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Wisconsin
ENERGY Cooperative
contents June 2020
News
8
On the
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
COVER
We keep an eye on the dairy industry. Photo courtesy of Deana Protz.
6 15 28 30
10
Business
NOT AS USUAL
Electric cooperatives seek alternatives to the traditional annual meeting
Look for the bright spots.
NEWS BRIEFS
Stay up to date with industry happenings.
20
13
Energy
HOGS
Fix these five home energy hogs.
Recipes
June is dairy delicious.
23
Stories for
SUMMER
Local librarians contribute to Wisconsin-themed reading list.
27
KIDS & CRITTERS Cute co-op kids get cozy with their critters.
MY CO-OP
Find out what’s happening at your local electric cooperative.
CLASSIFIEDS
Buy, sell, and trade with readers from across Wisconsin.
SUMMER SAFETY
Beware of summer safety hazards.
June 2020
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LETTER FROM
THE EDITOR Bright spots
Last month, I talked about how response to the coronavirus pandemic has forced us to switch Dana Kelroy, Editor direction, and our familiar routines are now shifted. We are now four more weeks into this pandemic and are still spending more time at home, and altering many of our summer plans. On page 10, we look at some unique ways electric co-ops are holding their annual meetings, while still observing state orders and health department guidelines. Creative alternatives include a meeting reminiscent of a drivein movie theater, online virtual platforms, and optimistically postponing meetings for later in the summer—with the hope we receive the “all-clear” to meet in person. As Steve Lucas of Scenic Rivers Energy said, “We’re not calling this the new normal; we’re calling this doing what we need to do right now.” With few alternatives for summer travel, on page 23, we encourage readers to take a trip deep into a good book. We consulted with local librarians around the state and have some great, Wisconsin-based book recommendations for your summer reading list. To kick off June Dairy Month, Steve Freese takes a closer look at how the pandemic has affected the state’s dairy industry on page 8. He encourages readers to try some new dairy recipes (on page 20) to help our state’s struggling farmers. Finally, on page 27, we launch our latest reader photo contest. We’re asking you to share what quarantine has looked like for you. Show us the creative ways you have found to still safely gather. Or share images of how you have adapted your celebrations, work obligations, or daily life. I think we can all agree that this summer will look much different than in previous years. I, for one, will continue to look for the bright spots.
June 2020 Vol. 80 No. 12 The Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News (Formerly Wisconsin R.E.C. News) has been published monthly and distributed since July 1940 to members of Wisconsin’s non-profit, consumer-owned rural electric cooperatives. It is available to non-members for $10 per year or $28 for three years. Members pay $6.93 per year. Published by the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Steve Freese, president & CEO. USPS number: 688-480. Postmaster: please send address changes to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Periodicals postage paid at Pontiac, Ill. Send correspondence to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Phone (608) 467-4650. Web site: www.wecnmagazine.com. Co-op Members: Please send address changes to your local electric co-op. Contact information can be found on page 18. Steve Freese Dana Kelroy Mary Erickson Julie Lund Ann Bailey Geri Miller Jennifer Taylor
WECA president & CEO editor associate editor contributing writer graphic designer advertising consultant editorial assistant
For advertising opportunities please email ads@weca.coop. The appearance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. We reserve the right to refuse advertisers.
Each June, we hold a June Dairy Month cover photo contest among our talented local co-op communications personnel. This year’s stunning cover photo was submitted by Deana Protz, of Oakdale Electric. Runner-up was Katie Jagiello of Oconto Electric with this shot of Grace and Ginny.
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Please recycle
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
WECN June Editor2020.indd 1
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4/24/20 4:09 AM PM 5/7/20 8:03
NEWS BRIEFS PANDEMIC COULD COST NATION’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES $10 BILLION
New research by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) finds electric cooperatives stand to lose $10 billion through 2022, due to the pandemic and economic slowdown it has caused. NRECA projections find electric co-ops will see a decline of $7.4 billion in operating revenues as electricity consumption falls by 5 percent. Job loss and decreases in income are expected to lead to additional delinquencies, resulting in a loss of $2.6 billion through 2022. The report projects reductions in electric co-op sales of 6.1 percent in 2020, 6 percent in 2021, and 3 percent in 2022.
PANDEMIC HITS WISCONSIN FARMERS HARD
Farmers are in crisis and in need of assistance, according to association groups requesting action from Governor Tony Evers. In a letter to the governor, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation and others are requesting $50 million in direct cash relief to help farmers through the coming weeks and ensure stability of the food supply. “Never before have we ever experienced the type of crushing economic destruction that this pandemic has brought across our commodity markets. It has devastated our labor force, threatened our supply chains, created panic buying from retailers and consumers, and will likely bankrupt many multi-generation farms in Wisconsin,” the letter reads. Agriculture industry impacts include: • Dairy—$66 million loss in February and March alone due to declining milk prices. Projected losses reach hundreds of millions as farmers dispose of milk and/or cut production. • Pork—Projected production loss of $44.4 million as 25 percent of Wisconsin hog market is lost due to shuttering of food service industry. • Beef—$180–200 million in losses in 2020 due to declining prices and 25 percent loss of packing capacity. • Potatoes—$17 million in current estimated losses. Oversupply due to lack of food service demand expected to result in $100 million in losses for 2020.
PSC LAUNCHES INTERNET HOTLINE, INTERACTIVE MAP
Wisconsin’s Public Service Commission (PSC) has launched a new interactive map and a hotline to help direct people to internet services during the pandemic. The online map shows a map of free, open Wi-Fi connections, many of which are in schools, libraries, or other public buildings that are physically closed. The tool is accessible by smartphone. https://maps.psc.wi.gov/ apps/PublicWiFiLocations/ The PSC has also set up a phone line to help explain what internet and phone services are available in each area of the state. The hotline number is 608-267-3595 and it is staffed during normal business hours. More than 28 percent of Wisconsinites living in rural areas do not have access to broadband service, according to a 2019 report by the Federal Communications Commission. Last month the PSC approved $24 million in grants to help bring high-speed internet service to underserved communities.
NRECA DISPUTES CLAIMS BY BANKRUPT FRONTIER THAT COULD FURTHER DELAY WISCONSIN BROADBAND EXPANSION
The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) is disputing a claim by embattled Frontier Communications, which claims it has recently made major strides in fulfilling a 2015 promise to extend broadband service to thousands of people, including some areas of Wisconsin. In making the claim with the the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Frontier could block utility cooperatives from accessing money to extend broadband service to those areas under a new federal funding program that will auction the areas to other providers, including specific funding for utility co-ops, this fall. NRECA and the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association (WISPA) have asked the FCC to in6
vestigate the claims, saying in a letter, “While Frontier is missing CAF buildout milestones for 10/1 Mbps service, losing a large number of customers, hemorrhaging cash, and seeking bankruptcy protection, it strains credulity for it to claim that it has upgraded service to 25/3 Mbps in 16,000 census blocks in eight months,” the WISPA and NRECA letter argued. “We find this hard to believe.” NRECA has asked the FCC to expedite the investigation as to not delay the October auction, and ultimately further delay broadband access to people still living without service in rural Wisconsin. Those census blocks in dispute fall in some Wisconsin electric co-op counties including Polk, St. Croix, Marathon, Adams, Columbia, Marquette, Juneau, Iowa, and Sauk.
PROPOSAL FOR “KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON” SPECIALTY PLATE MOVES FORWARD
A group based out of the Clark Electric Cooperative area has successfully gathered the required signatures and donations needed to move forward with a proposal to create a specialty Wisconsin license plate honoring all persons working in the electric utility industry. If the submitted proposal is approved, the plates will be available for a one-time fee of $15. The fee covers production cost.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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TAKE IT OUTSIDE Save money by keeping the heat from building up in your home The temperatures are rising, and that often means energy bills are rising too, as we turn to air conditioners to chase the heat out of our homes. You can help cut your energy costs by keeping some of that heat from getting in your home in the first place. After all, the cheapest electricity around is the electricity you don’t need to use. Here are some easy suggestions from the U.S. Department of Energy.
Watch the Windows. When the outdoor temperatures
climb higher than the temperature inside your house, close all the windows and exterior doors tightly, and close the window coverings on sun-facing windows. Shades and curtains block out direct sunlight as well as the radiated heat from the outdoors, keeping your home cooler.
Take Care in the Kitchen. Cooking meals at home is more economical than ordering take-out, but the kitchen can also be a significant heat source. On hot days avoid using your oven. Instead, use the stovetop or microwave. Even better, cook outdoors on a grill and enjoy an evening “out.” Bathe Briefly.
Showering or bathing can fill a home with heat and humidity. Keep your showers brief, and turn on the spot ventilation to pull some of that heat and humidity out of the house. Just remember to turn the vent off about 20 minutes after you’re done showering.
Lighten Up…and Down.
If you haven’t already switched your incandescent light bulbs to CFL or LED options, now’s a great time to do so. Not only are incandescent bulbs far less efficient to operate , but 90 percent of the energy they use is given off as heat. If you still have incandescent bulbs, just be sure to turn them off when you’re not using them.
Save it for Later.
Plenty of regular household activities, such as running dishwashers or clothes washers and dryers, generate a lot of heat. Even devices like curling irons and hair dryers can add heat to a room. While it’s possible to avoid using a curling iron all summer, dishes and clothes eventually have to be cleaned. But you’ll keep your home cooler if you avoid running your appliances until the evening, when the temperatures are cooler.
Use That Sun. Even better than running the clothes dryer in the evening is not running it at all. Hanging laundry outside not only saves you money and helps keep your house cooler, it’s also gentle on your clothes, leaves them smelling fresh, and provides some healthy physical activity. Source: energy.gov
Brought to you by:
June 2020
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Breakfast A SCRAMBLE
s we enter our traditional June Dairy month, nothing is traditional this year. What is normally a time for celebrating our state’s rich dairy history has unfortunately taken a much different course thanks to COVID-19. June usually kicks off with a county dairy breakfast on a farm, where we get together with our neighbors and have a wonderful breakfast in a barn or machine shed. Sadly, these events are canceled this year. These community breakfasts provide an opportunity to learn where our food comes from. For most Wisconsin families that were not raised on a farm, a dairy breakfast is a chance to learn firsthand that milk actually comes from a dairy cow from one of many Wisconsin farms, and not just from the store where it was purchased. The June dairy breakfast in each of our counties is really an institution, and for many of us Steve Freese it is the beginning of summer. Over the years, I President and CEO have worked at more than 68 dairy breakfasts in the five counties I had represented when I served in the legislature, and I’ve had breakfast at many more. By the time I was done with the dairy breakfast circuit, I had a hard time eating eggs for a while because my job usually was making eggs in the big frying pan at the front of the tent where people came in to get breakfast. These weren’t one-at-a-time eggs like we might do at home— no, these were five gallons at a time. So making thousands of eggs each season can have an impact on you; I know it did on me. COVID-19 has upended everything we know and do, and for many, it has meant the loss of a Steve Freese (far left) scrambles eggs in a giant pan job, the ability to go for a past June dairy breakfast. out to eat, complete school in the traditional way, and so much more. When the Safer at Home order went into place, it closed restaurants and food establishments in Wisconsin along with all schools in our state. Some restaurants serve carry-out, but I fear it will be a long time before we see a restaurant full of patrons. Restaurant and school closings are happening all across the United States, and the results
8
have been devastating to Wisconsin dairy farms. The cancelation of school milk programs and closing of restaurants, unless they have a drive-through, have resulted in a huge loss of market for both fluid milk and cheese, not to mention a drop in sales for ice cream, sour cream, and butter. This has had a cascading effect on all dairy farms in the United States and is especially hitting Wisconsin’s farm economy very hard since we are the dairy state. I have shared with you in earlier columns that 57 percent of all Wisconsin dairy farms get their electricity from one of Wisconsin’s 24 electric distribution cooperatives, so we see firsthand the devastation this is causing. We have had members tell us they have been forced to reduce their herd size by 10 percent, and some have even been forced to dump milk. This is having an untold impact on the health and well-being of our farm neighbors and is affecting the economy of Wisconsin. Hopefully, we each can step up and help, and there are signs all across our state that is happening. I have seen 4-H clubs and FFA chapters doing their part by giving away gallons of milk, and we are starting to see yard signs all across our state saying “Support Wisconsin Dairy.” It is so uplifting to see people springing into action, like a Wyocena man who bought and gave away 120 gallons of milk to help his struggling farmer neighbors in Columbia County. It is so rewarding to see the countless creameries giving away their products to food banks and people in need instead of dumping the milk. We don’t all have the ability to make the grand gestures I just mentioned, but we can all do a little to help these farm families in need. How can you help? There are many simple steps we can all take. For example, if you’re homeschooling school-age children, take some breaks during their lessons just like they would have at school and give them a snack that includes milk and other dairy products. Use the recipes you find in this magazine this month that make ample use of dairy products; search past issues to revisit other recipes that call for dairy products. We are all spending more time preparing meals at home, so plan menus that call for dairy products. And if we can’t enjoy a breakfast on the farm this year, make it yourself at home. Start with pancakes and eggs, yogurt, and milk just like you would at the dairy breakfast on your neighbor’s farm. Together, we can change the course of things to come.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
WECN June20Steve.indd 1
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CUTTING COSTS
l
A misconception carried over from the days of mainframe computers is that equipment lasts longer, and a costly surge of power is avoided, if a computer is never turned off. Though there is a small surge of power when a computer starts up, it is less than the energy used when a computer is operating for a long period of time. Consider these guidelines: Turn off the monitor if you aren’t going to use your computer for 20 minutes, and turn off both the computer and monitor if you won’t be using it for more than two hours.
l
Most appliances and electronics continue to draw energy when they’re plugged in, even if they’ve been turned off. Avoid these “phantom” loads by unplugging all electronics when not in use. Make it easy by plugging them into a power strip/surge protector and switching the power strip off when the electronics are not being used.
l
Most computers today come with a sleep mode, which when used consistently can save up to $30 a year, according to ENERGY STAR®. Make sure your computers are set to automatically switch to sleep mode when they’re not in use. This has the added benefit of keeping the computer equipment cooler, which will help it last longer.
l
Keep in mind that screen savers are not energy savers. In fact, some graphic-intensive screen savers can actually use more energy, plus they can prevent a computer from automatically going into sleep mode.
l
Use rechargeable batteries for products that require batteries. Studies have shown they’re more cost-effective than disposable batteries. Just be sure to unplug the charger once the batteries are fully charged. Same goes for other types of chargers; once your phone is fully charged, unplug your charger.
when it comes to computers
Whether you’re working from home in a makeshift office, or you and your family have been spending a lot of Safer at Home time online, chances are your energy use has gone up. That means your home energy bills have likely gone up as well. Fortunately, there are easy ways to control your costs when it comes to using computers and other home electronics.
Source: energy.gov
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June 2020
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BUSINESS
NOT AS
USUAL Electric cooperatives seek alternatives to the traditional annual meeting
E
ver since member-owned electric cooperatives were created decades ago, the annual meeting has been about more than just business. It’s a time for members to come together to network and brainstorm, to eat and to chat, to catch up with friends and neighbors, and to just be together. For many co-ops, it is an event that members look forward to year after year. “We just like to participate,” said Gary Patch, member of Richland Electric Cooperative. “It’s in our best interest.” It’s also required by law, and bylaws, that electric cooperatives hold annual meetings, to ensure members are informed and have an opportunity to voice opinions about operations, and to elect and seat new board members. But this year, that requirement is in direct conflict with guidance intended to stop the spread of COVID-19. Large gatherings violate social-distancing rules and could put members at risk, so many in this safetyfocused industry have been seeking alternatives. “I like to see and talk to our members,” said Steve Lucas, CEO of Scenic Rivers Energy Cooperative. “We usually have a meal and socializing. We’re not going to
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be able to have that this year, and I know some people will be disappointed.”
Drive-In Style Richland Electric Cooperative took a unique approach for its 84th annual meeting and held a “drive-in” style event at the service center April 25. Members registered with postcards as they pulled in, lineworkers directed cars to parking spots in the lot, and co-op Board President Calvin Sebranek and CEO and General Manager Shannon Clark presented the meeting from bucket trucks. The meeting was broadcast live on the local radio station, WRCO. Motions and voting were done by honks of the horn, and members showed respect during the national anthem by turning on their headlights. “I think it came off really well,” remarked Pat Turnipseed, a member who attended with her husband. They were among 150 other cars and trucks parked in the lot long before the meeting started. The first attendees showed up before 8 a.m. The meeting started at 10. “I’m really impressed with how organized it is!” said member Jean Patch.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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1. CEO Shannon Clark and Board Chair Calvin Sebranek lead the meeting, and observe the national anthem, from bucket trucks as members sit in their cars listening to the live broadcast on a local radio station. 2. Clark addresses members. 3. Members vote by honking car horns. 4. Co-op staff guide members to a “no contact” check in. 5. Richland Electric members go through a “no contact” check-in for the meeting. 6. Members Jean and Gary Patch remain in their vehicle during the meeting.
“Bigger turnout than I expected,” added John Anderson. “And it sure is nice to get away from home for once.” There are several factors that allowed Richland Electric Cooperative to pull off the drive-in meeting. The co-op produces a comprehensive publication that is shared with members ahead of time, and voting is done by mail; the co-op has a property that allows for this type of gathering; the service area is in one county; and Richland Center is the center of commerce, making it a reasonable location for all members to travel to. Clark said any concerns about reaching a quorum quickly dissipated when the cars started filing in. While there were no hugs or handshakes, he said just being able to see the employees and members was emotional. “We’ve been at this since March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, not just social distancing, but isolation, really,” he said. “Personally, I didn’t realize how much I would miss the interaction. Driving in today, I saw a lineman bringing in the bucket truck, and then got here and saw our operations manager and three or four more people, and it’s kind of like a homecoming. I have so much respect for the people who work for Richland Electric Cooperative, and to be back together, even at a distance, I’ll bet we won’t take that for granted in the future—I know I won’t!” At Taylor Electric Cooperative, President and CEO Ken Ceaglske says they are still hoping to hold their annual meeting as usual in June, but a similar “drive-in style” is the back-up plan. “Members would drive in, get a packet with ballots, notecards for questions, a pen, and coupons for giveaway items at the local grocery store,” Ceaglske said. “The next stop would be an exchange of executed ballots for a ‘to-go’ dinner that they can have in their car. We will get them parked and use the local radio station to broadcast the meeting. A second round of voting will take place once everyone is parked, with employees collecting the ballots from the parked cars.”
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The meeting format is not the only change for Scenic Rivers members prompted by the pandemic. Lucas told those participating on the virtual platform that following a cost-of-service study years in the making, the co-op was planning to announce a modest rate adjustment. 1 Due to the economic impact of shutdown, 2 they have now opted against it. “We’re gonna tighten our belts, and not do a rate adjustment, because of what our members are experiencing,” he said. Riverland Energy Cooperative is also considering a virtual meeting, but holding out hope that they will be 1. Scenic Rivers Energy Board Chair Chuck Simmons tests a virtual meeting platform. Photo courtesy of SREC 2. East Central Energy able to hold the meeting in conjunction with conducted its annual meeting on Facebook Live. Linda Laitala, board chair, and Steve Shurts, president/CEO, observed social Member Appreciation distancing guidelines while filming. Photo courtesy of ECE Day later this summer, if possible. General Manager Virtual Meeting Steve Lucas of Jerry Sorenson says the greater chalScenic Rivers Energy Cooperative says lenge is helping members navigate this in planning for this year’s annual meetchallenging time. “Since a cooperative ing, and all of the changes brought on is a collection of members for a purby the pandemic, “everyone has stepped pose, when any member is hurting, the up.” cooperative is hurting,” he said. “My challenge to all employAlso going the virtual route, East ees is that members should not feel Central Energy hosted its annual meetany changes,” he said. “Our biggest ing via Facebook Live in April. challenge is to keep all employees and members safe. I can replace equipment, In-Person, When Appropriate trucks, and transformers; I cannot reSome co-ops are pushing back their place our dedicated employees.” annual meetings until a time when it is Scenic Rivers used to be three sepappropriate and safe to come together arate cooperatives that merged, and it again. Washington Island Electric Coopcovers a vast area, so a virtual meeting erative is tentatively planning to hold makes the most sense, Lucas says. The a meeting in August, in the hopes that co-op is using the Perigon platform, their many seasonal members will be which has methods to track attendees. able to participate. “We’re not calling this the new nor“We would like to keep things mal,” he said. “We’re calling this doing traditional; however, we are not locked what we need to do, right now.” into this,” said Manager Robert Cornell.
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“We will see what the requirements are at that time and make a determination if an alternate venue is required.”
Not Happening This Year
While co-op leaders across the state all say they prefer the traditional, in-person meeting, at least one co-op has announced that the meeting just won’t happen this year. The board of Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services decided, in the interest of safety, and so as not to disenfranchise members without broadband, there won’t be an annual meeting in 2020. “The uncertainty of when we would be able to hold and having a facility that would allow us social distancing were major concerns,” said Nate Boettcher, president and CEO. “We also lack broadband, so having a meeting remotely would also be challenging, and we run the risk of alienating members who don’t have access to broadband or internet-capable devices.” Boettcher said the co-op doesn’t have any contested elections this year, and they’re covered by their bylaws in the event they cannot have an annual meeting. “This is an unprecedented time,” Boettcher said. “Our greater fear is that we endanger our members and guests.” Some Pierce Pepin members, like others all over the state, expressed disappointment in the altered annual meeting plans, not only because these events often offer free meals, door prizes, and scholarship awards along with the camaraderie. Speaking from her car at the Richland Electric drive-in event, Jean Patch summed it up: “We all come because we just have a whole lot of folks here who care.” —Julie Lund
The Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association is working with state legislators on a revision to current law to clarify that annual meetings can be held virtually outside of a public health emergency (PHE), as the 60-day PHE has now expired.
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FIVE
HOME ENERGY
H GS Dear Pat and Brad:
Our family has been trying to reduce our monthly expenses. The other day, my sister-in-law and I compared our electric bills. I was surprised to find out her energy costs were significantly lower than mine, even though our homes are similar in size and built around the same time. What could be causing my bill to be so much higher? —Melissa
Dear Melissa: You are certainly
not alone in these trying times as you search for ways to cut costs, and your
energy use might provide some potential opportunities for savings. Even though you noted the similarities between your home and your sister-in-law’s home, you may have a hidden energy hog causing your bills to be higher. Here are five energy hogs that may be increasing your energy use.
1. Old Fridge or Freezer in the Garage
That second fridge or freezer may be costing more than you think. If the model was produced prior to 1990, it’s likely using twice as much energy (or more!) than a newer ENERGY STAR®-rated model. If it’s located in the garage, it may run constantly in the summer, which could lead to higher electric bills.
2. Cooling or Heating an Uninsulated Area Cooling or heating an uninsulated
workshop or garage can be expensive. To give you an example, during a past energy audit I conducted, I found that the homeowner heated an uninsulated shed to keep several half-empty buckets of paint from freezing. So, he was paying more to keep his paint warm than the paint was even worth. Pet owners have been known to heat and cool an uninsulated garage to keep pets comfortable, not realizing that this might be costing more than heating their actual home. If you really want to heat or cool these types of spaces, they need to be well insulated and heated/cooled efficiently, perhaps with a ductless mini-split system.
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The average operating cost of a hot tub is $250 per year. But that amount may be higher if your hot tub is an older, less efficient model, or if you live in a colder climate. A smaller hot tub with better insulation, a cover, and a pump that runs on a lower voltage will use less energy than other models. In the end, getting a “good deal” on a used hot tub may cost more in energy bills in the long run.
3. Hot Tub
4. Swimming Pool If you have a swimming pool, consider installing a smaller, more efficient pump and reducing how often it runs. You can also look at installing a larger filter and maximizing the flow of water through the pipes by making them larger and reducing how sharply the corners turn. These measures could cut your electric use for the pool pump by as much as 75 percent. Consult with a pool installation specialist to find the most efficient setup that will still keep your pool clean. 5. Pumps If you live on acreage or on a farm, you probably have several pumps, including irrigation, well, septic, and sump. If you’re like most of us, you use those pumps until they break down. Consider replacing the oldest and most-used pumps over time with new, more efficient ones that are sized correctly for their task. Also, make sure you’re eliminating leaks in the water lines, which make your pumps work harder and longer. If one of these five energy hogs doesn’t explain the difference in energy use between your home and your sister-in-law’s, there are many other possibilities. I recommend conducting an energy audit, which should give you the answers you seek. This column was co-written by Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Collaborative Efficiency. For more info on surprise energy hogs, please visit: www. collaborativeefficiency.com/energytips. 14
1. Before buying a hot tub, make sure you’re ready to pay to operate it. The average annual energy cost for a hot tub is $250 a year. Photo courtesy of Andrew Holmes 2. Heating and cooling an uninsulated shed, garage, or workspace can increase energy bills. Photo courtesy of Tino Rossini 3. A swimming pool pump can be a significant source of electricity use—ENERGY STAR®-certified pumps use far less energy. Photo courtesy of Vic Brincat
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DA RY
Delicious Strawberry Ricotta Cake 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup sugar 2 tsp baking powder 3/4 tsp kosher salt 3 large eggs 1-1/2 cups ricotta 1/2 cup butter, melted 1 tsp almond extract 1 cup frozen strawberries, quartered Grease and flour a 9-inch pan. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium mixing bowl whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. In celebration of June Dairy Month, we thought it would be fun to share a recipe to make your own fresh ricotta cheese (on top of page 21) and some recipes you can use with it. With just three ingredients, you can make this creamy, homemade fresh ricotta cheese. It’s easy, economical, and tastes great!
In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine eggs, ricotta, butter, and almond extract until smooth; add dry ingredients until just blended. Fold in strawberries. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake until golden brown and a tester comes out clean, about 50–60 minutes. Let cool, then remove from pan, slice, and serve. Recipe courtesy of the Oregon Strawberry Commission and Erin from www.platingsandpairings.com
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Homemade Ricotta Cheese
8 cups (2 liters) whole milk 1/2 tsp salt 3 Tbsp white vinegar or lemon juice, freshly squeezed Line a colander (or ricotta basket if you have one) with a large piece of lightly dampened cheesecloth that has been folded over itself at least 3–4 times. Place the colander over a bowl. Make sure to use non-reactive materials.
NOTES:
• Homemade ricotta cannot be made with ultra-pasteurized milk...so, read your labels. • In theory, you can use organic milk, as long as it is not ultra-pasteurized. However, PLEASE NOTE that when testing this recipe, it did not work. • The leftover whey is great to use when making bread, pizza, pasta, or even in soups.
In a large heavy-based saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Add the salt and stir occasionally with a wooden spoon. Make sure the milk does not scorch. If you have a thermometer, heat to 185 degrees. If you do not have a thermometer, you need to reach a stage where there is a lot of steam, little bubbles close to the edge of the pot, and the formation of a slight film. It should take about 20 minutes to get to this stage. Lower the heat to low. Add the lemon juice (or vinegar in equal amount). Slowly agitate the mixture for 2 minutes. You will notice the curds (the ricotta) separating from the whey (yellowish liquid). Remove from heat. Cover pot and let stand for about 20 minutes. Carefully “ladle” your ricotta into the cheesecloth-lined colander or your basket. The consistency of the final product will depend on the amount of time you leave the ricotta to drain. For a creamy ricotta, let it sit for 3–5 minutes; for a dryer ricotta, it can sit up to 20 minutes. Use immediately. Cover and refrigerate any leftovers for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen. Recipe courtesy of Maria Vannelli from her food blog: She Loves Biscotti / www.shelovesbiscotti.com
Pineapple-Stuffed French Toast
1/2 fresh pineapple 1 Tbsp honey 1 tsp cinnamon Dash of Kosher salt 1 cup ricotta (or cottage cheese, depending on texture preference)
16 slices whole grain bread 5 eggs, large 1/2 cup milk 2 tsp vanilla extract Powdered sugar Nonstick spray
FILLING: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Finely dice the pineapple and combine with the honey, cinnamon, and dash of salt in a roasting pan. Bake for 30 minutes. After the pineapple has been pulled from the oven, drain the juice from the roasting pan and into the ricotta or cottage cheese; stir together. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla. ASSEMBLE THE FRENCH TOAST: Scoop a spoonful of ricotta or cottage cheese into the center of one of the slices of bread. Place a spoonful of roasted pineapple on top each scoop of cheese. Finish with another slice of bread. Gently press together the sandwiches and using a round cookie cutter or a drinking glass, cut a round out of each stack. Pinch the edges of each circle together to seal in the filling. Dip each round into the egg mixture and place in a hot skillet that has been coated with nonstick spray. Toast each side until crispy. Serve warm with a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top.
NOTES:
• Treat this recipe as a template and tailor it to your personal preferences: Make it sweeter by stuffing more pineapple into each serving; add moisture by adding more ricotta or cottage cheese. • To save time (and further play with flavors), substitute your favorite jams, jellies, or fresh fruit for the roasted pineapple. • Allow leftover crusts get stale and pulse into homemade breadcrumbs in a food processor. Recipe courtesy of www.USDairy.com
Healthy Potatoes with Lemon Poppy Ricotta A simple and healthy recipe of boiled potatoes dressed with dollops of a Greek yogurt and ricotta mix. It is flavored with lemon and poppy seeds, giving you a hint of citrus tang in every bite. 3 large potatoes, peeled and halved 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, low-fat 1 cup ricotta Zest of one lemon
2 tsp lemon juice 1/3 tsp salt 1/2 tsp poppy seeds
Over high heat, in a medium to big pot, bring some salted water to a boil then cook the potatoes for 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and let them cool. In a bowl, mix the yogurt, ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and poppy seeds. Adjust the salt if needed. Serve halved potatoes with the ricotta on top. Recipe courtesy of Rowena Dumlao–Giardina of Apron and Sneakers at www.apronandsneakers.com, and Skinny Ms at www.skinnyms.com. June 2020 WECN June20Recipes.indd 3
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RECIPE EXCHANGE Submit your favorite recipes to be featured on our reader recipe page. Email to jennifer@weca.coop. For bonus recipes, go to http://wecnmagazine.com/recipes/.
Cherry Walnut Bars
Debra Gerzmehle, Nekoosa CRUST
2-1/4 cups flour 1 cup sugar 1 cup butter
Use fork to mix flour, sugar, and butter. Put in lightly greased 9-x13-inch pan and bake at 350 degrees for 12 minutes. FILLING
2 eggs 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp vanilla 1/2 cup Maraschino cherries 1/2 cup coconut 1/2 cup walnuts
Combine all filling ingredients and spread on baked crust. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes. Cool when done. ICING
2 Tbsp butter 2 cups powdered sugar Juice from Maraschino cherries Milk
Combine all icing ingredients until it reaches a smooth, spreadable consistency and spread on top layer of cooled bars.
Apple Salad
Rosetta Gruss, Marshall
10 Granny Smith apples, cut into chunks (add lemon juice to prevent browning) 2 bags snack size Snickers candy bars, frozen and broken into small pieces with a meat mallet 2 (12 oz) containers Cool Whip 1 container cocktail peanuts without skins
Mix apples and snicker bar pieces. Add Cool Whip and peanuts; serve.
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Cheddar Sausage Muffins
Taco Soup
2 cups flour 2 Tbsp sugar 3 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1 egg 1 cup milk 1/4 cup butter, melted 1/2 lb pork sausage, cooked and drained 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 lbs extra lean ground beef 1/2 cup diced white onion or 3 Tbsp onion powder 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp paprika 1 tsp pepper 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes 1 envelope powdered Hidden Valley Ranch dressing 2 cups beef broth 1-1/2 cups shredded cheddar or taco cheese 1 cup fat-free sour cream 1 large bag of corn chips
Rosetta Gruss, Marshall
In a bowl, combine dry ingredients. In another bowl, combine egg, milk, and butter; stir into dry ingredients just until moistened. Fold in sausage and cheese. Fill greased or paper-lined muffin pan 2/3 full. Bake at 375 degrees for 18–22 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes before removing from pan. Refrigerate leftovers.
Cran-Apple Crisp
Jane Chulafich, Fennimore
2 cups fresh or frozen cranberries 4 cups sliced, peeled apples (4 medium apples) 3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup quick-cooking or old-fashioned rolled oats 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
In an 8-inch microwave-safe baking dish, combine cranberries, apples, and sugar. Mix lightly and spread evenly in baking dish; set aside. In a small mixing bowl, cream together butter and brown sugar. Mix in flour, oats, and cinnamon until crumbly; sprinkle over cranberries and apples. Microwave on 100 percent power for 10–12 minutes or until fruits are tender, rotating dish once if necessary. If frozen cranberries are used, cooking time may be longer. Serve warm with ice cream, if desired.
Dianna Hitchler, Onalaska
Brown the ground beef in a pan with onions and seasonings. Drain fat. Place meat in crock pot and add tomatoes, ranch dressing, and beef broth. Cook on high in crock pot for 1.5 hours. There are two ways to enjoy Taco Soup: First, line the bottom of the soup bowl with corn chips, then top with soup, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. The second is to serve the soup and add all three toppings as desired.
REQUESTS
from our
READERS
An online reader is looking for ground beef recipes. If you can help, have a request of your own, or would like to submit a recipe for publication, please write to Wisconsin
Energy Cooperative News, What’s Cooking? 222 West Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703-2719 or contact us via our website, www. wecnmagazine.com. Thanks!
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WISCONSIN FAVORITES
Summer STORIES FOR A READING LIST WITH A WISCONSIN TWIST
T
his will not be a typical summer, for sure. Just as it has upended life all spring, the coronavirus will surely alter a lot of summer vacation plans. However, there’s one getaway the coronavirus can’t touch, and that’s the escape that comes from getting lost in the pages of a great book. If you can read, or even just listen as someone reads to you, you can travel anywhere. The Department of Public Instruction lists 485 public libraries in Wisconsin on its website, which means no matter where you live in this state, you’re within reach of a public library and all the escape and adventure it has to offer. And you can begin this adventure without having to leave your region. To help set you on your way, we reached out to some libraries located in communities served by electric cooperatives and invited them to make recommendations June 2020
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for a summer reading list. We had only one requirement; in keeping with the spirit of this feature—called Wisconsin Favorites, after all— we asked that all suggested books be written by a Wisconsin author, or be about, or set in, Wisconsin. The libraries we contacted enthusiastically generated great lists, which we expected. What we didn’t expect was that we’d end up with such a diverse list of book titles, spanning all genres, styles, and age groups. Of five separate lists, we had only two crossover authors/titles. One was a book by New Auburn author Michael Perry, “Visiting Tom: A Man, a Highway, and the Road to Roughneck Grace.” “This book details the author’s experiences and conversations with his octogenarian, cannon-shooting neighbor Tom Hartwig, who, armed with an arsenal of stories and an anti-authoritarian streak a mile wide, offers guidance and inspiration,” wrote the team at the Iola Village Library, adding that Perry’s books are “funny, heartwarming, and endearing stories about everyday life.” Another Wisconsin author who made several book lists is Adams-Columbia Electric Cooperative member Jerry Apps. Cara Hart, director of the Black River Falls Public Library, noted that any of Apps’ books would be an enjoyable read, but for our purposes she recommended “The Civilian Conservation Corps in Wisconsin,” which she described as “the first comprehensive history of the CCC in Wisconsin. It takes readers around the state, creating a map of where and how more than 125 CCC camps left their mark on the landscape.” We’re grateful to all the participating librarians, who offered more titles than we have room to print. We picked a sampling from each list of suggestions; you can find the rest on our website, wecnmagazine.com.
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The Black River Falls Public Library is located in Jackson County, home to the headquarters of Jackson Electric Cooperative. Jackson Electric has supported the library by donating to the summer reading program. In addition, the Friends of the Black River Falls Public Library received this year’s Mike Anderson Memorial, an award named for former longtime manager of Jackson Electric Cooperative and presented annually to an organization that provides support for and meets a community need. Among others, Library Director Cara Hart recommended these books: •
“Babu’s Song,” by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen. This Wisconsin author focuses on books for children and young adults. This book is set in Tanzania, where Bernardi’s mute grandfather makes him a wonderful music box and then helps him realize his dream of owning a soccer ball and going to school. “ ‘Babu’s Song’ highlights the value of education and power of compassion,” Hart said.
•
“Wisconsin Moments in Time,” by Lori Chown. This book contains beautiful photography from Wisconsin’s most memorable destinations.
•
“Iron Lake,” by William Kent Krueger. Krueger is a previous
•
“The Flavor of Wisconsin” and “The Flavor of Wisconsin for Kids,” by Terese Allen. Allen is a Wisconsin chef and author focusing
Jackson County Community Read author whose books take place in northern Minnesota and Wisconsin. “I would personally recommend the Cork O’Connor series,” Hart said. In this title, she explained, Cork O’Connor has lost both his wife and his job as sheriff and falls into emotional isolation. As a wild blizzard buries his lakeside town, a despised though influential resident is found dead, and a young Ojibwe Indian boy seems to have left home in a hurry. An old sage warns Cork that a cruel spirit with a heart of ice is near.
on Wisconsin cuisine. In this book, she examines the explosion of farmers’ markets; organic farming and sustainability; the “slow food” movement; artisanal breads, dairy, herb growers, and the like; and how relatively recent immigrants have contributed to Wisconsin’s remarkably rich food scene. “I read ‘The Flavor of Wisconsin for Kids’ to my kids and made one of the venison dishes with them,” Hart said. “It was a blast cooking with them while learning about Wisconsin food.”
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WISCONSIN FAVORITES
The Iola Village Library is located in the community where Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative (CWEC) is headquartered. The co-op makes a yearly Operation RoundUp donation to the library to help support the summer reading program, and also contributed to the library’s new addition in 2018. In addition, Lila Shower, CWEC’s vice president of accounting and finance, is a member of the library’s board of directors. The Iola Village Library has two Wisconsin collections, one focusing on books about the history of Wisconsin and the other on local authors. The library team, including Director Robyn Grove and Lisa Bauer, head of children’s programming, drew from those collections in making the following suggestions: •
The Evelyn Goldberg Briggs Memorial Library is located in Iron River, where Bayfield Electric Cooperative is headquartered. This library is distinctive for the large mural along the outside depicting the history of the library, as well as the historic Columbia School bell that was removed from its former location a few years ago with help from Bayfield Electric Cooperative and installed on top of the building. The co-op has also provided support through monetary donations. Library Director Jacqueline Pooler recommended the following books: •
graphic novel for upper elementary-middle school, “This is the story of John Muir’s adventurous life, from his wild and playful boyhood in Scotland to his legendary exploits in America, where he became an inventor, a global explorer, and the first modern environmentalist—and even made friends with a president!” Pooler noted that Muir immigrated to the United States and settled with his family in Portage at the age of 11 and went on to make his mark on environmental protection.
“A Century of Excellence: 100 Greatest Packers of All Time,” by Mike Jacquart. This book is everything you’d expect from the title: the author’s picks of the 100 greatest Packers to help mark the team’s 100th anniversary celebration.
•
•
“Five Pounds and Screaming,” by Shawn Williams. This story
follows a young couple and their struggles with small-town living, their urge to have children, and with each other. It documents the everyday (but also magical) time between after the honeymoon and into the delivery room. “Shawn has lived in Iola many years and we have had the pleasure of knowing him and his family,” the Iola library team wrote. “His daughter attended library story times and other events growing up.”
“Midwest Medley: Places & People, Wild Things & Weather,” and “The Port Side of Shadows: Poems of Travel: Inner, Outer and Uncharted Places,” by Patricia Williams. Williams,
•
“Boys of the Brule,” by Ross Fruen. This book explores the lure of northern Wiscosnin’s outdoors in “a love story that chronicles a family’s sevengeneration home on the revered trout stream and the rituals and activities of a group of friends who have gathered there every year from boyhood to senior citizenship,” according to publisher notes.
•
“Murder of the Red Cliff Rez,” by Mardi Oakley Medawar. In
•
“Johnny’s Pheasant,” by Cheryl Minnema. This is a story for preschool readers about a boy who spies a pheasant that he believes is sleeping and his grandma fears is dead, but they learn they were both wrong when the pheasant departs, leaving behind a gift. This book won the 2020 Charlotte Zolotow award for best picture book published in the United States. The award is administered by the Cooperative Children’s Book Center, a children’s literature library of the School of Education, UW-Madison.
•
“Ace of Aces,” by Carl Bong and Mike O’Connor. This book tells the story of Superior-born Richard Bong, one of America’s most decorated fighter pilots. Bong took his P-38 into combat and shot his way to the very top of the list of American Fighter Aces, with a count of 40 Japanese war planes.
who lives in central Wisconsin, began writing poetry and non-fiction in 2013 after retiring from a teaching career in K-12 art, then as a professor of design history at UW-Stevens Point. She views art, design, music, and the literary arts as natural partners—all creatively examine life and living. •
“Pioneer Publisher: The Story of Krause Publications’ First 50 Years,” by Arlyn G. Sieber. “This book is an excellent history of
Krause Publications and biography of its founder, the late Chet Krause,” the Iola library team wrote. “It contains lots of black and white and color illustrations and related local and family history.”
“Wildheart: the Daring Adventures of John Muir,” written by Julie Bertagna and illustrated by William Goldsmith. A
this mystery, the normally quiet Red Cliff Rez is rocked when the widely disliked tribal attorney has been found murdered in his office. Everyone is sure that the man responsible is his cousin, who has disappeared into the reservation. Reservation Police Chief David Lameraux has to turn to the only person he’s sure can find the missing suspect. “Mysteries are a very popular genre across the country,” Pooler said. “Reading a novel set in the backyard makes the mystery all the more appealing.”
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The Lena Public Library is located in the service territory of Oconto Electric Cooperative. The library is a past recipient of funds raised through the co-op’s Employee Charity Program, through which co-op employees select a different school, organization, or agency to support and hold fundraisers throughout the year. Oconto Electric has also sponsored the library’s summer reading program with a grant through the co-op’s Community Change program. Library Director Amy Peterson recommended several fun mystery series with Wisconsin ties: •
•
•
•
The Sparta Free Library is located within Oakdale Electric Cooperative’s service territory. The co-op has supported the library through the CoBank Sharing Success program. Currently serving as interim director is Youth Services Coordinator Aimee Schreiber, or “Miss Aimee,” as she is affectionately known to her youngest patrons. No surprise then that Schreiber’s selections cover all ages, from the littlest on up. •
The Loon Lake Mystery Series, by Victoria Houston. Houston
writes a series of cozy mysteries set in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. The lead character is police chief/fly fisherman Lew Ferris, who solves murders with the help of a retired dentist. Peterson noted that although Loon Lake is a fictional town, its features are pulled from the actual area, so readers familiar with the Northwoods will recognize the setting.
“Sport: Ship Dog of the Great Lakes,” by Pamela Cameron and Renee Graef. In this picture book, it’s 1914 and the crew of the
Hyacinth, a lighthouse tender ship patrolling Lake Michigan, rescues a puppy from the Milwaukee River and names him Sport. For the next 12 years, Sport lives the exciting life of a beloved ship dog. This story based on historical documents and photographs from the Milwaukee Public Museum. •
“The Cardboard Kingdom,” by Chad Sell. In this children’s story,
of historical fiction written by a former guide at Old World Wisconsin in Eagle River. The books’ main character, Chloe Ellefson, is also a curator at Old World Wisconsin, whose work often finds her unraveling mysteries that take her deep into different historical times and places. Ernst continues to write new Chloe Ellefson mysteries, but the series began in the 1980s. “Those books can be kind of fun because they didn’t solve everything by Google then,” Peterson noted.
•
“Deadly Flowers,” by Sarah L. Thomson. In this book for teens,
David Cubiak Door County Mysteries by Patricia Skalka. The main character of this series is Detective David Cubiak, who escapes from Chicago to Door County, where he joins the police force and uncovers some dark truths as he solves murders. Skala uses a lot of Door County landmarks in this series, which makes the books especially fun for anyone who’s familiar with the peninsula. For example, “If you’ve been to Sturgeon Bay or you’ve been to Fish Creek, she might talk about a restaurant that you’ve been in,” Peterson said.
•
“The Art of Fielding” by Chad Harbach. This story is set on the campus of a small northeastern Wisconsin college, where five teammates navigate love, family, and mental health challenges with a backdrop of baseball. As the season counts down, these five confront unearthed secrets, unwise alliances, and undying bonds. “Harbach’s novel is warm, intelligent, and expansive, sweeping up hearts and minds while reminding readers why baseball is such a beloved sport,” Schreiber said.
The Chloe Ellefson Mysteries by Kathleen Ernst. This is a series
Noshes Up North Mystery Series by Mary Grace Murphy.
These cozy murder mysteries are written by a retired schoolteacher from Oconto. Set in a fictional Wisconsin town, the stories’ central character is retired schoolteacher Nell Bailey, who struggles with her weight and writes a food blog and restaurant reviews that get her in trouble.
your imagination is only limited by how much cardboard you can get your hands on. “Wisconsin native Sell’s magnificently drawn graphic novel rejects stereotypes and teaches lessons about acceptance, understanding and identity without being heavy-handed,” Schreiber wrote.
Kata, a 15-year-old orphan, has trained many years alongside other young girls to become a “deadly flower,” feudal Japan’s female ninjas. She is the most promising student of Madame Chiyome, but when she embarks on her first mission, a dangerous, mythical twist complicates her assignment. “With fun, sparkling dialogue and an action-driven plot, Kata’s story will leave readers ready to practice their ninja and their friendship skills,” Schreiber noted.
Remember that your local public library is also a great resource for other sources of free entertainment, including ebooks, magazines, newspapers, and DVDs. Pay a visit or give your library a call to pick up a few items, then relax, put your feet up, and escape inside a great story. 26
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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YOUNG MEMBERS 1
Kids and Critters June 2020
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1. Madelyn plays with her pet chickens. Photo submitted by great-grandma Rita Kranz, a member of Oakdale Electric. 2. Wrigs very patiently shares his bed with Christian. Photo submitted by great-grandma Florence Shepherd, a member of Eau Claire Energy. 3. Ava feeds an orphaned calf. Photo by Ava’s grandpa Doug Back, a member of Riverland Energy. 4. “Now you behave!” Demi is ready for her first dairy show with her heifer. Photo submitted by Demi’s great-grandma, Rita Kranz, a member of Oakdale Electric.
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Upload photos directly
to the new wecnmagazine.com through the “Submit a photo” tab. Send photos of kids with animals, along with a brief description, to WECN Magazine, 222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703. Please include the name of your electric co-op. Photos will be returned. If in good-resolution, electronic format, photos may also be uploaded via wecnmagazine.com through the “Submit a photo” tab. By submitting, sender implies that he/ she has rights to and owns the image, and grants WECN permission to use the image. By submitting, the parent or legal guardian also authorizes us the right to publish the image.
QUARANTINE | PHOTO CONTEST SHOW US what quarantine has looked like for you!
Did you celebrate an unconventional prom, graduation, or birthday party? What has homeschool looked like for you? Have your pets or gardens enjoyed the extra attention? Upload your quarantine photos by July 1 to wecnmagazine.com under “submit a photo” for your chance to win a WECN kitchen kit.
June 2020
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5/19/20 10:18 AM
CLASSIFIEDS MISCELLANEOUS
COLLECTOR BUYING WAR SOUVENIRS: German, Japanese, U.S. weapons, medals, helmets, daggers, swords, military items. 715-213-4565. WANTED: DEER TAGS, back tags. Trapping, bear, hunting licenses. Otter, bobcat, fisher tags. Old traps. David Schober, W4234 Rock Creek Rd., Loyal, WI 54446. 715-255-9284. WANTED: PAYING CASH FOR WW-2 GERMAN, JAPANESE FLAGS, DAGGERS, SWORDS, GUNS. ETC. 715-340-1974. USED BILLBOARD VINYLS/TARPS: Possible sizes available: 14x48=$50, 10x36=$28.80, 10x30=$24. Expired billboard faces, hemmed. Shipping and tax not included in listed price. MUST CALL FOR AVAILABILITY PRIOR TO PICK UP 800-536-7446. Vinyls can also be picked up at Jones Sign, 1711 Scheuring Road, De Pere, WI 54115. RURAL LIFE HISTORY BOOK: Machine Shed Memories—a Chronicle of Rural Life in Wisconsin. Order at www.machineshedmemories.com. BUY-SELL-TRADE MILITARY SURPLUS, J&R Military Surplus, 10106 ST. HWY 35, De Soto, WI 54624, 608-648-2112. R.V. 2019 CATALINA 8’w x 38’L with 3 slide outs. At Pine Cove Resort on Castle Rock Lake, Wi. $30,000 or offer. Call 414-322-2964. REHAB HELPLINE FOR DRUGS AND ALCOHOL. Is addiction affecting your family? Call to learn about treatment options. Most insurance accepted. Make today count. 877-467-4825. ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL PUPPIES. AKC registered. Vet checked, first shots, tails docked and dew claws removed. Call or text 715-579-2547. FOR SALE: 2018 Heartland Pioneer RC22 Toy Hauler 22’ camper. Twenty-six foot overall length, 14 foot garage for ATV/UTV’s, sleeps up to 5, furnace, air conditioner. Kitchen with refrigerator/freezer, 3-burner stove, sink, table. Bathroom with tub, shower, sink, toilet. Stereo & awning. Trailer is in excellent condition. $13,499. Call 608-393-5786. Baraboo, WI, 53913.
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REAL ESTATE
ADAMS COUNTY: 10 Acres near HWY 82 and County B. Great hunting, and lots of storage. Two barns, garage, single wide mobile home. 125,000.00. 847-830-3449. TURN-KEY BAR AND SUPPER CLUB: Completely remodeled and offers spacious 2br-1ba apartment above. All equipment to run this business is included, ready go to the right owner. Motivated seller! N1005 St Hwy, Greenwood, 54437. For information call Linda Scharenbrock C21 Gold Key Realty 715-937-1028 or 715-743-4421. HUNTING LAND; whether you are looking to sell or buy in Buffalo & Trempealeau Counties contact Land & Home Realty LLC. Over 20 yrs experience. dan@landandhomerealtyllc. com or 608-484-1900. HUNTERS/SNOWMOBILERS/HORSES PARADISE in Marathon County. Beautiful 3 bedroom/3.5 bathroom home in 14 acres + 43 additional acres available. Trophy whitetails and turkeys abundant. Also great place to raise horses. Google 201696 Bentley Road, Rosholt WI 54473 to see many pictures and all details. This was formerly 2117 Birch Road, Rosholt WI. Call Hocking Real Estate Services 715-571-1295. FOR SALE: FACTORY. Galesville. 35,000’ prestressed concrete. 3 million replacement. Manufacture hemp etc. $380,000 or B.O. over $250,000. 608-582-2263. 12–8 p.m. www.phonecoinc.com. HUNTING LAND, UPPER MI, NORTH OF BRUCE CROSSING. Located on West side of Hwy 45. Connected parcels, 513 acres–good for deer, bear, turkey. Baltimore River and 2 creeks run through property. 262-707-2575. Part of Forest Program (tax assistance). FOR SALE: 3-bedroom cabin on Upper Clam Lake, Ashland County. Fifty feet of frontage for $82,000. See Craigslist Northern WI, under cabin for sale, for info and pictures. Call or text 715-572-2632 or timgapen@wctc.net. ATTENTION HUNTERS & OUTDOOR ENTHUSIASTS – half-acre wooded building lot for sale. Located in southeastern Price County. Close to many small lakes and hundreds of acres of managed forest crop acres open to the public. Located on Town Road with electricity at road. Fair market value, $21,300. Asking $18,900 or reasonable offer. 715-305-8721.
THREE MILES WEST MAUSTON, WI: 30 acres mature pine woodland. Good hunting, easy access, zoned agriculture. One home allowed. Electric and internet close. $140,000. James Henry 608-847-7726. UPPER MICHIGAN. 1800’ of Lakeshore, 35 acres, pristine lake. Near trout streams, golf, casino, ski, snowmobile trails. Surrounded by Ottawa Forest. Very private. $297,000. 715-495-2081 or 715-495-3244. FOR SALE: 40+ acres; cabin, pole building, new holding tank, stream, 2 ponds, no utilities. New Lisbon area. $150,000 or offer. Call 414-322-2964. 11.29 ACRES WITH POND AND 24 X 32 FT POLE BUILDING. Located minutes from downtown Wisconsin Dells, on Hwy 12/16 in town of Linden. Property has sewer, water, and electricity. Hilly with woods and open field. $169,000. Ken 414-255-4850. TAYLOR CO., MEDFORD / ESADORE AREA. 180 ft, Martin Lake frontage. Drilled well w/electricity. Two, 1,000 gal. holding tanks. Dock/shed. $39,500. 715-432-0231. NEW HOME FOR SALE IN TOWN OF ROME. 3br, 2ba, 3.5 car garage, on 1 acre lot. 3 min. to golf, lakes, Lake Arrowhead clubhouse, shopping, and much more. $239,000. Call for more info. 262-707-2478. VACATION RENTAL–HAYWARD, WI. Private 2-bedroom, 1-bath cabin w/dock next to the water. One step down to a beautiful sand beach on Big Round Lake. May–Sept. Daily, weekly rates. Call 715-558-5803. Janet.
PLANTS & SHRUBS DIG OR PULL UP YOUR OWN SMALL TREE SEEDLINGS. 12” to 30” are $65.00 per 100. 30”-36” are $75.00 per 100. Trees 36” to 48” are $1.90 each. Wild Maple Trees are $2.00 per foot and start at 10 foot. Call Pete at 773-710-1402. MCKAY NURSERY COMPANY-WISCONSIN GROWN SINCE 1897. Provider of quality shade & ornamental trees, fruit & flowering trees, evergreens, shrubs, perennials, ground cover & vines. Design services & delivery available. Contact Eric at ezlandscapewi@gmail.com or call 608-909-1962 “Your McKay Independent Sales & Service Provider.”
Classified ads reach more than 181,000 mailboxes. RATES: For non-members of Wisconsin rural electric co-ops: one insertion, $25 minimum (up to 20 words); additional words, $1.25 each. For members of Wisconsin rural electric co-ops: one insertion, $14 minimum (up to 20 words); additional words, $.70 each. Count name, address, and phone number as part of ad. Please include zip code. FOR PROOF OF MEMBERSHIP, please include your address label from your copy of the magazine. FREQUENCY DISCOUNTS: 2% discount for 3 months; 5% for 6 months; 10% for 12 months. DEADLINE: 1st of the month prior to the month in which the ad is to appear. All classified ads must be paid in advance. There is no agency discount on classifieds. Make check or money order payable to: WECA. Mail to: WECN, Attn. Jennifer, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Ph: 608-467-4638. Email jennifer@weca.coop. We reserve the right to refuse ads.
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June 2020
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BRING ON SUMMER ely
Saf
fter a spring spent sheltering safely indoors, summer never looked so good! Wisconsin’s great outdoors provide endless outlets for recreation in settings that still allow for responsible social distancing. However, don’t let your guard down; there are still potential safety hazards you need to be aware of.
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Pay attention to weather reports before you plan any outdoor activities. If storms are in the forecast, save your outing for a safer time. If you’re already outside and you hear thunder, take shelter if you can. If you’re boating or kayaking, get off the open water at the first sign of thunder. If you’re swimming, get out of the water immediately. And if you’re hiking, do not seek shelter under a tree. Do not swim around docks with electrical equipment or boats plugged into shore power. If you are in the water and feel a tingle of electric current, shout to let others know, try to stay upright, tuck your legs up to make yourself smaller, and swim away from anything that could be energized. Do not head to boat or dock ladders to get out.
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Be aware of where power lines are when you’re boating or fishing. Make sure you don’t raise a mast or antenna when a power line is nearby, and make sure you cast your line away from any power lines to avoid contact.
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Carefully inspect the electrical system of your camper before using it. When you get to a campground, plug your camper into the power pedestal with a heavyduty, four-wire cord with a grounding wire, and not an extension cord. If you’re powering up your camper with a generator, be sure you use it only in open areas to prevent carbon-monoxide poisoning. Source: SafeElectricity
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Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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