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CONTENTS July 2022 Vol. 83 No. 1 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 $13 per year or $35 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.
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Battery Storage or Generator?
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Wisconsin’s Wakeup Call July risk of rolling blackouts is real.
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USPS number: 688-480. Postmaster: please send address changes to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703.
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Send correspondence to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Phone (608) 467-4650.
Co-op Members: Please send address changes to your local electric co-op. Contact information can be found on page 18.
For advertising opportunities please email geri@weca.coop. The appearance of advertising or events does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. We reserve the right to refuse advertisers.
Kids & Critters Cute co-op kids get cozy with their critters.
Web site: www.wecnmagazine.com.
WECA president & CEO editor associate editor contributing writer graphic designer advertising consultant editorial assistant
Wisconsin Favorites Learn the latest in agriculture at Farm Technology Days.
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Periodicals postage paid at Sun Prairie, Wis.
Steve Freese Dana Kelroy Mary Erickson Julie Lund Ann Bailey Geri Miller Jennifer Taylor
Consider these backup power options.
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Join us on
On the cover: Jacqie LaRock of Downsville, member of Dunn Energy Cooperative, submitted our cover photo this month for our Wisconsin Wildlife Photo Contest. See more entries on page 19.
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
6
NEWS BRIEFS
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MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
15 MY CO-OP 20 RECIPES 22 READER RECIPES 28 CLASSIFIEDS 30 EVENTS
Please recycle wecnmagazine.com
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6/17/22 11:59 AM
SYMBOL SEARCH HIDDEN OBJECT GAME
CHALLENGES Winning our June kitchen kit is Bayfield Electric Cooperative member Linda Jensen. She found the hidden ice cream cone on page 9 in the image of the man with the backpack. “Our farm outside Ashland has been in our family since 1898. We have been supplied by Bayfield Electric Cooperative since we had electricity. Always had good service with great employees. They light up our lives!” This month we challenge readers to find this firework in honor of the Fourth of July. Remember that the symbol can be anywhere and any size. One randomly selected winner will receive a Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News kitchen kit. One entry per household, please. Send entries by July 15.
Enter via the “Symbol Search” link on the homepage of wecnmagazine.com. You can also enter by mail (don’t forget to include the name of your cooperative):
SYMBOL SEARCH WECA 222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703
Good luck! 4
It feels a bit like we have a theme running through this month’s magazine: Challenges. Our main feature on page 12, “Wisconsin’s Wakeup Call,” outlines a very serious challenge that Wisconsin’s electric co-ops might face. A recent report by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation pinpoints the MISO region (which includes Wisconsin) at the highest risk for potential rolling blackouts this summer. On page 8, Steve Freese draws some parallels between what our country’s founding fathers faced back in 1776 to the challenges faced by the people in Ukraine today. On page 10, we help readers wade through backup power options and things to consider to maneuver through the challenges associated with power outages. Even our Wisconsin Favorites story this month features an event that helps farmers utilize the latest technology to overcome the challenge of thin margins and promotes technology to be more profitable. The good news? Electric cooperatives were born to overcome challenges. It began in the 1930s and 40s when investor-owned utilities chose not to bring power to rural America because it was too expensive. So early leaders of rural electrification rolled up their sleeves and formed cooperatives to power their homes and businesses. Wisconsin’s cooperatives continue to see supply-chain issues, record prices, severe weather, and potential energy shortfalls. But like always, we’re up to the challenge. On theme, we challenge you to reduce your energy use with some of our tips on page 23. Dana Kelroy Editor
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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6/8/22 2:09 PM
NEWS BRIEFS Dairyland Power Hosts Annual Meeting
Dairyland Power Cooperative (DPC) celebrated its 81st year of service at the co-op’s 2022 annual meeting in La Crosse on June 8. Despite challenges related to COVID-19 and subsequent supply-chain issues, DPC Chief Financial Officer Phillip Moilien reported strong financial performance at the cooperative, including total margins of $19.5 million, exceeding the budget projection of $16 million, and more than last year’s margin of $15.7 million. Moilien credited good fiscal management and strong performance for the positive financial report, saying key influences were member co-op loads slightly above budget, a favorable regional energy market, excellent availability of power plants during the most critical times of the year, and below-budget operational costs. “I’m pleased to report that our member cooperative average wholesale rate decreased 2.6% in 2021,” Moilien said. “In 2021, Dairyland provided $17 million of credits to members. Over its 80-year history, Dairyland has returned $144.7 million to its Class A member cooperatives.”
Biden Takes Action to Ease Supply-Chain Issues
President Joe Biden has used his executive power under the Defense Production Act (DPA) to boost domestic production of solar panels, electric transformers, heat pumps, insulation, and hydrogen-related equipment. The DPA allows the Department of Energy to invest in American producers of these products through purchases and direct investments. The move to use the DPA to support domestic manufacturing for grid equipment like transformers could help address supply-chain disruptions. Electric co-op managers across Wisconsin report difficulty in obtaining transformers, with months-long delays. Biden also issued a two-year waiver on potential new solar tariffs following an ongoing probe of solar parts imported from four Asian countries. 6
Gas Prices to Hit $6
The average price at the pump continues to skyrocket, setting new record highs across the country and the state almost daily. The average national price for regular unleaded topped $5 per gallon for the first time ever in June. AAA predicts the worst is yet to come, saying the national average could hit $6 per gallon by later this summer. Prices are highest in California, and lowest in Georgia. Wisconsin prices rank 26th among states.
Gas Relief Available for People in Need
Those impacted by COVID-19 may be eligible for funds under the Reimbursement of Universal Transportation Expenses program. The Foundation for Rural Housing is offering Kwik Trip gas cards or reimbursement for transportation costs associated with public transportation such as taxi or Uber. Eligible households will be at or below 125% of the federal poverty line. Reimbursements will total $110 to $350, depending on household size. For more information, email wrh@wisconsinruralhousing.org. The deadline to apply is August 31, 2022.
Dairyland Eyes Alma Site to Study Potential for Small Scale Nuclear
Dairyland Power Cooperative has applied for a grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to study the Alma location as a site for potential future Small Modular Reactors (SMR). This comes after Dairyland announced in February it had signed a memorandum of understanding with NuScale to evaluate the potential deployment of the company’s advanced nuclear technology. Nuclear energy is carbon free and supports co-op goals for carbon-pollution free generation. According to Dairyland, this is another step in a long-term process, and the study may take 10 years or more, allowing plenty of time for discussions.
Focus On Energy Touts Benefits of Efficiency
Every dollar invested in energy efficiency returns more than $4 to Wisconsin’s economy, according to an independent review released by Focus On Energy, which also gave the program high marks for customer satisfaction. According to the program, since 2011, Focus on Energy incentives and technical assistance have reduced emissions in Wisconsin equivalent to taking 15 million cars off the road and kept 69 million tons of carbon dioxide from entering the environment.
Quota Hit for “Keeping the Lights On” Specialty Plates
More than 500 Wisconsin drivers have “Keeping the Lights On” specialty plates on their vehicles, which means the Wisconsin Department of Transportation will continue to make them available, as long as the usage number remains above the 500 plate threshold. As of May 14, 2022, there were 511 valid plates, and 568 total issued since December. The specialty license plates recognize the state’s electric utility workers, and cost drivers only a one-time fee of $15. Vehicles that qualify to display the specialty plates include automobiles, motor homes, private trucks weighing 8,000 pounds or less, and farm trucks weighing 12,000 pounds or less.
New Daily Generation Record Set, Off-Season
According to Dairyland Power Cooperative, the John P. Madgett (JPM) coal-fired power plant set a new gross daily generation record on May 18. The new single-day generation of 9,625.344 megawatt-hours (MWh) surpasses the previous gross generation record of 9,622.47 MWh set during the polar vortex on Feb. 17, 2021. According to Dairyland, it is unusual to set a generation record outside of the peak hot and cold months. The high price of natural gas is the primary driver, as it spurs increased use of lower cost resources such as coal-fired generation and renewable energy.
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MESSAGE from the CEO
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, AMERICA!
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this war reaches far beyond the boundaries of one appy birthday, America! In just a few short country. days, we will celebrate the 246th anniversary According to the German Federal Office of Ecoof the signing of the Declaration of nomic Affairs and Export Controls, Ukraine accounts Independence on July 4, 1776. This significant milefor 11.5% of the world’s wheat market and Russia stone commemorates when we forged the birth of a for 16.8%. Combined, that is 28% of the new nation and no longer wanted to be ruled world’s wheat production. The disruption by a colonial empire from across a vast of war through bombing and/or sanctions ocean. has adversely affected the flow of this wheat When we were in school, we all learned into standard market supply chains. It will about the important dates and events of the likely affect the cost and availability of flour American Revolutionary War. It might be here at home. Even though most of this fair to say that most of us have forgotten wheat goes to Africa, there are other disrupmany of them by now. For example, on July tions in the global wheat market, particularly 2, 1776, Congress voted for independence with flooding in large portions of China’s and published the declaration two days later, Steve Freese wheat-producing regions. Global supply and on July 4. General George Washington read President and CEO demand will see challenges similar to what the document to his troops in New York City we have seen with gasoline prices. When raw materion July 9. Fighting began with the “shot heard round al is constrained, the price goes up because the people the world” on April 19, 1775, well before the Declawho need to eat it will still need to buy it. ration of Independence was signed, and did not end I expect about the time we start preparing to bake until September 3, 1783. The war disrupted the entire our Christmas cookies this winter (maybe sooner), American economy. The British Navy’s superiority we will see a spike in the price of all products that destroyed most American ships, crippling the flow of use wheat. It will have a ripple effect through our trade. The war forced our farmers to suffer tremeneconomy. Strong inflationary forces will not help the dously. Fortunately, the colonies received support situation either. This is just one more of the supplyfrom France and Spain, which ultimately helped the chain issues we will see continue throughout the sumAmericans win. mer and into fall/winter. I share this with you because of some unique Even with many of the challenges we are curparallels we are seeing today with Russia’s war of rently facing, it makes me appreciate ever so much aggression in Ukraine. Ukraine and its people are the bounty, the opportunities, and the freedoms we fighting for freedom and independence against a enjoy in this country. I pray that our farmers have a tyrannical foreign adversary trying to take over its bumper crop. I pray for peace in Ukraine. And finally, governmental institutions, much like what we faced I hope everyone in our electric cooperative family against England. Its economy has been dramatically truly enjoys our Independence Day and celebrates disrupted, and its farmers cannot sell their grain or the liberties and freedoms that our founding fathers even plant this year’s crop. Normally I would not talk envisioned for all of us 246 years ago. about this in my monthly column, but the impact of
America!
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FEATURE
BATTERY STORAGE OR GENERATOR?
P
ower outages can be more than a minor nuisance. Extreme weather can knock out the electric grid for days to weeks at a time. Even for shorter outage durations, those with electricitydependent medical equipment or who have home-based businesses are deeply impacted by loss of power. Recent intense, severe weather events are prompting many to consider off-grid solutions for energy during prolonged power outages. Gas-powered generators are a traditional choice for residential power generation, but new battery storage systems coupled with solar panels can also be a solution. There are pros and cons for each type of backup power system, so consumers should consider their personal power needs and budget. Sizing your home energy needs is a first step to deciding which system to install. Evaluate if it is necessary to power the whole
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house or just a few critical appliances. Tally up the reported energy use of each appliance that needs to remain operational to get a rough estimate of minimal energy needs. This can be a guide to choosing your backup power option with enough capacity. Gas-powered generators have the lowest upfront costs. These can either be portable, permanent, or standby systems. Portable generators typically cost between $400 and $1,500 and can use roughly 20 gallons of gasoline per day. Gas-powered generators are noisy and have the least output, making them more suited to occasional, short-duration power outages. Portable generators can be manually connected to a circuit panel, but an electrician must install a manual transfer switch to protect appliances from a power surge once electricity is restored. If not connected to a circuit breaker, appliances can be plugged directly
BACKUP POWER OPTIONS FOR CONSUMERS
into the generator but require a long, heavy-duty extension cord for safe operation. Portable generators also must be operated in well-ventilated areas and shielded from wet weather. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates there are 80 deaths per year from carbon monoxide (CO) exposure due to improperly operated portable generators. Availability of gasoline can also be a challenge during severe weather, and long-term storage of gasoline requires proper containers and stabilizers. Permanent, or standby, generators typically cost $2,000 to $5,000 and can have installation costs that run from a few thousand dollars to $10,000. These are connected directly to a residence and can be turned on automatically in the event of a power outage. Permanent generators can run on natural gas or propane. If connected to a natural gas line, these can run indefinitely
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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Installing solar panels and a battery storage system requires expensive upfront costs, but some of these costs can be off-set through yearround energy savings. Photo
courtesy of Tesla.
Permanent (standby) generators are connected directly to a residence and can be turned on automatically in the event of a power outage. Photo courtesy of Kohler
and power an entire home. Standby generators are suitable for frequent outages or occasional but sustained outages. Overall expenses for a solar and battery storage combination are much higher than a generator. The National Renewable Energy Lab estimates the average U.S. cost for installation to be around $1,200 to $1,500 per kilowatt of system capacity. This estimate includes the cost of the battery, installation, permitting, and inspection costs and is done at the time of solar panel installation. Adding a battery storage system to an existing solar installation is significantly more expensive and may require an inverter change. Compared to generators, this option is quieter and does not create local emissions like CO. The upside of a solar and battery storage system is the ability to offset the higher initial investment costs through year-round energy savings. Depending on the utility, consumers may also take advantage of time-of-use rates and use stored energy during times when the cost of energy is highest. However, a battery storage system can only provide 10 to 15 hours of continuous power. In weather situations that limit solar power generation, this would not be a long-term solution. There can be sizeable upfront costs for both generators and battery storage systems, but backup systems can bring great peace of mind when the power goes out. If you have questions about backup power options, contact your local electric cooperative. Katherine Loving writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. wecnmagazine.com
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6/13/22 9:28 AM
FEATURE
WISCONSIN’S WAKEUP CALL JULY RISK OF ROLLING BLACKOUTS IS REAL
C
lark Electric Cooperative General Manager and CEO Tim Stewart has worked in the industry for more than 36 years, and he has never experienced an emergency load reduction, or a “rolling blackout,” before. But that could all change this summer, and July is the month when Wisconsin is most at risk of needing more electricity than we will have. “You have to be very concerned about the potential shortfall,” Stewart said. In May, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) released its 2022 Summer Reliability Assessment, which predicts which regions of the country will have the ability to generate enough power to match the potential need in the hot summer months. Only one region was classified as “high risk” of blackouts. It isn’t Texas or California, although they have an elevated risk. The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) region, which directs the power supply for 15 states including Wisconsin and parts of Canada, is the only high-risk region, which could mean forced outages, even here in the Badger State. The warning comes even though, according to Dairyland Power Cooperative, it has adequate gener-
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ating capability to meet its own load obligations for its member cooperatives, and data show that Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota have capacity that exceeds required reserves, but Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, and Michigan do not. Regional transmission organizations, like MISO, are grid operators that pool all electricity produced in the region and dispatch power where needed, regardless of where it is produced. Overall, MISO expects summer demand could reach 124 gigawatts over the entirety of the region, but there will be only 119 gigawatts of available energy, which means all of the MISO region, including Wisconsin, could be subject to controlled blackouts. According to the NERC report, in the MISO region, electricity demand is up 1.7% from one year ago, but generation capacity is down 2.3%, pushing MISO’s slim margin into the red. “More extreme temperatures, higher generation outages, or low wind conditions expose the MISO North and Central areas to higher risk of temporary operator-initiated load shedding to maintain system reliability,” the report reads. Taylor Electric Cooperative General Manager and CEO Ken Ceaglske says the risk of blackouts here is
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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very real. “We keep edging closer and closer to the limits of the system. The power grid is the type of system that is amazing and can do everything we expect of it, until it can’t. My greatest concern is that it will take a major event to realize that we are relying on resources that are not reliable, to maintain essential services.” “As an attempt to decarbonize the energy industry, we’ve had a lot of coal generation retired. Coal is baseload power—it’s readily available— and that’s primarily been filled with wind and solar, which is intermittent power,” Stewart said. Dunn Energy Cooperative General Manager and CEO Jesse Singerhouse agreed, and added, “As a country we’ve put too much emphasis on intermittent resources that can’t meet our demand. Combine that with challenges to transmission lines, and challenges to new natural gas and nuclear power plants, and also supply-chain issues,
and we have the problem we do today.” Transmission is critical to the grid, particularly with the expansion of wind and solar, since the technology that would allow renewable power to be stored long enough to stave off an extreme heat event does not exist yet. Therefore, it needs to be sent where it can be used, or it is lost. According to the NERC report, a key transmission line connecting MISO’s northern and southern areas is out of service due to storm damage last winter. The proposed Cardinal-Hickory Creek line, which will connect a substation near Madison to another in the windrich state of Iowa, continues to face legal challenges from environmental groups. “On a typical day, if you look at the mix of fuels used to generate electricity in the MISO region, renewables do very well,” Stewart said, “But in an extreme weather event during critical
Image courtesy of NERC
conditions, we depend on coal, gas, and nuclear to keep the power on.” In what has become a divisive political debate, others blame gas and coal emissions for climate change, which they say is causing the extreme heat events and droughts that result in elevated demand and point to the blackout risk as more reason to retire coal and natural gas plants. But electric co-op managers say you can be both pro-renewable and anti-blackout. “I’m a big believer in an ‘all of the above’ approach to electricity generation,” Stewart said. “Renewables play a big part in how the future of electricity looks in this country. But we are not at the point where we can sacrifice baseload power for intermittency.” “I think that we need to ease up on the high-speed transition from reliable baseload power plants to intermittent resources like wind and solar,” Ceaglske said. “And we need to consider modern nuclear units as a viable option to provide steady and reliable power.” The reliability report highlights additional vulnerabilities to the grid. According to NERC, power inverters, which are electronic controls used to link wind and solar farms to the high-voltage grid, are supposed to be programmed to “ride through” shortterm disturbances, but often they are not, which compounds the stress on the grid. NERC’s report also cites an increased danger of potential Russian cyberattacks on the nation’s power systems as an added threat to reliability. For today though, Stewart says his main message to members is, don’t panic. All utilities, including electric distribution cooperatives and Dairyland Power Cooperative, as well as MISO each have multi-step plans, ready for implementation, that are
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aimed at minimizing the impact a forced rolling blackout would have on members, should it ever happen. Electric cooperatives have been working for decades on plans they hoped to never have to use. The plans include specific steps that precede a rolling blackout, include efforts to reduce load, or cut back on the amount of electricity being used, first voluntarily, then systematically, if necessary. The worst-case scenario is total grid failure, which would happen if the load reduction would be unsuccessful, and the demand remained for electricity that is not available. Similar to running your car out of oil, this creates a domino effect of technical malfunction that could take months to repair and would be extremely costly. Stewart says each co-op has its own plan, but should Clark Electric Cooperative members face rolling blackouts, the disruption would be rotated. This means one group of members may face power outages for an hour, then they would come back on-line, and another group would go off, and so on, until the crisis is over. “When you have a bad winter storm, some members can lose power for days,” Stewart said. “IF there is a rolling blackout, it is unlikely to be prolonged. We can get through this.” The most important thing members can do this summer, he says, is to heed the warnings and do your part to reduce electricity use, especially on hot days.
“When you hear ‘peak alert’ or ‘summer shift,’ please take it seriously,” Stewart said. “Grill out instead of using your oven, do laundry at night or early morning, not in the heat of the afternoon, use your air conditioning sparingly, and please do not ‘overcool’ your house in anticipation of an outage.” Ceaglske adds, “Use this opportunity to reinforce the simple lessons we teach our kids: Turn off the lights when you leave the room, turn off the TV if you are not watching it, don’t stand around with the fridge door open, etc. The cheapest power is the power we don’t need to generate, and that’s also what’s best for the grid.” As we continue to transition to more clean energy while developing the technology needed for renewable storage, this “all-hands-on-deck” approach to managing the grid to help prevent blackouts may be the new normal that will continue long beyond the hot summer months. Riverland Energy Cooperative General Manager Jerry Sorenson says they are working to educate members about the potential for blackouts, in what may be a Wisconsin wakeup call. “The concept of turning off power to the members goes against everything we stand for and the reason we exist. We have to work together to resolve this before something really bad happens.”—Julie Lund
How Americans Use Electricity
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ollectively, small household chores consume more electricity than most people think. By shifting laundry, running dishwashers, and using other small appliances to evening or early morning hours, co-op members can significantly reduce load. These efforts, especially on hot days, can help ease strain on the grid.
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WILD WISCONSIN Thanks to all of our readers who have submitted beautiful photos for our Wisconsin Wildlife Photo Contest! We’re sharing a sampling of what we’ve received so far. The contest is open through July 29, so there’s still time for you to enter. Upload your best photos of wildlife in Wisconsin for a chance to win a Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News kitchen kit. Go to wecnmagazine.com and upload in the “Submit a Photo” tab.
Virginia McCain, member of Jump River Electric Cooperative
Heather Truog, member of Eau Claire Energy Cooperative
Joni Mirehouse, member of Riverland Energy Cooperative
Christine Magnuson, member of Vernon Electric Cooperative
Jana Hundt, member of Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services
Karen Schanhofer, member of Oakdale Electric Cooperative
Mary Jo Bell, member of Riverland Energy Cooperative
Stephen Hubert, member of Jackson Electric Cooperative
Barbara Shannon, member of Dunn Energy Cooperative
Terri Roehrig, member of Riverland Energy Cooperative wecnmagazine.com
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Blueberry Oatmeal Cookies Recipe and photo courtesy of the US Highbush Blueberry Council.
A-TISKET,
A-TASKET,
FILL YOUR PICNIC BASKET
Ready for a refreshing take on a classic? We’ve got just what you need: blueberry oatmeal cookies. All the goodness of grandma’s favorite recipe with a handful of blueberries added to tickle your taste buds. Grab the family and make this sweet treat together for a special occasion or bake a batch of blueberry oatmeal cookies and surprise your neighbors with a few just for fun. Either way, your home will be left with the lingering smell of fresh baked blueberry oatmeal cookies.
1-1/2 cups flour 1 cup rolled oats 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup brown sugar 1 large egg 2 Tbsp milk 1 tsp vanilla extract 1-1/4 cups fresh blueberries Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a large bowl combine flour, oats, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. In another large bowl beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy and well blended. Add egg, milk, and vanilla; continue beating until smooth. Stir in flour mixture. Beat on low speed just until blended. Stir in blueberries. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls onto lightly greased baking sheets. Bake approx. 12 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool on sheets for 4 minutes. Remove to wire racks to finish cooling. Yield: 2 dozen cookies.
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RECIPES Blueberry Pineapple Salsa
Recipe and photo courtesy of the US Highbush Blueberry Council. A versatile and mouth-watering addition to any appetizer or meal, this blueberry pineapple salsa is the perfect combination of tangy and sweet. Add as a topping to fish or chicken for a meal that’s sure to satisfy or toss in a bowl to serve with tortilla chips for a deliciously fresh appetizer. No matter how you serve it, our blueberry pineapple salsa will take your meal to the next level.
2 cups fresh blueberries 1 cup finely diced fresh pineapple 1 jalapeño pepper, seeds and membrane removed, minced 2–3 Tbsp lime juice, divided 1/2 tsp lime zest 3 Tbsp chopped cilantro 1/4 cup diced red onion Kosher salt, as needed
Combine blueberries, pineapple, jalapeño, 2 tablespoons of the lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, and red onion. Season with salt and additional lime juice as needed. Serve with tortilla chips or as an accompaniment to fish or chicken. Yield: 18 portions (2 tablespoons each).
Moroccan Chicken and Apricot Hand Pies Recipe and photo courtesy of Ardent Mills and HomeBaking.org. Pair these savory pastries with a fresh salad for a complete lunch or serve as a snack or appetizer.
Blueberry Almond Chicken Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe and photo courtesy of the US Highbush Blueberry Council. Liven up that lunch bag. You’ll be so happy when you bite into blueberry almond chicken salad lettuce wraps. Crispy, flavorful goodness, but don’t worry, you’re still eating smart. These wraps are yogurt based, so they’re healthy—and an excellent source of vitamin A. Crunch away!
1/2 cup plain, fat-free Greek yogurt 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp pepper 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped 1 cup blueberries 1/2 cup celery, chopped 1/4 cup scallions, chopped 8 lettuce leaves 2 Tbsp almonds, sliced and toasted In a bowl, combine yogurt, basil, salt, and pepper until blended. Add chicken, blueberries, celery, and scallions; toss until evenly coated. Arrange lettuce leaves on serving platter and top with chicken mixture, dividing evenly between lettuce leaves. Top with almonds. Serves 8.
Pastry 2-1/2 cups pastry flour 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup butter, cubed 2 eggs, divided 2 tsp white vinegar Ice water In food processor, pulse together pastry flour and salt. Add butter; pulse 3 or 4 Filling 1 Tbsp unsalted butter 1/4 cup chopped onion 1 clove garlic, minced 1/2 cup diced red pepper 1/4 tsp cumin 1/4 tsp oregano 1/4 tsp salt 1/4 tsp pepper Pinch cinnamon (optional) 1/4 cup diced dried apricots 1 cup shredded cooked chicken 3 Tbsp sodium-reduced chicken broth Meanwhile, melt butter in a skillet set over medium heat; sauté onion and garlic for approx. 3 minutes or until softened. Add red pepper; cook for 5–6 minutes or until tender. Add cumin,
times or until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some larger pieces. In a measuring cup, whisk 1 egg with vinegar; add enough ice water to make 1/2 cup. Pour over flour mixture; pulse just until dough starts to clump together. Transfer to lightly floured surface and knead a few times or until dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 45 minutes. oregano, salt, pepper, and cinnamon (if using). Add apricots, chicken, and broth to skillet; simmer for 3–5 minutes or until chicken is moistened. Let cool. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. On a lightly floured surface, roll out dough to scant 1/4-inch thickness. Cut into 4-inch rounds, re-rolling scraps once, to make 18 rounds. Transfer rounds to parchment paper-lined baking sheet, approx. 1 inch apart. Place a heaping tablespoonful of filling onto one half of each round, leaving a border all around. Whisk remaining egg with 1 tablespoon water; brush edges with some of the egg wash. Fold pastry over and seal edges with fork. Brush tops with egg wash. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until golden and crisp. Yield: 18 hand pies. wecnmagazine.com
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READER RECIPES
Submit your favorite recipes to be featured on our reader recipe page. Email to jennifer@weca.coop or submit directly at http://wecnmagazine.com/submit-a-recipe/. Due to food safety issues, we cannot accept canning recipes.
Cole Slaw DONNA BUNDE, ELK MOUND 1 clove garlic 1 cabbage, shredded 3 Tbsp vegetable oil 1 onion, chopped 2 carrots, shredded 1 tsp salt 1/2 cup sugar Dash of pepper Dill, to taste Parsley, to taste 3 Tbsp vinegar
REQUESTS FROM OUR READERS
Clayton and Alice Gore, members of Taylor Electric, are looking for an “old fashion Hallmark beans and bacon recipe.” SEND TO: WECN, Reader Recipes, 222 West Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703-2719 or jennifer@weca.coop.
Cut garlic clove in half and rub inside of glass bowl. Add cabbage, vegetable oil, and onion; mix. Add salt, sugar, pepper, dill, parsley, and vinegar; mix well. The secret to this recipe is to coat the cabbage well with the oil before adding the remaining ingredients.
STRAWBERRY CRUNCH CAKE SANDY DRESCHER, NEILLSVILLE This is my favorite strawberry recipe.
Nut Mixture 2 Tbsp sugar 1 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup pecan pieces 1 tsp cinnamon Combine all ingredients, stir well.
Cake 1 cup butter 1-1/4 cups sugar 2 eggs 1 cup sour cream 2 cups flour 1/2 tsp baking soda 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 2 (16 oz) pkgs frozen strawberries, drained, reserve juice Cream butter and sugar, add eggs, and beat well. Blend in sour cream. Add dry ingredients and mix well. Spread half of batter
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into a prepared 9-x-13-inch pan, spoon drained berries over batter. Sprinkle half of the nut mixture over berries, cover with remaining batter, top with remaining nut mixture. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
Sauce / Topping 5 Tbsp cornstarch Reserved berry juice Whipped topping (optional) Cream butter and sugar In a small saucepan, combine cornstarch and reserved berry juice; cook until thickened. Serve cake with sauce and whipped topping (optional).
Ramp Pesto with Basil and Spinach DARLENE SEELOS, CORNUCOPIA This recipe makes a bright and spicy pesto, so either you’ll think a little goes a long way or, if you’re like me, you’ll have to stop yourself from eating the whole batch straight from the bowl of the food processor. Assuming there’s some left, toss it with hot pasta or quinoa, spoon it into a frittata, spread it on toast, dollop it onto fish, chicken, or steak—you get the idea…
1/2 cup pine nuts 5 oz ramps, chopped (approx. 2 gently-packed cups) 1-1/2 oz basil leaves (approx. 2 gently-packed cups) 2-1/2 oz baby spinach leaves (approx. 2 gently-packed cups) 1/2 tsp fine sea salt Juice of 1 lemon (approx. 3 Tbsp) 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 cup grated pecorino Romano cheese Place the pine nuts in a small, dry frying pan over medium heat and toast until lightly browned in spots, stirring or tossing in the pan occasionally, about five minutes. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t burn. Let cool slightly and pour into a food processor fitted with a blade. Trim any roots from the ramps and chop the bulbs, stems, and leaves into bite-sized pieces. Add to food processor along with basil, spinach, salt, and lemon juice; pulse until finely chopped. With the machine running, pour in the olive oil and process until oil is incorporated. Turn off processor and stir in cheese with a spoon. Use immediately or store tightly covered in the fridge for up to a few days. May also be frozen for up to 1 year.
Rhubarb Cobbler MARLENE RYGH, SOUTH WAYNE This has been a family favorite and the recipe is from my great aunt.
Bottom Layer 3 cups rhubarb, diced 1 cup sugar 1 Tbsp butter, cut into small pieces Layer rhubarb, then sugar, into a 9-x13-inch pan. Evenly distribute butter pieces on top of the rhubarb/sugar layer.
Top Layer 1 egg 1/2 cup shortening 1/2 cup milk 1 cup sugar 1 cup flour 1 tsp baking powder Mix top layer ingredients together with a mixer and spread over rhubarb/sugar layer. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes until nicely browned.
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5 WAYS TO SAVE
During times of peak energy usage Cutting back on your energy use during peak hours of demand (generally 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer) has always been important in helping your electric cooperative control its wholesale energy costs and keep rates stable, but this summer it’s more important than ever (see page 12). Here are some simple steps you can take.
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When it comes to household chores, become an early bird…or a night owl. For example, start a load of laundry before you leave for work in the morning, and start your dishwasher right before going to bed. Let the dishes air dry overnight.
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Unplug for entertainment. Reach beyond the electronics and pull out a board game, or read a book, or take a walk through the neighborhood— the options are endless!
Ease up on the air conditioner. If you take some other steps to help keep your house comfortable, such as keeping the curtains closed on hot, sunny afternoons and using a ceiling fan to push the cool air down, you might find you’re plenty comfortable with the temperature set a few degrees higher. Just remember that fans Source: energy. cool people, not rooms— gov turn them off when you leave the room.
Sources: U.S. Department of Energy, International Journal of Research
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You don’t need solar panels to use solar energy—just hang your clothes outside to dry rather than run your dryer. Not only does line-drying save energy, it’s also easier on your clothes, eliminates static cling (no need for dryer sheets!), and the sun can help bleach and disinfect your laundry. Plus, your clothes will smell nice and fresh!
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Eat alfresco! Ovens are heavydrawing appliances, plus they heat up your house, which might tempt you to set your air conditioner a few degrees lower. Using small appliances like microwaves helps, but even better is to pack a picnic basket and find a shady spot outside, or fire up the grill for a cookout. These outdoor options save energy, and they’re just plain fun! wecnmagazine.com
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TRADITION
MEETS
TECHNOLOGY IN CLARK COUNTY LEARN THE LATEST IN AGRICULTURE AT FARM TECHNOLOGY DAYS
W
ith its neat red barn and towering silos set against 800 acres of rolling fields and cropland, Roehl Acres farm near Loyal in Clark County is the very image of Wisconsin’s Dairyland at its idyllic, pastoral best. This serene setting, owned and operated by a three-generation farm family and home to more than 500 registered dairy cattle, is exactly what you’d expect to see when visiting the numberone dairy-production county in the state. Come July 12–14, however, the sight will take an unexpected turn. As host farm for the 2022 Wisconsin Farm Technology Days (WFTD), Roehl Acres, owned by the Dennis and Suzie Roehl family, will be transformed into a bustling city all its own, with tents housing every kind of agriculture-related exhibit imaginable and demonstrations of all kinds on the surrounding fields. Tens of thousands of visitors are expected to pass through the site over those three days, learning the latest in farming equipment, techniques, and services. Co-hosting the event is neighboring Rustic Occasions, a former dairy barn converted into a wedding and event space, operated by Doug and Kim Roehl. Both Roehl operations exemplify this year’s WFTD theme of “Tradition Meets Technology.” Purchased in 1967 by Dennis Roehl’s parents, Roehl Acres began as a traditional dairy farm and adapted to new technologies over the years to include the latest in robotic milkers today. Rustic Occasions showcases some of the unique possibilities for dairy farms to expand into agritourism.
Taking in Tent City
On its surface, Farm Technology Days may seem to be an event for just farmers, but its relevance extends to anyone with a stake in the agriculture industry, and that’s just about everyone Photo courtesy of WFTD
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WISC NSIN FAVORITES
who lives in Wisconsin. After all, agriculture is a huge economic driver here, pouring a whopping $104.8 billion annually into the state’s economy, according to the latest Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection statistics. Those same statistics show agriculture provides 435,700 jobs, or 11.8 percent of the state’s employment. Furthermore, WFTD is a spectacle not unlike a great amusement park, with entertainment mixed in with the educational displays and all the services needed—including parking, plenty of food stands, and a family care area for simple child-care needs—to make for a fun-filled, family-friendly day. “For first-time visitors, I would just say in general they would be amazed at all of the things that are packed into this event,” said Mike Ruff, director of operations at Clark Electric Cooperative and a member of the 2022 WFTD Executive Committee. “Tent City is huge and everything is built on a farm that otherwise has none of this on it. But by the time of the event there will literally be a small city there that’s packed
with events and equipment, everything from lawn mowers and small tractors all the way up to the big equipment that farmers use.” Other exhibits, Ruff said, focus more on rural life than specifically on farming, featuring displays of items like yard equipment, outdoor woodburning stoves, and ATVs. Activities beyond the many exhibits include tours via tram of Roehl Acres, where guests can watch the robotic milkers in action and take the opportunity to feed a calf, and of the Rustic Occasion event barn, where there will be cooking demonstrations and a dance club. Guests can also see vintage equipment at the Heritage Display, watch a demonstration of old-time “checkrow” planting and cultivating at the Heritage Plot, and check out the horses in the equine tent. New this year is Farm Tech Fest on July 13, an evening of country music featuring Joe Nichols, Sawyer Brown, and Madison County. In addition, camping is available on site for both exhibitors and attendees for the first time this year. wecnmagazine.com
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Cooperative Touch
As one of the 24 volunteers to serve on the 2022 WFTD Executive Committee, Ruff has been heavily involved in the planning for this year’s event, but he’s just one of many Clark Electric Cooperative representatives to contribute. The co-op is a silver-level sponsor of this year’s Farm Technology Days, and virtually all employees and directors are donating their time and service in one way or another, whether it’s by serving on one of the planning committees, helping to set up temporary electric service at the site, staffing one of three planned co-op exhibitor booths, or volunteering with any other service during the event itself. “Farm Tech Days is the premiere event for farming and the agriculture community,” Clark Electric General Manager and CEO Tim Stewart said. “It takes a lot of people and a lot of resources to make this event happen. Clark County has some of the largest concentrations of farms—dairy farms in particular—of any county in Wisconsin, and the vast majority of those dairy farms are on our lines, so we felt that we really needed to be a major player in helping this event be as successful as it could be.” Furthermore, Stewart pointed out that WFTD has a direct impact on the significant portion of the co-op’s membership that farms. “This really focuses on farming and technology, and margins have gotten razor thin in farming,” he added. “So an event that showcases advances that help make farming more profitable is something that we really need to be promoting and be involved in.” One of the co-op’s major contributions to the event is setting up the temporary electric service needed to power Tent City. Ruff explained that the co-op has a primary line running along the west side of where Tent City will be located. The co-op is donating use of the materials and equipment to establish temporary service from that line, with Clark Electric operations personnel among those volunteering their time to do the work. After the event is finished, the entire system will be taken down.
Touchstone Balloon Clark Electric’s presence will be felt in the air as well as on the ground. A special feature of this year’s WFTD will be the Touchstone Energy balloon, courtesy of Clark Electric and Touchstone Energy. The last time the Touchstone-branded hot-air balloon made an appearance at Farm Technology Days was the last time it was held in Clark County— in 2005 at Malm’s Rolling Acres near Loyal. Alice in Dairyland was one of many guests at that event to take a tethered balloon ride. Weather permitting, tethered rides
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in the balloon may be available this year as well, with the current Alice in Dairyland on hand to take a ride if the opportunity arises. In addition, Clark Electric will be partnering with some neighboring electric cooperatives in showcasing a variety of electric vehicles across from where the Touchstone balloon will be set up.
Co-op Principles in Action
Clark Electric’s significant role in Farm Technology Days is a perfect example of the Seventh Cooperative Principle, “Concern for Community,” in action. Last year’s WFTD brought more than 52,000 people over three days to Huntsinger Farms in Eau Claire. That’s roughly one and a half times the population of all of Clark County. “It’s a tremendous undertaking,” Stewart said of the event. “It involves a lot of volunteers to make it work.” Volunteers are needed to take care of everything from staffing the tents, conducting the tours, parking cars, taking care of garbage and recycling, and mowing and trimming the grounds. Ruff said the Executive Committee tallied about 20,000 volunteer hours that are needed to simply staff the three-day event, not including the time to set up the site and break it all down afterward. Local businesses, organizations, school groups, and individuals all step up and work together to make it all happen. “I think this event really exemplifies that seventh principle, with small co-ops and small towns coming together for the good of the whole community,” Ruff said, adding that Clark Electric personnel will be working alongside volunteers from Excel Energy as well as local electricians—most of them Clark Electric members themselves—to set up and break down the temporary service system for Tent City. Just as the many community groups and individuals give generously to support Farm Technology Days, the event gives right back. “Any profits go to nonprofit organizations around the community: 4-H clubs, church groups, organizations like that,” Ruff explained. “Community and surrounding organizations that volunteer to help will get something back. It all goes back into the community.” All in all, visiting WFTD is a great way to experience the Dairy State at its very best.—Mary Erickson
Farm Technology Days will be held July 12–14 at Roehl Acres farm, N7779 County Highway K, Loyal, WI 54446. Daily show hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information including tickets and camping information, visit wifarmtechdays.org or call 920-644-3551.
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WISC NSIN FAVORITES
Top left: The Touchstone Energy balloon will make an appearance at Farm Technology Days this year. Weather permitting, tethered balloon rides may be available. Photo courtesy of Richland Electric Cooperative Top right: Farm Technology Days features field demonstrations of the latest in agriculture equipment. Photo courtesy of WFTD Above left: The 2022 Farm Technology Days will be co-hosted by Roehl Acres and Rustic Occasions near Loyal, both sites owned and operated by members of the Roehl family. Photo courtesy of Farm Technology Days Above right: Farm Technology Days draws tens of thousands of visitors each year. Last year, more than 52,000 people attended over three days. Photo courtesy of WFTD
Right: At last year’s Farm Technology Days, held at Huntsinger Farms on Eau Claire Energy Cooperative’s lines, Eau Claire Energy’s electric vehicle was a hit with visitors. This year, Clark Electric is planning another EV display, with electric vehicles from Clark Electric and neighboring electric cooperatives. Photo courtesy of Eau Claire Energy Cooperative
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CLASSIFIEDS Miscellaneous
Plants & Shrubs
WANTED: Paying cash for WWII German, Japanese flags, daggers, swords, guns, etc. Also, lever-action rifles. 715-340-1974.
M C K AY N U R S E R Y C O M P A N Y WISCONSIN GROWN SINCE 1897 Provider of quality shade & ornamental trees, fruit & flowering trees, evergreens, shrubs, perennials, ground cover, and vines. Design services & delivery available. Contact Eric at ezlandscapewi@gmail.com or call 608-462-3197. “Your McKay Independent Sales & Service Provider.”
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. CHAINSAWS WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE. Buying 1 or 100 McCulloch, Pioneer, Jonsereds, Echo, STIHL, Homelite, Remington, Mall. Buying all brands and sizes. Non-running, running, seized, parts. Let me know what you have—will travel. Call Chainsaw Mike at 715-828-9414. A K L R E G I S T E R E D M I N I AT U R E SCHNAUZERS. Puppies for sale. Call or text 715-305-0651 for more info. 54449.
Real Estate VACATION RENTAL. Cape Coral, FL Beautiful 3 bedroom home on gulf access canal. 10,000 lb boat lift. Weekly rental or more. Call Al. 608-295-7433.
ADVERTISE WITH US
WANTED: LOOKING TO BUY 1957-1967 CORVETTE. Running or not. 715-572-3469 Please leave message if no answer. WANTED: RED WING STONEWARE . Crocks, beater jars, bean pots, poultry fountains/feeders with advertising. 608-7672282 email slawag@tds.net. SEPTIC PROBLEMS: Do you have standing water on your drain field? Have you been told you need a new expensive septic system? I have an alternative that works, also comes with a warranty (no digging). Call toll free 855-797-6072 or email mmtagm@ yahoo.com. OLD MOVIES TO DVD—Transferring 8mm, VHS, slides, and all formats. Saving family memories! Special on now! DVD Productions. Gene 715-827-2302.
MORE THAN 152,000 MAILBOXES EACH MONTH Reach rural readers geri@weca.coop
Classified ads reach more than 152,000 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—Classifieds, 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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IT’S OUR WAY OF LIFE
Being there, every minute, or every day. As your hometown electric cooperative, it’s not just our way of doing business, it’s our way of life. And as a Touchstone Energy ® Cooperative member, that means value that goes far beyond the energy we provide, value you can’t really put a price on.
Do you have… OUR 60th YEAR
4 A special recipe? 4 A beautiful photo? 4 A fun event planned in your community?
Please share with us! Go to wecnmagazine.com to upload recipes, photos, and community events. Your submissions may appear in the magazine and/or on our Facebook page.
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WISCONSIN EVENTS All July Bloomin’ Greenhouse Tour—Clark County area. All-day, April–October. Self-guided tour of Clark County’s greenhouses and garden centers. Annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, grasses, trees, shrubs, hostas, daylilies, mums, fairy garden supplies, garden art, home décor, and so much more! 715-255-9100. June 30–July 2, 7–9, 14–16, 21–23, 28–30 Tours and Burger Nights on the Farm—Mondovi. Together Farms, W93 Norden Rd. Thurs. & Fri. 4–9 p.m. and Sat. 12–9 p.m. Every Thurs.–Sat. from May 5–October 8. Burger Nights are unique, casual nights on our small Wisconsin family farm. Tours on Sat. nights. www.TogetherFarms.com. 1–2 Christmas in July Craft Sale—New Lisbon. Winding Rivers United Methodist Church, Fri. 9 a.m.–3 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Located 3/4-mile down the road behind McDonalds. 608-562-3487. 2 Art and More on the Lakeshore—Phillips. Elk Lake Park, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Arts and crafts fair, youth 3-on-3 basketball tournament, magic shows, children’s museum, a mobile escape room, and more! 2–3 Rodeo—Phillips. Price County Fairgrounds, 7–10 p.m. Two nights of buckin’ broncs, barrel races, and fun! 3 Sesquicentennial Celebration— Millston; Community Park, noon. Chicken-que; costume, beard, and mustache contests. Kids carnival, games, parade, wagon rides, canoe rides, music in the park, fireworks at 10 p.m. 608-343-3936. 4 Tractor Pull—Jump River. Community Park, all day. Tractor pull, parade, horseshoe tournament, ice cream, food, and refreshments. Fireworks at 10 p.m. 5, 12, 19, 26 Farmer’s Market—Ridgeland. 101 Main St., 3–7 p.m. Every Tues., May 31– Aug. 23. No fee for vendors. 6 Brat Fry—Iola. Sentry Grocery Store parking lot, 125 Meadow Road; 9 a.m.– 6 p.m. Rain or shine. 414-550-7171. 13 Comedy Night on the Farm—Mondovi. Together Farms, W93 Norden Rd., 5–9 p.m. A feature act, followed by headliner Mary Mack. 16 Tractor Ride for Cancer—Chaseburg. Village Park, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Lunch in Genoa.
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$20 each. Wagon rides available or you may drive your own tractor. Tractors must be able to go at least 12 mph. UTV’s are also welcome. 608-483-2578.
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16, 17 Antique Tractor Expo & Car Show—Phillips. Price County Fairgrounds, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Music, food, beverages, children’s activities, two buildings of antique machinery, displays of tractors and other vehicles, old log school, and a mystery item. No fee for displays, demos, and vendors. Sat. antique tractor pull with eliminator and bake sale. Sun. car show. Admission is a donation for a button. Camping available. 17 Ice Cream Social & Artists in the Park—Beloit. Beckman Mill Rock County Park, 12–4 p.m. Cake, ice cream, root beer floats, kids’ activities, tours, artists painting in the park, and live music. 608-751-1551. 18 Charcoal Chicken Dinner—Stanley. Otter Lake Day Use Park, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Music by Nashville recording artist Red Higgins. 715-644-1099.
29 Collector Car Show—Eau Claire County Expo Center, 5:30–8:30 p.m. Free. Bring your collector car for display. 29–31 OneFest 2022—Chippewa Falls. Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, all day. Christian music festival featuring national artists. Two stages, 3 days, and a ton of family-friendly activities. 29–31 Christmas in July—Ellsworth. Yonder Way, 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Unique Christmas gifts, decor, ornaments, and more. 715-716-0928. 30 AAUW Art Fair on the Green—La Crosse. Myrick Park, all day. 80 artists. Free admission but donations accepted for local scholarships and grants. Art raffle and refreshments. 608-399-1751. 30 Pork and Corn Dinner—Tigerton. Morris Town Hall, 4–7p.m. All-you-can-eat pork, sweet corn, baby red potatoes, etc. Take-outs available. Adults $12, kids 8 and under $6.
22–24 Good News Tent Revival—Viroqua. Cornerstone Christian Academy, 6:30 p.m. Gospel program with light meal provided afterward. No collection, free admission, family event. 608-769-6904.
30 Ralph JaDoul Benefit—Blair. Sportsman Club, 12–11:45 p.m. Ralph is going through his second battle with Multiple Myeloma cancer in less than 3 years. Raffles, food, silent and live auctions, 50/50, tip pulls, & more. 608-799-0676.
24 History of One Room School Houses— Wittenberg. WOW Space, 114 W. Vinal St., 12–5 p.m. Registration starts at 11 a.m. Ages 4–12. Small fee to participate.
30, 31 ‘Mounted Justice’ Cowboy Shooting Sports— Eau Claire. County Expo Center, starts Sat. at 10 a.m. and Sun. at 9 a.m. Free admission. Food available on grounds.
24 Car Show & Swap Meet—Ellsworth. Pierce County Fairgrounds, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Adults $5; 12 and under free. Farm toy show, swap spots, and car corral all cost $10 plus admission. Breakfast and lunch available. Music by Rock-Man. Trophies presented at 3 p.m. 715-220-5724. 27–31 Monroe County Fair—Tomah. Recreation Park (parking lot), Wed. 6–10 p.m., Thur.–Sat. 12–4 p.m. & 6–10 p.m., Sun. 12–4 p.m. Family Free Fun Stage daily. Learn-N-Earn Small Animal Learning Center, kids pedal pull, championship rodeo, Motokazie motocross action, bands nightly, strolling acts, commercial and food vendors, 4H & FFA exhibits. 29 Kindschi Pedal Pull—Eau Claire. County Expo Center, 12–5 p.m. Registration starts at 11 a.m. Ages 4–12. Small fee to participate.
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Wisconsin Events is a public service for our readers. Due to space limits, we may need to eliminate details, so be sure to include a phone number (with area code) where callers may obtain more info. If we receive more listings than space allows us to print, we reserve the right to select those we believe will be of interest to the greatest number of readers. Please no virtual events. Events can also be mailed to: WECN, Events, 222 W. Washington Ave. Ste. 680, Madison WI 53703-2719 DEADLINE: 1st of the month prior to the month in which the event is to appear.
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6/15/22 3:19 PM
YOUNG MEMBERS
Kids and Critters July 2022
1. Annabelle cuddles her new kitten, Whiskers. Photo submitted by Jon Doud, a member of Bayfield Electric. 2. James has his calf all ready for the Little Britches Calf Show, and Avery is ready to help. Photo submitted by Grandpa Dave Turek, a member of Dunn Energy. 3. Lorelei is all smiles with her cat, Stardust. Photo submitted by Jon Doud, a member of Bayfield Electric.
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4. Wyatt used some of his fishing worms to connect with his chicken friend. Photo submitted by Grandma Vicki Nesja, a member of Chippewa Valley Electric.
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 wecnmag azine.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.
MAKE A SPLASH WITH ELECTRICAL SAFETY Always remember that water and electricity don’t mix. Never handle electrical devices when you are wet. Keep electrical devices and cords at least 10 feet away from water sources. When possible, use battery-operated devices outside. Do not swim if thunderstorms are in the forecast; remember, when it roars, head indoors. Source: Electrical Safety Foundation International wecnmagazine.com
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