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CooperaN

COOPERATIVE

News

Wisconsin

ENERGY Cooperative News

News

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

BRIEFS

Co-ops receive grants for youth education.

On the

COVER

Partnership helps promote EV awareness.

Use generators safely in every season.

RELIABLE. AFFORDABLE. ACCESSIBLE.

contents September 2021

The Dual Meaning of

“COMMUNITY SOLAR”

150 YEARS

Peshtigo marks Message from the director of sesquicentennial of America’s government relations. deadliest wildfire.

Recipes

Try some scrumptious seafood.

Kids &

CRITTERS

Cute co-op kids get cozy with their critters.

Cooperatives work to provide all three.

15 28 30

MY CO-OP

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

CLASSIFIEDS

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

EVENTS

Find an autumn event year you.

September 2021

WECN Sept21TOC.indd 1

8/19/21 9:48 AM

LETTER FROM

THE EDITOR Between seasons

Wisconsinites are all too familiar with this time of year—we can go from 85 degrees with high humidity Dana Kelroy, Editor one day to windy, rainy, and 40 degrees the next. It’s our reminder that we are between the heat and humidity of summer and transitioning our way into the cold of winter. Summer in Wisconsin can bring heavy storms with high winds that bring down powerlines, as a number of our co-ops experienced at the end of July when devastating storms rolled across much of Wisconsin. Winter storms can do the same. Regardless of the season, generators are a handy standby for when the power goes out. However, there are some risks associated with using generators related to carbon monoxide poisoning, which can happen quickly. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, invisible gas that can cause nausea, dizziness, or weakness, followed by loss of consciousness. Follow the tips below to use generators safely, regardless of the season.

September 2021 Vol. 82 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 $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. USPS number: 688-480.

USING A GENERATOR?

IN ENCLOSED SPACES Always use it in a well-ventilated area.

IN THE ELEMENTS

Run it on a dry surface under a canopy-like structure (but not in a carport).

WITHOUT CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) TESTERS CO detectors should be on every level of your home (test them monthly).

8 DANGEROUS MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE

NEAR WINDOWS OR DOORS

Place it at least 20 feet away from windows and doors.

PLUGGED INTO A WALL OUTLET

This can be deadly to you, family members, neighbors or utility workers.

IN DISREPAIR

Make sure your generator is well-maintained and in good working order.

IN A GARAGE

Even if the door is up, never use a generator in a garage.

WITH THE WRONG EXTENSION CORD Use a properly rated cord to plug appliances into a generator.

LEARN MORE AT:

Postmaster: please send address changes to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Periodicals postage paid at Sun Prairie, Wis. 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 or events does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. We reserve the right to refuse advertisers. Please recycle

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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NEWS BRIEFS WECA RECEIVES YOUTH PROGRAM GRANTS Amanda Seger, regional vice president of the National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corporation (CFC), made a stop in Madison recently to present WECA President and CEO Steve Freese with a check to help fund WECA youth programs. WECA was awarded two grants totaling $22,000 from CFC and National Cooperative Services Corporation.

JEFF OLSON NEW HEAD OF PRICE ELECTRIC Price Electric Cooperative’s Board of Directors selected Jeff Olson as the organization’s new president and chief executive officer (CEO). He starts this month and replaces retired CEO Bill Caynor. Olson comes to Price Electric from Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services, where he began his career in 1990 and most recently served as vice president of engineering & operational technology. Olson has a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering technology from

University of Wisconsin–River Falls and master’s degree in computer information systems from University of Phoenix. He completed NRECA’s Management Internship Program (MIP) in 2004. Olson has served on many state, regional, and national committees and task forces including Dairyland Power Cooperative’s Operations & Technology Advisory Committee, and the Wisconsin’s Rural Energy Management Council.

RON KIND ANNOUNCES RETIREMENT FROM CONGRESS

Wisconsin Congressman Ron Kind (D-3rd District), 58, has announced he will not be seeking re-election to Congress next year after serving nearly 25 years in the U.S. House of Representatives. Kind’s district covers much of southwestern Wisconsin and he has been an advocate for electric cooperatives during his time in office, offering support on key issues. Kind was awarded NRECA’s 2015

Distinguished Service Award following a nomination by WECA. WECA also presented him with the Champion of Electric Cooperatives Award last fall for his work on behalf of electric cooperatives. Kind is the fourth Democratic representative from a swing district to announce they are not running for re-election.

IPCC REPORT URGES MORE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) released its latest report on the state of global climate change. The Working Group I report, Climate Change 2021: the Physical Science Basis, says we are experiencing unprecedented changes in climate, some of which are irreversible. In the report, IPCC has dialed back the probability of some of the more extreme predicted changes in temperature from previous reports but maintains that the chance of reaching a global warming level of 1.5°C is likely unless there are immediate, rapid, and large-scale reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. According to the report, emissions of greenhouse gases from human activities are responsible for approximately 1.1°C of warming since 1850–1900, and over the next 20 years, global temperature is expected to reach or exceed 1.5°C of warming. The report says that even with reductions in emissions, it could take 20–30 years for global temperatures to stabilize. 6

ELECTRIC VEHICLES FEATURED AT SUMMIT

About 75 people gathered together in-person in Eau Claire last month for comprehensive discussions on emerging energy issues at the Energy Issues Summit, including the transition to cleaner energy, electric vehicles, and reliability in the changing environment. Among the many speakers were representatives from CoBank, General Motors, and Power System Engineering who talked about challenges and predictions related to the anticipated transition to electric vehicles from range anxiety and price, to technology, to residential charging and system constraints.

BIDEN ANNOUNCES TOUGHER FUEL STANDARDS, PUSHES EV SALES

President Joe Biden has announced he will seek tougher fuel-efficiency standards for automakers in an effort to meet his goal of cutting U.S. emissions in half by 2030, compared to 2005 levels. The fleet standard was set at an average 54.5 miles per gallon by 2025 under the Obama administration, but cut to 40 mpg under Trump. Biden said he will seek stricter standards but did not release specifics. The higher fuel-efficiency standard is a driver for the production and sales of more electric vehicles, which some automakers tentatively committed to.

ELECTRICITY DEMAND REBOUNDS

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), electricity use was up 5.5 percent in the second quarter of 2021, compared to the second quarter of 2020. The demand for the last quarter exceeded the five-year average across most of the country, due to higher-than-average temperatures and the economic recovery, according to analysts. During the pandemic, electricity consumption dropped in the industrial and commercial sectors, and rose in the residential sector. Commercial and industrial loads decreased by 6.2 percent and 8.2 percent respectively from 2019 to 2020. EIA is projecting that while demand in this sector is fueling the rebound, sales will continue to fall short of prepandemic levels this year and next year.

IN MEMORY: EDWARD BOXRUCKER

Former Taylor Electric Cooperative General Manager Edward Boxrucker, 95, passed away Friday, July 16, 2021, at Stoney River Assisted Living Facility in Marshfield. Boxrucker started his cooperative career at Taylor Electric in 1957, and was promoted to general manager in 1979, where he served until his retirement in 1992.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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ast month I talked about how wind and solar are part of the solution to get us to carbon pollution-free by 2035. We also realize wind and solar are intermittent energy producers, so we need to find baseload power that is available all the time. I continue to reference a Princeton University Study—Net-Zero America— for this series of columns. This month we’ll look at how the study addresses baseload power in relation to two types of production facilities. The first scenario is retrofitting more than 300 750-megawatt natural gas combined cycle power plants with carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technologies. Since 2013 we have used this publication to update readers on the progress with this technology, which in simple terms, capSteve Freese tures CO2 emissions from coal and natural President and CEO gas fueled power plants and injects the CO2 at high pressure in deep underground permanent storage. There have been extensive investments through the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for engineering and design studies for the technologies to capture CO2 from natural gas sources. According to the Global CCS Institute’s report Global Status of CCS 2020, only five power plants in the United States will be utilizing carbon capture technology for CO2. Four of these power plants burn coal, and one burns natural gas. One proposed project, Cal Capture, is at a natural gas-powered 550-megawatt Elk Hills power plant in Tupman, California. This natural gas plant is anticipated to be the first carbon capture and sequestration plant when the technology goes on-line in 2024. It is designed to capture as much as 4,000 tons of carbon dioxide per day. Still, the challenge for all electric cooperatives and the country, in general, is this plant doesn’t even come on-line until 2024. Converting another 299 power plants by 2035 with unproven technology to comply with carbon pollution-free by 2035 will be very challenging, to say the least. If we look at the other four CCS coal plants, none of them are operational yet. The Petra Nova facility near Houston, Texas, was operational but closed on May 1, 2020. The big question: Will we have the technology ready so we can do the conversion by 2035? The second type of power plant the Net Zero report recommends is nuclear power. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, as of

AFFORDABLE. ACCESSIBLE. V

May 2, 2021, we have 55 commercially operating nuclear power plants in the United States. The report recommends we build 250 new 1-gigawatt nuclear reactors or 3,800 small modular reactors (SMR). Nuclear power can provide safe and reliable baseload power. However, it is more expensive, and we would still have to dispose of the spent fuel. Additionally, we anticipate local opposition to siting 250 additional nuclear power plants across the country or 3,800 small modular reactors. Small modular reactors are factory-made nuclear power plants. Generally, they are 300 megawatts or smaller, and a microreactor is small enough to be transported in a semi-truck. It can produce from 1 to 20 megawatts of thermal energy that could be converted to electric power. According to the Ofﬁce of Nuclear Energy at the DOE, these microreactors could be installed and generate power within a few months or even weeks of delivery. The problem is that SMRs are still being developed. The anticipated timeline for demonstration is sometime in the next seven years. It would also take additional time to complete the licensing and regulation process with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and our individual states. In my estimation, the most logical way to meet our baseload power needs and accomplish the Biden Administration’s carbon pollution-free goal by 2035 is more investment in the traditional nuclear power plant. Technology will continue to develop for both the SMR and the microreactors for nuclear power. At some point, we will perfect carbon sequestration that will work for natural gas-ﬁred power plants and possibly coal. No matter which type of baseload power plants we move forward with, there will be regulatory perils and public opposition. We encourage Wisconsin’s electric co-op members to consider all types of baseload generation and the cost and reliability issues associated with each as we move to a new energy future.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

WECN Sept21Steve.indd 1

8/18/21 3:16 PM

Myths and Facts

regarding the Delta variant The Delta variant is a naturally occurring mutation of the SARS CoV-2 virus, the virus that causes COVID-19. The Delta variant is more contagious and is spreading more quickly than any strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has during this pandemic. There is some misinformation circulating about this dangerous strain. Make sure you get the facts:

Myth: The increase in COVID-19 cases is primarily among the vaccinated. Breakthrough infections can happen; no vaccine is 100% effective. However, these cases are rare and fully vaccinated people who do test positive for COVID-19 typically report mild or no symptoms and only represent a very small proportion of transmission. Data shows the vaccines are working to protect folks from serious illness, hospitalization, and death. From January 1, 2021, through July 22, 2021, over 98% of COVID cases occurred among people who were not fully vaccinated.

Myth: The Delta variant is not that dangerous. The Delta variant is highly infectious and is spreading more rapidly than any previous strain of COVID-19. It is currently the predominate strain of COVID-19 in Wisconsin, and is responsible for a spike in cases, hospitalizations, and deaths across the state.

Myth: If I’ve been infected with COVID-19, I will be protected against new variants of the disease. If you previously had COVID-19 and have not yet been vaccinated, CDC and health experts don’t know if you’ll have immunity, or protection, against the COVID-19 variants. This is why, even if you’ve already been sick, it is important to get the COVID-19 vaccine.

LEARN MORE • Visit https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/covid-19/vaccine.htm • Questions about COVID-19 vaccines? Call 844-684-1064 (toll-free). • Visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/vaccines/safety.html

Turn the page for information about where to find a COVID vaccine in your community. 09_0009.indd 1

8/18/21 10:03 AM

TAK NG

CHARGE

Partnership helps promote EV awareness

eady or not, electric vehicles (EV) are coming. They’re already here, of course, but with prices dropping, charging networks expanding, and new, appealing models entering the market (see sidebar), their numbers are expected to grow signiﬁcantly, and quickly. Just recently, top U.S. automakers announced intentions to have 40 to 50 percent of new vehicle sales be electric models by 2030. Electric cooperatives are working hard to ensure they—and their members—are ready for this dramatic increase. This past year, Wisconsin electric co-ops launched CHARGE™, a network of co-op-branded, public-use level 2 and level 3 charging stations, with a virtual map of chargers so travelers can plan trips free of the “range anxiety” that currently plagues many would-be EV owners. CHARGE’s offerings also include co-op-branded inhome chargers with intelligence built in to allow for load control and time-of-use rates that will help members save money. On the customer services end, co-ops are working just as hard to stay ahead of fast-moving EV trends. Member services personnel from co-ops around the state meet annually for a day of education and training to help them better serve their members. The bulk of this year’s programming was devoted to EVs, with an EV showcase where employees could test drive different vehicles and exchange ideas about incentives and programs.

Sleepy Hollow owner Lavon Felton hands a key to an EV to anyone approaching his dealership in search of a rental car. Among his EV customers are Vernon Electric Cooperative General Manager/CEO Craig Buros and Jeff Springer, Dairyland Power Cooperative manager of innovation and efficient electrification, both of whom purchased their electric vehicles from Sleepy Hollow. In fact, Sleepy Hollow’s very first EV sale was to Springer. Both Vernon Electric and Dairyland Power, along with Richland Electric Cooperative, are also partnering with Sleepy Hollow in establishing a public charging station outfitted with co-op-branded fast chargers.

Working together in this way is a key cooperative strength. But cooperatives also gain strength by reaching beyond co-op borders and working with other businesses and organizations for the betterment of their communities. The emergence of electric vehicles has opened up opportunities for partnerships that beneﬁt co-ops, local businesses, and consumers alike. One such collaboration is occurring in southwest Wisconsin.

Productive Partnership

Lavon “Spanky” Felton is owner of Sleepy Hollow Auto in Viroqua and a wellknown presence in the community, with multiple ties to electric co-ops. He’s a member of Vernon Electric Cooperative himself, and the new Ford dealership he’s adding in Viroqua will be served by Vernon Electric as well. Felton also shares electric co-ops’ approach to the growing EV market, choosing to stay ahead of the trend by preparing not only his customers, but also his sales and maintenance staff, for the expected surge of EV vehicles.

“I’m trying to be ‘boots on the ground’ with EVs,” he pointed out. “I’d rather be the guy that knows what to do right away than play catch up later.” To that end, Felton’s been essentially creating his own blueprint for introducing and promoting EVs, centered around the goal of simply getting as many people as possible behind the wheel of an electric vehicle to give it a try. Felton was discussing this idea with Shannon Clark, CEO/general manager of neighboring Richland Electric Cooperative, earlier this year when they got to talking about how electric co-ops and Sleepy Hollow could work together toward their shared goal of encouraging EV use and facilitating a smooth transition. Vernon Electric, in the meantime, was already successfully working with a local business in this venture, having installed a level 3 charger at Readstown Restaurant at the intersection of Highways 14, 61, and 131 in Kickapoo last spring. Ultimately, talks led to a similar partnership among Sleepy Hollow, Richland Electric, Vernon Electric, and September 2021

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8/18/21 4:19 PM

Ford’s allelectric F150 Lightning, arriving spring 2022, can provide portable power to a jobsite. Photo courtesy of Ford

Electric Trucks and SUVs are Coming

he Ford F150 Lightning is changing minds across America about what an electric vehicle can do. In fact, Ford declared this is their best truck to date—not best electric vehicle, but best truck, period. It’s scheduled to arrive in spring 2022, starting under $40,000 for the commercial trim package (230-mile range model). A 300+ mile battery is an option, and all models are 4X4 with respectable towing and payload capacities. The Lightning is also equipped to provide 9.6kW of home backup power or portable power for a jobsite. SUVs are also available now and pickups will be soon. Tesla has more than a million preorders for their new Cybertruck, which will likely arrive in 2022. The 250-mile range 2WD model starts under $40,000 and steps up to $50,000 for the 300-mile range 4WD model. Tesla plans to offer a 500+ mile range version for $70,000 that can tow more than 14,000 pounds. GMC has announced a late 2021 release of an electric Hummer with 1,000 horsepower and additional features for off-road performance. Rivian, a startup backed by billions of dollars from Ford and Amazon, is planning to unveil their R1T electric pickup later this year. Crossover SUVs (CUVs) are one of the most popular types of vehicles, and a number of manufacturers say they’ll have electric models available soon. Ford’s Mustang Mach-E is available now with a range up to 305 miles, starting at $45,000. Volkswagen’s ID4 CUV starts at $40,000. Several factors are driving demand for more and more EVs: • The instant torque from electric motors boosts acceleration. • The low center of gravity improves handling and reduces rollover risk. • The superior traction control of electric motors can increase off-road capability and safety in winter. • The upfront cost of an EV purchase is now more competitive with similar internal combustion models, and most EVs qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500. • Operating fuel cost per mile is cheaper for electricity compared to gasoline or diesel. Source: Collaborative Efficiencies

Felton, shown here with Trevor Clark, Richland Electric Cooperative’s director of outreach services and the president of the Member Services Association for 2020-2021, spoke to co-op member services employees at their recent annual gathering about how electric co-ops and car dealers can work together to facilitate a successful transition to EV use.

Dairyland Power Cooperative, through which Felton obtained two CHARGE-branded level 3 chargers that will be installed at the new Sleepy Hollow dealership and available for public use. They will be located under a canopy in front of the building similar to how gas pumps are arranged in front of a convenience store. Not only will be travelers along Highway 14/27 be able to stop and quickly charge their EVs there, but potential EV customers at the dealership will be able to see for themselves how quickly these level 3 chargers work. The partnership is mutually beneficial, as it brings together two different facets of the EV equation. “They’re the electric vehicle sales experts,” said Craig Buros, general manager/CEO of Vernon Electric. “They’re out there selling EVs. The co-ops’ role is in the charging. We’re the experts in electricity sales, providing the network, rates, incentives, not only for in-home charging where 90 percent of the charging will take place, but also with the fast chargers—the public chargers that will help alleviate the range anxiety.”

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

Sep21feature 1.indd 2

8/18/21 4:20 PM

One Person at a Time

Felton, however, is not waiting for the new dealership to open to begin selling EVs. Working with the co-ops simply brought new possibilities to what he was already doing. “Because we were able to form such a great partnership with the co-ops and with CHARGE, we went ahead and started switching out our rental fleet with EVs,” he said. “Now we have 12 of them in our fleet. And they’re running every day.” Whenever a customer comes to Sleepy Hollow in need of a rental car— whether it’s for a few days’ trip or just a couple of hours while their personal vehicle is in for repair—Felton hands over a key to one of the EVs. For customers who are brand-new to EVs, a Sleepy Hollow employee takes a moment to explain how the vehicle’s app works, ease their concerns about range, and set them on their way. They return satisfied at least, downright excited at best. “You need to put people in these things, let them drive it, take it home, and then decide if they want to buy it,” he said. “It’s about showing people, one person at a time, one conversation at a time, and by having these cars in the rental fleet we’re able to do that.”

“They enjoy it. They enjoy driving it, and they enjoy talking about it.” Felton’s own experience with EVs has been equally positive. He said the EV rental ﬂeet is much easier to monitor, the vehicles are largely maintenancefree, and they’ve been performing well, with “zero problems.” Furthermore, Felton’s promotional

plan of simply getting people behind the wheel of an EV has been successful so far in generating awareness, interest, and ultimately sales. When the inevitable surge comes, he’ll be ready, just as electric co-ops will. In true cooperative fashion, electric co-ops and local businesses like Sleepy Hollow are working together.—Mary Erickson

To help consumers feel comfortable with EVs, Felton uses terms and symbols people are already familiar with. Here, he affixes stickers he designed to resemble the symbols on a gas tank to help consumers determine how much of a charge to give the vehicle. Sleepy Hollow has 12 electric vehicles in its rental fleet. Inset: Sleepy Hollow’s newest dealership will feature a pair of fast, level 3 CHARGE™-branded chargers available for public use.

Just a Car First-time EV drivers have expressed surprise at several things. First, they discover range is not that big a worry after all. Felton said most of his rental EVs have been getting 250 to 300 miles from a full charge, more than enough for what most people need to drive in a single day. Some EV drivers are surprised by how quiet an EV ride is, although the soft engine noises that feed through the speakers are soothing to those who might be slightly unnerved by the vehicle’s lack of an engine. Other drivers are surprised by an EV’s speed. Because electric motors are much simpler than internal combustion engines, an EV accelerates from zero to top speed much faster than gas-powered cars. However, perhaps the biggest surprise for most people, Felton said, is that ultimately, there really is no big surprise. “They realize it’s just a car,” he said. September 2021

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8/18/21 4:20 PM

THE DUAL MEANING OF

“COMMUNITY SOLAR” MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS

isconsin’s electric cooperatives have a strong history of working with private solar vendors to build community solar facilities and provide clean power to their member-owners. They often do this with two facts in mind; 1) their members are increasingly asking for it and 2) cooperatives believe in a transition to cleaner energy that will, and must, continue to remain safe, reliable, and affordable. Your cooperatives do this under a regulatory model that ensures all member-owners can have access to electricity and where all member-owners are served equitably. Electric cooperatives are governed by boards that are made up of the membership. They are accountable to you. So when they decide to establish a “community solar” program for the cooperative, they do so with all members in mind on a utility-size scale, not just a subset of members. Contrast this with “community solar” legislation that has been introduced in the Legislature authorizing the establishment of community solar programs through which retail electric customers may subscribe to an unregulated community solar facility and receive credits to their electric bills for electricity produced by the facility. Under Senate Bill 490, introduced by State Senator Duey Stroebel (R-Saukville) and State Representative Tim Ramthun (R-Campbellsport), entities called subscriber organizations may own or operate community solar facilities, which use solar energy to produce electricity for their subscribers and are connected to the electric distribution grid. On its face, I’m sure most individuals will think this sounds like a reasonable idea. The caveat is that it will be disruptive to providing reliable and affordable clean energy in the most effective and efficient manner. This legislation requires the state to set the bill credit at an artificial level, provides no compensation for utilizing and maintaining an established grid system, and there’s no cost-sharing for the expense of having a

power plant as the provider when the community solar system isn’t producing. Put simply, it’s no risk with all the reward. If a for-profit entity is allowed to come into a not-for-profit electric cooperative service territory and demand use of the grid without paying for its maintenance, members who aren’t subscribers to the community solar network will ultimately subsidize those who are. Wisconsin has a well-regulated system in place that is capable of maximizing utility-scale cost benefits of community solar and other renewables to its members. As the entire country transitions to more renewables, allowing utilities to continue an aggressive, yet regulated, build-out of solar, wind, and other renewable sources of clean energy is the most cost-effective and cost-efficient means of meeting this demand. Transitioning to clean energy shouldn’t have to mean that we sacrifice reliability or participation in these beneficial programs. Electric cooperatives have made considerable strides with the inclusion of community solar and renewable energy sources within their portfolios, accounting for about 24% of the energy they sell. As we head towards a carbon-neutral future and possibly one that is free of fossil fuels, that number will continue to jump significantly. That is happening, in part, because members are demanding it. Cooperatives will need to respond to their member-owners. Electric cooperatives do much more with far less to keep electric rates affordable. Opening the door to community solar subscriber organizations is a serious threat that could certainly create inequities among ratepayers and increase costs for those who can least afford it. We believe in community solar but with a strong emphasis on “community.” Our definition of community includes ALL member-owners in the service territory, not simply a subset that will benefit at the expense of everyone else. We will be watching this issue as it navigates the legislative process and will follow up as necessary.—Rob Richard is the director of government relations for the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, representing Wisconsin’s 25 electric cooperatives in Madison and Washington, D.C.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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Paella Prawn Salad with Roasted Onions Recipe and photo courtesy of The National Onion Association, www.onions-usa.org

SCRUMPTIOUS

SEAFOOD

Castilian Dressing: 1/2 cup white wine vinegar 1/4 cup sugar 1 tsp tarragon 1 large garlic clove 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 1 cup olive oil

Combine vinegar, sugar, tarragon, garlic, salt, and pepper in electric blender. With blender running, gradually blend in oil. Makes 1-5/8 cups dressing. Salad: 6 cups cooked long grain rice 1 tsp turmeric 1/8 tsp saffron Castilian dressing (see recipe) 1 lb red onions, unpeeled 1 Tbsp vegetable or olive oil 10 oz (approx. 3 qts) lettuce or mixed greens 24 large prawns, shelled and grilled 1 lb (approx. 3/4 qts) tomatoes, cubed 1/2 lb (approx. 1-1/2 cups) cucumber, sliced 6 oz (approx. 1-1/2 cups) green bell pepper; seeded, cut into julienne strips 6 oz (approx. 1 cup) marinated artichoke hearts, quartered and drained Combine rice, turmeric, and saffron until evenly mixed. Mix in half of the prepared Castilian dressing. Chill. Cut onions into thick wedges, rub with oil and spread out in pan. Roast at 400 degrees for 30 minutes or until roasted and tender; peel and trim off root. For each serving, line plate with 1 cup lettuce. Top with 1/2 cup saffron rice, then 4 grilled prawns, 1/4 cup tomato, 1/8 cup cucumber, 1/8 cup green bell pepper, 3 artichoke quarters, and 2 or 3 wedges roasted onions. Drizzle with 1-1/2 tablespoons Castilian dressing. Yield: 6 servings.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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Crispy Pecan Fish Fillets

Recipe and photo courtesy of The National Pecan Shellers Association, www. ilovepecans.org These crispy pecan fish fillets are a nutty twist on a classic fish fried favorite. 1-1/2 lbs fish fillets (catfish, snapper, flounder, or fish of choice) 1 cup milk 1 Tbsp Tabasco sauce 1/2 tsp salt 2 cups yellow cornmeal

1 stick (8 Tbsp) unsalted butter 1/4 cup vegetable oil 1 cup pecans, chopped 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice

Wash fish fillets under cold running water and place in a bowl with milk, Tabasco, and salt. Allow them to sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Just before cooking, drain fillets and dredge in the cornmeal. Heat 2 tablespoons each of butter and vegetable oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Fry cornmeal-covered fillets until crispy and brown (approx. 2 minutes on each side). Remove from pan with slotted spatula and drain on paper towels. Repeat until all fish is fried. Keep warm. Drain the skillet and add remaining butter. Place over medium heat and when melted, add pecans. Stir constantly while pecans brown. Add parsley and lemon juice; stir. Pour sauce over fillets and serve immediately. Yield: 2–3 servings.

Garden-Style Fish with Onions and Bell Peppers

Recipe and photo courtesy of The National Onion Association, www.onions-usa.org 2 cups sliced yellow onion 1 cup thinly sliced green and/or red bell pepper 3 Tbsp olive oil, divided 1 lb white fish fillets (tilapia, sole, perch, or orange roughy)

1/2 tsp marjoram Garlic salt, to taste 1/2 cup vegetable broth or white wine

Sauté onion and bell pepper in a large skillet in 2 tablespoons oil over medium heat for 8–10 minutes or until tender and lightly sautéed. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add remaining 1 tablespoon oil to pan. Place fish in a single layer in the pan. Spoon vegetables over fish and sauté 2–5 minutes (depending upon thickness of filets) or until fish are cooked halfway through. Turn fish, sprinkle with marjoram and garlic salt, and finish cooking. Add broth or wine to pan and continue to cook uncovered until liquid reduces slightly. Serve fish with juices from the pan and the vegetables over the top. Makes 4 servings.

Crispy Pan Fried Fish Recipe courtesy of The United Soybean Board - Soy Connection, www.soyconnection.com 2 (5–8 ounce) fish fillets, no thicker than1/2- inch, skin on or off 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp paprika, or substitute with favorite herbs and seasonings 1 tsp garlic powder 1/4 to 1/2 cup soybean oil Lemon wedges Finely chopped parsley or dill Prepared tartar sauce Pat the fish dry on both sides. Season the fish well on both sides with salt and pepper. Mix the flour with paprika (or seasonings of choice) and garlic powder in shallow bowl. Coat fish on both sides with flour, pressing down into flour mixture so it adheres; shake to remove excess flour. Heat a heavy-bottomed sauté pan over medium-high heat and add enough oil to 1/4-inch depth. Swirl oil to coat the pan—it will heat within seconds. Add fish—it should sizzle when touches pan. Cook for 2 minutes until golden and crisp, pressing down gently; flip with spatula. Cook the other side for 2 minutes until crisp, then remove from pan when golden brown; drain on paper towels. Serve fish hot with lemon wedges, garnished with dill or parsley, and a tartar sauce, if using. NOTES: If it’s browning too quickly, remove pan from the stove briefly. If it’s stuck, don’t flip or move, it will release naturally once cooked to a golden brown (too much moving will break the fish apart).

September 2021

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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/.

Venison Stroganoff Mary Sternberg, Mason

1 lb lean venison round steak, approx. 3/4-inch thick 1 (4 oz) can sliced mushrooms, drained, reserve liquid 2 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp ﬂour 1-1/4 cups water 1 (1 oz) pkg onion soup mix 1-1/2 cups milk 1/2 cup sour cream Buttered noodles, cooked (enough to serve 4 people)

Cut venison steak into thin strips approx. 2 inches long. Brown the steak strips and mushrooms in butter in a large skillet. Mix the ﬂour and water together and stir into the browned meat. Add the reserved mushroom liquid and onion soup mix. Bring to a boil, while stirring, to thicken. Gradually stir in the milk and let simmer gently for 30–40 minutes. Add the sour cream just before serving and heat through. Serve over buttered noodles. NOTES: I’ve been making this recipe since I was in high school in the early 1970’s.

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An online reader is looking for cabbage or coleslaw recipes. Send to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, What’s Cooking? 222 West Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 537032719 or contact us via our website, www.wecnmagazine.com. Thanks!

Venison or Beef Jerky

Seafood Lasagna

3 lbs venison or beef 2 tsp Accent seasoning or MSG 2 tsp seasoned salt 2/3 tsp black pepper 1 tsp garlic salt 1 tsp onion salt OR 2 tsp onion powder 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce 1/2 cup soy sauce

1 green onion, ﬁnely chopped 2 Tbsp vegetable oil 1/2 cup PLUS 2 Tbsp butter, divided 1/2 cup chicken broth 1 (8 oz) bottle clam juice 1 lb scallops 1 lb uncooked small shrimp, peeled and deveined 1 (8 oz) pkg crab meat, chopped 1/4 tsp white pepper, divided 1/2 cup all-purpose ﬂour 1-1/2 cups milk 1/2 tsp salt 1 cup heavy whipping cream (or half and half) 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, shredded and divided 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained

Recipe courtesy of Dorothy Shirk, Thorp

Remove all the fat from venison/beef and slice into thin strips. In a large bowl, mix all seasonings, Worcestershire, and soy sauce. Place meat strips into marinade, making sure strips are totally submerged; if not, prepare an extra batch of marinade and pour over top. Marinate overnight (or 8 hours), stirring every 2 hours. Lay strips on racks of food dehydrator, set at 135 degrees, and dry for 6–8 hours. If you do not have a food dehydrator, this can also be done in a 150 degree oven for 6–8 hours. Lay strips on oven rack and lay foil on the bottom to catch drippings. Store in an airtight container.

Mexican Bowl

Carol Klotz, Lombard, Ill. (Bayfield co-op member)

1 lb ground beef, cooked 1 (1 oz) pkg taco seasoning 2 heads Romaine lettuce, torn into pieces 2 Tbsp vinegar 2 Tbsp olive or canola oil 1 (16 oz) pkg grated Mexican cheese blend 1 (12 oz) jar salsa 1 (15 oz) can black beans 1 (15 oz) can corn niblets 16 oz sour cream 1 (6.5 oz) can sliced black olives (optional)

Brown the ground beef; drain. Add package of taco seasoning and mix. Toss torn lettuce in a large bowl with vinegar and oil. Create 4 servings of lettuce in bowls. While still hot, place 1/4 of cooked ground beef on top of each lettuce bed. Sprinkle a handful of grated cheese on top of each meat serving and allow to melt. Add two tablespoons of salsa, 1/4 cup black beans, and 1/4 cup corn niblets to each serving. Place dollops of sour cream on top and add black olives. NOTES: May serve with extra salsa, cheese, sour cream, and corn tortilla chips, if desired.

Shirley Lewis, Madison

In a large skillet, sauté onion in oil and 2 tablespoons butter until tender. Stir in broth and clam juice; bring to a boil. Add the scallops, shrimp, crab, and 1/8 tsp pepper; return to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered for 4–5 minutes or until shrimp turns pink and scallops are ﬁrm and opaque, stirring gently. Drain and reserve cooking liquid. Set seafood mixture aside. In a saucepan, melt remaining butter; stir in ﬂour until smooth. Combine milk and reserved cooking liquid; gradually add to the saucepan. Add salt and remaining pepper. Bring to a boil; cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Remove from heat; stir in cream and 1/4 cup of parmesan cheese. Stir 3/4 cup white sauce into seafood mixture. Spread 1/2 cup white sauce in a greased 9-x13-inch casserole pan. Top with 3 noodles, spread with half of the seafood mixture and 1-1/4 cups sauce. Repeat layers. Top with remaining noodles, sauce, and parmesan. Bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35–40 minutes or until golden brown. Let stand for 10–15 minutes before cutting. Makes 12 servings.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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150 YEARS I

PESHTIGO MARKS SESQUICENTENNIAL OF AMERICA’S DEADLIEST WILDFIRE

t’s been almost 150 years since a deadly fire swept through 1.3 million acres of northeast Wisconsin, wiping out 17 towns in its path, including the one for whom the fire is named. The Peshtigo Fire of October 8, 1871, stands as the most devastating wildfire in American history, having claimed anywhere from 1,500 to 2,400 lives. That includes about 800—close to half the community’s population at the time—in Peshtigo alone. Although often overshadowed by the Great Chicago Fire that began on the same day, the far deadlier Peshtigo Fire is a familiar story to most everyone who did their primary schooling in Wisconsin, where the blaze is a memorable lesson in the typical fourth-grade social studies curriculum. This is when most Wisconsin students first learn about the terrible toll the fire took in human life and property destruction, calculated not just in numbers but also through haunting survivor accounts that have been carefully preserved. However, there’s no need to dig out an old social studies book to brush up on Peshtigo Fire knowledge ahead of this major anniversary. Historical records, including survivor

This drawing by G.J. Tisdale of people seeking refuge from the fire in the Peshtigo River originally appeared in Harper’s Weekly in 1871. (Wisconsin Historical Society, WHS-3728)

stories and newspaper accounts of the day, are cataloged and available for viewing through the Wisconsin Historical Society. Even better, some of this history can be experienced firsthand on a visit to Peshtigo, where the community’s unique heritage is marked and preserved throughout the city. The Peshtigo Fire Museum, maintained and staffed by the Peshtigo Historical Society, is filled with artifacts and historical records relating to life in Peshtigo at the time of the fire as well as the fire itself. In addition, the building is a piece of living history all its own; the museum is housed in the first church that was rebuilt in Peshtigo after the fire, on the site of the Catholic Church whose loss in the fire was recorded in Father Peter Pernin’s published eyewitness account. At the adjacent Peshtigo Fire Cemetery, many of the fire victims’ gravestones are marked with corresponding stories about the people who are buried there. The cemetery also

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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WISCONSIN FAVORITES

Left: Survivors of the Peshtigo Fire are gathered in front of the Peshtigo Fire historical marker in 1951. The marker dedication coincided with the 80th anniversary of the fire. This was the first historical marker to be erected in Wisconsin; it stands in the cemetery adjacent to the Peshtigo Fire Museum. (Wisconsin Historical Society, WHS-123186) Right: The cemetery also includes a mass grave of 350 victims of the Peshtigo Fire who could not be identified.

includes a mass grave for 350 victims of the fire who could not be identified, and it contains the first official Wisconsin state historical marker, erected in 1951. The Peshtigo River, which provided some of the only safe refuge for the hundreds of people who ran to escape the fast-moving flames on that terrifying night in 1871, crosses

through the heart of the community. A marker at the northeast end of the Peshtigo River Bridge pays tribute to the waterway that protected some of Peshtigo’s citizens during the ﬁre.

A Confluence of Causes The story of the Peshtigo Fire has been gleaned from survivor accounts and research into

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the contributing factors, much of which is told at the museum. There, visitors learn that multiple factors combined to create conditions that were ripe for a devastating forest fire. Mother Nature certainly played a role, delivering an unusually dry summer in 1871 to follow up a dry fall and winter. Also, a cold front moved across north-central America on October 8, bringing swirling winds described by some witnesses as a tornado that served to whip smaller flames together and create a firestorm. But humans played a significant role themselves. Fires were frequently used as a method of clearing debris in a number of industries of the day, from lumber to farming to railroad construction. Many of these fires were left to die on their own, sometimes burning underground and weakening trees and other vegetation. Pernin recalled in his published account numerous fires that burned in the area in the days leading up to October 8, turning the sky dense with smoke. While alarming to many, this was still evidently a common enough occurrence that it failed to trigger a widescale sense of alarm. Also, a stroll through the museum reveals another contributing factor to the fire’s rapid spread: The vast bulk of the community was made of wood. Like

many other towns in northern Wisconsin, Peshtigo was a thriving lumber community in the mid-1800s thanks to the thick surrounding forests. In 1871 Peshtigo had the largest woodenware factory in the world and was home to one of the country’s biggest sawmills. Homes, businesses, and even sidewalks were made of wood. Combined with the prolonged drought conditions, near-constant simmering ground fires, and high winds that stirred everything up, the dry wood throughout the city helped turn Peshtigo into a tinder box that early October night.

A Night of Terror

When the fire reared up in the evening hours of October 8, carried along by the strong winds, it did so suddenly and ferociously. Survivors described the noise of the rapidly moving fire as “the roar of an approaching train.” An historical account in a 1921 issue of The Peshtigo Times, available to read through the Wisconsin Historical Society, described a nightmarish scene: “And now, at about 10 o’cock, great tongues of flames were seen leaping high in the air above the tree-tops and rapidly approaching the village. The roar increased and burning coals began to drop in the village, first like stray meteors of the night, and than (sic) as thickly as the snows of winter. The

few remaining survivors say that the shower of coals was as dense as a heavy snowstorm. In less time than it takes to write it, the wind reached the force of a tornado, the buildings nearest the woods were on fire, and the very air seemed an atmosphere of flames.” People rushed to find safety where they could, many of them in the Peshtigo River, where the survivors remained until daylight. The Peshtigo Times article describes a vivid scene: “Some were standing in the cold water of the river, or clinging to logs, sometimes the logs on fire, men, women, children, grasping for breath, their eyes blinded by smoke, and trying to save themselves from burning even in the water only by covering their heads with wet blankets, or constantly wetting their heads. The roar of the tornado and of the fire was mingled with shrieks of anguish from the suffering, and groans and lamentations from those bereaved of relatives and friends. Cattle, too, rushed into the river and swam about bewildered sometimes rolling over the logs to which human beings were clinging, and sending them to a watery grave.” Individual survivor stories are preserved at the Peshtigo Fire Museum and available to read on the museum’s website. Some are heroic; most are heart-breaking.

Left: Museum workers are always available to share the story of the Peshtigo Fire inside the museum. Groups of 10 or more can arrange for a guided tour. Right: This sculpture is installed outside the Peshtigo Fire Museum.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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The City of Peshtigo will be observing the 150th anniversary of the Peshtigo Fire at its annual Historical Days celebration, held this year September 24-25 at Badger Park in Peshtigo. The Peshtigo Historical Days & Sesquicentennial Celebration will include Peshtigo Fire Museum tours and a cemetery walk . There will also be a parade, historical re-enactment, live music, arts and crafts sale, car show, food and beverages. To learn more follow Peshtigo Heritage Days on Facebook.

Destruction and Reconstruction

The damage from the Peshtigo Fire was severe and widespread. Peshtigo was the hardest hit, but the fire scorched a wide swath, skipping over Green Bay to burn in Door and Kewaunee counties as well. The fire ultimately burned 2,400 square miles and destroyed 2 billion trees. It was finally quenched by rain and decreasing winds the next day and stopped as it reached Lake Michigan. In his published account, Father Pernin recalled the scene he was met with when he returned to Peshtigo after taking refuge across the river in Marinette: “Of the houses, trees, fences that I had looked on three days ago nothing whatever remained, save a few blackened posts still standing as if to attest the impetuous fury of the fiery element that had thus destroyed all before it. Wherever the foot chanced to fall it rested on ashes.” Peshtigo’s story, however, is not all as heartrending as the one Pernin tells. This is also a story of resilience. This city was rebuilt from—quite literally— those ashes of 150 years ago.—Mary Erickson (Sources: Peshtigo Historical Society, Wisconsin Historical Society) The Peshtigo Fire Museum is located at 400 Oconto Avenue in Peshtigo. It’s open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Memorial Day through October 8. Donations are appreciated. To learn more visit peshtigofiremuseum.com or call 715-582-3244. NOTE: COVID mitigation measures including masks are required within the museum. September 2021

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CLASSIFIEDS MISCELLANEOUS

WANTED: Paying cash for WWII German, Japanese flags, daggers, swords, guns, etc. Also, lever-action rifles. 715-340-1974. 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=$70, 10x36=$37, 10x30=$30. 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. 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. FOR SALE: FULL-SIZED WOODEN RAILROAD CABOOSE. Perfect playhouse or Bed & Breakfast, or keep original. Many extras, including the track. $10,000. Jay (608) 526-5878. 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.

PLANTS & SHRUBS MCKAY NURSERY COMPANY—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 608909-1962. “Your McKay Independent Sales & Service Provider.” ALL NATURAL SOIL ADDITIVE Improves water retention, Rich in mineral and nutrient release, increase soil aeration, odor free 100% worm castings. Visit www.CaptainJacksWorm Castings.com for locations near you. Retail/ Wholesale contact us at CaptainJacksWorm Castings@outlook.com or 608-632-1747.

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. FOR SALE: LARGE BUILDABLE LOT in Mauston, WI. $5,200, 608-847-6608.

ADVERTISE WITH US

ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL PUPPIES. AKC registered. Vet checked, ﬁrst shots, tails docked and dew claws removed. Call or text 715-579-2547. EBIKES: Sales, service, test rides, repair. ReCycle Bike Shop / Mobile, Menomonie, WI 54751, nationwide shipping. Phone or message Bicycle Larry 715-702-1452. WANTED: VINTAGE ALUMINUM CHRISTMAS TREES. Any size any color- buying for collection. Cash paid, will pick up. Please call 715-254-4651 or email upnboonies@yahoo.com. LA CROSSE’S HISTORIC CONCORDIA BALLROOM. Supported by community for the community. Dancing, receptions, reunions, concerts, fundraisers. Live music! Lets’s polka! www. concordiaballroom.com | 608-782-7049.

MORE THAN 152,000 MAILBOXES EACH MONTH ads@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, 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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W E NEVER STO P OUR 60th YEAR

BEFORE YOU DIG

CALL 811

Not everyone starts their day at the same time, or in the same way. But no matter when or how, your local Touchstone Energy cooperative is there to help you power every moment of it. To learn more, visit TouchstoneEnergy.com

YOUR SOURCE FOR POWER. AND INFORMATION.

September 2021

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WISCONSIN EVENTS 4 Flea & Craft Market—Coloma. Community Park, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. Crafts, antiques, collectibles, rummage, flea market items, produce, baked goods, and more. Follow COVID guidelines. 4 Family, Art, Craft and Vendor Fair—Necedah. Lion’s Park, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Live music. Kids’ activities. 5 Truck and Tractor Pull—Jump River. Community Park, noon. Horseshoe tourney, grilled chicken dinner, burgers, dogs, fries, and drinks. Crossbow raffle. 715-427-3645. 10-11 Yellowstone Art Trail—Chippewa Falls, Cadott, Boyd, and Eastern Lake Wissota. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. both days. Free, self-guided art tour of 34 local artists at 11 locations displaying and selling artwork in their studios and participating businesses. Brochures with maps at area businesses. 10 Donut Fry—Jim Falls. United Methodist Church, 10 a.m.–3p.m. $4 per dozen. Advance orders please call 715-382-4397. 10–12 Cleghorn Harvest Fest—Eleva. Cleghorn School Park. Charcoal chicken, wood bat softball tourney, dart tourney, bingo, crafters and farmers market, parade, kids games, face painting, and more. 11 Steppin’ Out in Pink—La Crosse. Gundersen Health System Lot F (trail head), 8 a.m.–12:30 p.m. A non-competitive fundraising 4.5-mile walk. 608-775-7647. 11 Antique Tractor Pull—Lublin. American Legion grounds, 12–4 p.m. Lunch available. Gun raffle, live music. 715-229-2356. 11 Dodge Sportsmen’s Tractor Ride-In—Dodge. Hoesley Farm, N20743 County Road J. Registration 8–8:30 a.m., tractor ride to start at 9 a.m. Wagons available and lunch is provided. Cash prizes awarded after the ride. 608-687-4030. 11–12 Cornucopia Art Crawl—Cornucopia and Bayfield. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. View and purchase art, view the tall ships and enjoy the new restaurants in Cornucopia. 12 Heritage Sunday—Beloit. Beckman Mill Rock County Park, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Historic trade demonstrations, early war soldiers, kids’ activities, mill tours, classic cars, music, food. Admission free, but donations appreciated. 608-362-2825.

September 2021

12 Harvest Dinner—Tigerton. St. John Lutheran Church, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Service at 10:30 a.m. Serving following service until 1:30 p.m. Music by Faith, Hope & Harmony. Adults $13, children (5–12) $6, under 5 free.

24–26 Pancake Breakfast—Warrens. St. Andrew the Apostle Catholic Church, 6–11 a.m. Held during the cranberry festival, and features a secret cranberry syrup recipe. Adults $7, children $4, 5 or younger free.

12 Fall Festival—Sheldon. St. John’s Catholic Church, 10:30 a.m. Buffet style dinner with roast beef and pork. A country store, bake sale, and cake walk.

25–26 Fall Fundraiser—Willard. Holy Family Church. Sun., Sept. 26 pulled pork dinner. Rummage sale, bake sale, and bucket rafﬂe. 715-267-7524.

12 Parish Picnic—Colby. St. Mary’s Parish, 10:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Take-out chicken and ham dinner with all the trimmings, and homemade pie. Auction, rafﬂe, country produce, bake sale, and children’s games. 715-223-2927.

25–26 Model Train show—Monroe. Stateline Ice and Community Expo, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Free parking, lunch available, door prizes, 125 tables, and 15 layouts. 608-558-9332.

12 History Presentation of the Bethany Indian Mission—Wittenberg. High School, 1–3 p.m. Explore the history of the Bethany Indian Mission. A $10 free-will donation is appreciated. 715-881-0326. 18-19 Glacier Ridge Antique Tractor Show— Rosholt. Corky’s Bar, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Displays and demonstrations of antique equipment, vendors, and a silent auction. Adult and kiddie rafﬂes both days, daily tractor parade at 1 p.m., barrel train rides, food, beverages, live music. Admission $5 per person, $10 per carload. 18–19 Northern Aged Iron Tractor and Threshing Show—Highbridge. 38565 State Highway 13, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Admission $5, 12 and under free. Show button for admission both days. Sunday pancake breakfast 9–11 a.m. 715-274-7807. 18 Wings, Wheels & Things Car/Tractor/Airplane Show—Oconto. J. Douglas Bake Memorial Airport, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Past events included 300 show cars, over 40 airplanes, and over 40 craft vendors. Food court. Remote control airplane show. $5 per car, and $5 per person as a spectator. 18 Heartland Annual Fall Festival—Custer. Heartland Equestrian Center, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Pony rides, face painting, free games, horse care demos, horse and nonhorse related vendors. 715-305-0305. 19 Polish Dinner—Hawkins. St. Mary of Czestochowa, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Polish dinner featuring cabbage rolls, Polish sausage, pork, sauerkraut, more. Grade 9 and older $10; 4 yr through grade 8, $5. Take-outs available. 715-560-0368.

26 Trempealeau County Humane Society Auction— Osseo. Grand Occasions Banquet Hall, event starts at noon, doors open at 11 a.m. Collectibles, antiques, electronics, beer, and food. 608-525-2300. 26 Harvest Dinner—Fall Creek. Zion Lutheran Church, 10:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m. $10 all you can eat, children 12 and under eat free with purchase of an adult meal. Bake sale and produce sale as well. 28 Mrs. Oktoberfest Reveal Reception—LaCrosse. UW-LaCrosse Student Union Bluffs Room, 5–9 p.m. Tickets $40 by Sept. 13., $50 by Sept. 22. Event open to all. 29 Blood Drive—Iola. Iola-Scandinavia Aquatic & Fitness Center, 12–5 p.m. Please donate, the need is great! Call 1-800-RED-CROSS for more info.

Upload events directly to the wecnmagazine.com through the “Events” tab.

Upload your October events by September 12. 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

Upload events to wecnmagazine.com

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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YOUNG MEMBERS 1

Kids and Critters September 2021 1. Miles holds his favorite kitty, Butter. Photo submitted by Ron Seibel, a member of Chippewa Valley Electric.

2. Bailey Boy wants some of Holly’s crackers. Photo submitted by Beth Krey, a member of AdamsColumbia Electric. 3. Raelynn Lu found a new feline friend. Photo submitted by Todd Flees, a member of Central Wisconsin Electric. 4. Ablaze and Emma have a real connection. Photo submitted by Grandma Phyllis Wathke, a member of Eau Claire Energy.

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.

WELCOME BACK TO OUR HIDDEN OBJECT GAME,

“SYMBOL SEARCH”

Our kitchen kit winner this month is Jackson Electric Cooperative member Rita Cox. She found the sunflower: “Located on page 11 in the yellow line below the yellow rubber duckie. First time in months that we were able to find it and our son-in-law was the eagle eye to help us out. Love the contest and our electric company.” This month, we challenge readers to find this electric vehicle, inspired by this month’s cover story. 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 September 14.

Enter via the “Symbol Search” link on the homepage of wecnmagazine.com.

Good luck!

You can also enter by mail (don’t forget to include the name of your cooperative): Symbol Search Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association 222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703

September 2021

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