Editorial Assistant Melinda Taylor mtaylor@coloradocountrylife.org
EDITORIAL
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It’s Been a Great Ride!
By Kent Singer Executive Director
Shortly after taking over the reins as CREA’s Executive Director in January 2010, I came across a book called Cowboy Ethics: What Wall Street Can Learn from the Code of the West. While Colorado is a long way from Wall Street, I’ve found that the principles embodied in the Code of the West are applicable everywhere, and I’ve tried my best to conduct myself in accordance with those principles.
Live each day with courage. You will be doubted. You will be challenged. You will fall. When you do, the only answer is to get back up, dust yourself off, and get after it again.
Take pride in your work. My parents used to tell me that the world didn’t owe me a living and that I would have to work for everything I got. Whether it was my first job painting houses or my last job leading CREA, I’ve always tried to add something of value to the world by doing that job the best I could.
Always finish what you start. I played a small role in obtaining permits for a transmission line that Tri-State built in western Colorado. From conception to construction, the project took about 15 years; lots of great co-op leaders were determined to finish what they started, and the project got built.
Do what has to be done. My tenure at CREA sometimes involved telling legislators, respectfully, that their bills were not helpful to electric co-ops. Those were not always comfortable conversations, but they were necessary to protect the independence of co-op decision-making.
Be tough but fair. You hear a lot these days about how employees from certain generations can’t take criticism. I don’t think that’s true; they can take criticism and will respond to it so long as it’s fair, constructive, and accurate.
When you make a promise, keep it. I cut my professional teeth working as a staff attorney for the Colorado legislature during a time when it was simply unthinkable for any member to go back on their promise regarding a vote or anything else. I’ve never forgotten that example.
Ride for the brand. Several of my best mentors in this job have been cattle ranchers. Enough said. Talk less and say more. With apologies to the author of the Code of the West, I would change this one slightly: talk less and listen better.
Remember that some things aren’t for sale. Loyalty. Self-respect. Dignity. Oh, and my 1965 Willie Mays baseball card.
Know where to draw the line. While some things are negotiable, many are not. You know where your line is; don’t step over it.
It has been the honor and privilege of my professional life to lead a terrific team of employees at CREA in our efforts to support Colorado’s electric co-ops. I am so grateful to have played a part in the Colorado co-op success story and to have so many friends in the co-op family. I have also been incredibly blessed to have my wife Deb by my side for this amazing ride.
Here’s hoping you all have a colorful Colorado co-op Christmas!
Kent Singer is the executive director of CREA and offers a statewide perspective on issues affecting electric cooperatives. CREA is the trade association for 21 Colorado electric distribution co-ops and one power supply co-op.
Hats Off to Kent
For 16 years, Kent Singer served as the executive director of the Colorado Rural Electric Association and helped guide Colorado's energy future with innovation, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to the electric co-op community. His leadership was marked by the belief that connecting with people is just as important as connecting power lines.
PROMOTING INNOVATION
Singer launched the CREA Energy Innovations Summit in 2010, creating a best-in-class event promoting discussion and exploration of energy technology, innovation, and key industry breakthroughs. Under Kent’s leadership, the Summit garnered national attention and hosted industry experts from Colorado and across the United States.
A LEGISLATIVE POWERHOUSE
Spending much of his career as a fierce advocate for rural electric cooperatives, Singer secured significant legislative victories. One of his signature achievements was helping establish a coalition of consumer groups to defeat retail choice legislation that would have raised the rates of many electric co-op members. He also worked to mitigate the impacts of legislation that required co-ops to change the sources of power generation. He consistently advocated for co-op interests, tracking dozens of critical bills yearly to protect Colorado’s electric co-ops’ autonomy, independence, and service territories. Under his leadership, co-ops secured the creation of a microgrid funding program and key consumer protection legislation related to solar installers.
COMMUNITY CONNECTOR
Singer is a strong proponent of the cooperative principle of Concern for Community and he went the distance to put this into action. For eight consecutive years, he participated in Pedal the Plains, a three-day bike tour across Colorado's Eastern Plains. He used this event to engage with rural Coloradans, share the electric co-op story, and foster connections in small towns.
Kent Singer leaves the Colorado electric cooperative community with a strong legislative foundation, a culture of innovation, and a solid example of leadership that combined both strategic thinking and authentic connection.
Congratulations on your retirement, Kent!
Singer (left) takes a break from cycling in Pedal the Plains across eastern Colorado.
Singer (at podium) speaks at the Colorado State Capitol in 2014.
Kent Singer (left) moderates a panel of speakers during the Energy Innovations Summit.
Thank You, Readers
By Kylee Coleman Editor
As the editor of Colorado Country Life magazine, I have the privilege to hear from you on a variety of topics — and I appreciate each note that hits my inbox or shows up in the mail. I am closing out my third year in this role and 2025 was another year of great engagement with readers.
I heard from Steve D. about his birding adventures — he had a federal permit to catch, identify, and band birds. I heard from a few longtime readers looking for a recipe from a past issue. I learned that many of you loved our summer inclusion of crossword puzzles, including Suzanne P., who I know from a piano class but did not realize she is a co-op member! I received countless recommendations after I asked what books you like to read; it turns out Ron B. and I have very similar tastes in books.
I also heard from you when we missed the mark on a recipe (thank you, Dave K.) and when we accidentally published an error about an event.
I have not grown tired of hearing what’s on your mind and what you think of the magazine. I learn what you like and don’t like, and this informs our planning and content. I was encouraged by John B. to not underestimate our readers regarding technical topics, and I take that very much to heart.
Thank you to all who take the time to reach out and engage with us here at Colorado Country Life. We wouldn’t be here doing what we do without you!
Monthly Giveaway
This month we are giving away a $100 gift card. Happy holidays from CCL!
To enter the drawing, visit us online at coloradocountrylife.coop.
If you need a different way to enter the contest, please send a postcard with your name, phone number, mailing address, and the name of your electric co-op to 455 S. Pierce St., Lakewood, CO 80226. Contest closes December 20.
Reflecting on Progress, Planning for the Future
By Trent Loutensock General Manager
As we close another year, I want to pause and express gratitude — for you, the members of Y-W Electric Association, Inc. — for your continued trust and support. Our cooperative was built on the promise of people coming together to improve the quality of life in their communities, and that promise still guides everything we do today.
Each decision, whether it’s about delivering reliable electricity, innovating for the future, or advocating for smart energy policies that impact our local community, comes back to one simple question: How will this benefit the members we serve?
work also continues for the FEMA Act of 2025, which would speed up the disaster recovery process for electric cooperatives and the communities they serve. Severe storms are a fact of life, and their impact on the electric system can be devastating. In addition to advocacy efforts, we are proactively addressing our communities’ needs for the future by investing in new technologies and programs that improve service for our members. Through advanced monitoring systems, we are better equipped to identify power delivery issues or challenges before they occur.
This past year has been marked by meaningful progress, both in strengthening our local system and in working at the national level to influence energy policies that directly affect reliability, affordability, and resilience. While the details of federal regulations can feel distant, they shape our daily operations here at home.
At the national level, electric co-ops are advocating for several things including federal permitting reform and the EPA’s Power Plant Rule. Advocacy
As we look ahead to a new year, I see both challenges and opportunities on the horizon. The energy industry is undergoing significant change driven by the rising need for more electricity, new tools and technologies, and federal energ y policies.
The path forward requires innovative thinking and member-focused solutions. I’m confident that with the dedication of Y-W Electric employees and the continued support of our members, we are well positioned to adapt and meet challenges head-on. Through it all, our promise to you remains steadfast: reliable power for today — and tomorrow.
Y-W ELECTRIC MISSION
Y-W Electric Association is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable electric service and related products to our members at competitive prices. Our members deserve and shall receive quality service unexcelled in our industry. We are committed to maintaining an environment where the Board of Directors and employees can perform at maximum potential to benefit our Y-W community.
Mailing Address
P.O. Box Y Akron, CO 80720
Street Address
26862 U.S. Hwy 34 Akron, CO 80720
PH: 970-345-2291
TF: 800-660-2291
ywelectric.coop
Efficiency Tip
Holiday decorations often end up in the attic, but be cautious Boxes can crush insulation and reduce its effectiveness. If you must store items in the attic, build a raised platform to keep insulation at the recommended depth and your home energy efficient.
AVOID UTILITY SCAMS TIP OF THE MONTH
Look out for the “energy-saving device” scam. Whether sold on social media platforms or through random emails, consumers have fallen victim to scams where these products claim to reduce or even eliminate energy bills. These products are advertised as devices that will “balance” or “clean” the power in your home, thus saving you money. There is no such device that can simply be plugged in to lower energy use.
Win $20
YOUR ELECTRIC BILL
Each month, Y-W Electric Association offers its members a chance to earn a $20 credit on their next electric bill. If you find your name and account number in this magazine, call 800-660-2291 and ask for your credit. It couldn’t be easier.
Get acquainted with your account number, read your Colorado Country Life magazine, and pick up the phone. You must claim your credit during the month in which your name appears in the magazine — check the date on the front cover.
Congratulations to the members who found their names in the October issue and claimed a $20 bill credit: Don Keller, Charlee and Susan Stallings, and Thomas and Treva Lippert.
BILLING CORNER
2025 YEAR END INFORMATION
We are nearing the end of 2025 and many of our members are reviewing their power consumption and costs for the year. Due to the normal billing cycle, the December 2025 usage will not be billed until the second week of January 2026. Ivonne Soto Chavez 27030xxxxx
Thus, what you have paid at a certain location during the calendar year is not entirely the 2025 usage. If you have questions, we can easily help you determine your annual energy usage. When requesting yearly information, please specify whether you need the yearly usage or the total amount paid during the year, or both. Nancy Dollmeyer and William Kunges 55740xxxxx
For questions or account information, please contact our Billing Department at 1-800-660-2291 or come into the Akron office. If you require more information than your annual usage, please allow us a few days to gather your data.
All of us at Y-W Electric sincerely wish you a prosperous 2026.
Attention High School Juniors!
If you are interested in an intriguing, all-expenses-paid experience this summer, please obtain and fill out an application for Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp and the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. The application deadline is December 18, 2025.
ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE YOUTH TOUR
The winner will join other students from Colorado co-ops and from co-ops across the United States June 15-21, 2026.
A week of activities begins in Denver on June 15. Students will visit our state capitol building before heading to Washington, D.C. Once there, students will meet many of our Colorado congressional members and learn about electric cooperatives and the issues facing the electric industry today. Students will also learn about the legislative process. There will be plenty of time for fun and touring. Attendees will visit Mount Vernon, the National Cathedral, the Holocaust Memorial Museum, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Library of Congress. They will stroll through the Smithsonian museums, visit the monuments and memorials, and much more. An
evening at the theater and a cruise on the Potomac River are also included in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Anna Hollansky 516100xxxxx
YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP
From July 11-16, 2026, about 100 students chosen and sponsored by rural electric cooperatives from all over Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, and Oklahoma attend Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp. The camp is designed to provide a better understanding of cooperatives, energy prices, power generation, and the rural electric cooperative program. It also focuses on developing leadership skills to help students handle the challenges of the future. The camp, run by the students, is a lot of fun and provides an excellent learning experience. Field trips are planned to tour a large open-pit coal mine and an electric generation power plant. There is also time for fun and sightseeing. Free time is spent playing volleyball, swimming, whitewater rafting, dancing, a banquet, and meeting many new friends. Danielle Routh 37050xxxxx
All expenses for Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp and the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour are covered by Y-W Electric. The parent or guardian of the applicant must be a member of Y-W Electric and/or directly receive electric power from Y-W Electric. The selection process is conducted like a job interview.
• The application is available on our website at ywelectric.coop Apply by December 18, 2025.
• For more information, please see your guidance counselor or call Andy Molt at Y-W Electric at 970-345-2291.
To maximize your fireplace’s efficiency, always keep the damper closed when the fireplace is not in use. An open damper is like an open window, allowing warm indoor air to escape and cold air to enter. Consider installing a fireplace insert, which improves heat output by circulating warm air into the room rather than letting it escape up the chimney. Also, burn only seasoned hardwood to ensure a hotter, cleaner burn. Regularly clean and inspect your chimney to maintain safe and efficient operation.
Source: energy.gov
Debra Moellenberg 11823xxxxx
Don’t Miss Out on Scholarships
Apply for a Y-W Electric Association scholarship for 2026
APPLY BY JANUARY 29, 2026 TO COMPETE FOR THE FOLLOWING SCHOLARSHIPS
• Y-W Electric* $1,000/year scholarship, renewable up to $4,000
• Y-W Electric* $1,000 scholarship
• Basin Electric Power Cooperative $1,000 scholarship
• Tri-State Generation and Transmission $500 scholarship
• Y-W Electric* $1,000 line technician training scholarship
*Y-W Electric scholarships are funded by the Unclaimed Capital Credits Account
TO QUALIFY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP
• Your parents or guardians must receive electric service from
• You must be a graduating student from a local high school or ap proved homeschool program or be a continuing col
• You must maintain full time resident student status Semesters must be continuous excluding summer
• You must provide copy of your grade transcript to Y-W Electric at the end of each semester to receive renewable funding for specific
• You must maintain minimum GPA requirements
• Applications are available on ywelectric.coop
• NEW THIS YEAR: All applications must be completed through the online application portal. No paper applications will be accepted.
• All applications must be completed by January 29, 2026.
For more information, please see your guidance counselor or call 970-345-2291 and speak to Andy Molt at Y-W Electric.
Graduate
photo by Mark Dymchenko/iStock/Getty Images Plus via Getty
Whole-Home Humidifiers
Find relief from dry winter air
By Vicki Spencer
During summer, we appreciate Colorado’s naturally dry air because it makes the heat more bearable. But during winter, our indoor heating system removes even more moisture from the air, and it can feel uncomfortable. Health effects of dry air include dry skin, cracked lips, bloody noses, sore throats, eye irritation, and increased susceptibility to asthma, allergies, colds, and flu. Installing a whole-home humidifier can reduce or alleviate some of these health issues.
Adding moisture to the home helps preserve wood furniture and floors and reduces static electricity from carpets. Your plants will also appreciate the increased humidity. A lesser-known benefit is that wholehome humidifiers help reduce stress on your HVAC unit’s heating elements, possibly extending the life of the furnace.
Before deciding to purchase a whole-home humidifier, test the current humidity level in each room of your home with an inexpensive digital hygrometer. If you have a smart thermostat — like Ecobee or Nest — check the app to see if it displays the humidity level. If humidity is consistently less than 30%, a whole-home humidifier is advisable. It will provide optimal moisture levels in every room.
The average cost of purchasing and installing a whole-home humidifier can range from around $400$2,000. Different types of whole-home humidifiers — such as bypass or steam — have different cost profiles. Keep in mind that the up-front cost is only part of the picture. There are ongoing maintenance costs such as filter or pad changes, as well as the energy costs to run the humidifier.
Whole-home humidifiers tie directly into your HVAC system and installation is best left to professionals. Since it connects directly to your heating system, it’s a job that involves both plumbing and electrical work. Licensed technicians can set it up safely to ensure proper wiring, drainage, and airflow, which will prevent leaks, wiring issues, or warranty problems. Professional installation also ensures proper integra-
Use a digital hygrometer to check the humidity in your home. If levels are consistently below 30%, it might be time for a whole-home humidifier.
tion with the furnace blower and thermostat. If access to your existing HVAC system or ductwork is tricky — as in older homes, attics, or tight basements — you can expect higher labor costs.
If you want to combat winter’s unrelenting dry air, research the best type of home humidification and see if a whole-home unit would be a good fit for you. Your dry eyes will thank you.
Vicki Spencer writes on a variety of topics including gardening, electrical safety, and more.
TYPES OF WHOLE-HOME HUMIDIFIERS
An HVAC professional can help you determine the right type of whole-home humidifier for your specific needs and setup. Here are some types to consider.
BYPASS
Works with your furnace’s airflow to add moisture as air passes through a water panel. Efficient and affordable but runs only when your heat is on.
FAN-POWERED
Uses its own built-in fan to push air through the water panel. Provides consistent humidity and works even when the furnace isn’t heating.
STEAM
Produces warm mist using electricity, then sends it through your home’s ductwork. Effective for large or very dry homes, but is also the most expensive and complex to install.
Spellbound by Sunrise
By Dennis E. Smith
We were near Crook, Colorado, in a corn field that rolled away to the horizon in every direction as far as the eye could see. We’d spent the last two hours setting out nearly a thousand decoys in the dark, but legal shooting light was still a half-hour away when we settled in to wait for the first skeins of snow geese to arrive from the enormous flocks roosting on Jumbo Reservoir.
One of the more unique but seldom mentioned experiences of a waterfowl hunt on Colorado’s Eastern Plains lies in those few fleeting moments just after dawn when the rising sun creeps over the horizon transforming the world around you into a kaleidoscope of colors. It is so indescribably beautiful that all you can do is stare in disbelief at the magnificence of it all and pray that it lingers long enough for you to dig the camera out of your pack before it fades into the routine flatness of another winter day.
You can see large expanses of sky from the foothills and mountains, but nothing compares to the sensation of being completely enveloped by the overwhelming beauty and vastness of a prairie sky at daybreak unobstructed by mountains, trees, or structures. We sat there, spellbound, while the intense orange, red, and gold streaks melted away, and morning bloomed soft and blue around us. Then suddenly, our dogs began quivering and whining with nervous excitement, and we could hear the telltale squawking of snow geese on the wing far in the distance.
What you hope for at this point is that the birds will work your decoys, you’ll shoot straight, and the dogs will have the time of their lives racing each other across the field to retrieve and deliver birds to you, their butts and tails wagging so hard you marvel that their spines don’t snap.
Because the North American snow goose populations are so dangerously high they threaten to destroy their ancestral breeding grounds, game department managers have lifted bag limits and reduced shooting restrictions nationwide. On those golden days when all goes well and the shooting is good, you can collect dozens of birds in an hour or two.
Of course, it doesn’t always go that way. Snow geese are notoriously smart. They know there’s safety in numbers, so they travel in huge flocks — 500 to 700 or more at one time is common. They are also skittish to a fault. If there is anything doubtful about your decoy spread or they spot suspicious behavior and out-of-place movement on the ground, they will vanish like smoke before they get within shotgun range. It’s possible on some days to actually see thousands of snow geese, decoy only a few, and shoot none.
Regardless, if you’re lucky enough to witness a glorious sunrise in snow goose country, your life will have been forever blessed.
Dennis Smith is a freelance outdoors writer and photographer whose work appears nationally. He lives in Loveland.
“I never expected it to be so beautiful that it takes your breath away.”
— Kaya C., on Stauer Opals
In a quaint village, nestled between rolling hills, lived a young woman with a deep appreciation for gemstones. Her grandmother gifted her a delicate cross pendant adorned with opals. The opals shimmered with a mesmerizing play of colors, reflecting hues of blues, greens, and fiery oranges. Her grandmother shared the legend of the opals, believed to bring hope, purity, and luck to those who wore them.
Using this story as inspiration, Stauer brings you the Opal Spirit Cross Pendant. With over 2 total carats of Kyocera lab-created opals set in .925 sterling silver encased in yellow gold, this pendant is a radiant celebration of beauty and craftsmanship. Each opal captivates with a kaleidoscopic dance of fiery oranges blending into oceanic blues, streaked with flashes of vibrant green that seem to come alive with every movement. The shimmering opals are skillfully arranged to create an enchanting, otherworldly glow, embodying the spirit of hope and harmony.
This breathtaking combination of color and craftsmanship is available as a limited availability of
only 930 pieces, making it a rare and treasured addition to your jewelry collection. Plus, when you order today, you’ll receive the gold-finished sterling silver chain—a $69 value—absolutely free!
miss your chance to own this exclusive tribute to timeless elegance and meaningful symbolism.
Necklace Specifications:
• 2 1/2 ctw. Kyocera lab opals and DiamondAura
Q&A with State Senators
Janice Marchman and Marc Catlin
Moderated by Taylor Ward CREA Director of Government Relations
Electric cooperatives serve as a lifeline for rural Colorado, delivering reliable and affordable power while managing increasing wildfire risks. State Senators Janice Marchman and Marc Catlin are spearheading bipartisan legislation to incentivize wildfire mitigation planning and protect their communities. In a recent interview with Taylor Ward, the senators explained why this legislation is urgently needed and how empowering utilities in wildfire mitigation efforts will keep Colorado’s power safe, reliable, and affordable.
SEN. JANICE MARCHMAN
represents portions of Larimer and Boulder counties as the senator from the 15th state senate district, having served in that role since 2023.
What experiences in your personal and professional life most influence how you approach public policy?
Marchman: I teach middle school math and have a background in systems engineering. Both shape how I look at policy. I test ideas, measure results, and fix what is not working. In the classroom, I see how state decisions touch families every day. That keeps me focused on what helps people.
Catlin: I take it seriously that the people in my district are the ones who sent me to the Capitol. I’m there to do my best for them and my focus is on my district. A lot of times I find out that things good for my district end up being good across the state.
What is your connection to rural Colorado? How has that impacted or influenced your work in the legislature?
Catlin: I was born in Montrose and have lived most of my life on the Western Slope. When you grow up and raise your family in rural Colorado, you get a real sense of what makes these communities work — and what they need to survive. I’m always mindful of that when I’m at the Capitol. I try to carry bills that have a direct impact on the people back home, the ones who will actually feel the results of what we pass.
Marchman: My district bridges suburban and rural Colorado. We are the fourth-largest oil and gas producing area in the state and home to farms,
SEN. MARC CATLIN
has represented the West Slope in the state Legislature since 2017, serving now as the senator for the 5th District, which covers Delta, Eagle, Garfield, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, and Pitkin counties.
ranches, and small manufacturers. That range keeps me grounded. I see how policy affects both the classroom and the combine. I look for balance that supports growth while protecting what makes our region work.
You both represent areas served by electric cooperatives. What role do co-ops play in your communities? How do they stand out compared to other types of utilities?
Catlin: Before serving in the legislature, I worked in a number of different water organizations across the West Slope. I know the values our local water utilities bring to serving their communities are the same as those that rural electric co-ops bring. They value service, adapt to local needs, and keep costs down.
Marchman: I recognize that there truly is a cooperative difference. Co-ops are owned by the people they serve; members have a real voice. It fits communities where accountability is personal and close to home.
When you talk with your constituents, what do you hear about the value co-ops bring — whether it’s affordability, reliability, or local accountability?
Marchman: Affordability and reliability always come up. People like that co-ops do not have outside shareholders, so money stays in the community. They
Taylor Ward
also see the personal side. When power goes out, they often know the person who shows up to fix it.
Catlin: I know my constituents value that the people who work at their co-ops are their friends and neighbors, that the values of the co-op are the same as the communities they serve.
We’ve seen an increase in both the frequency and cost of wildfires across the state. How are these risks impacting your constituents, the rural utilities, and the people they serve?
Catlin: I represent one of the most rural and forested districts in the state, so every summer my constituents hold their breath, hoping for good moisture and low winds, because fire is an ever-present threat. I know West Slope co-ops take fire mitigation work very seriously, because that’s how they protect their communities.
Marchman: After the Marshall Fire, people in my district saw how fast a blaze can move from grassland to homes. With dry plains and foothill winds, prevention is essential. Utilities here use infrared photography, drones, and AI tools to find problems early. It is careful, practical work that protects both people and property.
What do you want Coloradans to know about the work electric cooperatives are doing to protect their communities and keep the lights on safely and affordably?
Marchman: This summer I met with co-ops and utilities across Colorado. What stood out was their teamwork and openness to new technologies like automated switching, remote sensing, and real-time monitoring to make the grid safer. They plan ahead and focus on prevention while keeping rates fair for rural customers. It is preparation, not profit, that drives their choices.
Catlin: My constituents are proud that co-ops focus on community. They know the co-op is making smart investments to benefit the whole community.
You are both planning to introduce legislation that addresses how utilities in Colorado plan for wildfire mitigation efforts and the liability associated with wildfires. What inspired you to take on the issue of wildfire liability, and why is this such an important topic for Colorado right now?
Catlin: My co-ops are in areas that are highly vulnerable to wildfire risks, and these communities deserve to know their co-ops will always be there and always keep the lights on. The legislation we’re planning will help spread out some of these risks so
rural communities and the co-ops that serve them are protected.
Marchman: I want to support policies that reward prevention instead of reaction. Rural co-ops face the same fire threats as large utilities but without the same financial cushion. Our proposal encourages more mitigation and better risk-sharing, so no community faces ruin from one spark.
Your bill proposes a framework to address those risks. How would it help protect consumers and keep energy affordable in rural Colorado?
Marchman: Insurance costs for some co-ops have doubled in only a few years. This bill would help them manage that risk by spreading costs more fairly and recognizing the value of early prevention like vegetation clearing, stronger poles, and upgraded technology.
Catlin: All Colorado communities deserve to know their power will be on tomorrow, but not-for-profit co-ops are most at risk of bankruptcy in the case of a major wildfire. This bill would provide more certainty for utilities so they are able to continue to serve their communities.
What would happen if the Legislature doesn’t act? What’s at stake for rural communities and ratepayers?
Catlin: Rural communities deserve to know that their lights will always be on and power will always be affordable. They absolutely deserve it. I don’t want the state to look back after any future wildfire and say, “We could have done more to protect this community.”
Marchman: If we wait, we will be reacting to disasters instead of preventing them. Other states already share wildfire costs and reward prevention. Colorado should do the same before we face another big loss.
Looking ahead, what’s your broader vision for how Colorado should balance affordability, reliability, and wildfire resilience in its energy future?
Marchman: These priorities depend on one another. Energy cannot stay affordable if wildfire risk drives costs up. Reliability requires prevention. Our goal is to bring them together so every community, from Denver to Delta, can count on safe and steady power.
Catlin: Now is the time to act so that we protect our communities and consumers before an extreme event happens.
A Light in the Dark
By Kylee Coleman
Grieving the loss of a loved one, recovering from an injury, navigating a mental health crisis, or just having “one of those days” when nothing seems to go right — we’ve all been there. I try to not live in fear of those days, of that heartache. I embrace it because it is always on the other side of those challenges when life is just … brighter. And it is often people who lift us out of the darkness.
I wasn’t sure what to expect when we asked our readers to share with us about the people who bring light to their lives. We received countless stories about spouses, siblings, neighbors, friends, and strangers who all have one thing in common: They were a bright spot in someone’s life.
“A simple, small gesture can have a huge impact on someone’s day and overall attitude, just knowing someone cares,” Sangre de Cristo Electric Association member Pauline Dobson said. “I hope we will see our own opportunities to be good to others, especially in times of frustration and opposition — we are all in this together.”
During this season of giving, may these stories inspire you to extend kindness to neighbors, strangers, and friends in need. It doesn’t have to be a grand gesture — a warm smile and a word of encouragement might make a huge difference in someone’s life. As reader Patty Richardson said, “Our collective moments equal happiness.”
MY FRIEND, MAREEN
By Alicia Riley | Grand Valley Power member
One day when I was sick and shivering on the couch, I heard a knock on my door. In came Mareen Black, my friend who is over 80 years old and has so much energy, love, and light emanating from her.
Mareen brought homemade soup and a big smile as she encouraged me and let me know I was loved. I hadn’t told Mareen I was sick; she just manages to find out who needs a little love and time, as she brightens the world every single day.
She cared for her homebound husband for years until he died, but now she hardly stays home. She drives her elderly friends to the gym each morning. She volunteers at the Fruita Thrift Shop, sorting donations. She is making her communities of Grand Junction and Fruita better each day.
Mareen listens when I have parenting challenges and gives me advice gained from raising her six children. Most importantly, she always helps me look at the positive side of things. Mareen makes everyone feel like they are important and like they are her very best friend. She is always helping others yet never acts like it’s a burden to her. Mareen loves life and nothing slows her down. Mareen brings light to everyone she meets.
CREDIT OF KINDNESS
By Cheryl R. | Southeast Colorado Power Association member
I ran out of milk while I was making potato soup, so I made a quick trip to the grocery store to buy more. While I was there, I spontaneously decided I wanted to add cheese to the soup as well. When I got to the register, my gallon of milk and two bags of cheese rang up to $24.
I inserted my credit card to pay, but it was declined by the machine — twice. This was a surprise, as the credit card bill had always been paid on time. It turns out, the card number had been hacked and it was shut down by the credit card company’s fraud department. I asked the cashier to let the customers behind me go through while I tried to sort out my options.
While I was waiting, I heard the cashier say, “That will be $58.” Glancing at the conveyor belt, it seemed the customer behind me only had a few items, so I was confused why the total was so much. As the customer walked away, the cashier said to me, “He paid for your groceries too.”
I was stunned for a moment before yelling after him, “ Thank you!”
I turned back to the cashier to ask for the name of the customer, but the cashier didn’t know. The other customer in line said, “If he hadn’t paid for you, I was going to!”
Even in the smallest moment of darkness, the kindness of strangers is the most welcome light.
FRIENDS TURNED FAMILY
By Patricia Hentosh | Sangre de Cristo Electric Association member
I was accepted into graduate school in Boston after a seven-year break from academics. My goal was to obtain the education necessary to do research and teach in the field of cancer biology.
As a typical graduate student, I had little income, no free time, and very demanding courses, and I was always worried about failing. My support systems of family and friends were all in Ohio and Washington, D.C. I would not have made it through those six years of studies without two women at the school who became family.
Despite their own limited income, Sheila and Peggy invited me for meals twice a week, they prepared me for big exams, and they made me laugh. They insisted that I take study breaks and boosted my morale when I doubted myself.
I would not have succeeded in achieving my goal of a cancer biology career and profession without Sheila and Peggy’s help and concern.
SISTERS OF MY HEART
By Dawn A. | Grand Valley Power member
When a loved one dies, there is not much light to be found. In the minutes, hours, days, weeks, and months immediately following that death, life comes hurtling at you at lightspeed. Decisions need to be made, bills need to be paid, and people need to be notified.
But life does indeed go on for those left behind. I was left behind. The love of my life, after being with me for 36 years, was overcome by Parkinson’s disease and the accompanying dementia. In his final few months, he didn’t even know who I was, so my mourning began long before his last breath was taken.
If it were not for a few women in my life who surrounded me, not physically but with their love and energy, I am not all that certain how life would have progressed for me. As soon as I texted the words “He is gone,” one friend dropped everything and flew here from another state to be with me when my children could not.
The others, friends for three decades who had also known and loved my husband, gathered in spirit and lifted me up when I could barely stand. “Take one breath,” they urged me gently. Just breathe. These women, these sisters of my heart, brought light into a place devoid of it. That light continues to grow, nurtured by them and fueled by my determination to continue, moving forward for him, for them, and for myself.
PEARL’S GIFT
By Terry and Bart Mayes | Poudre Valley REA members
When we lost our Lyons home in the 2013 floods that devastated the foothill communities in Colorado, we found so many things that brightened an otherwise dark time.
So many people were helpful and kind in the weeks after the flood, including a woman we met at a laundromat. We were there trying to clean mountains of flood-soaked clothing. Pearl watched us keep 10 washers and dryers going, and she approached us to ask our story.
We told her of the flood and our attempt to reclaim as many belongings as possible. She was very sympathetic. After she finished her laundry and loaded up her car, she asked if she might pray with us. We agreed, and she took our hands into her hands and prayed a simple prayer of guidance for us.
As she left, Pearl pressed something into my husband’s hand. He opened his palm to find a very small capsule, which upon opening, we discovered contained a $100 bill. We rushed out to thank her, but she was gone — truly an angel on the wing.
MOM’S LIGHT
By Jennifer Rivas | Poudre Valley REA member
A simple bright spot on a hike 30 years ago changed my life.
My mother and I were walking a dusty trail when she pointed out a western meadowlark perched on a fence post: his head thrown back, warbling its distinctive song. Bright yellow breast shining in the fading late-day sun. A bright spot in a tough time. I was a young adult still finding my way in the world. As we watched the vibrant bird pour its song across the vast meadow, my restless mind slowed down to appreciate the stillness of the moment. My mom had always been captivated by birds, a quiet passion of hers that I never fully appreciated at the time.
Thirty years later and I have been blessed to travel our amazing country, and many parts of the world, finding birds — often with my mother by my side. I was also lucky enough to marry a man who shares my passion for the natural world. Birding is a pastime that is much more than a hobby — it is a gift of appreciation, of slowing down and finding the bright spots in everyday life. At 75 years old, my mom still finds the best birds, and we continue to share these bright moments together.
ANGELS AMONG US
By Jane H. | La Plata Electric Association member
When I wrecked my bike recently, a couple was right there. They immediately came to my aid. The woman helped me focus and stay calm. She shared that she broke her ankle the same way and is still active and doing the things she loves to do, like hiking and biking. The man took the shoe off my bad leg, and they put the bikes away. I thought it was a forever goodbye when the ambulance whisked me away.
A week later, I was using my knee scooter at the local farmers market. A couple came over to me and said, “Look at you!” I had to think, but then the recognition came — it was the kind couple who helped me the day I broke my ankle. She showed me her scar from her ankle surgery. He encouraged me to do the activities that bring me joy when I was fully recovered from my injury. I was grateful to have another interaction with them, and we plan to keep in touch. A difficult experience showed me that there are angels among us.
MY NEIGHBOR’S BARN
By James Dougan | Empire Electric Association member
At sunset, the slanting rays of late autumn illuminate my neighbor’s barn in soft golden light. Revealed are all manner of familiar and exotic tools, old furniture and playthings, fencing supplies, spare parts, pumps, old chain saws, and likely the exact right bolt or screw you needed this past summer. It’s a comforting place, a refuge.
My neighbor, Augie, and I are buds. We yell greetings across the fence to each other. Augie will hobble over now and again when he wants some company. He’ll sit on my porch and wait patiently. We’ll talk some, but mostly we just sit.
I know where to go when I need a tool or part I don’t have. I unfasten the gate and enter Augie’s barn where more likely than not, I’ll find what I need. Not a word need be spoken … we’re neighbors.
READY TO POWER WHAT’S NEXT
Tri-State, together with your local electric cooperatives, is proud to power homes, farms, and businesses— and we’re ready to power new opportunities too.
We welcome responsible growth that supports our communities. We’re not just keeping up with change— we’re planning for it, with a commitment to reliability and affordability.
We are fortifying the infrastructure, systems, and programs necessary to keep electricity affordable and preserve the rural way of life. So that the grid we’re building today is strong enough for tomorrow’s ideas.
WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS, WE’LL POWER IT.®
New Mexico and Wyoming.
Scan to learn more or visit tristate.coop/powering-the-future
Hip-Hip Ouray!
By Becky Jensen
Located in the heart of the rugged San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, Ouray is an unforgettable winter getaway offering alpine adventure as well as deep relaxation. Pronounced “yur-AY,” the mining town was incorporated in 1876 and named for the highly respected indigenous Chief Ouray of the Ute Nation.
ICE, ICE BABY
Outdoor thrill-seekers of all skill levels can harness up and try their hand — and ice tools — at climbing frozen waterfalls in Ouray Ice Park. Open mid-December through March, the free public park boasts more than 150 climbing routes along 2 miles of the Uncompahgre Gorge. If you visit in the new year, be sure to check out the 31st Annual Ouray Ice Festival January 22-25 when elite pro athletes compete and teach climbing clinics. Local experts at San Juan Mountain Guides offer personal instruction and rental gear for ice climbing, avalanche rescue training, and high-altitude mountaineering — perfect for beginner or advanced adventure enthusiasts — all winter long. Learn more at mtnguide.net. See Ice Park conditions at ourayicepark.com
above courtesy of Visit Ouray
Photo
Photo below by Donnell Allen
SOAK IT IN
Splash and play or recover from a busy day at the familyfriendly Ouray Hot Springs Pool. The famous sulfur-free geothermal hot springs offer a variety of experiences and temperatures, including a lap pool, overlook pool, activity pool, and more. Learn more at visitouray.com/ ourayhotspringspool
KICK OFF THE HOLIDAYS
Get into the holiday spirit during Yule Day — the town’s festive annual celebration held the first Saturday in December. Take the kids to story time, go on a scavenger hunt, and meet Santa Claus himself. Enjoy artisan shops, free hot chocolate, the community tree lighting ceremony at dusk, and a holiday parade down Main Street around 6 p.m. It’s a full day of fun for the whole family. Find information at visitouray.com/yuleday
WHERE TO STAY
For a blend of modern luxury and rich local history, consider staying at the iconic Beaumont Hotel where President Theodore Roosevelt once slept; the Western Hotel built in 1891 with its famed Grotto Spa; or The Imogene, a fully renovated former saloon from the Wild West days. Several hotels offer a “stay two nights, get third free” winter promotion November through April. More lodging options for all budgets can be found at visitouray.com
Photo by Visit Ouray
Brandy Slush
Punch up your holiday party
Festive gatherings with family and friends are a delight of the season, and this icy alcoholic beverage is a tasty and fun way to serve a crowd. Whether you are hosting a shindig or you’re a guest taking something to share, you might consider bringing copies of this recipe to hand out — this slushy drink is polar cold and popular. Plan ahead to allow plenty of time for the mixture to freeze before your event. It might need to sit in the freezer for about a week to get nice and slushy. Encourage your guests to enjoy this party punch responsibly.
Cheers!
INGREDIENTS
7 cups water
1½ cups sugar
2 cups water
4 black tea bags
1 can frozen lemonade, thawed
1 can frozen orange juice, thawed 2 cups blackberry brandy
1 liter bottle of Squirt soda
INSTRUCTIONS
Boil 7 cups of water and add the sugar. Stir until dissolved. Allow to cool. Boil another 2 cups water. Steep 4 tea bags for 10-15 minutes. Allow to cool. Mix sugar water and brewed tea together in a large, freezer-safe container with a lid. Add the thawed lemonade, thawed orange juice, and brandy. Stir until combined and freeze.
To serve: Remove from freezer and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Use a metal spoon to scrape the frozen slush and put it into a cup. Combine 1 part slush with 1 part Squirt soda.
Planning tip: This mixture takes just under a week to fully freeze.
Makes about 18 cups.
Recipe courtesy of Carolyn Bloomfield
Photo by Kylee Coleman
Water Heater Woes
By Miranda Boutelle
Q: How can I tell if my water heater needs repair or replacement?
A: We have all gotten used to having reliable hot water in our homes. Nobody wants to get caught off guard with an unexpected cold shower or failed water heater. I tend to live in the “if it isn’t broken, don’t fix it” school of thought, but a failed water heater can cause damage to your home and property. Emergency replacement of a water heater can add unnecessary cost, not to mention inconvenience. Evening or weekend replacement or repair can lead to higher costs charged by a plumbing company.
Here are some signs that your storage water heater might be approaching the end of its life.
The typical life span of a storage water heater is 10 to 15 years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. If your water heater is older than that, plan to replace it soon. Don’t have records of when it was installed? No problem. Find the serial number on the water heater’s sticker or metal plate. Look up the serial number online or call the manufacturer to find its age.
Sediment or water on the floor or at the bottom of the water heater could mean its days are numbered. Sediment can be a sign of corrosion, which leads to a leak or failure.
Seeing rusty or discolored water when you turn on your faucets can be a sign the tank is rusting inside. If water is not getting as hot as it used to, it could be a sign of a failing electric element or a gas burner not functioning properly.
Odd noises could indicate an issue with the components. If you’re hearing unusual noises from your water heater, schedule a checkup with a plumber. Well-functioning water heaters typically don’t make much noise.
your water heater is 10-15 years old, it’s time to start planning and budgeting for a replacement.
A professional plumber may be able to replace failing components. If you are having issues with the tank itself, it’s likely time for a new unit.
If you’re in the market for a new water heater, a heat pump water heater might be a good fit for your home. These systems are two to three times more energy efficient than conventional electric-powered tank water heaters, according to the DOE. A federal tax credit is available until December 31. You can claim 30% of the project cost, up to a maximum of $2,000, for the installation of an Energy Star heat pump water heater. If your water heater is past its useful life or showing any signs of failure, consider investing in a new one before the end of the year.
Knowing the signs of water heater failure can save your home from damage and offer opportunities to explore options for more efficient equipment to reduce your electric use.
Miranda Boutelle is the chief operating officer at Efficiency Services Group in Oregon, a cooperatively owned energy efficiency company. She has more than 20 years of experience helping people save energy at home.
If
Photo by Mark Gilliland, Pioneer Utility Resources
Winter Reads
By Kylee Coleman
It is the perfect time of year to stay inside, find a cozy corner, wrap yourself in a warm blanket, and get lost in a good book. This collection of recent and new releases from Colorado authors has something for everyone — add a few to your bookshelf or gift one to the avid reader in your life.
Are you an author? Send a short synopsis of your book to me at kcoleman@coloradocountrylife.org.
Summaries presented here are not reviews or endorsements by CCL.
NO MAN’S LAND By
Becky Jensen
At 45, Becky Jensen was raising two sons, engaged to be married, and living the dream in Colorado. She was also suicidal and had no idea why. What did she have to be depressed about? The question haunted Jensen, leading her to take a bold step: to hike the 500-mile Colorado Trail in search of answers. Jensen shouldered a backpack loaded with camping gear, her father’s ashes, and the inherited burdens of womanhood — trudging off alone into no man’s land. With each mile, she sheds the weight of female conditioning and begins to carry herself differently, finding the strength and clarity to determine not just if she wants to live but how. You can find Becky Jensen’s first book on amazon.com.
FOUR CORNERS VOICES, VOLUME 2
Edited by Gail Binkly, Sarah Carr, and Chuck Greaves
A follow-up to the winner of the Colorado Book Award, this anthology features the work of many talented authors whose roots run deep in the dramatic and colorful landscape where Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona, and Utah meet. The stories, essays, and poems represent a diverse and compelling chronicle of life in one of the United States’ last best places, compiled by southwestern nonprofit Four Corners Writers. Learn more at fourcornerswriters.com
YES, AND By Cynthia
Gunderson
College student Toby is desperate for direction. Pausing his higher education, he relocates to Portland and rents a townhouse in hopes of reconnecting to his roots.
Jo’s 87-year-old mind and body aren’t what they used to be. But she’s sharp enough to know her nursing aides are after her generous family trust. When a kind and honest young man moves in next door, she quickly enlists his help in catching the sneaky bandits. He lost his ambition. She can’t find her perspective. Will joining forces bring them the meaning they need?
Find this book on amazon.com
ASPENS ALIVE
By Amy Grogan
Aspens Alive is the story of aspen trees, as told from their perspective, about their uniqueness and how they fit into the larger ecosystem. As one of the oldest and largest living organisms on earth, there are parallels and lessons that can be applied toward one another and for our own survival as a species. From southwestern Colorado printmaker and writer Amy Grogan, the book has 22 reduction block prints that she personally carved and printed. Find more information at amygroganart.com
THE HIDDEN WISDOM OF ANIMALS
By Kate Siber
Animals have a lot to teach us, if only we open our eyes. From the slow-moving sloth to the playful dolphin, every living creature has unique skills, strengths, and qualities that we can learn from. The Hidden Wisdom of Animals by Durango author Kate Siber invites kids ages 8 and up to explore and celebrate more than 40 animals from around the world through warm, lyrical reflections.
Beautifully illustrated by Kaitlynn Copithorne, The Hidden Wisdom of Animals blends eye-popping facts, brilliant science, and anecdotes that inspire a more reflective, personal relationship with wildlife and shows how animals can teach, inspire, and encourage us. Find this new release on amazon.com
THE TWINS OF STRATHNAVER
By Rachael Wright
The Witching Mackays have endured centuries of suffering and ostracism all because of their powers and the ghosts they can see. As August 1997 draws to a close, a mysterious Londoner arrives in desperate pursuit of fame and long-lost Jacobite gold.
Louis Talbot is much more than a treasure hunter wielding a metal detector. Armed with a strange book, Louis sets his sights on the vulnerable, lonely Margaret Mackay.
In Fruita author Rachael Wright’s The Twins of Strathnaver, Hugh and Margaret are forced to confront the reality that the gold isn’t all the ghosts are protecting and that the consequence of their failure will be nothing less than the destruction and death of everything they’ve ever known. You can buy this book on amazon.com
DYING CRY
HILL 119, DEFENDING A RECONNAISSANCE MARINES’ OP, VIETNAM, 1969-70
By Michael O. Fallon
The Marines and corpsmen of Delta Company, 1st Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Marine Division were surrounded by the North Vietnamese Army for 600 days in 1969 and 1970 during the Vietnam War. Hill 119 is a rise on a finger of land located 28 kilometers south of Da Nang that overlooks the Thu Bon River Basin and Go Noi Island. The hill provided Marines with an excellent 360-degree view of the region. This first full account of Hill 119 is written by Colorado author Michael Fallon, who served as reconnaissance patrol leader on Hill 119. It covers the Marines’ experiences in the bush, on the hill, and in the rear. Purchase this book on amazon.com.
By Margaret Mizushima
Newlyweds Mattie and Cole Walker are teaching Cole’s daughters how to snowshoe in a remote canyon when a shattering scream pierces the air. Cole takes the girls while Mattie and her K-9 Robo go deeper into the canyon to search for the source of the scream. From a distance, Mattie and Robo see a shadowy figure at the base of a cliff, but a rockslide buries the person under layers of stone and shale before they can provide help. When they investigate the canyon rim from which the victim fell, they discover evidence of foul play. The Timber Creek County investigative team springs into action, uncovering a trail of greed that leads to a killer who threatens Mattie’s cherished family and tests her with the most difficult task she’s faced in her duty as a K-9 handler. Find this 10th installment of the Timber Creek K-9 Mysteries online at amazon.com.
THE ORCHARD
By Peter Heller
Mother and daughter Hayley and Frith spend years living off the land of an apple orchard. Together, in a rustic cabin with no electricity, they pick apples, harvest syrup, and watch the leaves turn season after season.
It was just the two of them until Rose Lattimore appears at their door. Suddenly, Hayley and Frith are no longer an inseparable duo, but two parts of a trio. The Orchard by Colorado author Peter Heller is narrated by Frith — now an adult — reflecting on her childhood and the years spent with Hayley, Rose, their goofy dog, Bear; and the joy, laughter, and most of all, the heartbreak that changed her life forever. Purchase this book on amazon.com.
With their magazine in hand, the Clines say: “From the lighthouse in Port Isabel, Texas, to San Isabel Electric Association in Colorado ... we thank you both for keeping the lights on!”
Mountain View Electric Association members, Joseph and Mary Hagerty, celebrate their 34th anniversary in Ocean City, Maryland, with their copy of CCL
a recent cruise.
Show us your adventures with the magazine for a chance to WIN $25.
Upload your photo with CCL at coloradocountrylife.coop
Find more reader photos on Facebook @COCountryLife and Instagram @cocountrylife PACK.
Ken and Kathy Ashwood are members of Gunnison County Electric Association, and have been in SC, NE, MO, IL, IN, WV, VA, KS, ID, OR, WY, NV, CO, and UT in the past year. They report that they “finally remembered to take a picture with the magazine in Reno, Nevada.”
Poudre Valley REA member, Nanette Fornof, travels with her copy of CCL to Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, while on a girls’ trip.
Delta-Montrose Electric Association member, Penny Heuscher, poses with CCL in front of the Neolithic (2900 B.C.) Calanais Standing Stones in the Outer Hebrides Islands, Scotland.
Grand Valley Power member, Rita Kyle, stops for a photo with the magazine in Quebec, Canada, while on
Paula Marks, a Mountain View Electric Association member, takes a minute out of her vacation in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, to get a photo with her copy of CCL.
Mountain View Electric Association member, Linda Famula, enjoys the daily lighting of 103 gas lamps by the lamplighter with CCL on Ostrow Tumski, historic cathedral island, in Wroclaw, Poland.
NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS FORSaving Energy
RESOLUTIONS YOU CAN AFFORD TO KEEP
IT COSTS NOTHING TO:
; Set the water heater temperature to 120 degrees.
; Run only full loads in the washer and dishwasher.
; Turn off lights when you leave a room.
; Unplug electronics and chargers not in use.
SPEND A FEW DOLLARS TO SAVE MORE:
; Replace incandescent light bulbs with LED bulbs.
; Get a programmable smart thermostat.
; Seal air leaks around windows and doors.
; Use a smart power strip for electronics.
To generate more energy savings, visit SafeElectricity.org.
Happy Holidays
FROM COLORADO COUNTRY LIFE
It is a joy to create this publication for you each month. As we close out another year, we thank you for engaging with us as we share the electric cooperative story and tell the unique stories of our incredible state.
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