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contents October 2020
News
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CEO Message
Co-ops recognize a co-op champion.
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VP Visit
Pence visits DPC to honor essential workers
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Cast your vote on November 3.
NEWS BRIEFS
Keep up to date with industry happenings.
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Through Changes and
CHALLENGES
Co-ops stay connected to their communities.
Recipes
Pig out with pork.
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On the
COVER
Take in the fall colors along Rustic Roads.
Photo courtesy of Travel Wisconsin.
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WHEN GREEN LEADS TO BLACK
Green is good, but diverse is better.
MY CO-OP
Find out what’s happening at your local electric cooperative.
CLASSIFIEDS
Buy, sell, and trade with readers from across Wisconsin.
KIDS & CRITTERS
Cute co-op kids get cozy with their critters.
October 2020
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LETTER FROM
THE EDITOR Vote this November
Wisconsin’s electric Dana Kelroy, Editor cooperatives’ top priority is providing consumer-members with safe, reliable, and affordable energy. But this job requires more than stringing and maintaining power lines. It requires political engagement. That may seem far removed from our core mission, but it’s absolutely essential to the services cooperatives provide. In our May 2019 issue, our feature article “It’s Not Easy Being Important” predicted that Wisconsin would take center stage in the 2020 election: “More than one veteran political analyst has said rural Wisconsin swing voters played an outsized role in deciding the 2016 presidential election—and nobody saw it coming. If it happens again in 2020, everyone will have seen it coming.” In our August 2018 issue, our article “Turn up the Turnout” pointed out that of only 19 counties nationwide that have voted for the winner in all 10 presidential elections since 1980, Wisconsin has four—Richland, Juneau, Marquette, and Sawyer. No other state has more than two. “Amid today’s contentious atmosphere, political professionals have detected, here in Wisconsin, something they find refreshingly unusual: people with differing political beliefs living in proximity with one another and in relative harmony compared with other parts of the country.” Rural Wisconsin’s swing-vote history undoubtedly makes us appealing to the national candidates, and all eyes are on us. National candidates know that they must make their case to electric co-op members and give rural Wisconsin a reason to vote for them. Electric co-ops in Wisconsin and across the country are participating in Co-ops Vote. Co-ops Vote does not endorse candidates or take sides on a partisan basis. The program promotes voting by rural residents, facilitates candidate appearances before co-op members, and offers information (www.vote.coop) for voters interested in rural issues. We know Election Day may look a little different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and that’s why we’re encouraging all co-op members to stay engaged and informed of any changes to polling locations or absentee and mail-in balloting procedures. Voting is central to American democracy. We hope you will commit to casting your ballot in this election.
New Monthly Contest
This month, we’re launching a new feature called “Symbol Search” on page 30. Each month, we’ll hide a symbol somewhere in this publication, and readers can enter to win a prize by contacting us one of three ways—our website, email, or U.S. mail. Good luck!
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October 2020 Vol. 81 No. 4 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
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NEWS BRIEFS ELECTRICITY USE TO DROP 2.4 PERCENT IN 2020
The pandemic is striking a blow to the nation’s energy consumption. Even as more people spend time at home, the increase in residential use is not expected to make up for the decline in commercial and industrial use. According to the Department of Energy, overall, electricity consumption in the United States is expected to decrease 2.4 percent in 2020 compared to last year. Commercial users such as retail shops and restaurants are expected to use 6.4 percent less electricity this year, and industrial users such as factories and energy producers are expected to use 6 percent less. Residential retail electricity sales, however, are expected to increase 3.5 percent this year as more people work from home, according to the Energy Department.
DEMOCRATIC PARTY CHANGES STANCE ON NUCLEAR ENERGY
For the first time in almost 50 years, the Democratic Party taken a favorable stance on nuclear energy. In the party platform, the party stands for a “technology-neutral” approach that includes “all zero-carbon technologies, including hydroelectric power, geothermal, existing and advanced nuclear, and carbon capture and storage.” The Democrats’ new position means both the Republican and Democratic parties are in support of nuclear energy, which is a positive step toward meeting renewable energy goals. Climate scientists concur that a plan to address climate change, which has long been a priority of Democrats, must include a significant amount of nuclear power.
PROPOSED TAX CREDIT WOULD EASE COST OF RETIREMENT BENEFITS FOR NON-PROFITS A proposal in Congress would mean a temporary tax credit for electric cooperatives and other not-for-profit groups, to help keep retirement plans funded during the pandemic. The Preserving Employee Retirement Savings Act would provide a two-year tax credit for up to 20 percent of the retirement costs paid by co-ops and other small businesses experiencing hardships because of the pandemic. The bill was introduced by Ways & Means Committee Members Brad Schneider
(D-IL) and Mike Kelly (R-PA). The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) is a key backer of the bill, and worked to ensure the tax credit would not count as income for co-ops, so it will not threaten tax-exempt status. Other not-for-profit groups, including the Girl Scouts, The Jewish Federations of North America, and Christian Schools International joined NRECA in support of the bill.
BALDWIN, SENATE DEMOCRATS PUSH FOR TRILLIONS IN CLIMATE SPENDING Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin joined other Senate Democrats in presenting a 260-page report recommending trillions of dollars in investments and a wide-ranging federal effort to slash greenhouse gas emissions. The report was produced by the Democratic Special Committee on the Climate Crisis, without bipartisan participation. With the goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050, the report calls for
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new regulatory policies and federal spending on climate that amounts to at least 2 percent of gross domestic product annually, or $400 billion based on current GDP estimates. It also includes the recommendation that 40 percent of investments go to communities of color and low-income, deindustrialized, and disadvantaged communities to address environmental racism.
PUSH CONTINUES FOR FLEXIBLE FINANCING, RURAL BROADBAND A group of U.S. senators, including Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), is pushing Senate leaders to add Flexible Financing for Rural America to the next coronavirus relief package. The measure would allow electric cooperatives and telecommunications providers to refinance Rural Utilities Service (RUS) debt at lower interest rates, saving participating co-ops $2 million per year, on average. Baldwin joined Senators Tina Smith (D-MN) and John Hoeven (R-ND) in sending a letter to Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) urging them to allow co-ops to take advantage of current lower interest rates so they may be able to better manage cash-flow, invest in rural communities, and pass savings on to members. Congressman Ron Kind (D-WI) was among the first to sign on to support the House version of the measure. Senator Tammy Baldwin and Congressman Kind have also both signed on to support the Keeping Critical Connections Act, which would provide funds to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to reimburse small-business broadband providers, including co-ops, for voluntarily providing free or discounted services to students learning from home. The measure would also include funds for low-income households that cannot afford broadband payments.
RESEARCH SHOWS SENSITIVE GLOBAL WARMING FORECASTS OVERESTIMATED FOR 50 YEARS According to x, researchers have exposed inconsistencies in global warming trends over the last 50 years. Research published in the peer-reviewed journal Earth System Dynamics highlights disparities between the most sensitive climate change models and temperature observations since the 1970s, showing the most extreme predictions are unfounded. Scientists from the University of Exeter came to the conclusion after studying the output of complex climate models and comparing them to global warming records. There are dozens of climate models, each with differing results. The review finds warming is happening, but at a much lower rate.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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Steve Freese President and CEO
s the legislative session is winding down in Washington, D.C., I thought it would be appropriate to offer an update on what we are working on, and the successes we have had on your behalf, and also to recognize someone who has proven to be a consistent advocate of causes that benefit Wisconsin electric cooperatives and all members. Congressman Ron Kind (D-Wisconsin) has supported the issues that matter to us, early and often, and we consider him a valued partner for his ability to help get things done in the nation’s capital. Congressman Kind successfully advocated for the RURAL Act, the SECURE Act, and the repeal of the Cadillac Tax. Going forward, he has already thrown his support behind the Flexible Financing for Rural America Act, and the Keeping Critical Connections Act, which if passed will have significant benefits for electric cooperative members, and rural Wisconsin. I’d like to tell you a little more about what these actions mean for you. Back In 2017, when Congress reformed the Internal Revenue Code, a provision applied federal taxation to grants given to for-profit companies seeking to attract economic expansion, but as written, it included the unintended consequence of jeopardizing not-for-profit status of U.S. electric cooperatives. This congressional action, if not fixed, would have had a clear, negative financial impact on electric cooperatives when they need help the most, as those seeking assistance for things like storm damage recovery would have been at risk of losing tax-exempt status. It would also have been difficult to accept grants for broadband expansion.
Dairyland Power Cooperative CEO Brent Ridge (left) joins WECA President and CEO Steve Freese (right) in presenting WECA’s Champion of Electric Cooperatives Award to Congressman Ron Kind (D-WI) for his work to advance electric cooperative causes.
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All Wisconsin members of Congress in the House and Senate signed on to support legislation to fix it, but Congressman Kind was the first. What became known as the RURAL Act was passed by Congress and signed into law by the president, just before Christmas. This is the first time in our memory that all members of Congress from Wisconsin worked together and co-sponsored a fix. I call it a “once in a blue moon” scenario. The SECURE Act adjusts the premiums that electric cooperatives pay for the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation to more accurately apply to the low-risk pension plans we offer our employees. Fortunately, our work with Congress paid off, and they fixed this as well. Congressman Kind was again the early supporter, signing on as a co-sponsor the day legislation was introduced. Recruiting people to work in our specialized fields at rural electric cooperatives can be challenging, so we have to offer competitive benefit packages that include health plans. The 40 percent “Cadillac Tax” could have put the plans we offer our employees at risk, but with the help of Congressman Kind, this law was repealed. Going forward, Congressman Kind was again one of the first to sign on to support the proposed Flexible Financing for Rural America Act, which would save millions for cooperatives with certain federal loans, by allowing them to refinance at current lower rates, without penalty. He is also supporting the Keeping Critical Connections Act, which would reimburse small-business broadband providers, including co-ops, for voluntarily providing free or discounted services to students learning from home. The measure would also include funds for low-income households that cannot afford broadband payments. We recently recognized Congressman Kind, who represents the third congressional district, for his strong support of Wisconsin’s electric cooperatives. He stepped up and took the lead to help us pass each of the legislative initiatives I just outlined. His leadership helped get the legislation across the finish line and made all the difference in them becoming law. In September, the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association presented him the award “Champion of Electric Cooperatives.” WECA presents this award to legislators on either side of the aisle who demonstrate extraordinary service to Wisconsin’s electric cooperatives. Please join me in thanking Congressman Kind for all he has done on behalf of the industry, which supports the mission so that electric cooperatives can continue to supply members with safe, reliable, and affordable electricity.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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L-R: Jump River Electric Co-op Director William van Doorn, Jump River Electric General Manager/CEO Jim Anderson, Polk-Burnett Electric Co-op Board President Ed Gullickson, WECA CEO Steve Freese.
VICE PRESIDENT MIKE PENCE RECOGNIZES “ESSENTIAL WORKERS” AT DAIRYLAND POWER COOPERATIVE First VP visit to a Wisconsin electric cooperative in almost 70 years
U.S.
Vice President Mike Pence spent Labor Day at Dairyland Power Cooperative to recognize essential workers and thank those whose job it is to “keep the lights on.” Pence was joined by Labor Secretary Eugene Scalia and Wisconsin Senator Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin). He was introduced by Dairyland President and CEO Brent Ridge. Speaking to a crowd of several hundred people outside the Dairyland office in La Crosse, Pence thanked essential workers, particularly those
who have gone above and beyond to help communities in response to the pandemic. “I can’t think of a better place to be on an American holiday where we celebrate America’s tradition of hard work and the American dream,” VP Pence said. Pence’s visit was the first of its kind to a Wisconsin electric cooperative in almost 70 years. According to WECA archives, it was August 15, 1951, when Alben Barkley, President Harry S Truman’s vice president,
came to Madison for the dedication of the statewide headquarters building on South Park Street. He is pictured above, bottom-right, during his speech to electric co-op observers. Also, former Vice President Henry Wallace visited the WECA office in Madison in 1945 to help push William Sanderson, then president of the newly incorporated Wisconsin Association of Cooperatives, as REA administrator. Wallace was commerce secretary at the time of the visit. Editor’s note: Dairyland Power Cooperative accepted a White House request for an official visit on Labor Day. Dairyland is nonpartisan and values working with elected officials of all parties. The cooperative does not endorse political candidates. October 2020
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WHEN
GREEN
LEADS TO
BLACK WHAT CAUSED CALIFORNIA’S BLACKOUTS AND COULD IT HAPPEN HERE?
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t was hot, even by California standards. For several days in August, temperatures peaked into the 100s, tripping up the state that was running full stride in the race to lead the nation in green energy policy. Hundreds of thousands of residents were left to suffer through sweltering heat, without any power at all. State leaders immediately called for an investigation into the cause of the rolling blackouts. California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), saying “failure to predict these shortages is unacceptable.” He added, “These blackouts, which occurred without prior warning or enough time for preparation, are unacceptable and unbefitting of the nation’s largest and most innovative state.” Except that they were warned. In December of 2019, the head of CAISO, the organization in charge of the state’s power grid, issued a written warning alerting the the state’s utilities commission of “significant reliability challenges.” According to CAISO, the addition of utility and rooftop solar would not be able to
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handle peak demand that had been met with natural gas plants, “which is not consistent with policy objectives to decarbonize the grid.” In simple terms, government-driven directives to meet renewable energy goals were putting reliability at risk. The report pointed out the obvious—the sun doesn’t always shine (even in California) and the wind doesn’t always blow, especially when you need it most—at peak demand times later in the day. And that creates a problem if you increase dependency on solar and wind energy without a backup plan. California moved forward with plans to retire four more natural gas plants. But the Golden State did have a backup plan. When necessary, they would get energy from plants in nearby states. “It’s the rough equivalent of saying, ‘I’m not going to purchase a car because I’m environmentally sensitive, I’m just going to borrow my friend’s car whenever I need one,’” Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette told Fox Business. “That’s fine until both of you need it at the same time and that’s what happened.” What’s happening in California is
a cautionary tale for all states looking to aggressively reduce dependency on natural gas and nuclear energy sources. According to the California Energy Commission, the state currently gets about 32 percent of its electricity from wind and solar and is working aggressively to increase that to 60 percent by 2030, and 100 percent by 2045. According to the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, in Wisconsin, recently approved solar energy projects will increase renewable energy to at least 13 percent of generation by 2023.
Why green is good, but diverse is better Coal, natural gas, and
nuclear power plants all produce consistently, without relying on nature’s cooperation, but none are as “green” as wind and solar. Compared to coal, natural gas plants produce roughly half of the climate-concerning carbon dioxide, and emission-control projects are also beneficial. Nuclear power reactors don’t produce carbon dioxide while operating, but the process of mining and refining uranium ore and making reactor fuel require large amounts of energy.
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In a perfect world for the most avid environmentalists, all electricity would come from solar and wind, because it produces virtually no carbon emissions (other than the fuel needed for construction, storage, and distribution). The energy crisis in California demonstrates why a diverse portfolio, and adequate transmission plan are critical for reliable energy supply. It’s an approach embraced by Wisconsin electric co-ops, including generation & transmission co-op Dairyland Power Cooperative. In proposing the Nemadji Trail Energy Center, a combined-cycle natural gas plant that will be built in Superior, Rob Palmberg, vice president, external and member relations at Dairyland said, “The Nemadji Trail Energy Center will serve as the ‘power behind the power’ supporting renewable energy investments. It will be the reliable alternative during those times when the wind isn’t blowing and the sun isn’t shining. This flexible and highly efficient natural gas facility will provide on-demand generation to our growing
system and support our expanding renewable energy resources.” Similarly, Dairyland’s recently approved Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line, which will run from Iowa to Middleton, is “renewable enabling,” according to the cooperative. “Wisconsin’s move to add more wind energy relies on the ability to get it here from Iowa, where wind is abundant. This project is also key to allowing the state to increase renewable energy supply, without risking reliability,” Palmberg added. “Connecting renewable energy in Iowa and Wisconsin using the Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line will improve reliability and increase the capability to deliver low-cost wind and solar resources; relieve congestion, which will also help reduce energy costs; and provide other economic benefits to our cooperative members.” The need for diversification and planning is highlighted in a study released by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), which
manages the generation and flow of electricity in a 15-state region, including Wisconsin. The study concluded that electric grid complexity and reliability issues increase sharply as overall renewable energy penetration levels move from 30 to 40 percent, and increasing levels of renewable energy will require a lot more transmission capacity to move the intermittent energy throughout the region. While California’s CAISO was warning of the risk of blackouts, Wisconsin regulators reviewed whether the state could provide or procure enough electric generation capacity, from all sources, to meet projected customer demand, and determined that the answer, currently, is yes. According to a recent report, “Wisconsin’s projected capacity meets or slightly exceeds the 8.9 percent reserve margin each year from 2021 to 2026.” “Renewable resources have great promise added at the right pace,” Dairyland’s Palmberg said. “Safety and reliability can’t come out of the equation, and reliability will be more important than ever as essential services are increasingly electrified with green energy. We still need to pay attention to the physics of our power supply systems, as they were not conceived for extraordinary levels of these unique intermittent resources. Today’s systems are evolving with advances in technology, but a thoughtful and methodical approach will help ensure we maintain reliability throughout this transition.”—Julie Lund
October 2020
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THROUGH CHANGES
AND CHALLENGES,
CO-OPS STAY
CONNECTED TO THEIR COMMUNITIES
We like the word local.
We like it because it’s the nearby hardware store where we can get what we need. It’s where we meet friends for coffee. It’s the shop where they look us in the eye and smile. It’s a word of warmth that makes us feel known. Local also means your electric co-op. It’s as local as you and your neighbors because you own it. It’s grown and changed with you, possibly starting before you were even born. Because it’s made up of you and your neighbors, it’s as unique to each community as you are. And it changes to help out with the community’s needs, whether that means bringing electricity to farmsteads 80 years ago or helping to navigate COVID-19 challenges today. October is National Co-op Month, and this year it’s especially meaningful to reflect on what it means to be local given the many changes we’ve all seen over the past eight months. As we all face the fallout from the effects of COVID-19, electric co-ops are adapting as the virus changes everything from the national economy to how we stay connected to our neighbors. Take our Co-op Month celebrations, for example. A typical October will see electric co-ops throughout the state hosting lively gatherings that bring hundreds of members together for a picnic, pancake breakfast, or cookout. In most cases these member celebrations have far surpassed the annual meetings as the largest attended member gathering on the co-op calendar. This year the 12
need to protect public safety in the face of a still-dangerous virus has meant October Co-op Month won’t look the same. However, just as electric co-ops came up with innovative ways to conduct their annual meetings while keeping staff and members safe (see “Business Not As Usual,” June 2020 WECN), co-ops are now finding creative ways to celebrate October Co-op Month in their local communities.
Putting a Twist on It
At Oakdale Electric Cooperative, an annual Member Appreciation Day celebration typically sees more than 1,500 members of all ages come to the co-op headquarters for a morning of fun including a pancake breakfast; games and activities such as bounce houses, balloon arts, and kids’ crafts; and displays where members can learn more about their co-op’s services. The celebration has become a tradition in the community that Oakdale Electric didn’t want to let go, despite the pandemic. So the show is going on as usual, albeit with a twist. This year, the co-op is bringing breakfast to the members in an event billed as “The Co-op Comes to You.” In the five days that would typically lead up to the Member Appreciation Day event, the co-op will hold drawings for 50 baskets filled with fixings for a pancake breakfast as well as items that represent other aspects of the event, including a handcrafted gift item and a tree seedling to represent the popular booth about vegetation management. Winners will be announced on the co-op’s
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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local community. “We found a way to give back to our members and our community all at once,” said Trevor Clark, director of outreach services at Richland Electric. “We are doing a drawing every day in October for a $50 gift card to a local business. One of our cooperative principles is Concern for Community and we wanted our community to know we are there for them.” As did several other cooperatives, Richland Electric also utilized the local pages of this magazine to host pandemic-safe Co-op Month activities, including co-op-themed trivia contests for prizes as well as coloring contests for children.
Breakfast on the Go
Oakdale Electric Cooperative typically serves up a pancake breakfast to up to 1,500 members during its Member Appreciation Celebration each October, as shown in this scene at upper left from last year’s event, which broke attendance records. This year, the co-op is bringing a basket of pancake breakfast fixings to 50 of its members instead. October Co-op Month celebrations typically bring hundreds of members together, such as in the bottom photo of a past Member Appreciation Picnic at Richland Electric Cooperative. To ensure safety, the co-op this year opted for a monthlong celebration of community, with daily drawings for gift cards from local businesses.
social media channels, with baskets hand-delivered to the winning members’ doorsteps. Everything in the baskets— from the pancake mix to the syrup to the fall décor items—comes from local businesses and community members, the majority of them co-op members. “It was so important to us that we still do something to give back to the members, and that we offer something fun and raise spirits while supporting our local businesses as well,” said Deana Protz, public relations & communications specialist at Oakdale Electric Cooperative. Richland Electric Cooperative is also putting its annual Member Appreciation Picnic in reverse, taking the festivities
to the members instead of bringing the members to the co-op. In a typical October, Richland Electric’s service center is transformed for an afternoon into a festival atmosphere, with bounce houses, games, picnic tables, and a line of grills where co-op employees turn out brats, hot dogs, chicken breasts, and pulled pork to about 300 members and guests. The annual event is also used as a vehicle for raising funds and donations for community needs, with food drives and collections for flood relief, for example. While the picnic itself had to be canceled this year for safety reasons, the co-op saw no reason to cancel the fun, or the opportunity to give back to the
Price Electric Cooperative is one of several co-ops in Wisconsin taking a different approach, maintaining its popular October Co-op Month Breakfast in the Northland while adhering to safety guidelines. Rather than host the usual pancake breakfast, held in a different part of the co-op’s service territory each year to maximize access for all members, the co-op is offering a drive-through breakfast this year. “Breakfast in the Northland is always a great opportunity to give back to our members and to show our appreciation to them; there was no question that we needed to find a way to make that happen as safely as possible,” said Theresa Raleigh, manager of member services at Price Electric. “I noticed the dairy farms doing their breakfasts drive-through style and knew that was the solution we were looking for.” Working with a local caterer, the coop will be handing out to-go boxes filled with breakfast wraps, juice, and sides to members as they drive through the parking lot of the co-op’s service center. Typically held on a Saturday, the event will be held on a Friday morning this year to accommodate members on their way to work. A drive-through theme will be incorporated into celebrations at Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative (CWEC) and Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services (PPCS) as well. Both co-ops October 2020
WECN Oct20Feature2.indd 3
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typically hold well-attended gatherings each October with a variety of features, all of which have been modified this year so they can be conducted safely, without members having to leave their vehicles. At PPCS, members will be able to drive up to the co-op’s service center and drop off items for a food drive and/or a collection of children’s winter outerwear. Liz Gunderson, communications coordinator, said plans call for safe distancing to be maintained by having members hand off their donations to linemen outfitted with either an extended stick or rubber gloves. Flu shots will be available as planned, although they’ll be administered safely by public nurses through car windows. Members will also be handed a take-home picnic supper as they drive through. The co-op is working some pandemic fun into the evening as well, with a prize given to the member wearing the most interesting or unusual face mask. At CWEC, the traditional Member Appreciation Breakfast is held close to Halloween, with the event taking on the feel of a holiday party. The breakfast is also used as a kick-off for the co-op’s annual toy drive, a project coordinated through CWEC’s longstanding partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots campaign. This year, the toy drive will go on as always, as will the annual food drive. Members can deliver their donated items and pick up breakfast to-go, and also bring personal documents to be shredded, all without leaving their vehicles. As for the Halloween fun, while the co-op will not hold its usual costume contest for its youngest members, children will still be handed a bag of Halloween treats as their families drive through.
Always Adapting Whether they’ve turned to drawings or carry-out picnics, or have simply held off an in-house gathering for a safer time, co-ops are adjusting their Co-op Month celebrations in a way that works best for their own unique members—meeting their own local needs the best way possible. The world keeps changing, and electric co-ops will continue to adapt. Each co-op’s approach may differ, but they’ll do whatever it takes to adapt in ways that make the most sense for the people in their community. That’s what it means to be a local electric co-op. 14
No such thing as
a typical co-op
T
oday, 900 electric co-ops provide electricity to more than 20 million businesses, homes, schools and farms. They cover more than half the land in the United States. They employ more than 68,000 people and invest $12 billion a year in local economies, contributing $88.4 billion to the nation’s Gross Domestic Product. Because electric co-ops are so uniquely local, it’s hard to describe a typical cooperative. They’re big and small. The largest electric co-op serves nearly 350,000 members; the smallest, 113. They’re in metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas. While the electric co-op rural heritage meant they don’t serve cities, many of their communities have grown over the decades. About 40 percent serve counties classified as rural and 60 percent classified as metropolitan. Another way to look at that variety is by the average number of members served by each mile of its power lines. The co-op with the densest population serves 78 members for each mile of line. The most remote co-op averages less than one person per mile of line.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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PIG OUT with pork Acorn Squash with Ground Pork Recipe courtesy of National Pork Board. (www.pork.org) The best acorn squash recipes are the ones paired with pork. What more could you want? This acorn squash recipe is as simple as they come! This tender and tasty dish will warm up any chilly fall night. 1 acorn squash 2 tsp olive oil 1/2 sweet onion 2 carrots 2 stalks celery 1/2 Tbsp garlic, minced 1/2 lb fresh ground pork (or lean Italian sausage) Worcestershire sauce Parmesan cheese, shredded Start by washing your hands and squash. Halve your acorn squash and scoop out all the seeds and pulp. Drizzle olive oil (about 1 tsp per half) the length and
20
in the cavity of each squash half. Place on a baking sheet faceup. Bake the acorn squash at 400 degrees for 30–45 minutes or until tender when poked with a fork. While the squash is cooking, finely chop sweet onion, carrots, celery stalks, and mince the garlic. Sauté vegetables and garlic in a pan with ground pork (lean Italian sausage is another tasty alternative). If Italian pork another tasty alternative.) If Italian pork sausage is used, herbs can be omitted. Add a couple splashes of Worcestershire sauce for some added flavor. Remove tender squash from oven and scoop ground pork mixture into the squash cavities. Bake uncovered until the dish is warmed through (5–10 minutes). Remove the squash from the oven and sprinkle with shredded Parmesan cheese. If ground pork is used, you can add herbs such as 1/2 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, OR 1/2 teaspoon each of sage, fresh rosemary, and thyme while sautéing. Tip: Use aluminum foil on the sheet pan for easy clean up.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
WECN Oct20Recipes.indd 2
9/15/20 11:21 AM
Maple Bacon Donuts Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from the Iowa Pork Producers Association (www.iowapork.org). 1 tube biscuit dough (8 biscuits) Vegetable oil 2 cups powdered sugar 1 tsp maple extract 2–3 Tbsp milk 4 bacon strips, cooked and chopped
Using a small round cookie cutter, cut the centers of the biscuits out. Add about 1-1/2 inches of vegetable oil in a skillet and heat to 375 degrees. Carefully add the donuts (and donut holes!) to the oil, frying until golden brown on both sides. This will take about 2–4 minutes on the first side and 2 minutes on the second side. Remove the donuts and place onto a plate with a paper towel to soak up the excess oil. In a small mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar, maple extract, and milk. Dip the donuts into the frosting one at a time and sprinkle with bacon pieces.
Slow Cooker Honey Garlic Pork Sliders Recipe created by Tasty! for use by the National Pork Board (www.pork.org). HONEY GARLIC PORK
3 lbs boneless pork shoulder 1/2 cup honey 5 cloves garlic, crushed 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp paprika Salt and pepper, to taste 1 red onion, sliced 24 slider buns
For the pork, combine the honey, garlic, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Place the sliced onions on the bottom of a slow cooker and lay the meat on top. Drizzle honey mixture on top of the meat and spread it around to evenly coat. Cover and slow cook on high for 5–6 hours or until fork tender. Once the pork is done slow-cooking, shred and stir around in the juices. COLESLAW
3-1/2 cups coleslaw mix (shredded cabbage and carrot) 3/4 cup mayonnaise 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 Tbsp honey Salt and pepper, to taste
While the pork is cooking, combine all coleslaw ingredients except the cabbage/carrot in a large bowl and stir. Then add in cabbage/carrot and stir to coat. Refrigerate until the pork is done cooking. Spoon some shredded pork onto a slider bun, top with coleslaw, and serve.
Sausage Tortellini Soup Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from the Iowa Pork Producers Association (www.iowapork.org). This flavorful soup is a cinch to put together and the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day! 1 lb ground Italian sausage 1/2 tsp onion powder 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes with basil and herbs 32 oz chicken broth
1 (10 oz) bag refrigerated cheesefilled tortellini 3 cups fresh spinach 2/3 cup heavy cream Salt and pepper, to taste
Brown the Italian sausage. Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, tomatoes with its juices, and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil. Stir in the tortellini and let boil for 5 minutes. Stir in the spinach and heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.
Biscuits and Gravy Casserole Recipe and photo reprinted with permission from the Iowa Pork Producers Association (www.iowapork.org). 1 lb breakfast sausage 4 slices uncooked bacon, chopped 1/3 cup flour 3-1/2 cups milk 4 oz cream cheese, cubed
1/2 tsp black pepper 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes 1 (16.3 oz) tube refrigerated biscuits 1 Tbsp butter, melted
In a saucepan, brown the sausage and chopped bacon until fully cooked. Turn the burner to low and sprinkle the flour over the meat; stir. Slowly stir in the milk and bring the heat to medium, continuing to stir for 3–5 minutes or until the mixture bubbles and thickens. Stir in the cream cheese, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until fully incorporated. Pour into a greased 9-x13-inch baking dish and arrange the biscuits over the top. Bake at 350 degrees for 25–30 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and baked through. Brush the melted butter over the tops of the biscuits. Serve warm. October 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/.
Mince-Meat for Mince Pie (2 crust) E. Kerrigan, Gilman
4 lbs apples 2 lbs lean beef or veal, chopped 2-1/2 lbs raisins 4 cups brown sugar 1/2 tsp cloves 1-1/4 tsp nutmeg 1 tsp mace 2 tsp salt 1/2 pound suet, ground 1-1/2 lbs currants 1/4 lb citron (Asian fruit similar to lemon), ground and preserved, or candied 1-1/2 tsp cinnamon 1/2 cup molasses Grape juice (or any other type of fruit juice), cider, water, or brandy
Pare, core, and chop apples. Combine with remaining ingredients. Add juice, cider, water, or brandy to moisten. Simmer until meats and fruits are tender and flavors are blended. Pack in freshly sterilized jars and seal. Process canning according to your preferred method.
Mince Meat
Eunice Morris, from Bloom City United Methodist Church Cookbook Submitted by Myrtle Morris, Richland Center
4 lbs ground beef, pork, or venison 8 lbs apples, ground up 3 lbs raisins, cooked 2 lbs currants, cooked 2 lbs brown sugar 1 lb ground suet 1 qt molasses 1-1/2 qts white vinegar 1 Tbsp allspice 1 Tbsp nutmeg 1 Tbsp cloves 1 Tbsp cinnamon 1 Tbsp black pepper 2 Tbsp salt 3 qts beef, pork, or venison broth
Mix all ingredients together and cook for about 30 minutes. Makes about 10 quarts or 60 servings.
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Fruit Dip
Rebecca Stakson, Westby
8 oz marshmallow cream 8 oz strawberry cream cheese Mix together and serve with assorted fruit.
Pork Chops with Stuffing Rosetta Gruss, Marshall
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
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.
Cranberry-Orange Salad Karen Renner, Arkdale
1 (3 oz) pkg orange, lemon, or strawberry gelatin 1 cup boiling water 1/2 cup cold water 1 small orange 2 cups fresh cranberries 3 Tbsp sugar
Dissolve flavored gelatin in boiling water. Add cold water; chill until very thick. Cut orange into wedges and remove seeds. Put orange and cranberries through food chopper. Mix fruit and sugar; fold into gelatin. Pour into individual molds or a 1-quart mold; chill until firm. Unmold on crisp lettuce. Makes about 3-1/2 cups.
REQUESTS
from our
READERS
Chicken BLT Sandwich with Honey Mustard Sauce Rosetta Gruss, Marshall
2 sandwich buns 2 (6 oz each) cooked chicken breast, sliced 4 slices crisped bacon 2 pieces iceberg lettuce 4 deli slices cheddar cheese 2 slices tomato HONEY MUSTARD SAUCE:
2 Tbsp Dijon mustard 1 Tbsp honey 1 Tbsp mayonnaise
Spread the cut sides of the buns with the honey mustard. Add 2 pieces of chicken to each bottom bun, top with 2 pieces of bacon, a piece of lettuce, a slice of cheese, a slice of tomato, and more honey mustard if desired. Sandwich the buns together and enjoy.
Cranberry Relish
Shelley Sorenson, Trempealeau County
1 lb cranberries 2 apples 2 oranges 2 cups sugar 1 pkg gelatin (any flavor) 3/4 cup hot water
Grind the fruit (peel and all) in a grinder; add sugar. Dissolve gelatin in hot water and mix with the fruit. Chill overnight.
An online reader is looking for specialized fudge recipes (beyond basic fudge), for example peanut butter, caramel, or turtle. 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
WECN Oct20ReaderRecipes.indd 1
9/16/20 10:45 AM
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BLAZING
Trails
Take in the fall colors along Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads
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Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
Oct20WisFav.indd 2
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WISCONSIN FAVORITES
O
ctober has arrived in all its crimson and gold glory, and it’s time to take this show on the road. Rather, it’s time to take in this show on the road. There’s nothing like a journey through the fall foliage to brighten up a day, and Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads program provides a perfect path—122 of them, to be exact. Marked with distinctive brown and gold signs, these lightly traveled roads span almost 740 miles through 61 counties, with many of them criss-crossing electric co-op country. Each Rustic Road is unique, with some passing through towering hardwood trees, others winding around bodies of water, and others crossing through fields of wildflowers. Navigable by car, motorcycle, bike, or foot, some Rustic Roads are paved, while others have a dirt or gravel surface. All are at least two miles long, allowing for a full, rejuvenating immersion into Wisconsin’s colorful autumn scenery.
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1. Rustic Road 113 in Oconto County winds through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. (photo courtesy of Ken Zingg) 2. With its trees forming a canopy over the road, Rustic Road 55 in Vernon County is especially beautiful in the fall. (photo courtesy of Jane Carlson)
3. The very first officially designated Rustic Road in the state, dedicated in 1975, is in Taylor County. (photo courtesy of Christine A. Barkley)
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4. Rustic Road 51 in Pierce County winds through a woods and crosses a trout stream. This road is located just east of the Wisconsin Great River Road, also a beautiful fall journey. (photo courtesy of Eleanor M. McEntee)
Peak Leaf-Peeping Time The key factor determining just how bright your Rustic Road trip will be is weather. “The ideal conditions that would ordinarily lead to the best colors are warm afternoons and cool, but not freezing, nights,” said Scott Rowe, lead meteorologist with the U.S. National Weather Service. Although now based in California, Rowe knows Wisconsin falls well, having grown up in the Driftless Area on Scenic Rivers Energy Cooperative lines. Moisture is another factor in determining the timing of peak fall foliage. The best leaf colors appear when the soil has been adequately moist throughout the year. A late spring, or a summer drought, can delay the color. A warm fall, on the other hand, can decrease the intensity of the color and trigger an early leaf drop. Fun Features
All the varying factors accounting for fall foliage pretty much guarantee that no two autumns are ever the same, and that even the most carefully planned itinerary may still miss the mark for optimal color viewing. But that hardly matters—October is beautiful all the way through, and so are the state’s Rustic Roads. October 2020
Oct20WisFav.indd 3
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1. Shades of gold are reflected in the Red Cedar River south of Menomonie along Rustic Road 89. This route also passes by the Devil’s Punch Bowl, a miniature canyon with a small waterfall. (photo courtesy of Vicki Buritt) 2. It’s hard to beat the towering trees of Jackson County for beautiful fall colors. Rustic Road 54 in Jackson County crosses through the Black River State Forest, with a mix of hardwood stands and pine trees. (photo courtesy of Kerry G. Hill) 3. Rustic Road 62 takes you to Wisconsin’s highest elevated point, Timm’s Hill, 1,951 feet above sea level. (photo courtesy of Marcia Last)
Established in 1973 by the Wisconsin Legislature, the Rustic Roads program was created to help preserve the state’s remaining scenic, remote rural roads. According to the Department of Transportation, to qualify for the program, a road must have “outstanding natural features” along its border; it must be lightly traveled, with local access; and it cannot be scheduled for major improvements that would change the road’s rustic characteristics. Beyond those broad similarities, the roads are as diverse as the geography they cross, from the pine stands up north to the unglaciated area’s hills and valleys. Many of the Rustic Roads pass key natural landmarks, places of historical significance, and other points of interest, potentially turning even the shortest drive into a full afternoon’s outing. For example, in Price County, Rustic Road 62 offers the only motorized access to Timm’s Hill County Park, the highest elevated point in the state. Once there, you 26
can climb an observation tower for a spectacular 30-mile view over the colorful vista, down to Bass Lake at the bottom of the hill. The park also has amenities such as picnic tables and nine miles of wooded, multi-use trails. Timm’s Hill County Park can also be accessed by way of Rustic Road 1 in Taylor County, which crosses Timm’s Hill National Trail. This trail connects to the National Ice Age Trail and leads to the observation tower. Another beautiful elevated view awaits along Rustic Road 113 in Oconto County. This road passes through the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and provides access to the Nicolet State Trail, which meanders along a railroad corridor through the forest. This road also takes you to the historic Mountain Fire Lookout Tour, built as a Wisconsin Civilian Conservation Corps project in 1935. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this is the only fire tower left in Wisconsin that is open to the general public for climbing, offering a bird’s-eye
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WISCONSIN FAVORITES view of the surrounding fall colors. History abounds throughout the Rustic Roads system. Travel along Rustic Road 69 in Columbia County and you’ll find the historic Indian Agency House, built in 1932 for U.S. Indian Agent John H. Kinzie, and now operating as a museum. Rustic Road 66 in Lafayette County takes you back in time to about the 1840s, when lead mining ruled in this part of the state. An abandoned lead mine along with relics of this past industry, such as tin shacks, rusted ore buckets, and piles of tailings, are visible from the road. Some of Wisconsin’s agricultural history is on display along Rustic Road 56 in Vernon County. Among the Amish farms and log cabins along this road is one of Vernon County’s famous round barns (see Round About in Vernon County, October 2019 WECN). This road also leads to Wildcat Mountain State Park, with its 21 miles of scenic hiking trails and picnic areas. Whichever Rustic Road you choose to take, things will surely seem much brighter at the end of it, especially in the fall.— Mary’s Erickson
REMEMBERING THOSE WHO HAVE LIFTED US UP Join Touchstone Energy Cooperatives in celebrating the power of human connections.
For more information about Wisconsin’s Rustic Roads program, including a map, visit wisconsindot.gov/Pages/travel/road/ rustic-roads/; call (608) 267-3614; or email WIRusticRoads@dot.wi.gov. In addition, feel free to send a note to our office, 222 West Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703, about this or any other story and we will send additional information to you.
What makes the leaves change color? Leaves change color in the fall mainly in response to the decrease of daily sunlight as the days shorten. The production of sugars in the leaves, a process known as photosynthesis, begins to slow down in response to the decreasing sunlight. This leads to a reduction of clorophyll, the pigment that gives leaves their green color. When chlorophyll is reduced, it unmasks other pigments that are present in the leaves, which account for the changing colors. (Source: U.S. Forest Service) October 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. ENGLISH SPRINGER SPANIEL PUPPIES. AKC registered. Vet checked, first shots, tails docked and dew claws removed. Call or text 715-579-2547. WANTED: SALVAGE HAY BALER. Knotters-Big Square ok. For restoration. Irene at 715-5561400 Wheeler, WI.
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.”
REAL ESTATE 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. FOR SALE: HOME, 2,500 SQ FT LIVING SPACE, apple orchard, raspberry farm on 5-1/2 acres in the Town of Dewey, Portage County, 54482. 3,000 sq ft out building. Heated portion was used as a vehicle restoration and paint shop. 715-341-0725.
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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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YOUNG MEMBERS
Kids and Critters October 2020 1
1. Hamish the Collie shares a moment with his best friend Sophia. Photo submitted by Carol Elliott.
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2. Isaac falls in love with Mercy Mae. Photo submitted by grandma Maureen Skuban, a member of Adams-Columbia Electric. 3. Danteo experiences the joy of an itty-bitty kitty. Photo submitted by Cassie Draper, a member of Eau Claire Energy. 4. Jasper loves to cuddle his kitty. Photo submitted by Karley Poppe, a member of Central Wisconsin Electric.
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Upload photos directly
to the new wecnmagazine.com through the “Submit a photo” tab. Send photos of kids with animals, along with a brief description, to WECN Magazine, 222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703. Please include the name of your electric co-op. Photos will be returned. If in good-resolution, electronic format, photos may also be uploaded via wecnmagazine.com through the “Submit a photo” tab. By submitting, sender implies that he/ she has rights to and owns the image, and grants WECN permission to use the image. By submitting, the parent or legal guardian also authorizes us the right to publish the image.
WELCOME TO A NEW FEATURE WE’RE CALLING
“SYMBOL SEARCH”
We’ll hide an image in the pages of Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News. Find it and you’ll qualify to win a prize! This month, we’ve hidden a leaf, like the one pictured at right, in honor of the season’s falling leaves from our cover story. Hint: It won’t appear in an ad. And it can be any size. So, look carefully! When you find it, send us a note (website, email, or mail) with the page number where it’s located. Include your name, address, phone number and the name of your electric cooperative. Feel free to share your story about finding the image. One lucky winner will be chosen in a random drawing from the correct answers and will receive a Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News kitchen kit. Entries must be postmarked (if mailed) or received by October 15. Good luck and happy hunting! Enter via the “Symbol Search” link on the homepage of wecnmagazine.com.
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By mail: Symbol Search Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association 222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 680 Madison, WI 53703
By email: jennifer@weca.coop (Please use “Symbol Search” as the subject line.)
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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