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CooperaN

COOPERATIVE

News

Wisconsin

ENERGY Cooperative

contents September 2020

News

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

BRIEFS

New co-op leader announced.

8 15 28 27

Four Ways to STAY

CYBER SAFE

Protect yourself from scammers and hackers.

A bit of good fortune came from our magazine.

CEO MESSAGE

Celebrate democracy.

On the

COVER

Historic bridges connect to the past.

Recipes

New ways to get your apple-a-day.

Kids &

CRITTERS

Cute co-op kids get cozy with their critters.

CO-OPS VOTE

The Supreme Court offers some clarity on the Electoral College with “faithless elector” ruling.

MY CO-OP

Find out what’s happening at your local electric cooperative.

CLASSIFIEDS

Buy, sell, and trade with readers from across Wisconsin.

NEED HELP PAYING YOUR ENERGY BILLS?

Assistance is available.

September 2020

WECN Sept20TOC.indd 1

8/21/20 12:51 PM

LETTER FROM

THE EDITOR Good fortune

There’s an adage in the statewide publication world that if you want to find out how many people are Dana Kelroy, Editor reading your magazine, just make a mistake in a recipe. We can’t deny that there’s some truth to that saying—there’s nothing like a missing ingredient to trigger letters, emails, or calls. But we’ve discovered there’s another topic that generates a lot of reader feedback as well. This response has been very gratifying to us because it’s clear the article that triggered it has helped people, and possibly even saved lives. Our July feature, “A Twist of Lyme,” outlined the dangers of Lyme disease, offering practical information about what to look for and how to protect yourself. It’s a topic that’s of particular importance to us in the electric cooperative industry as co-op operations personnel spend a lot of time working outdoors in tick-prone rural areas. We also include within the story a firsthand account of a co-op employee, Bert Lehman of Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative, who contracted the disease. He shared his struggles to get the correct diagnosis and treatment, and his long journey back to health. It’s clear from the letters we’ve received that this topic is equally important to our readers. Here’s just one of them, from Darcy, a member of AdamsColumbia Electric Cooperative: I was bit by a deer tick in July of this year and contracted Acute Lyme Disease. The symptoms were intense and scary (especially in the era of COVID), but since I had recently read your article on Lyme disease in the July 2020 issue, I was able to think clearly enough to go to the Doctor right away and get a Lyme test. The test I took on July 17th was negative, but I still felt sick and then my daughter noticed a rash appear on my neck 5 days later. I went to urgent care that night and asked for another test and antibiotics. They agreed, and my 2nd test on July 22nd was positive. Chances are, I will make a full recovery as it was caught early. I attribute this good fortune to your article. Thank you! I do want to urge your readers, that if they have a crazy combination of flu-like symptoms and test negative for COVID-19 and Lyme Disease, and there is no other explanation, don’t stop there. If the symptoms persist, get retested a week later, because there are false negatives and because it takes time to have the antibodies build up. We received several other letters. One specifically asked about the website mentioned in the article that helped users find a “Lyme-literate” doctor near them. Bert shared that he used the site www.lymedisease.org to find his doctor. With tick season still in full swing and with harvest and hunting season beginning, more people will be spending time outdoors. We encourage readers to check out the article again https://wecnmagazine.com/article/atwist-of-lyme-yet-another-disease-you-dont-want/. Thanks again to Bert for sharing his story with us—it has clearly helped others. And thanks to those who took the time to let us know how much it helped them.

September 2020 Vol. 81 No. 3 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. Please recycle

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

WECN Septmeber Editor2020.indd 1

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NEWS BRIEFS RIDGE TAKES THE HELM AT DAIRYLAND POWER COOPERATIVE

Brent Ridge is the new president and CEO of Dairyland Power Cooperative, taking over for Barb Nick, who retired in July. Ridge, 53, comes to Dairyland from Richland, Washington, where he was employed by Energy Northwest, most recently serving in the roles of vice president, corporate services, and chief financial officer and treasurer. Ridge also oversaw the agency’s hydro, wind, and solar operations. At Dairyland, he says his priorities are to focus on employee development, continue to improve on the safety performance record, and manage diversification in the best interest of members. Ridge becomes the eighth leader of the generation and transmission cooperative.

REPRESENTATIVE KIND, SENATOR BALDWIN SUPPORT INTEREST SAVINGS FOR ELECTRIC CO-OPS

Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joins Congressman Ron Kind (D-WI) in supporting the Flexible Financing for Rural America Act, which would save participating electric cooperatives $2 million in loan interest, on average. The bipartisan proposal would allow electric co-ops and rural telecom providers to take advantage of lower interest rates for RUS loans. The legislation does away with an antiquated rule that penalizes borrowers for early payoffs, preventing them from the option to refinance debt at current rates. The current 20-year U.S. Treasury interest rate is 1.17 percent. The rates that co-ops are paying varies, but some co-ops are paying rates of more than 5 percent. In total 61 representatives have signed on to support the house bill, and 20 senators are in support of the senate bill.

TOUCHSTONE ENERGY ANNOUNCES JANA ADAMS AS NEXT EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Touchstone Energy Cooperatives announced the selection of Jana Adams to serve as executive director. Adams comes to Touchstone from the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), where she most recently served as senior vice president overseeing business operations and marketing strategies. In her new role, Adams will provide strategic and operational leadership to the national brand and leverage resources across the electric cooperative network to promote Touchstone Energy’s mission. Touchstone Energy Cooperatives is a national network of electric cooperatives with 30 million member-owners across 46 states that provides resources and leverages partnerships to help member cooperatives and their employees better engage and serve their members.

NRECA CHALLENGES FCC DECISION TO OPEN UP ACCESS TO 6 GHZ BAND The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) is suing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) over the decision to open up access to the radio band historically dedicated to utilities, public safety personnel, and law enforcement for critical operations. NRECA, the Utilities Technology Council, and the American Public Power Association filed suit on July 27 to find the FCC’s rule outside the law for allowing

unlicensed, low-power indoor devices that connect to the internet, such as an in-home router, to operate on the band to the detriment of critical infrastructure and public safety communications. In the July 27 filling, utility groups claim the FCC lacks data on how very low-power indoor devices would impact the spectrum. The FCC approved the expanded access in April.

“MILK GALLON GIVEAWAY” PROMOTION A SUCCESS The Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, in cooperation with Kwik Trip and participating Wisconsin electric cooperatives, delivered 14,016 gallons of milk to members in June’s Milk Gallon Giveaway. Members redeemed coupons provided by the cooperatives at area Kwik Trip stores. According to Kwik Trip, coupon promotions typically result in 2–5 percent redemption rate. The Milk Gallon Giveaway had a 12 percent redemption rate, with some co-op areas registering as high as 18

percent redemption. The promotion, in addition to dairy product giveaways at other co-ops, was offered in connection with June Dairy Month to support both farmers and members affected by the pandemic.

UTILITY ASSISTANCE STILL AVAILABLE Wisconsin still has funds available for those who need help paying their utility bills. According to the Department of Administration (DOA), supplemented by funds from the federal CARES Act, the state had more than $10 million available in Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) funds for the program year that runs through the end of September. Beginning October 1, the fund will be replenished with $106 million. Wisconsin’s utility assistance programs offer once-a-year benefits to households with income less than 60 percent of the state median, or about $46,300 for a family of three. Also, in the interest of making sure those impacted by the pandemic have access, applicants only need to show one month of income meeting the requirements instead of three to be eligible. In a non-pandemic year, limited LIHEAP funds available in October are often exhausted by the end of December. For more information on how to apply, go to: http://homeenergyplus.wi.gov/.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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CELEBRATING

DEMOCRACY

Steve Freese President and CEO

he best way to celebrate democracy is by encouraging full participation in the election process, which directly drives the issues and priorities that affect our daily lives. That’s why the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association and Wisconsin’s 25 electric cooperatives are supporting National Voter Registration Day on September 22. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, less than 70 percent of eligible American citizens of voting age––18 and over––were registered to vote in 2018. Here in Wisconsin, we’re already ahead of that, with 81 percent of eligible voters registered as of July 1, 2020. But that still means we have work to do to make sure all voices are heard. In 2016 we only had 67.3 percent of registered voters go to the polls and vote, but that will be for another column in the future. This election year is unique in many ways due to the pandemic, but registering and voting in Wisconsin is still very easy to do. You can easily register online in a matter of minutes at Myvote. wi.gov. This website is a great resource. You can actually find out which races and candidates are on your ballot so you can research local candidates. You can also find your polling place, update your name or address, and request an absentee ballot online.

While registering online will make it easier for you on election day, it’s not necessary. You can actually show up at your polling place on November 3 and register just prior to casting your ballot. You will need a photo ID, such as a valid Wisconsin Driver’s License or State ID Card, and proof of where you live, such as a utility bill or bank statement. If you are already registered, you will only need your photo ID. If you forget your identification, you can still vote on election day. You will have until the end of election day to bring your documentation to the polling place for your vote to be counted. This year, more than ever, people may be concerned about going to a busy polling place. If you aren’t comfortable voting in person this year, it is very easy to vote absentee (by mail). As I mentioned, requesting a ballot is easy to do at Myvote. wi.gov. Once you receive your ballot in the mail, be sure to follow instructions closely and mail it back in plenty of time to be counted.

The Challenge Ahead

This year there are 3,406,952 registered voters in Wisconsin, which represents 81 percent of the total voting age population. Improving on overall participation in the election process begins with registering as many eligible voters as possible. While our numbers are considerably higher (11 percent) than the rest of the country, we can still do better. The more people who register to vote, the more we can increase the likelihood of exceeding the 2016 turnout. The more we participate in the voting process, the more say we have in what happens in our hometown, state, and the nation we live in. Concern for Community, which is principle number 7 of the Seven Cooperative Principles, looks at sustainable development of our communities through policies accepted by our members. I encourage you to do your civic duty and make it a priority to register to vote on or before National Voter Registration Day this September 22. Go to Myvote. wi.gov today and register to vote.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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COOPS VOTE Election Chaos, the Electoral College, and Electric Cooperatives

lection Day is near, and if 2020 is to maintain its reputation, it will be wrought with chaos, questions, and controversy. But a recent Supreme Court decision will offer a little clarity. In a unanimous ruling, the high court made it very clear that states are entitled to penalize “faithless electors,” that is, delegates who “go rogue” and fail to cast their electoral vote for the candidate who wins the popular vote in their state. Writing for the court, Justice Elena Kagan said delegates have “no ground for reversing” the statewide popular vote. That, she said, “accords with the Constitution—as well as with the trust of the Nation that here, We the People rule.” Historically, the faithless elector is a rare breed, but in 2016 there was an effort to convince Republican electors to choose someone—anyone—other than Donald Trump, and a handful actually did. Overall, the effort failed, but it left a mark. It was the ﬁrst time in more than 100 years that electors worked to change the outcome of an election. And we all know 2020 is a committed one-upper. To keep that chaos in check, the Supreme Court ruling effectively shuts down rogue actions by ensuring states have the power to hold electors accountable. The deceptive delegates, and the ﬁnal vote count that showed Hillary

Clinton won the popular vote, ﬁred up the debate over the Electoral College, and whether it’s even necessary. It’s a topic Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association (WECA) President and CEO Steve Freese explained in his October 2019 column in this magazine, particularly as it relates to electric cooperatives. Without the Electoral College, he wrote, the largest cities and states in the nation would control the presidency.

Freese writes:

The cities of New York and Los Angeles not only dominate their statewide elections; they are more populous than Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, North and South Dakota combined. Midwestern states could become meaningless in deciding every policy issue that affects them and the Heartland’s economy. East and West Coast cities would have the voting power to dictate agricultural and landuse policies minimally applicable to them but crucial to most of the country. Eighty-ﬁve percent of Americans living in areas served by electric cooperatives reside in the 40 states that would stand to become non-factors in national elec-

tions. In other words, good luck getting presidential candidates’ attention on issues affecting the cost and reliability of electricity in rural areas. That column prompted feedback from electric cooperative members across the state, like Lisa from Bayﬁeld Electric Cooperative who wrote, “Thank you for using your platform to help people understand the history, components, purpose, and importance of our unique election procedure.” The 9–0 ruling from the nation’s highest court, which was celebrated by both Republicans and Democrats, effectively seals up the faithless elector loophole, taking away one concern from the many challenges of holding a presidential election amid a (hopefully) waning pandemic. The pandemic is likely to blame for a drop in the number of registered voters across the state and nation. September 22 is National Voter Registration Day, and WECA is joining all of the state’s electric cooperatives in encouraging members to sign up, if you haven’t already. Every vote counts, and no one can change that. Not even the designated electors.—Julie Lund

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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FOUR WAYS to be

CYBER SAFE We all know the internet can be dangerous and scary, and we’ve all seen the lists of ideas for better cybersecurity. The problem is, cybersecurity tips aren’t helpful unless we act on them. Sure, we should use long passwords and change them regularly—but will we really do that? This article includes four tips for making yourself safer from cyber scammers and hackers, but first, let’s look at a few reasons that might encourage you to put those tips into action.

Be afraid.

Be very afraid. Bad things really can happen on the internet. A smooth-talking con artist on the end of the phone can charm or bully you into revealing your Social Security number or credit card number, or malware can monitor your keyboard and capture your password to your favorite website. Criminals use this information to access your credit cards and bank accounts, especially if you use the same password for multiple accounts. Children can also be victimized by cyberbullying. Think about what’s on your computer or your smartphone that you don’t want to lose or give away. Keeping those dangers top of mind can help motivate you to take small steps to prevent them.

Make your own rules.

When you see a good cyber safety tip but don’t think you’ll really take the advice, figure out a way you might be able to put it into action. Maybe you’re the kind of person who pays attention to a reminder note on your refrigerator. Maybe you know you won’t keep track of different passwords on all your internet-connected devices, but you might be more likely to regularly update a strong password on the server in your home—that can be a good option if all your connections are coming through that one point of entry.

The time is now.

Experts warn of a triple-threat these days. First, scammers are taking advantage of COVID-19 uncertainty, from offering phony cures and tests, to promises of financial assistance. Second, with more people working from home due to social distancing, there may be fewer office-based security measures in place. Third, the FBI warns that increased use of mobile banking offers more chances for cybercrime. And if you’re the sort of person who thinks in terms of months, October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, which can be a great time to act on this year’s theme, “Do your part #BeCyberSmart—If You Connect It, Protect It.”

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So, here are four cybersecurity tips to keep you safe:

1. Use strong passwords.

And change them regularly—many sites and apps make that easy to do by clicking on the “forgot your password” link. The best passwords are at least eight characters and include different types of characters—try using a memorable verse from your favorite song and adding a few numbers and special characters, ($ ! _ &) or even a space. If you are like most people, remembering all your passwords is a challenge. Choose a security option based on the value of what you’re protecting. The options you use to secure your bank and retirement account passwords might be different from those for your social media passwords. Password apps keep them in one place and may be a great option for some passwords, but you can be in big trouble if you forget the password that lets you into that app. Keeping passwords on paper or a in notebook might

be more secure than using the same password for everything, depending on how secure and hidden that paper is from other people at the office or kids at home.

2. Install software updates.

Your apps and operating systems will periodically send updates. Install them—they often include protections against the latest security threats. But remember, those updates come from the apps and not from emails or social media notices. An email containing an update may be a scam—instead of clicking on the link, go to the app’s website to see if there really are updates available.

3. Use two-factor authentication.

That phrase is just a fancy word for a technique that adds an extra layer of security in addition to a password. Banks continued page 14

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The internet offers great promise, but can also be dangerous and scary. It’s up to all of us to take the necessary steps to stay cyber safe. Photo Source: Scott Van Osdol

increasingly use this system—when you try to connect with them, the bank may text a code number to your phone that you type in to complete the sign-in process for your account. Keep in mind that answering a security question is similar to having a password––both are something you know. Answering a security question won’t provide the same level of additional security as that of a second factor. A second factor will be something you have, like your phone to receive a passcode, or something you are, like a biometric fingerprint, in addition to something you know, like a pass-

word or security question.

4. Think before you click.

Be wary of any offer or link that comes through the internet, whether by email or social media, or even a phone call instructing you to get online. Don’t click on a link unless you know for certain what it is. Ideally, you should be expecting to receive the link. Even emails from friends should be suspect—hackers can impersonate someone you know to send a link or an attachment—both can result in you downloading malware that can take control of your computer in ways you may not even be able to detect. If you have any doubt, whether

it’s a link to a software update or an attachment to a funny cat video, give the sender a phone call to find out if they really sent it or if it’s a scam. To take advantage of the great promise of the internet, we must also recognize the peril. These are relatively simple steps you can take now to keep yourself reasonably safe. Paul Wesslund writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56 percent of the nation’s landscape.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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New Ways to Get Your

Apple-a-D y

Honey Apple Turnovers Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from the National Honey Board (https://www.honey.com). 1 Tbsp dried currants 3 Tbsp finely chopped walnuts 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, plus additional for dusting 6 Tbsp honey, divided 2 large baking apples 2 prepared pie dough for single-crust, purchased or homemade In a small bowl, combine currants, walnuts, and 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon. Stir in 3 tablespoons honey. Peel apples and cut each in half lengthwise. Remove seeds and stem. Scoop out core from each half with a melon baller, making a wide hole for filling. Divide honey mixture evenly between apple centers. Divide pie dough into 4 balls. Roll each ball into a

6-inch circle about 1/4-inch thick. Lay 1 piece of dough over each apple half with filling-side up. Tuck and wrap dough under each apple half. Trim dough to fit. Pinch the edges of dough underneath apples to seal entirely. Combine 1 tablespoon honey with 1 teaspoon hot water. Stir until honey dissolves. Brush mixture over tops of turnovers; dust with additional cinnamon. Transfer turnovers to an ungreased baking sheet. Bake at 375 degrees for about 35 minutes, until turnovers are golden. Remove from oven and drizzle with remaining 2 tablespoons honey. Serve warm or at room temperature. YIELD: Makes 4 servings

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Chef Mark’s Wisconsin Cranberry Apple & Cheddar Cheese Pizza Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from the WI State Cranberry Growers Association (http://www.wiscran.org). PIZZA DOUGH

2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup bread flour 1 tsp salt

1 pkg dry yeast 1 tsp honey 1 cup warm water, divided

Dissolve yeast and honey in 1/4 cup of warm water. In a mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and remaining 3/4 cup water and mix on low speed until the dough comes away from sides of bowl (about 5 minutes). Turn dough out onto clean work surface and knead by hand for 2–3 minutes. Dough should be smooth and firm. Cover with a clean, damp towel and let rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes. Divide dough into four equal pieces and shape into balls. On a smooth, unfloured surface, roll each ball under palm of hand until top of the dough is smooth and firm, about 1 minute. Cover dough balls with a damp towel and let rest for 15–20 minutes. Place each on a clean, lightly floured surface; press down on center, spreading dough into an 8-inch circle, leaving border thicker than the center. Prick dough about 12 times with a fork and place on pizza stone or heavy non-stick sheet pan. PIZZA

4 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced 1/4-inch thick 1 lb white mushrooms sliced, lightly sautéed, and cooled 1 tsp fresh rosemary, minced 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves

1 lb aged sharp cheddar cheese, shredded 1/4 cup pecan pieces 1/4 cup walnut pieces 1/2 cup dried cranberries, minced

Heat oven to 500 degrees. Divide apples and mushrooms evenly among the four crusts. Season with rosemary and thyme and sprinkle with cheese. Top pizzas with nuts and cranberries. Bake until cheese melts and begins to brown, about 9–12 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 300 degrees and continue to bake for 3–4 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool slightly. Slice and serve. Makes four 8-inch pizzas.

Sparerib and Sauerkraut Supper Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from the WI Potatoes & Vegetable Growers Assoc. (www.eatwisconsinpotatoes.com). 1 lb fingerling potatoes 1 medium onion, chopped 1 medium Granny Smith apple, peeled and chopped 3 slices thick-sliced bacon strips, cooked and crumbled 1 (16 oz) jar sauerkraut 2 lbs pork spareribs 1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper 1 Tbsp vegetable oil 3 Tbsp brown sugar 1/4 tsp caraway seeds 1/2 lb smoked Polish sausage, cut into 1-inch slices 1 cup beer

In a 6-quart slow cooker, place the potatoes, onions, apple, and bacon. Drain sauerkraut, reserving 1/3 cup of the liquid; add sauerkraut and reserved liquid to slow cooker. Cut spareribs into serving-size portions; sprinkle with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; brown ribs in batches. Transfer to slow cooker, sprinkle with brown sugar and caraway seeds. Add sausage; pour in beer. Cover and cook on LOW 6–7 hours or until ribs are tender. Makes 4 servings.

Apple Pie a la Mode – Beverage Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from the National Honey Board (https://www.honey.com). HONEY SIMPLE SYRUP

Honey Hot water

Heat 2 parts honey to 1 part hot water in a saucepan over medium-low heat until the mixture reaches a simmer. Remove from heat and cool. Store at room temperature or refrigerate as desired. Lasts 4 weeks in the refrigerator.

TIP: While the mixture is simmering, infuse the syrup with herbs, spices, citrus peels, or other aromatics. (Rosemary, grapefruit peel, peppercorn, pomegranate seeds, and vanilla bean are just some of the possibilities.) Cool and strain the infused syrups before using. BEVERAGE

1-1/4 oz light or spiced rum 1/2 oz cinnamon schnapps 3 oz apple cider

1-1/2 oz. honey simple syrup 2 scoops vanilla ice cream 1/2 scoop crushed ice

Combine ingredients in blender. Blend until smooth and garnish with a light cinnamon sprinkle. September 2020

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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/.

Fruit Bread

Pat Biesterveld, Mondovi

1/2 cup butter, softened 1 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 tsp vanilla 2 cups flour 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup banana, mashed (about 2 bananas) 1/2 cup dates, chopped 1 (11 oz) can mandarin oranges, drained 1 cup flaked coconut 2/3 cup sliced almonds 1/2 cup Maraschino cherries, chopped Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In mixing bowl, cream butter and sugar; beat in eggs and vanilla. Combine flour, baking soda, and salt in separate bowl and add to creamed mixture. Alternating with bananas, stir in dates, oranges, coconut, almonds, and cherries. Pour into two greased loaf pans. Bake for 50–55 minutes. Cool 10 minutes before removing bread from pans to a wire rack. Cool completely before cutting. Tastes even better when eaten the following day.

Granny’s Secret Mac and Cheese Sally Ware, Dodge

Box of macaroni and cheese 1/2 (5 oz) can evaporated milk Salt and pepper

Prepare mac and cheese according to directions on package, except substitute the evaporated milk for regular milk. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Granny’s Secret Scrambled Eggs Sally Ware, Dodge

4 large eggs 1/2 (5 oz) can evaporated milk Butter for cooking Salt and pepper

Whisk together eggs and evaporated milk in a buttered frying pan, stirring slowly, and cook until eggs set. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Crab Cheese Fondue

Pork Chops with Stuffing

1 stick butter 1 lb Velveeta processed cheese, cut into cubes 1 can crab meat Triscuit crackers

6 pork chops 1/2 cup onions, chopped ﬁnely 1/2 cup water 1 can cream of mushroom soup 6 cups bread, cut into cubes 4 Tbsp butter, melted 1/4 tsp poultry seasoning

Judy Stoney, Clinton

Melt butter and then Velveeta in fondue pot. Stir until melted and mixed well; add crab meat. Stir until blended and heated through. Stir periodically and serve with crackers.

Rustic Apple Pie

Rosetta Gruss, Marshall

1 (9-inch) pie crust 2 Tbsp unsalted butter 2 Tbsp granulated sugar 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed 2-1/4 cups sliced, peeled Golden Delicious apples 2-1/4 cups sliced, peeled Granny Smith apples 2 tsp fresh lemon juice 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add granulated and brown sugar; cook 2 minutes. Stir in apples and next 3 ingredients. Cover, reduce heat, and cook 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Place the pie crust on a piece of parchment paper. Roll dough into a 14-inch circle. Place dough and parchment paper on a baking sheet. Arrange apples in center of dough, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges of dough toward center, gently pressing to seal. (Dough will only partially cover the apple mixture.) Brush dough with 1 teaspoon ice water and sprinkle evenly with 1 teaspoon granulated sugar. Bake at 400 degrees for 45 minutes or until golden brown.

REQUESTS

from our

READERS

Rosetta Gruss, Marshall

Lightly brown pork chops. Arrange pork chops in a 9-x13-inch dish. Mix remaining ingredients in a large mixing bowl; spoon mixture over each pork chop. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 1-1/2 hours or until done.

Pumpkin Dip

Delores Toboyek, Kronenwetter

8 oz pkg cream cheese, softened 1 (18 oz) can pumpkin pie mix 2 cups powdered sugar 1/2 to 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 to 1/2 tsp ground ginger

Beat cream cheese in mixing bowl until smooth. Add pumpkin pie mix; beat well. Add sugar, cinnamon, and ginger; beat until smooth. Serve with gingersnap cookies. Store leftover dip in refrigerator. Yield: 3 cups dip

Apple Dip

Delores Toboyek, Kronenwetter

8 oz low-fat cream cheese 1/2 cup brown sugar 1 tsp vanilla

Blend cream cheese until smooth. Add brown sugar and vanilla. Serve with sliced apples that have been given a brief salt-water bath to prevent browning from oxidation.

Al Rzepiejewski is looking for an easy-to-make apple butter recipe. The easier the better and he prefers to make small amounts. Send 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!

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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WISCONSIN FAVORITES

CONNECTIONS

Past

to the

Historic Bridges Cross Co-op Country

here’s just something about a bridge that gives it an almost romantic quality. Many a poet, painter, and writer of prose have been inspired by the sight of a bridge, or even just the idea of one. Perhaps it’s because a bridge is a symbol of triumph—a physical means of getting over an obstacle. Maybe it’s the whole notion of connection, with a bridge bringing two opposite sides together. It might be that an old bridge serves as a sentimental link to simpler times in the past. Or it could be simply aesthetic appeal. Whatever the reason, bridges have a certain allure, especially the older bridges that have stood the test of time. With 28 bridges listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) as of 2020 and plenty others that are historically significant but don’t have the official NRHP designation, Wisconsin is home to a lot of beautiful old bridges. These bridges span a wide range of styles, purposes, and surroundings—crossing them not only takes you to the other side, but also immerses you in history, architecture, and nature. September 2020

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Many of the state’s most notable historic bridges have been carefully preserved and are surrounded by nature areas or parkland, turning the bridge into a destination rather than simply a crossing point in a journey. Following are some of the unique historic bridges that we’ve discovered as we’ve traveled through the rural areas served by our state’s electric cooperatives. We hope they inspire you as they have us.

Tiffany Stone Arch Bridge Built in 1869, this railroad crossing over Turtle Creek in Rock County is likely the oldest stone arch bridge in Wisconsin and the last remaining fivearch bridge in the country. The bridge is 387 feet long and stands about 75 feet over the ground. According to the Historic American Engineering Record, the Tiffany Stone Arch Bridge “is an excellent representative example of the stonework done by the Chicago & North Western Railway and is, by far, the most impressive stone arch railroad bridge in the state. The bridge was designed by Van Mienan, the chief engineer for the railroad company, who modeled it after a stone arch bridge in Compiegne, France.” The bridge is still in use as a railroad crossing and is not accessible to foot traffic, but you can get a spectacular, closeup view thanks to 3.5 acres of beautiful county parkland along Turtle Creek, at the foot of the bridge, in Rock Energy Cooperative’s territory. Turtle Creek Parkway is located at 6528 S. Smith Road in the Town of Turtle, 10 miles northeast of Beloit.

“7 Bridges” McGilvray Road

Just past Holmen, in Riverland Energy Cooperative’s territory, is McGilvray Road, in the Van Loon Wildlife Area. This 3.8-mile, in-and-out stretch of hiking trail is home to six restored historic bridges and the site of a seventh, prompting the nickname “7 Bridges Road.” Although it’s now a rustic foot trail popular with nature lovers, at one time this path was indeed a road for vehicle traffic. The road got its start in the 1850s, when Alexander McGilvray established a ferry service carrying horse-drawn wagons across the Black River. He also established a road to the ferry. The ferry operation ended in 1892 and was replaced by a steel bridge over the main channel that operated for 62 years before being taken down in 1954 (now the marked site of Bridge No. 7 on the trail). In the meantime, the road to the Black River’s main bridge was improved with eight wooden pile bridges that helped the increasing auto traffic navigate the swampy bottoms. These

Below: Dunnville Bottoms Trail Bridge (photo courtesy of Logan McCoy). Right: Bridge. No. 6 of the “7 Bridges” McGilvray Road (Bridge No. 1 is on the cover) near Holmen. Previous page: Tiffany Stone Arch Bridge, near Beloit.

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WISCONSIN FAVORITES

Not just for pedestrians… Although the historic bridges highlighted in this article are mostly footbridges, located in areas with opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor recreation, Wisconsin has plenty of historic bridges that can be driven across as well. Among them are the Marsh Rainbow Arch Bridge over Duncan Creek in downtown Chippewa Falls, pictured above (photo courtesy of Keith Wohlfert). This reinforced concrete bridge was built in 1916 and is one of only a handful of its type left in the country. It was the only bridge over Duncan Creek to survive a destructive flood in 1934. Recently restored, the bridge has some original components, including the globe lampposts. At right is the Turtleville Iron Bridge, located just a few miles from the Tiffany Stone Arch Bridge outside of Beloit in rural Rock County. This bridge was built in 1887 by the Wisconsin Bridge and Iron Company and is one of the oldest of the remaining overhead truss bridges in the state.

wooden bridges didn’t hold up well in an area prone to flooding, so between 1905 and 1908 they were replaced with five steel bowstring arch truss bridges, constructed by the La Crosse Steel Company using Charles Horton’s unique patented design. This rare style incorporated hook clips—or “Horton’s clips”—instead of rivets and bolts. A sixth bridge was added in 1920 but was later destroyed by fire and eventually replaced with another historic steel truss bridge relocated from Pierce County. The bridges and trail are maintained by The Friends of McGilvray Road and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The parking lot at the trailhead has displays showing the history of the road and its bridges as well as a trail map. It’s located at N8327 Amsterdam Prairie Rd., Holmen. To learn more, visit www.7bridgesrd.org.

Dunnville Bottoms Trail Bridge

Nature lovers will also enjoy seeking out the historic railroad truss bridge that crosses the Chippewa River within the Dunnville Wildlife Area between Menomonie and Durand, in Dunn Energy Cooperative’s area. Known locally as the “Dunnville Bottoms,” this diverse wildlife area is a popular spot for biking, hiking, hunting, canoeing, and kayaking. The entire area is bisected by the 14.5-mile Red Cedar Trail, which includes the Dunnville Bottoms Trail Bridge, open to bikers and hikers. In an area where railroad bridges are a common sight, the Dunnville Bottoms Bridge stands out. At 860 feet long, it’s a massive structure. It’s also unique in that it’s a combination of several styles, with two distinctly different spans, one of them 230 feet long. The variations in appearance and style make it difﬁcult to September 2020

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Left: The landmark Soo Line “S” Bridge in Eau Claire (photo courtesy of Mary Kay Brevig). Right: Two of the historic bridges in Gilman, including the famous swinging bridge (top) and a pony plate girder railroad bridge (photos courtesy of Keith Wohlfert).

pinpoint exactly when the bridge was built. Records indicate it was built around 1905, although one end of the bridge is stamped with a plaque by Morse Bridge Company, which only operated from 1878 to 1888, according to historicbridges.org. Whatever its actual age, the Dunnville Bottoms Trail Bridge is an impressive sight, offering spectacular views of the wildlife around it. To learn more about the Dunnville Wildlife Area, visit dnr.wisconsin.gov.

Soo Line “S” Bridge

No collection of historic bridges in Wisconsin is complete without at least one from Eau Claire, “the City of Bridges.” Located in Eau Claire Energy Cooperative’s region, this city is home to nine distinctive footbridges. One of the most recognizable is the Soo Line “S” Bridge that crosses the Eau Claire River in the city’s Banbury neighborhood. This bridge was built in 1910 by the Minneapolis Steel and Machinery Company for what became the Soo Line Railroad to accommodate freight and passenger service between Chippewa Falls and Eau Claire. Soo Line abandoned the line in 1991, and the bridge was resurfaced and repurposed as a footbridge in 2002. It’s now part of the Chippewa River State Trail and an iconic Eau Claire feature. The bridge is 431 feet long. Its signature S shape is fun to walk across, but it served a practical purpose as well. The bridge was designed with these curves to connect railroad tracks running parallel on either side of the river without navigating the sharp turns of a linear bridge. The bridge is easily accessible from a parking lot at 610 Gibson St., Eau Claire, with the Chippewa River State Trail 26

extending from the parking lot. Other historic footbridges in Eau Claire include the 1876 Phoenix Park Railroad Bridge, the 1886 Clairemont Avenue Railroad Bridge, and the 1880 Northwestern Railroad Bridge. All three cross the Chippewa River; the Phoenix Park and Clairemont Avenue bridges are also part of the Chippewa River State Trail. To learn more, go to visiteauclaire.com.

Gilman Swinging Bridge Another community that’s known for its bridges is Gilman, a quaint little village in western Taylor County, near the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Located in Taylor Electric Cooperative’s area, Gilman bills itself as “Home of the Swinging Bridge.” The centerpiece of the community is one of the last true swinging bridges in the state. Built in 1914–15, the bridge crosses the Yellow River to the spacious Gilman Village Park. The bridge’s original ironwork that supports the suspended cable bridge was shaped by the community’s very first blacksmith, Louis Zaborowski. Although the swinging bridge is Gilman’s most famous bridge—and probably the most unique—there are other interesting bridges to cross here. A second pedestrian bridge extends across the river on the other side of the park, while some other historic structures are located elsewhere along the Yellow River, including a 1927 pony plate girder bridge that’s still in heavy use as a railroad bridge. Is there a unique historic bridge in your area? Upload a photo at https://wecnmagazine.com/submit-a-photo/. We’d love to make more connections!—Mary Erickson

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NEED HELP PAYING YOUR ENERGY BILLS?

n response to the COVID-19 crisis, the Department of Administration has adjusted the eligibility requirements for residents who are seeking heating and electric assistance through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). Benefits for the 2019–2020 season are available through September 30. The 2020– 2021 heating season begins October 1.

Eligibility for assistance through WHEAP is now based on the household’s previous month of income, rather than the former requirement of the previous three months of income. This move was made to ensure those who are still affected by the COVID-19 response are able to receive assistance quickly. WHEAP is a one-time benefit payment per season providing assistance for heating costs, electric costs, and energy crisis situations. Operating with federal and state funding, the program provides assistance to households across the state to help lower the burden incurred with monthly energy costs.

How to Apply Your household may be eligible for WHEAP services based on several factors, including your household’s size, income, and energy costs. If the gross income for your household is less than the amount shown on the chart at right, you might be eligible to receive assistance. Households must complete a Home Energy Plus application through the local WHEAP agency.

For more information on WHEAP and how to apply for assistance, please call 1-866-HEATWIS (432-8947), or visit the “Where to Apply” tab on www.homeenergyplus.wi.gov to find your local energy assistance agency.

INCOME GUIDELINES FOR THE 2019–2020 HOME ENERGY PLUS PROGRAM YEAR 60 PERCENT OF STATE MEDIAN INCOME GUIDELINES HOUSEHOLD SIZE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

ONE MONTH INCOME

ANNUAL INCOME

$ 2,389.42 $ 3,124.67 $ 3,859.83 $ 4,595.08 $ 5,330.33 $ 6,065.50 $ 6,203.33 $ 6,341.25

$28,673 $37,496 $46,318 $55,141 $63,964 $72,786 $74,440 $76,095 September 2020

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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. 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. 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. ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL PUPPIES. AKC registered. Vet checked, ﬁrst shots, tails docked and dew claws removed. Call or text 715-579-2547. WANTED: OLD TRADING, GUM, AND TOBACCO CARDS. I am buying old trading cards, tobacco cards, candy cards, and gum cards that were made before 1960. Comic, cartoon, historical, war, and other themes. Also, baseball, football, hockey, and other sports cards. I can come to your residence or we can meet somewhere in public. Call or text 608-485-3464 or email rickmcquillan@gmail.com. Richard McQuillan, Boscobel, WI 53805

REAL ESTATE

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. VACATION RENTALS—Chippewa Flowage in Hayward, WI. A private 4-bedroom / 2-bath is available, and also a 3-bedroom / 1-1/2 bath is available. Docks at both locations. Year-round rentals. On snowmobile and ATV trails. Contact Jen at 715-558-2759. VACATION RENTAL. Cape Coral, FL. Beautiful 3 bedroom home on gulf access canal. 10,000lb boat lift. Weekly rental or more. Call Al. 608-295-7433. LAKE HOME, HOLCOMBE, WI. Built in 2003, 2acres, 196ft lake front. Three Bedrooms, 2¬-1/2 baths 2-1/2 attached garages, 3-1/2 detached garage 28’x38’. Garden shed, water pond, and gazebo on quiet road. Music, restaurants, and all season recreation. Many great features of home. Call Nancy 715-271-2828.

NEVER DRIVE THROUGH FLOODED ROADWAYS

REACH MORE THAN 181,000 MAILBOXES EACH MONTH Advertise with us! ads@weca.coop

FOR SALE: Like new Bring Teeter inversion table. $200. Call 715-325-2618. Town of Rome, WI 54457.

PLANTS & SHRUBS 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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8/17/20 7:44 PM

WE CARE ABOUT OUR MEMBERS When you’re part of a Touchstone Energy Cooperative, your voice is heard, loud and clear. Because you’re more than a customer, you’re a member. And what’s more powerful than that?

OUR 58th YEAR

To learn more about the power of the cooperative difference, visit TouchstoneEnergy.com

YOUR SOURCE OF POWER. AND INFORMATION. BEFORE YOU DIG

CALL 811

September 2020

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8/5/20 10:34 AM

YOUNG MEMBERS

Kids and Critters September 2020 1

1. Tyson and his favorite pal lounge around. Photo submitted by Matt and Tracy Fernette, members of Scenic Rivers Energy. 2. Arianna gives her pet cow Sally a treat. Photo submitted by Ari’s grandma, Bernadine Pokorney, a member of Oakdale Electric. 3. Preschoolers, pups, and pumpkins—Waylon Brent and his puppy Dougie are ready for fall. Photo submitted by great-grandparents Jerry and Marlene Holtz, members of Taylor Electric.

4 3

4. Xavier looks for the tiniest of critters. Photo submitted by great-grandparents Al and Julie Ruiz, members of Adams-Columbia 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 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.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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8/21/20 12:51 PM

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7/23/2020 11:57:08 AM 8/3/20 11:21 AM