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BON HOMME YANKTON ELECTRIC MARCH 2022 VOL. 22 NO. 11

ERATIVE CONNECTIONS

Sica Hollow State Park near Sisseton is one of several hidden gems in the park system that are waiting to be discovered

Spotlight on State Parks Hidden treasures for you to discover Pages 8-9 REED Fund fills community needs Pages 12-13

INCENTIVE PROGRAM

B-Y ELECTRIC REBATES AND INCENTIVES Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling an existing home, building a new business facility or just looking to upgrade your heating and cooling system, your cooperative has a program designed to help. We also have rebates on lifetime warranty water heaters and electric vehicles!

Electric Heat Rate:

• 2.5 cent per kWh bill credit • Electric heating systems are eligible for the electric heat credit on all energy used by the heating system. • System must have a separate sub-meter to determine usage. • Heat pump installations are eligible for bill credit year-round with air conditioning function controlled by load management system.

Residential Heating: (Replacement incentives offered after 10 years) • Electric Heat Pumps - 2 tons or larger..................$600 • Electric Resistance Heat..........................................$10 per kW NEW • Mini-Split Heat Pump - under 2 tons.....................$300 NEW Electric heating systems must meet the DOE manufacturing standard for HSPF efficiency. DOE standard in 2022 is 8.2.

Commercial Heating:

• Electric Resistance Heat..........................................$10 per kW up to 600 kW • Electric Heat Pumps - 2 tons or larger..................$50 per ton of heating capacity

General Contractor Rebate: $100 rebate available to the general contractor for installing an all-electric heating system at a new residential dwelling of at least 1200 square feet. NEW

Electric Vehicles: B-Y Electric members are eligible for a $100 rebate for an electric vehicle that is primarily charged at their B-Y Electric residence and is owned by the member. NEW

Lifetime Warranty Water Heaters: Members who purchase a lifetime warranted electric water heater have the following rebates available: • Offered on new construction and existing structures. • $6.00 per gallon of capacity rebate on a lifetime warranted water heater. • 50 gallon tank=$300 85 gallon tank=$510 100 gallon tank=$600 • A load controller must be installed. • Rebate applies if no rebate has been issued at the location in the previous 10 years. • Water heater must be at least or greater than 50-gallon capacity. • $7.00 per month bill credit with load controller installed, must use 600 kWh per month on the main meter. • The load controller shuts off the water heater at peak times to reduce the overall demand on our system. For more information, call our office at (605) 463-2507 or email jarens@byelectric.com.

2 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MARCH 2022

BOARD REPORT

ERATIVE

CONNECTIONS

BON HOMME YANKTON ELECTRIC (USPS No. 018-973) Bon Homme Yankton Electric Association, Inc PO Box 158 134 S. Lidice St. Tabor, SD 57063 Office Hours: Monday through Friday 7:30am - 4:00pm To pay by phone, call: 1-888-395-5315 To report an outage, call: Local call from Tabor, Tyndall, and Yankton: 605-463-2507 NOTICE: Electric bills must be paid by 10:00am on the 20th of each month to avoid a $10 late fee. Board President: Paul Voigt Board of Directors Dave Sykora - Vice President Dave Sternhagen - Secretary Robert Ruppelt - Treasurer Dean Sternhagen John Lillevold Rick Cheloha

JANUARY BOARD REPORT The January board meeting was held on January 19, at 8am. All board members were present. Others present were Attorney Sheila Woodward, General Manager Stephanie Horst, Operations Manager Ken Carda, and Communications/Marketing Coordinator Jaclyn Arens. THE BOARD REVIEWED CONSENT AGENDA:

• • • • • •

• Minutes of the Previous Meeting • New Members & Cancellations • Capital Credits to Estates Discounted $7,580.53 • Closed Work Order Inventory $138,579.52 • Review Special Equipment purchases None

General Manager Report 2022 Annual Meeting Discussion East River Cyber Security/IT Report Director Reports Legal Report Policy Updates: 70-23 Incentive Rebate Program Board & General Manager 4th Qtr 2021 Expenses 2022 City of Tyndall Contract 2022 Berndt’s Tree Service Contract ($150,000) Executive Session - Enter & Exit Next Meeting date set for February 23, at 8am

• • •

THE BOARD REVIEWED AND APPROVED:

• Communication/Marketing Report • Operations & Safety Report • Office & Financial Reports

• •

Year-to-Date Comparison December-20 December-21 Total Revenue ...................................$713,579................................................ $1,004,900 Cost of Power....................................$573,327................................................... $559,905 Total Cost of Service ........................$870,843................................................... $951,133 KWH’s Purchased ............................9,384,078.................................................. 9,175,356 Residential Average kWh .......................2,018.......................................................... 1,991 Residential Average Bill .......................... $162 .......................................................... $211

General Manager: Stephanie Horst Operations Manager: Ken Carda Office Manager: Nicole Einrem Marketing/Communications Coordinator & Editor: Jaclyn Arens Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections is the monthly publication for the members of Bon Homme Yankton Electric Association, Inc, PO Box 158, 134 S. Lidice St., Tabor, SD 57063-0158. Families subscribe to Cooperative Connections as part of their electric cooperative membership. The purpose of Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections is to provide reliable, helpful information to electric cooperative members on electric cooperative matters and better rural living. Subscription information: Cooperative members devote 50 cents from their monthly electric payments for a subscription. Non-member subscriptions are available for $12 annually. Periodicals postage paid at Tabor, SD 57063. Postmaster: Please send address changes to Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections, PO Box 158, Tabor, SD 57063; telephone (605) 463-2507; fax (605)

kWh 20 18 16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0

5 kW system

January 2022 Solar Stats

Day of the month

463-2419

Welcome New Members Avon Laurel Owens

Springfield Matthew Walker

Tabor Larry & Angela Navratil Tyler Ellis & Stephanie Ulmer Marinna Anderson

Consumer Directly

Energy to Grid

Tripp

Elizabeth Fullenkamp

Ashton Frank

Todd Jensen

Yankton

Jodi Strahl

Ryan Olson

Gary Pfeiffer & Karla Breding

3 Sons’ RV Resort LLC

Michael & Karla Campbell

Chona Pallas

Angela Jones

George & Lisa Williams

Matthew Huber

6th Meridian, LLC

Nicolas Auringer

Brad Metteer

Tammy Johnson

Randy Wagner

Bryan Prior

MARCH 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 3

SHOCKING DANGERS

Four shocking electrical dangers in your home Contact with electricity can result in something as innocuous (but still painful) as a mild shock to severe injuries like nerve damage and burns. In some cases, it can even cause cardiac arrest and death. Here’s a list of some of the most common shock risks inside a home. 1. Appliances. Most shocks from household appliances occur during repairs. It’s not enough to turn off an appliance before working on it - you need to unplug it to reduce risk. Large appliances are responsible for 18 percent of household electrical accidents; small appliances account for 12 percent. There’s also danger if your appliance comes into contact with water. Many of these hazards can be avoided by using a ground-fault circuit interrupter. A GFCI is a protective device installed on electrical outlets, primarily used where water is present. When the device detects an imbalance in the electric current, it turns off the power to minimize the potential for an electric shock. 2. Ladders. Typically, ladders present a falling hazard, but 8 percent of household shocks are also related to ladders. Electrocution typically happens when the ladder makes contact with electrical wires. Before you use a ladder, make sure you can clearly see all power lines in the area - including those that may be hidden by tree branches. Ensure that the ladder is 10 feet away and won’t contact a power line if it falls in any direction. 3. Power tools. Power tools account for 9 percent of consumer product-related shocks. According to OSHA, when you use power tools that are not double-insulated, are damaged or have damaged cords, you increase your chances of being injured. The chance of danger also increases when you use incompatible cords, use power tools incorrectly or use them in wet conditions. This is another situation in which GFCIs can help. 4. Electrical outlets and extension cords. Inserting anything that doesn’t belong - screwdrivers, knives, fingers or toy cars, to name a few - into an electrical outlet can result in a dangerous electrical contact. Use cover plates that fit properly and safety covers on all outlets. By installing tamper-resistant receptacles, outlets will have permanent security against foreign objects being inserted into the slots. Any broken, loose or worn-out plugs, switches and light fixtures should be replaced immediately.

4 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MARCH 2022

WE’VE GOT CO-OP COUNTRY COVERED

We know you love to read your local edition of Cooperative Connections magazine, but you’ll get more great content when you visit our video companion, Cooperative Connections Plus. Scan the QR code or search YouTube for Cooperative Connections Plus and you’ll be treating yourself to an intriguing repository of videos on interesting events going on around our state. There’s walleye fishing, rodeos, electric vehicles, curling, Christmas at the Capitol, the State Fair and much more. Visit us today!

Call 811 before digging Amelia Swift Hawk Amelia Swift Hawk knows that it’s wise to call 811 before digging into the ground. Amelia and her parents, Michael and Alyssa Swift Hawk, are members of Moreau-Grand Electric based in Timber Lake. 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

SAVORY SEAFOOD GRILLED SALMON

Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs. salmon fillet cut into 6 slices 2 tbsp. olive oil extra virgin 1 lemon or lime (juice of) 1 tsp. smoked paprika 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. onion powder 1 tsp. salt Ground black pepper to taste

OYSTER STEW

Ingredients: 1 onion, chopped 6 T. butter 2 tsp. minced garlic 6 cup whole milk 1 pint (2 cans) oysters - do not drain 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes 1/4 tsp. paprika 1 tsp. parsley 1/4 tsp. Tabasco sauce

METHOD Sauté onion and garlic in butter. Stir in undrained oysters. Cook at medium heat about 5 minutes until oysters curl at the edges. Stir in milk, red pepper flakes, paprika, parsley, and Tabasco sauce. Heat to serving temperature. Serve with oyster crackers. Jane Ham, Rapid City

METHOD In a small bowl, add olive oil, lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic and onion powders, salt, pepper. Whisk to combine. In a shallow flat dish with edges, lay salmon slices and brush with marinade. Marinate from 10 minutes to 24 hours. Longer marinating time, more flavorful salmon. Preheat grill to 450-500. Clean grill and oil grates with oil-soaked paper towel to avoid salmon sticking to the grill. Place salmon on the grill skin side up, close the lid and grill for 4-5 minutes. Check with spatula – if salmon has grill marks and comes off easy, flip it. Cook uncovered for another 3-4 minutes or until thermometer reads 125 degrees for medium rare or 140 for medium. Serve hot or cold on top of salad, mango salsa, guacamole, brown rice or quinoa. ifoodreal.com

SHRIMP AND SAUSAGE JAMBALAYA

Ingredients: 12 ozs. fully cooked andouille sausage, cut to 1/2-inch slices 12 ozs. uncooked shrimp (31-40 per lb.), peeled and deveined 1 med. green pepper, chopped 1 med. onion, chopped 2 celery ribs, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 tsps. Creole or Cajun seasoning (paprika, with cayenne pepper, oregano, dried sweet basil) 1 can (14-1/2 ozs.) fire-roasted diced tomatoes, drained 1 cup uncooked “instant” rice 1 can (8 ozs.) tomato sauce 1/2 cup chicken broth 3 green onion sprigs chopped

METHOD Preheat oven to 425°. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Divide mixture among six greased 18x12-inch pieces of heavy-duty foil. Fold foil around mixture and crimp edges to seal, forming packets; place on a baking sheet. Bake until shrimp turn pink and rice is tender, 20-25 minutes. Use caution when opening packets as they will be steamy. Consider adding jalapenos to taste and/or some chopped pineapple to cool the palate. Try serving for breakfast or brunch with sumptuous eggs and biscuits. Shannon Collins/Taste of Home

Please send your favorite beverage 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 2022. All entries must include your name, mailing address, phone number and cooperative name.

MARCH 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 5

TYNDALL BAKERY

At more than 115 years old, Tyndall Bakery has been named “Best in South Dakota” and is also mentioned in a book by Webster native Tom Brokaw. Owners Ed and Carol Radack intend to keep the legendary establishment going strong.

Radacks keep Tyndall Bakery tradition alive Billy Gibson

Ed left his job at the Department of Transportation to offer some help and the two have been baking shoulder-to-shoulder billy.gibson@sdrea.coop ever since. While they learned the business on the fly, the couple The members of Danzig Baptist Church in Tyndall perk up when they see Ed and Carol Radack coming through the doors remained committed to one thing: using the recipe that’s been handed down for decades. And the regular customers make on Sunday morning. sure they stick with that plan. They’re grateful for all the faithful work the Radacks do for “That’s what keeps a lot of the old-timers coming back,” the congregation and the community. They appreciate the fact that Carol volunteers her time as a Sunday School teacher and Carol said. “It’s a good product, it’s always home-made, and we always try to deliver the best service.” Ed has served as a church trustee and always stays involved. On a recent Saturday morning there was standing room But they also know that when the Radacks come around, only as customers lined up for the apple fritters, long johns, donuts can’t be too far away. For the past 15 years, Ed and Carol have been whipping up kolaches, cinnamon twists and bismarcks. Most of them have called ahead to make sure their special orders are filled and irresistible cakes and confections as owners of Tyndall Bakery. they don’t miss out on their favorite selections. The establishment was opened by John Moser in downtown One of them was Mike Scheetz, owner of the bowling alley Tyndall in 1905 and has changed hands over the years. But across the street. He got one armload of fresh-baked buns for during that time, the bakery has maintained its status as a his business and another armload for himself and his staff. go-to sweet shop. Two years ago, Taste of Home magazine “They’re the best around,” Scheetz said as he grabbed a bag proclaimed it “Best in South Dakota.” of Bavarians. “They know what I like so they always have it The Radacks bought the business from Bob and Judy Rueb ready for me.” after Carol’s employer, Chicago Rawhide, closed its doors. Scheetz turns to go get set up for local bowling league Looking for something different to do, Carol decided to go from building ball bearings to baking bismarcks. When it soon activities and the Radacks have slight smiles on their faces that became clear Carol had her hands full with interminable shifts, seem to say, “Another satisfied customer.”

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A PASSION FOR PAINTING

Swatek finds joy in helping others through art Billy Gibson billy.gibson@sdrea.coop

Art has always held a special spot in Johnny Swatek’s soul. But when he discovered how much his work meant to others, he began developing an even deeper understanding of his passion for connecting with people through canvas. Swatek recalls the time he received an urgent request for a portrait. The client was friends with a married couple and she wanted to commission a painting of the two…but it had to be soon because the husband was stricken with brain cancer and didn’t have long to live. “She came to my studio with a photo on Thursday, I stayed up all night and the next day doing the portrait, she gave it to them on Saturday, and he passed away Monday,” Swatek recalled.

Since then, Swatek has made a conscious effort to put more of himself into every piece. For instance, many random requests come from those who have an emotional attachment to their farms and ranches that can reach back many generations. They’ll ask for paintings of old barns and tractors or broken down cars or other images they associate with their homestead. “It’s very rewarding to help people capture their memories,” he said. “Frankly, I didn’t pay enough attention to the details before and I might take shortcuts, but now I realize every blade

of grass is important. I spend much more time getting those details right.” Swatek considers himself on a lifelong quest to improve his craft. Largely self-taught, the 58-year-old identifies a certain skill to hone every year. For example, in 2021 he focused on texture, in 2020 he concentrated on contrast, in 2019 he emphasized composition. Born in Wyoming into a military family, Swatek grew up in Garden Grove, Calif., where he started learning to airbrush t-shirts on the carnival circuit. He showed up at Citizen Band jamborees where the radio buffs would line up to have their CB handles air-brushed onto their vests. It was all an education for Swatek as he perfected his artistic skills but also learned the art of working with people. In 1992, he made his way back to his father’s native town of Wagner and later settled in Avon where he lives with his wife and business partner, Jennifer. The two travel to art shows and festivals around the region, including Winterfest in Aberdeen and the “granddaddy” Augustana Art Show in Sioux Falls. Taking much of his inspiration and influence from the 15th century Baroque stylist Caravaggio, Swatek’s studio work is done in an old two-story bank building. Along with portraits, he does wildlife paintings, landscapes and other subjects that reflect his interpretation of the rural Upper Midwestern lifestyle. Scenes range from boats in a harbor in Nova Scotia to horses running wild across the plains. While Swatek enjoys his quiet time in the studio, he looks forward to the next art show where he can rub elbows with his fellow artists. “The shows are so much fun. There’s so much camaraderie,” he said. “You get to see people you may not get to see often, and when you sell a piece everybody’s happy. There’s no arrogance or conceit, and everybody encourages each other to succeed.”

MARCH 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 7

SPOTLIGHT ON STATE PARKS

HIDDEN TREASURES Despite its legacy as the site of an epic battle over good and evil, Sica Hollow State Park near Sisseton is a source of family fun for those who want to get away and enjoy the great outdoors. Photos by SD Tourism.

The State Park system has seen visitation increase with new programs in place to serve the public Billy Gibson billy.gibson@sdrea.coop

At first blush, Sica Hollow State Park might seem like someplace you’d want to avoid. The area was named after a Dakota Sioux word used to describe something sinister and features a winding pathway called the Trail of the Spirits. There are maroon-colored bogs, sangriatinged streams and brown foliage that reminded early tribes of the blood and flesh of their ancestors. The undulating terrain is said to be the site of an ancient spiritual battle in which the land and the people were overcome by a malevolent force. Local legend has it that the restless souls of the dead manifest themselves as unexplained bursts of fire and light in the night, disturbing sounds of agonized wailing and the ominous beat of war drums in the distance. Apart from the spooky stories and eerie lore, Sica Hollow turns out to be one of many “hidden gems” in the

State Park system that are found off the beaten paths. Sica Hollow is located in the northeast corner of the state near Sisseton where you’ll find rustic bridges, winding creeks, scenic waterfalls and seasonal wildflowers festooning the eight miles of hiking trails. The Trail of Spirits, which today is a self-guided interpretive foot trail, was designated as a National Recreation Trail in 1971. The park also contains the Old River Warren and Coteau des Prairies, which have been named National Natural Landmarks. With more than 60 facilities in its fold, the State Park system has lots to offer and includes several lesser-known destinations for families to discover such as Sica Hollow, Spirit Mound and Adams Homestead in the eastern part of the state and Shadehill, Rocky Point and Llewellyn Johns out west. The Shadehill Recreation Area near Lemmon is situated on the shores of Shadehill Reservoir, which is one of western South Dakota’s few large lakes.

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At Llewellyn Johns Recreation Area, visitors will find a monument to Hugh Glass, a hunter who survived a vicious attack by a grizzly bear in 1823.

There are 85 campsites with seven camping cabins, a group lodge, and facilities for boating, fishing, canoeing, biking, archery and more. Nearby is the much smaller Llewellyn Johns Recreation Area with just 10 campsites and an opportunity to enjoy

SPOTLIGHT ON STATE PARKS

Approximate number of visitors

8,400,000 to South Dakota State Parks in 2021

Cross country skiers receive both the mental and physical health benefits of a

a quieter and more secluded camping experience. There are points of historical interest close by as many historic figures have traveled through the area, including George Custer’s 1874 Expedition and Hugh Glass. According to first-hand accounts, in 1823 Glass was attacked by a grizzly bear, an event documented in the novel Lord Grizzly and recounted in the movie, The Revenant. Nick Harrington, communications manager for Game, Fish and Parks, reports that the system is stronger and more popular than ever. Last year more than 8.4 million visitors passed through the parks, representing a 25 percent increase in visitation over the nine-year average. Custer State Park, the system’s most popular spot, saw a 3 percent increase in attendance with more than 2.3 million visitors. Seventy-seven percent of visitors rated their camping experience as an A with 43 out of the 48 areas surveyed receiving the top rating. To keep the momentum moving along, the State Park system has added 15 new facilities from a new Bison Center at Custer State Park to an improved boat ramp at West Whitlock Recreation Area. And just in time for the spring and summer camping season there is a new and improved way of helping campers navigate the parks and outdoor facilities. Through www.gooutdoorssouthdakota. com, customers can secure a camping reservation or buy an annual park

Sica Hollow is one of the “hidden gems” in the state park system where visitors can commune with nature while learning about local lore.

entrance license while also purchasing hunting and fishing licenses all from the same transaction. A new mobile app provides 360 degree views of the more than 4,000 campsites in the system. The Department of Tourism has also launched a free mobile pass called South Dakota Great Finds that helps users explore the state’s many attractions, including hidden treasures like Sica Hollow. The pass can be accessed at travelsouthdakota.com, and there is no app to download. According to Department of Tourism Secretary Jim Hagen, “This mobile experience allows us to better highlight what truly makes up the great state of South Dakota. It showcases rural America, unexpected businesses and parks, and gets people off the beaten path to discover something new.” Search for “Go Outdoors South Dakota” to find GFP’s official mobile app for iOS and Android.

Top 10 most visited state parks in 2021 1. Custer State Park 2. Lewis & Clark Recreation Area 3. Spring Creek Recreation Area 4. Oahe Downstream Recreation Area 5. Cow Creek Recreation Area 6. Angostura Recreation Area 7. Roy Lake State Park 8. Farm Island Recreation Area 9. Springfield Recreation Area 10. Newton Hills State Park

MARCH 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 9

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Payment Options and Due Dates We have had a lot of questions about billing dates and payment options so far this year. Here is a reminder for old and new members on all the ways you can pay your bill. Meters are read automatically in the office. Statements are processed and mailed on the first working day of each month. Payments are due in the office by 10:00 a.m. on the 20th of the month. Postmark dates are not used. Any amount not paid by the due date is subject to a $10 late fee. Late notices will be sent out after the due date to all members with a past due amount. The SmartHub Online Services website or mobile app can assist you in making a payment or checking your account balance. The SecurePay phone number offers the same features as SmartHub. You just need to set up a pin number the first time you use it. The next call will go much faster and then even faster as you get used to the prompts. Secure Pay 1-888-395-5315 If none of these services appeal to you, we highly encourage our members to sign up for automatic payments by checking account. We automatically process your payment around the 15th of each month so there’s no worries or needing to call to make a payment. Paperless billing is available for accounts on automatic payments! You can still sign up for SmartHub to receive notifications when your bill is calculated and how much will be withdrawn from your account. For those of you wanting to rack up some points on your special credit card, we offer recurring payments by credit card. These are processed around the 12th of each month. Don’t worry, you can still pay by cash or check. Cash can be paid in person during office hours or put in the drop box on the front of the main office. Checks can be placed in the drop box or mailed in with your payment coupon. All checks received are converted into electronic format and sent to the bank via secure channels. Call 605-463-2507 to discuss any of these options but call 1-888-395-5315 to pay your bill by phone. Go to our website at www.byelectric.coop/paymentbilling-options for all the payment options and to print the forms needed to sign up for recurring ACH or credit card. 10 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MARCH 2022

Pay Online with SmartHub Use the B-Y Electric SmartHub tool to pay bills online, set up auto-pay options, manage account notifications, and monitor daily electric use. Find more info on byelectric.coop.

Pay Now Online If you do not want to create an online account with SmartHub, you can use the ‘pay now’ online payment option. Simply enter your account number and last name and pay your bill.

Pay By Phone 1-888-395-5315 This number allows members to enter their account information using a secure pay-by-phone system and pay with credit card or check.

Prepaid Billing Normally, you receive a utility bill at the end of the month for all of the electricity you used in the past 30 days. PrePay works the opposite. You pay for the electricity before you use it.

Automatic Payment - Credit Card We automatically charge your credit card on the 12th of the month for the exact amount of your electric bill. You will still get a monthly statement at the beginning of the month indicating the amount to be charged.

Automatic Payment - ACH On the 15th of each month, we will automatically deduct from your checking or savings account the exact amount of your electric bill. You will still get a monthly statement at the beginning of each month indicating the amount to be withdrawn.

Pay In Person Monthly payments can be paid by cash, check, or credit card in person at the main office at 134 S Lidice St, Tabor, SD 57063. There is also a secure drop box on the front of the main office building in Tabor.

Pay Now Online Mail payment and the bottom portion of your bill. Please allow time for the payment to be received by the due date. Mail check or money order to: Bon Homme Yankton Electric, PO Box 158, Tabor, SD 57063.

CO-OP NEWS

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY BUILD DAY

Above: (Back L to R) Kevin Meyer, Travis Gause, Jennifer Boska, Nicole Einrem, Wes Kloucek, and Ken Carda (Front L to R) Rick Cheloha, Jaclyn Arens, Stephanie Horst, and Linda Schenkel Top Left: Stephanie Horst, Top Right: Wes Kloucek Lower Left: Ken Carda Lower Right: Jennifer Boska, Nicole Einrem, and Travis Gause

B-Y Electric employees volunteered to paint the interior of Habitat for Humanity’s current project. To live out one of our cooperative principles, Concern for Community, B-Y Electric employees volunteered for Habitat for Humanity on January 31st. We became interested in the project because B-Y Director Rick Cheloha is the Construction Coordinator for Habitat for Humanity. Habitat for Humanity of Clay and Yankton Counties is a Christian housing ministry that works with low-income families who desire to own a safe and affordable place to live. They have built and sold affordable homes

for 44 families in need since 1996. Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Rebecca Meier said they build the house to fit the family, however, the family for this house fell through so they are accepting applications. The house is located in Yankton. Find more information at https:// habitatclayyankton.org/ now-accepting-applications-forclay-county/. B-Y Electric employees had a great time volunteering for a great cause! MARCH 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 11

REED FUND

REED FILLS THE NEED Pictured at right, Renville-Sibley Co-op Power CEO DeeAnne Newville (left), presents a check to the local Community Center and Cougar Club daycare facility in Franklin, MN, through the electric cooperative REED Fund.

Electric cooperative REED Fund helps meet many needs for communities in South Dakota and western Minnesota Billy Gibson billy.gibson@sdrea.coop

Leaders of the Garretson community northeast of Sioux Falls had the vision for a much-needed expansion of the small town’s non-profit daycare center. Since cobbling together two older structures in 2019 and taking in more tykes, it was apparent that the current white-hot demand for childcare was going to necessitate yet another expansion. So they set their jaws, put together a plan and mustered up the will to make it happen for the sake of local families and the greater good of the community. Now, all they needed was a miracle. That miracle came in the form of a random conversation that took place between Blue Dragon Academy Board Member Kris Frerk and Sioux Metro Growth Alliance CEO Jesse Fonkert. Frerk was in full fret mode over a lack of funding for the project, but it turned

out Fonkert had a fail-safe solution. Through his contacts Angie Neises at East River Electric and Jay Buchholz at Sioux Valley Energy, Fonkert was aware of the Rural Electric Economic Development Fund, or REED Fund. He knew it was a valuable financial resource made available by electric co-ops in South Dakota and western Minnesota just for this kind of project. Bottom line: Blue Dragon Academy will begin work in April with plans to complete the 3,500-sq. ft. project in November. Best of all, nearly 40 more families in and around the town of Garretson will have access to quality child care services. While Frerk doesn’t recall any trumpets blaring or harps playing in the background, she contends that her off-hand discussion with Fonkert was delivered by divine intervention. “It’s a pure miracle,” she said. “We had been putting feelers out for funding because we have a big need in this area.

12 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MARCH 2022

When I got that information from Jesse, it was just like a miracle. We jumped on it, we got accepted by the REED Fund Board and now we’re ready to get the work done.” Blue Dragon secured a low-interest REED loan for nearly $700,000. The non-profit organization is required to match $239,000. Now Frerk and her crew are heavy on the fund-raising trail and have already received tremendous support from many donors in the community, she said. The Blue Dragon Board hopes to pay the debt off early with plans to hire five or six more workers once the project is complete. For East River Electric Economic Development Director Eric Fosheim, it was another day at the office. His job is to match the money with the need, and he says many recipients respond with the enthusiasm and gratitude Frerk expresses when they receive funds. He does fall just short of uttering the “M” word, however.

DAHL SADDLES REED FUND “It’s extremely satisfying to be in a position to help people solve problems and overcome challenges in their communities,” Fosheim said. “We try to work together with folks to cut through the red tape and bureaucratic impediments and come up with clever ways to get projects across the finish line. This is all made possible through the electric cooperatives and the fact that they take their responsibilities and obligations to their communities very seriously.” The REED Fund has backed scores of projects and loaned out more than $100 million since it was established in 1996. Fosheim sees it as the prefect tool for promoting local economic growth, improving infrastructure, enhancing community facilities and contributing to job, business and wealth creation. Funds have gone to retail and service businesses, industrial parks and office facilities, fire protection projects, manufacturing firms, housing projects, health care facilities and more.

Approximate amount of money

$100 million loaned through the electric cooperative REED Fund

Chris Larson, general manager at Clay-Union Electric in Vermillion, and his board tapped REED funds to support the Wakonda Heritage Manor assisted living facility. They also worked with the business to secure a zero-interest loan through the USDA’s Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant Program. “It’s truly an honor for us to have this tremendous resource available to help improve the lives of our members and the community at-large,” Larson said. The real meaning of the REED program came to light when he and the board visited the place. “We viewed the improvements they’d made, and heard from the people there about how it enhanced their quality of life. It really warms your heart to know you’re part of a co-op system that can have a positive impact on families and businesses. It just shows how much of a difference we can make when we all work together, pool our resources and get things done.” East River cooperatives serving western Minnesota have also participated in the program. As with the Garretson community, parents in Franklin, MN, also had a need for a daycare center.

The Cougar Cub Child Care Center was launched with the help of REED funds obtained through Renville-Sibley Co-op Power after two of the town’s three daycare facilities closed. Renville-Sibley CEO DeeAnne Newville said, “We were happy to help fill the gap. Concern for community is one of the seven cooperative principles. It’s an example of the city, school and economic development coming together for the good of the people in our rural communities.” For more information about the REED Loan program, visit www.reedfund.coop.

MARCH 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 13

CO-OP NEWS

Local Discounts with your Co-op Connections Cards

Now Selling Generac Generators! Your cooperative membership earns you discounts at local participating businesses. Simply show your Co-op Connections Discount Card and save. • Linda’s Angel Crossing in Yankton 20% off 1 Regular Priced Item. • Royal Sport Shop in Yankton 10% discount on in-store purchases. Some exclusions apply. • Head2Heels in Yankton 10% off any regular-priced item.

We know you have enough to think about without having to worry about possible energy outages. B-Y Electric is your partner in power, dedicated to ensuring your farm, ranch, home or business receives reliable energy, regardless of what mother nature has planned. B-Y Electric has partnered with Union County Electric Cooperative, an authorized sales and service center for Generac Power Systems, to bring this service to our members. Contact us for all of your whole home or portable generator needs. We can sell, install and service your generator to give you piece of mind. Be prepared for the unexpected with Generac and B-Y Electric!

• Mead Cultural Education Center in Yankton $3.00 Off Admission • Olson’s Pest Technicians in Yankton 20% off for new customers. • Elwood Family Dental Care in Yankton Free whitening strips at recare (cleaning) appointments. • Haase’s Main Stop in Scotland $2 Cheese sticks with specialty pizza order and/or Free 32oz fountain drink with a $5 deli purchase • Loving Hands Gifts in Tabor Pay CASH and receive $10 off purchases of $100.

For a full list of ways to save, visit www.connections. coop. To request a card or become a participating business, call (605) 463-2507 or email jarens@byelectric.com

14 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS | MARCH 2022

Dakota Farm Show Rafﬂe Winners B-Y Electric along with Clay-Union Electric, Union Electric, Southeastern Electric, and East River Electric Power Cooperative had a booth at the Dakota Farm Show in Vermillion. The raﬄe prize winners are listed below: • Dewalt Cordless Leaf Blower with battery: Robert Hofer, Southeastern Electric Cooperative • Dewalt Bluetooth Speaker: John Kopp, B-Y Electric • Dewalt Flashlight: Elaine Peacock, Union County Electric • Dewalt Flashlight: Tyler Rauscher, Clay Union Electric

CO-OP NEWS TOUCHSTONE ENERGY SCHOLAR OF THE WEEK

Katie Greschmann of Avon B-Y Electric is pleased to announce that Katie Greschmann, a senior at Avon High School, was selected as a Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week for the week of February 27 - March 5, 2022. Katie’s segment will air Monday, February 28th during the 6:00PM newscast on Dakota News Now and again on Tuesday, March 1st between 6:00 and 7:00AM. Katie has a 3.96 grade point average and is involved in volleyball, basketball, track, softball, choir, football stats, basketball stats, and A-Club. She has received awards and honors including Merit and A Honor rolls, Presidential Education Award, Girls State Representative, Homecoming Queen, and Junior Legion Auxiliary. She plans to attend the University of South Dakota and major in dental hygiene. Katie is the daughter of Gene and Connie Gretschmann and was nominated by Avon High School principal Kathy Blaha. Touchstone Energy Cooperatives along with Dakota News Now have joined together to recognize the achievements of high school seniors throughout the region. “Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week” has been celebrating the achievements of high school seniors since 2002. Recipients are highly motivated high school seniors who excel in the classroom and community. This program was founded on the four pillars of Touchstone Energy: Integrity, Accountability, Innovation and a Commitment to Community. Katie received $250 from B-Y Electric in recognition of her many accomplishments. She is also now eligible to receive a $1,000 scholarship or one of two $500 scholarships that will be given away this spring at the annual Scholar of the Year banquet.

FREE Classified Ad Service

Members can submit classified ads for the following categories: Giveaway, For Sale, For Rent, and Wanted Ads. All ads must be received by the first of the month to be included in the following month’s issue. Ads will run one time unless resubmitted. Bon Homme Yankton Electric reserves the right to edit content or exclude ads due to space restrictions. Email ads to Jaclyn Arens at jarens@ byelectric.com.

CLASSIFIEDS

Above: Marketing and Communications Coordinator Jaclyn Arens presents Katie with her scholarship check. Below: Katie is interviewed by Dakota News Now.

April Issue Deadline: March 1, 2022. Email your classified ad to: jarens@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 Gary at 605-463-2209 or Ron at 605-463-2256. • Beseda Hall, Tabor, SD for rent for any special occasion such as weddings, anniversaries, graduation or birthdays! For more information contact Linda Bares at 605-661-6220 or snlbares@gmail.com. • FOR RENT: Tabor Self Storage. Call 605-660-0274 or 605-660-3497.

Statement of non-discrimination

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. If you wish to file a Civil Rights program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, found online at http://www. ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, or at any USDA office, or call (866) 632-9992 to request the form. You may also write a letter containing all of the information requested in the form. Send your completed complaint form or letter to us by mail at U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director, Office of Adjudication, 1400 independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, by fax (202) 690-7442 or email at program.intake@usda.gov.

MARCH 2022 | COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS 15

MARCH 12

28 Below Fatbike Race, Ride & Tour Spearﬁsh Canyon Lodge, Lead, SD, www.28below.com

MARCH 12

Meraki Dance Competition & Convention Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-367-6000

MARCH 12-13

Hill City’s Antique and Railroad Show & Sale 440 Main Street, Hill City, SD, 605-574-2821 or 605-877-6629 March 12 28 Below Fatbike Race, Ride and Tour Spearfish Canyon Lodge, Lead, SD

FEBRUARY 25-26 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. To view the publication’s master event calendar, scan the QR code below:

Mardi Gras Weekend Main Street, Deadwood, SD, 605-578-1876

FEBRUARY 25-27, MARCH 3-5

Making God Laugh Grand Opera House, Pierre, SD, 605-224-7826

FEBRUARY 26

The Music of John Williams Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-367-6000

MARCH 3-5

Pro Snocross Races Days of ‘76 Rodeo Grounds, Deadwood, SD, 800-344-8826

MARCH 4-5, 10-13

Photo by Travel South Dakota

MARCH 5

Mountain West® Whiskey Festival Rushmore Hotel, Rapid City, SD, www.mountainwestwhiskey festival.com

MARCH 5

Road 2 Destruction Tour The Monument Summit Arena, Rapid City, SD, 605-394-4115

MARCH 5-8

2022 Summit League Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships Denny Sanford Premier Center, Sioux Falls, SD, www.thesummit league.org/tickets

MARCH 10

Harlem Globetrotters The Monument, Rapid City, SD, 605-394-4115

MARCH 18-19

St. Patrick’s Day Weekend Main Street, Deadwood, SD, 605-578-1876

MARCH 18-19

Sioux Empire Arts & Crafts Show W.H. Lyon Fairgrounds, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-332-6000

MARCH 18-19, 25-26

Schmeckfest 748 S Main Street, Freeman, SD, 605-925-4237

MARCH 19

Dakota Coﬀee Festival Denny Sanford Premier Center, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-367-7288

The 39 Steps Orpheum Theater Center, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-367-6000

Singing in the Rain: Dinner & A Movie Goss Opera House, Watertown, SD, 605-753-0200

MARCH 19

MARCH 4-6

MARCH 10

MARCH 26

Home & Garden Show Brown County Fairgrounds, Aberdeen, SD, 605-225-2055

MARCH 5 Or visit https://sdrea.coop/ cooperative-connectionsevent-calendar to view more upcoming events.

MARCH 14

I Hate Winter Cornhole Tournament Scherr Howe Arena, Mobridge, SD, www.mobridge. org/Corn-Hole-Tournament

TobyMac Hits Deep Tour The Monument Summit Arena, Rapid City, SD, 605-394-4115

MARCH 10-13

Annual Sioux Empire Sportsmen’s Show Denny Sanford Premier Center, Sioux Falls, SD, www.siouxfalls sportshow.com

St. Patrick’s Day Celebration Various Locations, Watertown, SD, 605-886-5814 Annual Ag Day Washington Pavilion, Sioux Falls, SD, 605-367-6000

MARCH 30

Elton John Tribute Concert Performing Arts Center, Mitchell, SD, 605-770-7813 Note: Please make sure to call ahead to verify the event is still being held.