 12,000 Btu/hour) of cooling as you have now. Improper sizing will result in higher utility bills and poor comfort level. A knowledgeable contractor should ask if you currently have any heating and cooling problems, particularly with various rooms. There may have to be additional return air registers and ducts installed. This can increase the overall cost significantly, so the lowest estimate is not always the one you should select.
If your system has just broken down and you have at least three contractors to give you quotes, be wary of ones who immediately want to replace the system with a new one. They should take the time to determine the current problem and provide a quote for repair. Take your time to evaluate the quotes and recommendations. Although your family might be uncomfortably warm for several days, don’t rush your decision. It is not as dire as having your furnace go out during winter when your water pipes may freeze if not fixed immediately. There are several maintenance tasks you can do each spring to keep your air conditioner running efficiently, but don’t eliminate regular professional service. Heating and cooling systems are no longer simple devices. They are packed with electronic circuit boards and controls, meaning you would have no way to test them without specialized readouts and training. Having adequate air flow through the outdoor condenser coils is imperative for good efficiency and a long life. This is where the hot refrigerant expels its heat to the outdoor air. If the air flow is impeded and reduced so the refrigerant does not cool as designed, it can throw off the entire functioning of the system.
A knowledgeable contractor should ask if you currently have any heating and cooling problems, particularly with various rooms. Make sure there is a foot or two of clearance around the housing where the coils are exposed to the outdoor air. This may require trimming back a few shrubs or not stacking things like junk and garden tools against the outdoor unit. If you notice some of the heat transfer fins on the coils are bent over and touching so air cannot flow between them, separate them with the tip of a scraper. Don’t flex them too much or they may break off. They don’t have to look uniform to be effective. Make sure all the screws on the housing are tight. This insures the air is being drawn through the coils and fins. Change the indoor filter regularly. Switch off the electricity to the unit and remove the cover over the indoor blower unit. Clean dust off the blower and any evaporator coils you can reach with the vacuum brush attachment. Adequate indoor air flow is also important for good efficiency. Seal any leaking duct joints with aluminum or duct tape and close the bypass damper for the humidifier.
Have a question for Jim? Send inquiries to: James Dulley, Cooperative Connections, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com. 6 June 2014 • Cooperative Connections
News
Briefs
2014 Arbor Day Essay Scholar of the Year Winners Selected Banquet Held May 3 Garrett Mitzel of Tyndall, Brandon Bosworth of Plankinton and Danika Gordon of Whitewood are the winning essayists selected from the 1,399 entries in the 2014 Arbor Day Essay Contest. Sponsored by South Dakota’s conservation districts, McDonald’s Restaurants of South Dakota and South Dakota Department of Agriculture, the contest provides fifth and sixth grade students the opportunity to write about the importance of Arbor Day and tree planting in South Dakota. For their efforts, the students win awards and cash prizes in addition to learning more about trees. As first place winner, Mitzel received a plaque, $100 in cash and a McDonald’s lined jacket. His school, Bon Homme Middle School, will receive $150 for the purchase of supplies or equipment. Bosworth, the second place winner, received a plaque and $75 while Gordon receives a plaque and $50 for her third place essay. Mitzel, Bosworth and Gordon will read their essays and receive their prizes during special Arbor Day celebrations in their hometown areas. All students who entered the contest will receive a McDonald’s dessert certificate and a packet of tree seeds.
First Place Essay The Life of My Tree by Garrett Mitzel Bon Homme County Conservation District Thump, thump. I started off as a seed in the ground packed in the dirt. I grew into a little sapling. They put me into a bag and handed me to a little kid on Arbor Day so he could go home and plant me. The little kid took me home and put me in a huge flower pot. He set me in his yard and watered me almost every three or four days. I started growing. It was like I was a weed at first. Months went by. There has been rain and more rain. Three or four years have passed. There have been birthdays celebrated under me and about a hundred picnics under my arms. The years flew by like birds in the sky. Families have come and gone. By now there have been dozens of nests in my limbs. Families of squirrels climb around me every day. I see the people that come and go. I have lost branches and regrown them. Animals have used me for shelter and food. They’ve been born in and died in me. I am old and frail, strong yet weak. People have climbed me and they have put nails in me. I am old and broken, but I am strong. I don’t know how many more years I will be here, but I will be in their hearts forever.
Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives in eastern South Dakota and western Minnesota honored some of the area’s most impressive high school seniors May 3, during the annual Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Year banquet and recognition on the campus of Mitchell Technical Institute. The event honored the 34 high school students who were chosen each week throughout the school year as the Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week which recognizes students for academic achievement, co-curricular involvement and community service. The students are featured in weekly segments which air on KSFY Television and each student receives a $100 scholarship for being chosen as the Scholar of the Week. Shelby VanDriel, a senior at Scotland High School, was selected during the banquet as the Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Year. She lives in the Bon Homme Yankton Electric service territory. VanDriel, who plans to attend South Dakota State University in the fall received a $1,000 scholarship. Cooper Eliason, a senior at Howard High School, in Central Electric’s service territory and Noah Klamm, a senior at Brandon Valley High School, in Sioux Valley Energy’s service territory, were both chosen to receive $500 scholarships. The names were drawn from among the attendees. Touchstone Energy Cooperatives in eastern South Dakota and western Minnesota have sponsored the Scholar of the Week program since 2002. In that time Touchstone Energy Cooperatives have awarded more than $67,000 in scholarships as part of the Scholar of the Week program.
Touchstone Energy® Scholars for 2013-14 were, front row: Tanna Waltman, Parkston; Danika Pollreisz, Ethan; Heaven Zevenbergen, Elk Point-Jefferson; Mikayla Bonnet, Langford Area; Alli Steckelberg, Chamberlain; and Shelby VanDriel, Scotland. Second Row: Nichole Dvorak, Andes Central; Lisa Smith, Kimball; Kaitlin Van Ruler, Edgerton, Minn.; Taylor Homann, Pipestone, Minn.; Kayla Breske, Waubay; Tory Makela, Ipswich; and Tyson Mitzel, Aberdeen Roncalli. Third row: Garret Reed, Estelline; Mathew Preszler, Menno; Noah Brown, Baltic; Allison Deal, Sunshine Bible Academy; Noah Klamm, Brandon Valley; Michael Saffel, Irene-Wakonda; Back row: Tyler Panek, Tea Area; Lydia Blume, Redfield; Craig Reiter, Florence; Cooper Eliason, Howard; David Weidler, Howard; and Derrick Podoll, Frederick Area. Cooperative Connections • June 2014 7
All in the Family Co-op Tie Links Generations
T
ake a look around your community and you
By Brenda Kleinjan
will likely find an example – or two or 10 – of children following the career path of their parents or grandparents. The concept fuels many family farms and small businesses. Even doctors and lawyers’ offices have been known to exemplify the trend. And, in many ways, electric cooperatives are no different. From the board room to the line truck to the front office, the next generation can often take inspiration for their career from the generation that went before. At Cam Wal Electric Cooperative in Selby, S.D., generations of Rossows have been sitting at the board table guiding the electric cooperative they and their neighbors own. When Dwight Rossow first joined the board of directors in 1996, his name was a familiar one at the cooperative. Dwight’s grandfather, Ernest G. Rossow, was a director for the cooperative from 1951 to 1975, guiding the cooperative through its early days. Dwight’s father, Dennis, then served from 1975 to 1987. Dwight Rossow has served not only at the local level, but also represented the cooperative on the statewide South Dakota Rural Electric Association board of directors for
8 June 2014 • Cooperative Connections
a dozen years, retiring in 2014. He also spent two terms representing cooperatives throughout Minnesota,
North Dakota and South Dakota on the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Cooperation board, a cooperative dedicated to serving cooperatives’ financing needs. And, the fourth generation of Rossows has also joined the co-op fold. Dwight’s son, Joshua, is an environmental coordinator at Basin Electric Power Cooperative in Bismarck, N.D. In western Minnesota, Renville-Sibley Co-op Power Association in Danube has seen the Nestande family serve on its board of directors for 63 of the co-op’s 75 years. Renville-Sibley board president Phil Nestande has served on the board since 1997. He also represents area cooperatives on the Minnesota Rural Electric Association board of directors. Phil followed in the footsteps of his grandfather, Elvin, who served from 1951 to 1968 and his father, John, who served from 1968 to 1997. When Michelle Prins started as a billing clerk at H-D Electric Cooperative in Clear Lake, S.D., she may have been a new employee, but her co-op roots ran deep. Prins’ father, Doyle Thompson, had served as a director for the co-op from 1995 to 2010. He had taken over the board seat from his father-in-law, Lloyd Kruse, who had served from 1976 to 1995. And Kruse had taken over the seat from Royal Thompson – Doyle’s dad – who served from 1967 to 1976. “My whole family has been on co-op boards since I’ve been around,” said Prins with a chuckle, noting that she had attended annual meetings from the time she was a little girl hanging out in the kids’ activity room. At FEM Electric Association in Ipswich, S.D., Stephanie Horst, who is
in charge of the cooperative’s member services and communications arenas, can say her grandpa helped build the co-op she now works at. Literally. “My grandfather was FEM’s line superintendent. He actually started on the construction crew that was building the FEM lines in 1948. He was on the wire stringing crew. Also my great-aunt (my grandpa’s sister-in-law) was FEM’s bookkeeper,” said Horst. The family ties don’t end there. Horst’s mother-in-law, Valette, is the co-op’s receptionist and Valette’s father, Leroy Perman, was a director at Cam Wal Electric Cooperative in Selby, S.D., from 1964 to 1981. FEM general manager Scott Moore has seen his son, Brandon, go on to become a lineman at neighboring cooperative Dakota Energy Cooperative of Huron, S.D., working out of the Miller, S.D., office. David Piehl, a journeyman substation technician for East River Electric Power Cooperative in Madison, S.D., has seen two of his sons go on to careers with electric cooperatives. Ben is a journeyman lineman at Butte Electric Cooperative in Newell, S.D., while Chris is an apprentice lineman at Northern Electric Cooperative in Bath, S.D. The family ties that reach out from Northern Electric don’t stop there. The co-op’s chief financial officer, Char Hager, and her brother, West Central Electric Cooperative manager Steve Reed, have both followed in the career path of their dad, Kenneth, who worked at three separate cooperatives during his career: Ree Electric (now part of Dakota Energy), Spink Electric (now part of Northern Electric) and Moreau-Grand Electric Cooperative in Timber Lake, S.D. Northern Electric Cooperative manager Jim Moore and his brother, Elwood, who manages an electric cooperative in Nebraska, have both found careers following their father’s lead.
Why Work at an Electric Cooperative? Electric cooperatives provide their staff with competitive salaries and excellent benefits. With approximately 63,000 employees nationwide, Touchstone Energy® Cooperatives offer great career opportunities among a variety of professional, technical, and business positions.
Where are the Jobs? Careers with Touchstone Energy cooperatives are everywhere – in a small town, large city or the sprawling suburbs in the Northwest, South or anywhere in between. Best of all, once you are part of our cooperative community, you can count on receiving the same great benefits and opportunities wherever you go. Spark Your New Career Have an entrepreneurial spirit? Interested in growth opportunities? Mission-focused?
At Touchstone Energy Cooperatives, we have opportunities in many diverse roles, ranging from information technology, communications, marketing and member services, engineering and operations and community and economic development to name a few. Plus, you can feel good about what you do. Electric co-op staff receive satisfaction knowing their work makes a difference in their community, directly improving people’s lives.
Make the Connection Some of the best, brightest, most creative and dedicated people have chosen to serve their communities and develop their careers through electric cooperatives. Now is a great time to join the Touchstone Energy team. Together, America’s electric co-ops are working to bring home innovated electrical solutions to the communities we serve. Find out more at http://www.touchstoneenergy.com/content/careers-co-ops Cooperative Connections • June 2014 9
Co-op
News
Taylor Lee Bus Tour Cancelled for 2014 Wins DC Trip
The Adult Basin Bus Tour to North Dakota has been cancelled for the current year. It has been difficult to find enough members to fill the bus in recent years and it is a busy year at the cooperative with the development of a new construction work plan, the construction of the new operations center and the conversion to new computer software. We hope to resurrect the educational tour in 2015 and hope that members who have not gone before will sign up in droves!
Construction Commences
Welfl Construction has begun construction on the new Operations Center in Tabor. The loose ground has been removed and appropriate fill is being dumped and packed.
Taylor Lee was selected to participate in the annual Washington, DC Youth Tour. Taylor is a sophomore at IreneWakonda High School. She has been involved in many school activities and aspires to become an elementary school teacher. Taylor is the daughter of Kim and Tina Lee of rural Irene.
Petition Deadline
Bon Homme Yankton Electric is making plans for its annual meeting. The meeting will be held August 19, 2014 in the Beseda Hall in Tabor. The director positions with three year terms expiring this year are districts one, four and six. Any person wishing to run for a directorship of Bon Homme Yankton Electric will need to file a nominating petition. The petition must have at least 15 signatures of district members of Bon Homme Yankton Electric. Petitioners must reside in the district and have an active membership in the cooperative. The petitions are available now and must be filed at the Bon Homme Yankton Electric office by 4:30 p.m. June 19, 2014.
Classifieds July Issue Deadline: June 1, 2014. Email your classified ad to: by@byelectric.com. Members can post one free ad per year. Repeats or longer ads are $1/column inch. FOR RENT: 1 bedroom apartment. Tabor Manor. Contact John at 605-463-2478 or Gary at 605-463-2209.r FOR RENT: Tabor HRC, 2-bedroom townhome w/ single attached car garage, 1100 plus square feet, handicap Facility/Accessible, washer and dryer hookups, dishwasher, lawn/snow maintenance provided. All one level living convenience. Please contact Jen Carda 605-463-2575.r Thinking about building a home? Don’t pick a floor plan or a builder until you’ve talked with the area’s ONLY Certified Aging-in-Place specialist, Certified Green Professional Builder and ENERGY STAR Partner Builder. Call 4 Life Homes today. 605-6614488.r Beseda Hall, Tabor, SD for rent for any special occasion such as weddings, anniversaries, graduation or birthdays! For more information contact Linda Bares at 605661-6220 or snlbares@gmail.com. FOR SALE: 2 Bedroom House in Tabor, SD. Attached garage, beautiful fireplace, all appliances included, some furniture included. Call Kay at 605-996-3023. FOR SALE: Small Hammond Organ with double keyboard and stool. Best Offer. Call 605-463-2500.
1 0 June 2014 • Cooperative Connections
Haase Heating & Cooling
Dan Haase
Heating, Cooling, Heat Pumps We sell the best and service the rest
Bohemian Farmers Mutual
GT Repair & Autobody
R. Martin Koch, Secretary PO Box 206 Tabor, SD 57063 605-463-2558 1-800-868-1756
Glenn Tycz Tyndall, SD 57066
605-589-3018
If only the future was predictable. Farming is always a gamble. You never know when bad weather or other problems will strike. The only thing you can be sure of—you need quality insurance protection. Call our office today for a competitive quote.
Scotland, SD 57059 605-583-4490
We Repair and Install Windshields
Don Wynia’s Shop
Koranda Well Company LLC Tabor, SD 57063 605 - 463- 2244
Dixon ZTR Mowers - Kohler Tecumseh Briggs & Stratton Major Overhaul Repair - All Makes of Mowers Small Engine - Skid Loader - Snow Blower Welding & Pick Up Service Call Don, 2 miles south of Tyndall 41566 306th St Tyndall, SD 57066
Well drilling, repairing and cleaning Water Systems – Artesian Wells Sales and Installation Earth-Coupled Heat Pump
Emergency Service Free Estimates
605-589-3713 or 605-661-1960
Art & Antique Gallery Custom Matting & Framing Original Art/Gifts/Cards Handmade Glass Beads & Jewelry
1610 Main St
Tyndall, SD
605-589-4050
Open Wednesday through Saturday
CorTrust Bank Tabor, South Dakota
(6 0 5 ) 4 6 3-2577 www.cortrustbank.com
Member FDIC
Wellmark Has You Covered, No Matter What Your Stage of Life. CALL TODAY to learn more.
Equal Housing Lender
Cameron Insurance
Brad Cameron Tyndall, SD 57066
605-589-4176
An Authorized Independent Agent For
Construction And Painting New Construction Remodel - Roofing Flooring
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Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Dakota is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. ©2012 Wellmark, Inc. SD-20-P-12
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When replacing incandescent bulbs from recessed light fixtures, use energy-efficient bulbs that are rated for that purpose. For example, the heat buildup in downlights will significantly shorten the life of spiral CFLs. Source: Department of Energy
Cooperative Connections • June 2014 1 1
Leaders Take Co-op Issues to D.C. E
By Brenda Kleinjan
ach May, electric cooperative leaders from across the country converge on Washington, D.C., to rally support for legislative issues important to cooperatives and the 42 million people they serve. 2014 was no exception. More than 2,500 co-op leaders from 47 states – including 60 from South Dakota and western Minnesota – headed to the Nation’s Capitol for updates from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association on legislation and trends vital to cooperatives and to meet with their respective state’s congressional delegations.
12 June 2014 • Cooperative Connections
Among topics covered at NRECA 2014 Legislative Conference in early May were the following:
Federal Emergency Management Agency Electric co-ops rely on reimbursements by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Public Assistance Program to restore service after severe floods, hurricanes, tornadoes and ice storms. Decisions made in FEMA’s Region VII in 2013 could threaten the reimbursement of eligible expenses for electric co-ops for damage from disasters. Cooperative leaders asked their delegation to
Left: Rushmore Electric Power Cooperative General Manager Vic Simmons outlines South Dakota electric cooperatives’ stance on issues with Sen. Tim Johnson, D-S.D. Below left: East River Electric Power Cooperative General Manger Tom Boyko speaks with Sen. John Thune about the Endangered Species Act. Below: Don Heeren, president of the South Dakota Rural Electric Association and Southeastern Electric Association boards of directors speaks with Rep. Kristi Noem about the important role large capacity water heaters play for South Dakota electric cooperatives. Opposite Page: With the U.S. Capitol as a backdrop, a portion of the South Dakota electric cooperative leaders attending the NRECA Legislative Conference pose for a photo.
ensure there is sufficient oversight of FEMA, so that FEMA policies are consistently applied and in line with established practices.
Greenhouse Gas Standards In June, EPA will propose regulations to limit greenhouse gas emissions from existing sources. This regulation could threaten system reliability and affordability for electric co-op consumer members. It needs time for careful and thorough consideration. Cooperative leaders asked their Senators and Representatives to support an adequate comment period of at least 120 days. Senators and Representatives were also told that more than 500,000 people sent messages to the EPA through their electric cooperatives on rules at new power plants. Preserve Access to Large Electric Water Heaters Co-ops use large water heaters to help save consumers money and manage peak loads through demand response programs. The Department of Energy’s stringent 2010 efficiency standard will eliminate the type of water heaters co-ops use starting next year. The House passed H.R. 2126 to allow continued manufacture of these water heaters. Cooperatives urged their senators to push Leaders Sens. Harry Reid, D-Nev., and Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., to bring the Shaheen-Portman Energy Efficiency Bill or the Hoeven-Pryor Water Heater bill to the floor, noting that the Senate must act to preserve co-op demand response programs that save consumers money. Improvements to the Endangered Species Act Currently, more than 1,450 species in the United States are
designated threatened or endangered under the ESA. Further, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is on a path to increase the number of listed species by more than 20 percent in the next five years. NRECA supports the House ESA reform package of four targeted bills to update, improve and modernize the Endangered Species Act for the 21st century. Members of Congress were urged to co-sponsor and support H.R. 4315, H.R. 4316, H.R. 4317, and H.R. 4318 to update the ESA. Additionally, Senators were encouraged to get involved with ESA Reform.
NRECA’s International Rural Electrification Programs/ Electrify Africa Act For 50 years, NRECA International has provided people in over 42 developing countries with access to safe, reliable and affordable electricity. More remains to be done, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where 68 percent of the population or 589 million people live without the benefits of electric power. Members of Congress were asked to support HR 2548 when it comes to the House floor and Senators were asked to co-sponsor the Senate bill. The House passed the bill the week that cooperative’s were on the Hill. Power Marketing Administrations South Dakota electric cooperatives also spoke with their delegation about the important relationship cooperatives have with federal Power Marketing Administrations. In the Dakotas and western Minnesota, that partnership is with Western Area Power Administration. Cooperative Connections • June 2014 13
Travel: South Dakota’s No. 2 Industry S By Brenda Kleinjan From Department of Tourism Releases
Below: Nicollet Tower near Sisseton, S.D., provides visitors with a far-reaching view of northeastern South Dakota along with parts of southeastern North Dakota and western Minnesota. Above Right: The National Park Service’s Minuteman Missile National Historic Site is scheduled for completion this fall near Kadoka, S.D. Opposite Page: Visitors to the De Smet, S.D., area can find several venues inspired by children’s author Laura Ingalls Wilder.
cores of South Dakota tourism destinations take travelers right through electric co-op country, including a new National Historic Site under construction. Construction for one of Western South Dakota’s most popular attractions, Minuteman Missile National Historic Site (NHS) is well under way and on-target for completion late this year. The facility will feature an area of approximately 7,500 square feet of quality displays and exhibits that the National Park Service is known for. The Minuteman Missile NHS is sure to be a can’t miss attraction, and only gain in popularity with families and couples looking for more than just a stop-and-see. “We are the only unit of the National Park Service dedicated to telling the story of the Cold War, and South Dakota’s 44th Missile Wing’s role in deterring, and preventing, the Cold War from becoming World War III by being ready to retaliate if ordered by the President of the U.S.” said Duane Bubac, Superintendent of Minuteman Missile National Historic Site. Visitation at Minuteman peaks during the summertime, and Ranger-guided tours are conducted daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. National Park Service attractions aren’t the only destinations attracting visitors. From lofty views at the Nicollet Tower in northeastern South Dakota to grassy prairie surroundings for a visit to a children’s
14 June 2014 • Cooperative Connections
author’s homestead, tourists bring an influx of revenue to the state. The total economic impact of South Dakota’s visitor industry increased in 2013 by 2.8 percent from 2012, translating to an overall economic impact of nearly $2 billion, according to a report by IHS Global Insight. In addition, a 2012 study conducted by Longwoods International showed that, for every dollar spent on marketing by the state Department of Tourism, South Dakota receives $5 in tax revenues. “South Dakota’s visitor industry continues to show its strength, despite facing numerous challenges,” Gov. Dennis Daugaard said. “In 2013, South Dakota faced a spring blizzard and ice storm, federal sequestration, an early fall blizzard and the federal government shutdown. And yet, the visitor industry persevered with another record-setting year.”
First Aid Kit Necessities for the Car A fall, burn or illness can occur at any given time or place. Always keep a first aid kit in your vehicle to make sure you have all the bases covered. The American Red Cross recommends a family of four have the following items in a first aid kit: • Two absorbent compress dressings, • Two pair of non-latex gloves, large 5-by-9 inches • Two hydrocortisone ointment packets • 25 adhesive bandages, assorted • Scissors sizes • One roller bandage, 3 inches wide • One adhesive cloth tape, 10-yards • One roller bandage, 4 inches wide long, 1-inch wide • Five sterile gauze pads, 3-by-3 • Five antibiotic ointment packets inches • Five antiseptic wipe packets • Five sterile gauze pads, 4-by-4 • Two packets of aspirin (81 milinches ligrams each) • Oral thermometer, non-mercury/ • One blanket nonglass • One breathing barrier with one-way • Two triangular bandages valve • Tweezers • One instant cold compress • First aid instruction booklet It’s a good idea to include hand sanitizer, insect repellent and cotton swabs as well. Your first aid kit should be readily accessible; don’t pack it under your luggage. Be sure to check your first aid kit on a regular basis and replace outdated contents as needed.
Prepare an Emergency Car Kit 2013 Economic Impact Statistics about South Dakota’s No. 2 Industry: 2.8 percent – The increase in the economic impact of tourism on South Dakota’s economy last year. $1.98 billion – Tourism’s direct impact on South Dakota’s economy in 2013. 1:5 – The ratio between dollars spent on tourism marketing and tax revenue received. For every dollar Tourism spends marketing the state as a vacation destination, South Dakota receives $5 in tax revenue. 19.41 percent – The amount of state and local tax revenue generated by tourism-related activity in 2013. This totaled $295 million. 27,958 – The number of jobs directly generated by the tourism industry in 2013. That’s 1-out-of-11 South Dakota jobs that depend on travel and tourism. $892 – The amount of additional taxes each household in the state would pay if South Dakota’s tourism industry did not exist. 8.6 percent – Percentage of visitor spending that came from international visitors.
2013 Year-Over-Year Comparisons: • Taxable sales were up 4.5 percent • Inquiries to the SD Dept. of Tourism were up 8.4 percent • Unique visitors to the consumer website, www.TravelSD.com, were up 3 percent.
It could be a dire situation if your vehicle breaks down or severe weather leaves you stranded. By taking a little time to prepare an emergency car kit, you can keep your family safe until help arrives. The American Red Cross suggests you pack your emergency car kit with the following items: • Battery powered radio, flashlight high-energy foods such as granola and extra batteries bars, raisins and peanut butter • Blanket • Maps • Booster cables • Shovel • Fire extinguisher, 5-pound, A-B-C • Flares type • Tire repair kit and pump • First aid kit and manual • Matches and survival candle that • Bottled water and non-perishable, can burn for several hours There are several other factors to consider when preparing your emergency car kit. For example, if you’re stuck for a long period of time, you will need to go to the bathroom. Go above and beyond and create the mother of all emergency car kits with the following suggestions from Allstate insurance: • Toilet paper • Zip-top bags in various sizes • Hand sanitizer • Water • Toothbrush, toothpaste and dental • LED flashlights and/or headlamps floss • Rain ponchos • Plastic tablecloth • Emergency radio • Trash bags • Duct tape • Baby wipes • Tarp • Bar of soap in a zip-top bag • Multi-purpose knife • Disinfecting wipes • Sunblock • Feminine protection • Whistle • Box of tissues • Pepper spray Furthermore, it’s a good idea to have plenty of items on hand to keep you occupied in the event you’re stranded for a long period of time. Create a special box or bag full of entertainment items such as books, card games and a pencil and notebook. You’ll be ready for any emergency. Cooperative Connections • June 2014 15
Regional Dateline
Events of Special Note
June 1, 15, 29 Wissota Races, Watertown, SD, 605-881-1781
June 6 Redlin Art Center 17th Anniversary Celebration Watertown, SD, 605-882-3877 June 6-7 The Original SD BBQ Championships Huron, SD, 605-353-7340 www.sdbbqchampionships.com June 6-8 Fish Days, Lake Andes, SD 605-487-7611 www.cme.coop/~fishdays June 6-8 Fort Sisseton Historic Festival Lake City, SD, 605-448-5474 www.sdgfp.info/fortsisseton June 7 Poker Run & Harley Davidson Giveaway, Watertown, SD 800-658-4717 June 7-8 Crazy Horse Volksmarch Crazy Horse, SD 605-673-4681 www.crazyhorsememorial.org June 7-8 Siouxland Rennaissance Festival, Sioux Falls, SD 866-489-9241 www.Siouxlandrenfest.com
PHOTO COURTESY OF S.D. DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM
June 6 Northern Bull Riding Tour Madison, SD, 800-693-3644 www.prairievillage.org
June 6-8 Wheel Jam SD State Fairgrounds Huron, SD, 605-353-7340 www.wheeljam.com June 26-29 Camaro Rally, Sturgis, SD 406-891-1372
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.
June 13-14 Wild Bill Hickok Days Deadwood, SD, 800-999-1876
June 20-21 Rodeo Days, Estelline, SD 605-690-2241
June 13-15 Crazy Horse Stampede Rodeo & Gift from Mother Earth Celebration, Crazy Horse, SD 605-673-4681 June 14 Black Hills Mud Run Sturgis, SD, 605-209-4105 www.BlackHillsMudRun.com
June 20-21 Prairie Hills Art Show Wessington Springs, SD 605-539-1963
June 14-15 Old Settlers Days DeSmet, SD, 605-854-3773 June 19-21 Czech Days, Tabor, SD 605-463-2478 www.taborczechdays.com June 20 Dalesburg Midsummer Festival Vermillion, SD, 605-253-2575 www.dalesburglutheran.org
June 20-22 Oahe Days Music and Arts Festival, Pierre, SD 605-945-3900 June 21-22 Arts in the Park Aberdeen, SD, 605-226-1557 aberdeenareaartscouncil.com June 21-22 Brookings Kite & Bike Festival Brookings, SD, 605-688-4313 June 22 Prairie Village Variety Show Madison, SD, 800-693-3644 www.prairievillage.org
June 23-25 St. Francis Indian Day Pow Wow Saint Francis, SD 605-891-9992 June 24-29 Down Home Family Music Festival, Rapid City, SD 605-399-2582 June 26-28 National Red Power Round Up SD State Fairgrounds Huron, SD, 605-353-7340 redpowerroundup2014.com June 26-28 Crystal Springs Ranch Rodeo Clear Lake, SD, 605-874-2996 June 27 Dustin Lynch in Concert Deadwood, SD, 877-907-4726 June 27-29 Black Hills Bluegrass Festival, Sturgis, SD, 605-348-1198, www.blackhillsbluegrass.com