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CONTENTS October 2026 Vol. 87 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 $13 per year or $35 for three years. Members pay $6.93 per year.

9 Dynamic Dairy

A Wisconsin dairy farm evolves through technology, efficiency, and resiliency.

Published by the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102 Middleton, WI 53562-2200. Rob Richard, president & CEO.

Password Myth: 13 The Why Longer is Stronger Protect online accounts with a strong password.

USPS number: 688-480. Postmaster: please send address changes to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102 Middleton, WI 53562-2200.

Periodicals postage paid at Sun Prairie, Wis.

A cemetery walk keeps Cable’s history alive.

Send correspondence to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102, Middleton, WI 53562-2200. Phone (608) 467-4650.

31 Kids & Critters

Website: www.wecnmagazine.com. Co-op Members: Please send address changes to your local electric co-op. Contact information can be found on page 18. Rob Richard Dana Kelroy Beth Alesch 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 geri@weca.coop. The appearance of advertising or events does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. We reserve the right to refuse advertisers.

24 Wisconsin Favorites

Cute co-op kids get cozy with their critters.

Join us on

On the cover: Vernon Electric Cooperative dairy farm Wall-Stone Holsteins near DeSoto thrives through grit and resiliency.

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

NEWS BRIEFS

MESSAGE FROM THE CEO

15 MY CO-OP 20 RECIPES 22 READER RECIPES 28 CLASSIFIEDS 30 EVENTS

Please recycle wecnmagazine.com

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SYMBOL SEARCH HIDDEN OBJECT GAME

COWS, CO-OPS, AND COMMUNITY Winning our September search was Roxanne Antony, a member of Jackson Electric Cooperative, who found the pencil, “on page 8 in Rob Richard’s tie. I was about to give up, but I decided one more look, and I found it. The article about fiber arts was interesting.” This month’s challenge: In honor of the Cable Cemetery Walk story on page 24, can you find this tombstone? 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, and provide your permanent home or mailing address with your entry. Entries are due October 13.

Enter via the “Symbol Search” link on the homepage of wecnmagazine.com. You can also enter by mail (don’t forget to include the name of your cooperative):

SYMBOL SEARCH WECA 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102 Middleton, WI 53562-2200

his month, we’re covering the three Cs: cows, co-ops, and community. First, turn to page 9, where we meet Dr. Anne Marie Elwing from Wall-Stone Holsteins near DeSoto. She is a farmer and veterinarian that exemplifies the grit and resilience of many Wisconsin dairy farmers. On page 8, the bovine-related lessons just keep coming for WECA President and CEO Rob Richard. In the past, he shared stories about helping his daughter with her dairy heifer projects at fair time, duties that seemed to revolve largely around cleaning up after cows. Fast forward to recently. Rob and his family entered the Wisconsin State Cow Chip Throw Festival where, you guessed it, contestants toss dried cow manure as far as they can. As you’ll also see on page 8, Rob makes a great connection between the event and cooperatives, just in time for October Co-op Month. Each year, we celebrate all that the cooperative business model offers to members. After all, co-op members are more than consumers. They’re owners. Which brings me to the final “C”: community. Giving back is at the heart of the cooperative model, so much so that it is embedded in the Seven Cooperative Principles (also see page 8). That theme of community also shines through in the story on page 24, “The Caretaker” (another “C”!). It highlights Bayfield Electric Cooperative Board Member Jim Kinzie and his decades of service as a cemetery caretaker in the Cable area. Working with the local historical society, he helps host an annual cemetery walk that honors those who came before us through storytelling, service, and a strong sense of community. Whether it’s cows, co-ops, or community, the stories in this issue remind us that the strongest connections are built when people come together.

Dana Kelroy Editor

Good luck! 4

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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$5,000

FOR INFORMATION LEADING TO THE CONVICTION OF ANYONE WILLFULLY DAMAGING THE PROPERTY OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OPERATING WITHIN WISCONSIN OR WILLFULLY DAMAGING OTHER PROPERTY (NOT OWNED BY A WISCONSIN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE) RESULTING IN THE INTERRUPTION OF SERVICE TO MEMBERS OF ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES OPERATING WITHIN WISCONSIN.

Information should be conveyed to your local law enforcement officials, to your electric cooperative, or to the:

Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association (608) 467-4650 www.weca.coop wecnmagazine.com

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NEWS BRIEFS Major General Strub Visits ACEC

Adams-Columbia Electric Cooperative hosted Major General Matthew Strub, Wisconsin’s adjutant general and the state official overseeing Wisconsin Emergency Management (WEM), recently for an in-depth look at electric cooperatives and the role they play before, during, and after major emergencies. WECA Vice President of Operations, Environmental, and Regulatory Services Tim Clay and Adams-Columbia leadership, including General Manager Jon Congdon, gave presentations about the cooperative business model, the scope of Wisconsin’s cooperative electric infrastructure, and the challenges of maintaining reliable service across large, sparsely populated rural territories. The group also offered a tour of the facility and a new substation.

PSC Offers Funds to Smaller Utilities

Following comments submitted by WECA and Eau Claire Energy, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) has again committed to award 75% of funding in the second round of the Wisconsin Grid Resilience Formula Grant Program to smaller utilities. Commissioners made the same commitment in round one and awarded 100% of the funding to smaller utilities. All electric cooperatives that applied for funds in the first round were approved. The Grid Resilience Program was established to help states improve the reliability and resilience of the grid. Wisconsin was awarded $10.2 million for the first two years and $5.6 million for year three.

USDA Launches $410 Million Rural Energy Program

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is making $410 million in partially forgivable loans available for electric cooperatives and other eligible entities through the new Powering Affordable Reliable Technology program. The goal is to support affordable, reliable energy infrastructure, 6

increase the rural power supply, and strengthen electric grid resilience. The loans can be used for construction of hydropower, geothermal, and biomass projects as well as energy storage projects that can back up intermittent renewable power facilities. They can also cover new or upgraded electric transmission and distribution lines and equipment, such as microgrids, associated with those projects. The agency is accepting letters of interest through October 9.

Oconto Electric Tops 2024-25 Communications Awards Wisconsin electric cooperative member services and communications professionals gathered in Madison recently for their annual conferences. A highlight of the events is the annual awards presentation for communicators who produce exceptional content for the local pages of the monthly Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News magazine. The winners are: Co-op News First Place: Oconto Electric Cooperative Katie Jagiello, editor Honorable Mention: Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services Liz Gunderson, editor (Gunderson was

the local editor during the time of judging)

Energy Education First Place: Eau Claire Energy Cooperative Taylor Skibba, editor Honorable Mention: Richland Electric Cooperative Trina Duffy-Brauer, editor Human Interest First Place: Oconto Electric Cooperative Katie Jagiello, editor Honorable Mention: Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services Liz Gunderson, editor Photography First Place: Vernon Electric Cooperative Trevor Clark, editor Honorable Mention: Oconto Electric Cooperative Katie Jagiello, editor

Realta Fusion Partners with MG&E on Fusion Plant

Madison-based Realta Fusion and Madison Gas and Electric have announced a partnership to explore development of a 200-megawatt commercial fusion power plant in Wisconsin. The proposed plant would be capable of generating enough electricity to serve roughly 150,000 homes. MGE is also investing in Realta and will provide technical assistance for the company’s planned research and development facility, the Realta Forge, at the former Oscar Mayer site in Madison.

Co-ops Press for Changes to Broadband Program

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) is urging federal officials to improve the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program as the government launches another round of funding. NRECA CEO Jim Matheson argued to the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) that delays, changing federal guidance, cost constraints, and unrealistic funding assumptions have discouraged participation in the program and jeopardized efforts to reach some of the nation’s most difficult-toserve rural areas.

Home Energy Rebate Programs Top $17 Million

Wisconsin’s Home Energy Rebate programs have provided more than $17 million in rebates to homeowners and qualifying projects since launching two years ago, helping residents make energy-efficiency improvements and install high-efficiency electric equipment. As of August, the two programs—the Home Efficiency Rebates (HOMES) program and Home Electrification and Appliance Rebates (HEAR) program—had paid a combined $17.1 million in rebates. Qualified single-family and multifamily projects can receive HOMES and HEAR rebates by working with IRA Registered Contractors. Rebates for certain HEAReligible products are also available through participating retail stores.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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MESSAGE from the CEO

CELEBRATING NATIONAL COOPERATIVE MONTH AND THE COW LESSONS CONTINUE

f you’re a regular reader of this column, you may recall that last September I wrote about my glamorous role in county-fair competition, specifically making sure my daughter’s heifers had spotless derrieres before entering the ring. That level of competition required me to help scoop poop, catch poop, and wipe poop, all so her heifer looked its absolute best. I used to think I was the cool dad coaching her lacrosse team. I’ve since been relegated to rear-end quality control. Until this most recent Labor Day weekend, I’ve spent the last 19 years Rob Richard living in the Sauk Prairie community WECA President without ever participating in one of and CEO its most time-honored traditions: the flinging of cow pies. Sauk Prairie is home to the Wisconsin State Cow Chip Throw Festival, where participants hurl dried cow chips with the enthusiasm of wannabe Olympians and the accuracy of a toddler tossing e Sev n Coop Cheerios. I have now officially era flung poop, and I must admit tiv it was a lot of fun! I just 1. Voluntary and hope I never find myself Open Membership stepping in it, literally 2. Democratic Member and figuratively. Control So why participate now after nearly 3. Members’ Economic two decades of Participation avoiding airborne 4. Autonomy and Independence manure? Last month I shared that we’re 5. Education, Training, hosting a foreign and Information exchange student, 6. Cooperation Among Maria, from Madrid, Cooperatives who is the same age as my daughter. What 7. Concern for Community better way to introduce her to American culture than to have her sling cow poop within a week of arriving? Naturally, we couldn’t ask her to do it without participating ourselves, so we entered as a team. It was another step in helping her feel welcome in our home and community and a

s iple inc Pr

reminder that shared misadventures can be surprisingly effective bonding experiences. Reflecting on that long holiday weekend and the sense of community woven through it has me once again appreciating October as National Cooperative Month. This is when we celebrate cooperatives of all kinds, across industries, services, and communities, and the unique economic and social relationships they create. The cooperative business model has thrived for more than 180 years because at its core is the member, guided by seven cooperative principles that emphasize participation, equity, and service. It’s an open, voluntary, and autonomous relationship that can financially benefit members when profits, or margins, are returned as patronage. Sometimes, the connection our state’s electric cooperatives foster extends far beyond their own service territories. As much as your local cooperative works to provide safe, reliable, and affordable electricity at home, they also volunteer to help communities that have no electricity at all. Right now, WECA is partnering with our counterparts in Illinois and Minnesota, along with NRECA International, to raise funds to send a crew of twenty linemen to electrify a remote village in Guatemala in July 2027. NRECA International has worked in Guatemala for many years, transforming lives by helping cooperatives bring electricity to homes, schools, and community buildings. I’m incredibly proud of our cooperatives’ commitment to planning and supporting this project. I’ll have more to share in the months ahead, but efforts like this are yet another reason we celebrate the good work and the goodwill of the people in your local electric cooperative. Happy National Cooperative Month!

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FEATURE

DYNAMIC DAIRY

armers are just built different. It’s apparent walking through Wall-Stone Holsteins farm near DeSoto with Dr. Anne Marie Elwing, farmer and veterinarian by trade. Just four weeks out from a double knee replacement, Elwing bends down to pick up any small scrap of paper or plastic that shouldn’t be there, new knees and all. It’s a silent sign of the pride she has in the property, where, along with groundskeeper, she serves as market analyst, bookkeeper, chief cow-whisperer, communicator, and, of course, veterinarian, including herd health, ultrasound, and artiﬁcial insemination for 1,500 dairy cows. “We milk 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” she says. Elwing holds up both hands, revealing more battle scars—over the decades, almost every ﬁnger has been broken, at least once, from wrangling large animals who don’t always cooperate. “Facilities are better. Management is better. Technology has helped reduce some of the risk in handling

large animals,” Dr. Elwing said. “It’s a lot different today than it used to be.”

Industry Innovation

Wisconsin dairy is changing rapidly. There are both challenges—and reasons for optimism—in an industry becoming more productive, technologically advanced, and dependent on the electric grid. Always seeking efﬁciencies, from energy to artiﬁcial intelligence, Elwing is steering this historic farm to the forefront of change. Wall-Stone Holsteins, located in Vernon Electric Cooperative territory, has roots reaching back to the late 1800s and is linked to Gundersen Hospital (now Emplify). The property was originally owned by Dr. Christian Christensen, who along with Dr. Adolf Gundersen, launched the original Lutheran hospital. Nurses and other staff, mostly immigrants from Norway, lived and worked the farm while they trained, long before traditional college was an option.

After the depression, the hospital survived, but the farm did not. When the Walleser family took it over in 1961, it was in disrepair. (Dr. Elwing served as the farm’s vet before marrying Kevin Walleser, also a prominent agricultural leader.) Today, it is a beacon of innovation, an example of the strides taken to survive in an industry that so many did not. Those driving down Highway 82 east of Red Mound are often surprised to see a literal cow carousel: a 50-stall rotary milking parlor that rotates 360 degrees. “The cows love it,” Elwing says. “They can’t get on it fast enough.” But the most remarkable part may be what you can’t see from the outside. From individual ear tags, Elwing monitors a multitude of factors relating to the cow’s health. Artiﬁcial intelligence alerts to trends that may signal illness, or alert to activity levels that indicate reproduction time is near. In the milking parlor, technology recognizes individual animals and

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can adjust the milking process based on each cow’s milk flow. Technology also monitors ventilation, and variable-frequency drives control motors, to cut down on energy costs. Water from the milking parlor is captured, cleaned, and reused to save on costs. Even milk transportation is optimized with technology designed to ensure tankers leave the farm full. “When we’re transporting milk, we’re transporting 100% of it,” Elwing said. “No wasted space.” Elwing not only embraces innovation and change, she seeks it out. “It’s what you have to do if you want to survive,” she said.

State of the Industry This summer, Wisconsin crossed a threshold. As of August 1, the state had 4,991 licensed dairy herds, according to USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service—the first time the number has fallen below 5,000. That’s down from 5,222 last year, and 5,470 in 2024. The number tells a sobering story about

consolidation and the loss of dairy farms that were once fixtures of nearly every Wisconsin rural community. But it doesn’t tell the whole story. Wisconsin entered 2026 with approximately 1.285 million dairy cows, and those cows are extraordinarily productive. In 2025, Wisconsin cows produced an average of 25,599 pounds of milk per head, contributing to nearly 32.6 billion pounds of milk valued at approximately $6.8 billion. In other words, Wisconsin has far fewer dairy farms, but it remains a dairy powerhouse.

Power of Protein While recovering from knee surgery, Dr. Elwing says she got into the habit of grabbing a protein drink, which is fueled by dairy, to help build her body back strong. And she’s not the only one. Corey Geiger, lead economist for dairy production and processing in CoBank’s Knowledge Exchange research division, told Wisconsin electric cooperative leaders gathered at the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association’s Power & Policy Summit in

1. Transparency is intentional at Wall-Stone Holsteins, right down to the windows and open-air doors. “We want people to be able to see what we are doing,” said Dr. Elwing. 2. Technology allows for a real-time data evaluation from each cow during milking. 3. Wall-Stone sells its milk to a large dairy cooperative, where it becomes yogurt, cheese, butter, and protein products. 4. Video technology allows Dr. Elwing to monitor the behavior and activities of the cows.

1 3

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FEATURE Eau Claire in August that the dairy industry is in the midst of a major transformation. “Milk components matter more than milk production,” Geiger said. Between 2011 and 2025, overall milk production increased 18.4%, according to data presented by Geiger, while protein increased 27.7% and butterfat 34.6%. Geiger reported that consumers are increasingly reaching for yogurt, cottage cheese, value-added milk, and high-protein nutritional beverages. In the 52 weeks ending May 31, cottage cheese volume increased 12.1%, nutritional beverages 8.9%, yogurt 7.2%, and cream and creamer 7.1%. Even the barn lighting at Wall-Stone is a conscious choice, simulated to mimic conditions best But the most dramatic example suited for healthy and productive cows. is the protein shake. Sales of ready-to-drink protein dairy shakes and nutritional major investment. switches to an on-site generator. The beverages grew from $4.7 billion in “If we’re going to pay for this, cows still get milked at the farm, 2021 to $8.1 billion in 2025—a 71% there’s a cost to the production, and and for everyone else, the lights still increase in four years. electricity is always a part of it,” she come on. “Dairy is just such a winner in said. “It’s important that they [the all of this,” Elwing said. “It is very Wall-Stone’s electric bill runs cows] have the comfort during those exciting because the products are just roughly $16,000 to $18,000 a month, really hot or cold days,” Elwing said. crazy. They keep coming out with but that could change. Elwing said Elwing said Vernon Electric has more and more things that we offer.” they are participating in a study. She been a strong partner. Dairy consumption has trended couldn’t say much about it, except “They’re very responsive,” she higher over the past half century, that she believes it could lead to said. “I’m very grateful to them.” and U.S. cheese consumption has significant reductions in the amount more than doubled since the early of electricity needed for dairy barn Challenges Remain One 1980s. Exports have also become ventilation. thing that has not changed is the increasingly important: In 1995, the “I think it will revolutionize the lack of control farmers have when United States exported just 2% to way we look at airflow and power it comes to milk prices, which are 3% of its milk supply. By 2025, that needs and reduction of power usage driven by a global market. figure had reached 17%. on a dairy,” she said. “We don’t ask for a price, and That demand is driving For electric cooperatives, that that’s what we get,” Dr. Elwing investment. Geiger estimates $13 matters. Large agricultural loads explains. billion in new or recently completed can place significant demand on Milk prices can respond to events U.S. dairy-processing projects the distribution system, particularly half a world away, and currently, through 2028, a generational during periods of extreme heat and they are low. Meanwhile, farmers investment in processing capacity. cold when residential demand is also must manage fertilizer, fuel, and feed high. All About Electricity costs, not to mention Mother Nature. During periods of peak electric Dr. Elwing says the price of power “You’re always fighting that rocky demand, while people are coming is at the core of every decision road of what’s going to happen today, home from work and firing up the they make when it comes to new what’s going to happen tomorrow,” air conditioner or furnace, the dairy Elwing said. technology, infrastructure, and every

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FEATURE The Next Generation For all the technology

surrounding her, Elwing still believes there is something about being a good dairy farmer that a computer can’t easily replicate. Her twin sons are both University of Wisconsin– Madison graduates. Emil became a veterinarian and researcher. The other, William, returned to Wall-Stone, where he works with agronomy, machinery, and other aspects of the operation. Elwing says William recently told her that, someday, he hopes to hand off some of those responsibilities so he can spend more time with the animals. “He said, ‘I really like the cows better than I like the machinery,’” she recalled. That matters to a veterinarian who has spent a lifetime building an animal-based business. Technology can identify changes in movement. AI can analyze thousands of data points. Cameras can show where cows are congregating. Sensors can detect signs that humans might miss. But Elwing says there is still an instinct involved in understanding a cow—something generations of farm

children learned growing up in the barn, which is much more rare than it used to be. “You can tell when that person comes; they really want to be that cow person,” she said. “But it doesn’t always work out.” In Wisconsin, the red barns and small herds that once defined America’s Dairyland are becoming less common. But dairy itself is not disappearing. It is experiencing an energy-based evolution. The barns are smarter. The cows are more productive. The milk is becoming more valuable for its components. Consumers are finding new reasons to buy dairy. Processors are making generational investments. Farms are using artificial intelligence, automation, and increasingly sophisticated energy-management technology to control costs. And on the electric cooperative lines running through rural Wisconsin, farms such as Wall-Stone are becoming some of the most technologically advanced businesses those systems serve. And Dr. Elwing is here for it. “I love what I do,” she said. “I wouldn’t change any of it.”—Julie Lund

Mindful practices with a focus on sustainability and smart technology keeps this third-generation farm thriving. The 50-stall rotary milking parlor is able to milk 300 cows per hour. During peak electric usage time, the farm shifts to a generator to relieve stress on the grid and help ensure reliable power is available for everyone.

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FEATURE

The length of your password protects you more than how complicated it is. A short password packed with symbols can be cracked by a computer in seconds. A longer password made of several unrelated words is far harder to break. Protecting online accounts helps safeguard access to services such as bill payment, outage notifications, energy management tools, and other digital services offered by your electric co-op.

THE PASSWORD MYTH:

WHY LONGER IS STRONGER

any electric cooperative members manage important parts of their lives online. They pay electric bills, participate in efﬁciency programs, monitor energy use through member portals, and receive outage alerts through co-op apps and websites. Protecting those accounts starts with a strong password. With October recognized as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, it’s a good reminder that one of the easiest ways to protect yourself is by updating how you think about passwords. Unfortunately, many of us learned the same password rules, which are now outdated. Mix in a capital letter. Add a number. Throw in a symbol like a dollar sign. We were told that a password full of strange characters was a strong password. It turns out that advice was only half right, and

the half that got left out matters more than you might think. Here’s the surprising truth: The length of your password protects you more than how complicated it is. A short password packed with symbols, like “P@ss1!”, can be cracked by a computer in seconds. A longer password made of several unrelated words is far harder to break. The reason comes down to math. Computers crack passwords by guessing, and modern ones try billions of combinations every second. Every extra character multiplies the guesses a hacker must make, far more than swapping an “a” for an “@” ever could. Think of it like a bike lock. A short combination is quick to spin through, but a longer one simply has too many settings to try. The nation’s top security experts agree. The National Institute of Standards and Technology, which sets

the standards many companies follow, now recommends longer passwords and has dropped the old rules that forced a mix of symbols and numbers. Why the change? Because those rules often backﬁre. When told to add symbols, people do predictable things, like ending with a “1” or an “!”. Hackers know these tricks and check for them ﬁrst. The rules made passwords harder for humans to remember but easier for criminals to guess. So, what should you do instead? Whether you are logging into your electric co-op’s member portal, online banking account, healthcare provider, or favorite shopping site, the same advice applies. Think in phrases, not single words. A passphrase is just several words strung together, like “Sailboat lemon thunder pillow.” The trick is to pick words that have nothing to do with each other. The stranger the mix, the better. Avoid

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song lyrics, common sayings or anything tied to you, since those are easier to guess. Aim for at least 15 characters when you can. What about sites that still demand a number or a symbol? You don’t have to give up your passphrase. Just work the extra character into a spot you will remember, like “Sailboat7 lemon thunder pillow.” Try not to simply tack a “1” or “!” onto the very end, since that’s the ﬁrst thing criminals check. A few more simple habits will keep you safe. Avoid personal details like your birthday, address, or pet’s name, since those are easy for others to ﬁnd. Use a different password for every account, including your electric co-op’s member portal. Companies get hacked, and criminals try the stolen passwords on other sites, so one password should never unlock your whole life. If remembering them all feels like too much, a password manager can store them for you. And turn on multi-factor authentication whenever it is offered, which is the step where a code is sent to your phone or an app, adding a second lock to your door. You may also start seeing “passkeys.” This newer

option lets you sign in with your face, ﬁngerprint, or a PIN instead of a password at all. Because there is no password to steal or guess, passkeys are very secure and worth using whenever a site offers one. As more services move online, good password habits are becoming an important part of everyday cybersecurity. You don’t need to be a technology expert to protect yourself. A longer password or passphrase is one of the simplest and most effective steps you can take. Pick a phrase you can remember, keep it unique for every account, and you will be much harder for criminals to target. Protecting online accounts helps safeguard access to services such as bill payment, outage notiﬁcations, energy management tools, and other digital services offered by your electric co-op. Carter Manucy writes for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve 42 million Americans across 56% of the nation’s landscape.

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PORK PERFECTED All recipes and photos courtesy of the National Pork Board.

Carnitas Tacos Tender carnitas piled high with vibrant toppings makes for a flavor-packed meal that’s both hearty and fresh. The juicy, slow-cooked pork pairs perfectly with rice, black beans, and pico de gallo. Try it in a bowl, with warm tortillas, or on a pile of tortilla chips. CARNITAS

4 lbs pork shoulder 2 tsp salt 1 tsp pepper 1 tsp dried oregano 1 Tbsp ground cumin 1 large naval orange, halved 2 bay leaves Trim the fat from the pork shoulder. In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, oregano, and cumin. Mix together and spread over the entire pork shoulder. Place the pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Squeeze juice from the orange halves over the top. Add the spent orange halves and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Cover and cook on LOW for approx. 6 hours until falling apart tender and the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees or above. Use tongs or a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked meat to a large bowl. Use two forks to shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, then moisten/season with cooking juices to taste. Cover to keep warm and set aside. TOPPINGS

6 corn or flour tortillas 1 cup cooked white or brown rice 1 (15 oz) can black beans, warmed 1 cup pico de gallo 1 avocado, diced 6 lime wedges 1–2 jalapeños, sliced Serve pork with warm tortillas and toppings of your choice. Makes 6 servings.

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RECIPES Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder is the perfect cozy meal to welcome the changing seasons. Slow-cooked in the oven until meltin-your-mouth tender, the pork absorbs the warm, spiced flavors of apple cider, garlic, and herbs, creating a rich and comforting dish. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for the ultimate feast.

Slow Cooker Lasagna Soup with Italian Sausage Lasagna soup in the slow cooker is the ultimate cozy, no-fuss meal for cooler months. With ground Italian sausage, tender pasta, and a rich, tomatoey broth, it delivers all the comforting flavors of lasagna with none of the work. Just set it and forget it, then top with a dollop of creamy ricotta and enjoy with a slice of garlic bread.

1 lb Italian sausage, mild or spicy 1 small onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes 4 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bitesized pieces 1/2 cup ricotta cheese 1 Tbsp chopped flat-leaf parsley (optional) 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional) In a large skillet over high heat, brown the Italian sausage for 4 minutes.* Break the sausage apart as it browns. Add onion and garlic, then cook for another 1–2 minutes. Remove from heat and drain the extra grease. Transfer the cooked sausage and onion to a slow cooker. To the slow cooker, add the tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine well. Cook on HIGH for 3 hours, then add the noodles and stir to incorporate. Set to LOW, then cook for another 30 minutes. To serve, scoop into bowls and garnish with a tablespoon of ricotta cheese, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Makes 6 servings. *NOTES: Ground pork is safe to eat when cooked to 160 degrees.

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2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1/2-inch cubes 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 Tbsp olive oil 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced 2 cups apple cider 1 cup chicken broth 1 tsp dried thyme 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Season pork with salt and pepper. Add oil to a Dutch oven or any coverable, oven-ready pot. Heat on high, then sear the pork until all sides are browned. Remove pork to a plate. Add onion and garlic to the pot and cook for 2 minutes. Add apple cider, chicken broth, and thyme. Stir well and bring to a boil. Remove from the heat and add the pork back into the pot; cover with sliced apples. Place the lid on the pot and cook in the oven for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and meat reaches 175 degrees. Remove from the oven and allow the pork to rest in the braising liquid for 10–15 minutes before serving. Makes 4 servings.

Pulled Pork, Cabbage, and Arugula Salad Smoky, tender pulled pork meets crisp cabbage and arugula in this fresh and hearty salad. The contrast of the savory meat with crunchy veggies and a bright dressing makes every bite exciting and nutritious.

4 cups arugula, lightly packed 2 cups shredded red cabbage 3 carrots, shredded 1/2 small red onion, shredded 1 bunch cilantro, chopped 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar 1 Tbsp honey 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 tsp black pepper 2 cups pulled pork*

In a large bowl, toss together arugula, cabbage, carrots, onion, and cilantro. In a separate small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Combine salad with dressing and toss to combine. Top with the pulled pork before serving. Makes 1 serving. *NOTES: Purchase pulled pork at the store or make your own. Whole muscle pork cuts are safe to eat when cooked to 145 degrees and allowed to rest for 3 minutes.

Italian Breaded Pork Chops Crispy, golden, and packed with flavor, Italian-breaded pork chops are an easy, any-night dinner the whole family will love. Serve them with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad for a well-rounded plate.

1/4 cup Italian breadcrumbs 1 egg, beaten 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp vegetable oil 4 New York (top loin) pork chops, 3/4-inch thick Combine breadcrumbs and cheese in a shallow bowl. Dip the pork chops in egg, then coat with the bread crumb mixture. Heat oil in a large, nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; add pork chops. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 8–10 minutes, turning once. Cook until the internal temperature on a thermometer reads 145 degrees. Remove the pork chops and allow to rest for 3 minutes before serving. Makes 4 servings. 21 wecnmagazine.com October 2026

9/14/26 2:25 PM

READER RECIPES APPLE PUDDING CAKE

Submit your favorite recipes to be featured on our reader recipe page. Email to jennifer@weca.coop or submit directly at http://wecnmagazine.com/submit-a-recipe/. PLEASE NOTE: Recipes submitted must include quantities for all ingredients. If no measurements are used, your recipe will not be printed. Due to food safety issues, we cannot accept canning recipes.

RECIPE COURTESY OF SANDY DRESCHER, NEILLSVILLE REQUESTS FROM OUR READERS A reader is looking for slow cooker recipes. SEND TO: WECN, Reader Recipes, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102 Middleton, WI 53562-2200 or jennifer@weca.coop

CRUST/CAKE LAYER 2 cups flour 2 Tbsp sugar 1 cup butter 8 apples (or more), sliced 1/3 cup sugar 1 Tbsp cinnamon

Mix flour, sugar, and butter together and pat into a 9-x13-inch pan. In a bowl, toss the sliced apples in the sugar and cinnamon. Place apples and cinnamon-sugar on top of the crust/cake layer and bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes. TOPPING 2 (1.5 oz) pkgs sugar-free vanilla pudding mix 3-3/4 cups milk Whipped cream or ice cream Prepare pudding mix as directed using the milk. Pour over the cake while it is still hot from the oven. Serve hot or cold with whipped cream or ice cream.

BROWNIE PUDDING RECIPE COURTESY OF MARGI MEIS, ELEVA If you’re in a time crunch, this recipe is easy, simple to make, and delicious! 1 cup sifted flour 3/4 cup white sugar 2 Tbsp cocoa powder 2 tsp baking powder 1/4 tsp salt 1/2 cup milk 2 Tbsp melted butter (or cooking oil)

1 tsp vanilla 1/2 cup chopped nuts 1/2 cup brown sugar, firmly packed 3 Tbsp cocoa powder 1 cup water Whipped cream or ice cream (optional)

Heat oven to 350 degrees. In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, white sugar, 2 tablespoons cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, combine milk, butter or oil, and vanilla. Stir into the dry ingredient mixture. Fold in nuts and spoon the batter evenly into a greased 8-x8inch baking pan. In a bowl, combine brown sugar and 3 tablespoons cocoa powder and sprinkle over the batter in the baking pan. Carefully pour the water over the top of the batter (do not stir in). Bake for 30 minutes or until the top of the pudding is firm. Cut into wedges and spoon into individual dishes. Sauce in the bottom of the pan may be drizzled over the pudding. Serve warm, plain, or with whipped cream or ice cream. PAST RECIPES CAN BE FOUND ON OUR WEBSITE AT WECNMAGAZINE.COM/RECIPES. CLICK “SEARCH RECIPE ARCHIVES.”

MAPLE-THYME ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS RECIPE COURTESY OF MARY KING, CHIPPEWA FALLS I received this recipe as a token of appreciation from the American Diabetes Association. I’m sure regular maple syrup could be used if desired. 1 lb fresh Brussels sprouts 1/2 small bunch fresh thyme 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp olive oil

1-1/2 tsp sugar-free maple-type syrup or flavoring 1/8 tsp salt 1/8 tsp black pepper

Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts; add to a medium bowl. Remove thyme leaves from the stems and add to the bowl. Add garlic, olive oil, maple syrup or flavoring, salt, and pepper to the bowl; toss to combine. Spread out Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Place in the oven and roast until the sprouts are fork-tender and beginning to brown, approx. 20–25 minutes. Makes four 1/2-cup servings.

CREPES RECIPE COURTESY OF ANONYMOUS SUBMITTER, OWEN CREPES 1 cup flour 2 Tbsp sugar 1/4 tsp salt

1-1/2 cups milk 3 eggs 2 Tbsp butter, melted

Whisk flour, sugar, and salt together. In another bowl, whisk milk, eggs, and butter. Add to dry ingredients and beat until smooth. Lightly grease a 10-inch nonstick skillet and preheat over medium heat. Pour 1/4 cup batter into the center of a skillet, lift and tilt to coat the bottom evenly. Cook until top appears dry; flip and cook 15–20 seconds longer. Remove to a wire rack. Repeat with remaining batter. FILLING 3-1/2 cups milk 6 oz instant vanilla pudding mix 8 oz cream cheese, softened Mix milk and pudding mix together. Beat softened cream cheese and gradually add to the pudding. Spread the filling down the center of each crepe. Roll up and place on a serving tray. TOPPING 1/2 cup sugar 2 Tbsp cornstarch or clear gel 1 cup water

1 Tbsp lemon juice 1 Tbsp strawberry Jell-O powder 4 cups sliced, fresh strawberries

Pour water into a saucepan, then mix in sugar and cornstarch. Cook on low heat until thickened. Add lemon juice and Jell-O and let cool. Fold in strawberries and pour over crepes. Chill until served. NOTES: Don’t give up if the first crepe doesn’t turn out right, it usually takes a couple of tries to get them perfect. They can be filled with both sweet and savory fillings or even just a sprinkle of sugar.

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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NEED HELP WITH YOUR HEATING BILLS? The Department of Administration offers heating and electric assistance to qualified households through the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP). WHEAP assistance is a one-time payment per heating season (October 1–May 1) to cover a portion of a home’s energy costs. It is not intended to cover the entire energy costs of a residence. Eligibility is based on the household’s previous month of income. In most cases, the benefit is paid directly to the household’s energy supplier. Most types of fuel qualify for assistance. In addition, crisis assistance may be available if you have no heat, have received a disconnect notice, or are nearly out of fuel and are unable to purchase more.

CALL 1-866-HEATWIS INCOME GUIDELINES FOR THE 2026–2027 HOME ENERGY PLUS PROGRAM YEAR (through 9/30/2027) 60 PERCENT OF STATE MEDIAN INCOME GUIDELINES HOUSEHOLD SIZE

ONE MONTH INCOME

ANNUAL INCOME

$3,322.00

$39,864

$4,344.08

$52,129

You may be eligible for WHEAP services based on several factors, including your household’s size, income, and energy costs. If the gross income for your household is less than the amount shown on the chart at right, you might be eligible to receive assistance.

$5,366.25

$64,395

$6,388.42

$76,661

$7,410.58

$88,927

$8,432.75

$101,193

For more information on WHEAP and how to apply for energy assistance, please call 1-866-HEATWIS (432-8947), or visit www.homeenergyplus.wi.gov.

$8,624.33

$103,492

$8,816.00

$105,792

Find Out More

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THE CARETAKER

CEMETERY WALK KEEPS CABLE’S HISTORY ALIVE

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or Bayﬁeld Electric Cooperative Board Member Jim Kinzie, his role as caretaker of Cable’s cemeteries has never been just about digging graves or maintaining grounds. For him, the role is about remembering the past and making sure no one is forgotten. For nearly 40 years, Kinzie has cared for the Cable Greenwood Cemetery and St. Anne’s Cemetery. “It isn’t just a job,” Kinzie said. “The word ‘caretaker’ says it all. You take care of the loved ones of a community.” The role began unexpectedly in the mid-1980s when then-caretaker Clarence Holly, already in his 80s, asked for help. “Clarence asked me if I would start digging the graves for him, and he’d ﬁll them in because it was getting a little hard for him to dig the graves at 83,” he said. A few years later, Holly retired, and Kinzie took over the entire job. “When you’re always there at funerals, people talk to you,” he said. “They tell you who the person was, and you start hearing stories about the people that are in the cemetery.” Those stories accumulated year after year.

WISC NSIN FAVORITES “Over time, I got quite a collection of who’s who in the cemetery,” said Kinzie. What started as conversations with grieving families eventually became one of the Cable area’s most unique traditions.

participating in this,” Gran said. The appeal, she said, starts with Kinzie himself. “If you’re a local, you know Jim Kinzie. And you know that he’s just a wonderful character, and it’s going to be entertaining.”

remembers answering a visitor’s questions one day while working among the headstones. “She said, ‘You ought to do something like this for the historical society.’” The idea intrigued him, and after thinking about it for a couple of years, they set up the ﬁrst cemetery walk in the Greenwood Cemetery. Karen Gran, a Bayﬁeld Electric Cooperative member and board member with the Cable/Namakagon Historical Museum, knows the walk predates her service with the organization, which began in 2012. “I think it’s increased pretty much every year since I’ve been

attendees quickly learn that Kinzie isn’t there to deliver a dry history lecture. He arrives in character. “I always wear a top hat and a trench coat when I do it and usually walk around with a shovel,” he said. The look has documented roots. Victorian-era gravediggers often wore top hats and long coats—easily recognized as cemetery workers. “The old guy with a big, long trench coat and a top hat on, you kind of knew that was the gravedigger,” Kinzie said. The costume sets the stage and prepares attendees for a history lesson, storytelling session, and theatrical performance all rolled into one.

The Cemetery Walk Kinzie

The Man in the Top Hat Cemetery walk

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Some years, descendants portray their actual ancestors buried in the cemetery. Other years include ghost stories or scavenger hunts. Last year, Kinzie surprised attendees with a performance of Edgar Allan Poe’s “The Tell-Tale Heart” delivered in the style of classic actor Peter Lorre. “That was fantastic,” Gran said. “Jim just knocked it out of the park with that. Nobody was saying a word. Standing there with jaws dropped.” “Jim is quite an actor,” she laughed. “It’s very theatrical.”

Hidden History Part of the cemetery walk’s

appeal is the sheer variety of information Kinzie shares. “You’re gonna learn some history, you’ll learn some local history, you’ll learn some world history,” Kinzie said. “Hopefully you’ll have a little bit of fun.” One of his favorite lessons involves grave orientation. Most graves, he explained, are traditionally arranged east to west. “Your head is laying in the west. And your feet are pointing east,” Kinzie said. “So that as the sun rises in the east, so will you stand up to meet the Son of God.” Attendees also learn the origin of sayings such as “dead ringer,” stories about grave robbing, and forgotten burial traditions. “I think we do a different kind of cemetery walk than a lot of places do,” Gran said. “He pulls out facts about the history of burials and graveyards, and it’s just really interesting. If I heard that same thing once every year, it wouldn’t be too much for me.”

Giving Faces to Names One of the walk’s more meaningful goals is moving beyond names carved into stone. In past years, volunteers have portrayed historic individuals buried in the cemetery. Gran participated twice, portraying her own greatgrandmother, Dr. Kate Kelsey Clark. A rare female physician in the early 1900s, “Doc Kelsey” settled in Cable to practice medicine. She eventually became one of the community’s best-known doctors. “It puts a face, so to speak, to the name on the headstone,” Gran said. “It kind of brings it to life.” Performing in first person let visitors engage directly with local history and let Gran answer questions as if she were her great-grandmother. “Instead of just walking around looking at old headstones and stuff, when you can actually talk about a person... that was kind of fun.” Lost Cemetery Among the many stories Kinzie shares, perhaps none is more fascinating than his discovery of what appears to be Cable’s original cemetery. “We had a lost cemetery,” he said. “A cemetery that had disappeared.” The mystery began with stories from longtime residents who remembered graves being uncovered during construction decades earlier. One resident described discovering a coffin containing a woman with bright red hair. Later, Kinzie spoke with men who helped build a house on the property. “I asked them, ‘Do you guys remember hitting a grave?’”

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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WISC NSIN FAVORITES Their answer shocked him. “They were like, ‘No, we hit a couple of graves. We think there’s a cemetery there.’” Kinzie began researching history records and eventually found an early plat map. “It showed a cemetery right where the house was,” he said. “We ultimately were able to identify that there were at least 15 or more graves there. Why that cemetery got abandoned, we’ll never know.” But for Kinzie, uncovering the truth was enough. “At least we now know it’s there.”

Remembering the Forgotten Kinzie’s

commitment to preserving history goes beyond the annual walk. Over the years, he was troubled by the number of unmarked graves in the cemetery. “There were so many unmarked graves, and we really didn’t know who they were,” he said. Many belonged to families who, at the time, could not afford monuments.

When a veterans’ cemetery in Hayward replaced handmade concrete crosses with factory-made markers, Kinzie saw an opportunity for the discarded headstones. “The Legion and I, we started marking all the unmarked graves in the cemetery.” For Kinzie, every unmarked grave represented a person who should be remembered.

History and Community

Before the event, visitors browse the cemetery with scavenger-hunt sheets Kinzie designed. They search for historic markers, symbols, and names while learning to pay closer attention to the stories around them. “It gets people out walking around and actually looking at the different headstones and the names and the history in there,” said Gran. The museum also serves hot chocolate, hot cider, and Halloween treats, creating a welcoming atmosphere that attracts all ages. “We get little kids, grandparents, we get all ages,” Gran said. “It’s just a fun October thing to do before Halloween.”

That sense of community is exactly what Kinzie and Gran hope people take away. “The reason we do this is to keep history alive,” Gran said. “That’s our job.” She hopes visitors leave inspired to learn more about their own families and communities. “Maybe they go home and start looking through old photo albums,” she said. “Maybe asking their grandparents or their parents, ‘Do you remember this person?’” Because history, she said, can disappear surprisingly fast. “Yesterday is history,” said Gran. And a caretaker in a top hat shares stories to make sure that history and those resting there are never forgotten.—Dana Kelroy The Cable/Namakagon Historical Museum’s Cemetery Walk takes place at the Cable Greenwood Cemetery at 43270 Cable Sunset Rd, Cable, WI 54821 on October 17, 2026, at 4 p.m. For more information, call 715-7985070. Photos courtesy of The Cable/ Namakagon Historical Museum and Karen Gran.

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• Never climb a utility pole or use one for support. • Never place deer stands or decoys on power lines or utility poles.

GERI@WECA.COOP

Classified ads reach more than 157,000 mailboxes. RATES: For non-members of Wisconsin rural electric co-ops: one insertion, $25 minimum (up to 20 words); additional words, $1.25 each. For members of Wisconsin rural electric co-ops: one insertion, $14 minimum (up to 20 words); additional words, $.70 each. Count name, address, and phone number as part of ad. Please include zip code. FOR PROOF OF MEMBERSHIP, please include your address label from your copy of the magazine. FREQUENCY DISCOUNTS: 2% discount for 3 months; 5% for 6 months; 10% for 12 months. DEADLINE: 1st of the month prior to the month in which the ad is to appear. All classified ads must be paid in advance. There is no agency discount on classifieds. Make check or money order payable to: WECA. Mail to: WECN—Classifieds, Attn. Jennifer, 6405 Century Ave., Ste. 102, Middleton, WI 53562. Ph: 608-467-4638. Email jennifer@weca.coop. We reserve the right to refuse ads.

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As hunting season approaches, excitement builds for time outdoors. But before you head into the woods, make sure electrical safety is part of your preparation checklist. Keep these tips in mind to stay safe and avoid costly or dangerous incidents:

• Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead lines, poles, and other electrical infrastructure when setting up or taking down tree stands.

WANTED: COLLECTOR LOOKING FOR OLD WOOD AND METAL SIGNS. Any condition. Also, old motorcycle items and bell helmets. Call Jerry 920-373-3515. WANTED: COLLECTOR LOOKING FOR VINTAGE SPORTS CARDS 1986 or older. Also, looking for comic books, 1970’s or older. 608-343-3503.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY TIPS FOR HUNTERS

• If you’re using a portable electrical generator, don’t use it inside a cabin or RV, or in a confined area. Make sure it’s used outside where there is plenty of ventilation.

Source: safeelectricity.org

Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News

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WHERE WE LIVE WE HAVE MEMBERS

OUR 65th YEAR

ACTIVELY

OUR COMMITMENT

As your Touchstone Energy ® cooperatives cooperatives, we are your energy community. The power we provide is much more than a way to keep the lights on, it plugs into the family, friends, and neighbors that make up your local co-op.

BEFORE YOU DIG

CALL 811

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October 2026

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WISCONSIN EVENTS

October 2026

1–4 Burger Nights—Mondovi. Together Farms. Thurs. & Fri. 4–9 p.m.; Sat. 3–9 p.m.; and Sun. 12–7 p.m. Eat right on the farm, grab a grass-fed beef burger, check out the store, and let the kids run around.

4 Octoberfest Dinner—Jim Falls. Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Pork steak dinner, bake sale, and more. Meal is $13 for adults, $6 for 12 and under. Carry-outs available.

21 Blood Drive—Iola. Iola-Scandinavia Aquatic & Fitness Center, 12–5 p.m. Please donate, the need is great. Preregister at 1-800-redcross or www. redcrossblood.org.

1–31 Harvest Moon—Clark County. Various locations, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Experience corn mazes, pumpkin patches, community festivals, roadside stands, and farmers’ markets, fall mums, ornamental grasses, and pumpkins. Home-grown apples, pumpkins, gourds, sweet corn, honey, and more. Call 715-255-9100 for a brochure.

4 Bat Boxes | Build a Home for Wildlife— Wonewoc. Ernest Hüpeden’s Painted Forest, 1–3 p.m. Bat habitat and conservation demonstration and a bat box construction project. A suggested donation of $20–30 toward the restoration of Ernest Hüpeden’s Painted Forest instead of an admission fee is appreciated. Advance registration is encouraged. Bat box kits with precut pieces are also available for purchase to assemble at home. ehpaintedforest@gmail.com

21–31 Celebrating Fiber Arts—Chippewa Falls. Heyde Center for the Arts, Mon.– Thurs., 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; Fri., 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Explore fiber arts experienced through traditional techniques that transform the medium into creative works of art, including quilting, weaving, embroidery, felting, and more. On Oct. 25 from 12–3 p.m., meet the artists and enjoy light refreshments, listen to music by local harpists, and at 2 p.m., watch a fashion show of wearable fiber art. www.facebook.com/valleyfiberartists

2, 3 QuiltFest on the Mississippi—Onalaska. Omni Center, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Displays of hundreds of quilts, a boutique selling quilts and handmade items, basket raffles, vendors, quilt raffle, and demos. 3 Lima’s Fish Fry—Durand. Holy Rosary Church, 4:30–7 p.m. Baked or batter-fried fish with Lima’s tartar sauce, potato salad, coleslaw, fries, and a cupcake. Dine-in or drive-thru, large $16, small $14. Handicap parking/restroom. 3 Central Wisc. SwapFest—Colby. Lion’s Shelter, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. Ham radio, computer, and electronics equipment swapfest. Admission: $5. Talk-in frequency: Primary 147.75/147.150 Medford repeater (+600 kHz, 114.8 Hz PL). For info, contact hommelsd@tds.net. 3 Fall Harvest Festival—Phillips. Downtown, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Arts & crafts fair, vendors, family-friendly activities, seasonal treats, and live entertainment. 715-339-4100. 3 Pie Social—New Hope. South New Hope Lutheran Church, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Homemade pie (whole or by the slice), ice cream, and beverages for purchase. 3 A Taste of Norway—Westby. Coon Prairie Church, 1–4 p.m. Explore exhibits, sample Norwegian beer and soda, experience live traditional Norwegian music, and participate in educational displays. Admission is free, but a suggested donation of $10 is appreciated. 3 Fall Show—Colfax. High School Martin Anderson Gymnasium, 2–4 p.m. The Red Cedar Sounds Chorus of Sweet Adelines International will present their annual Harvest of Harmony Fall Show, “From Sea to Shining Sea.” Basket raffle, homemade dessert, and refreshments. Admission is free will.

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9, 10 Rummage Sales—Melrose. Area homes, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Maps at local businesses. Lunch at Melrose Village Hall. 10 Arts and Crafts Sale—Bloomer. Elementary School, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Lunch available. Vendors may contact 612-7208970. 10 Lasagna Supper—Jump River. Community Center, 4–7 p.m. Take-outs available. Adults are $14, ages 6–12 are $7, and 5 and under are free. 715-6685719. 11 Fall Breakfast—Wittenberg. St. Joseph Catholic Church Galloway, 9:30–11:30 a.m. Cash rafﬂe. Adults $12, ages 6–12 are $6, and under 5 are free. 11 Poetry Reading—Drummond. Public library, 2–4 p.m. Audience will be invited to share short poems on any theme and regional poets will read their works. 715798-3619. 15–17 Book Sale—Onalaska. Public Library, open 9 a.m.–6 p.m. Most prices are $1 or less. Thurs., 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Fri., 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m.–noon. Sat. bag sale. Cash only. 608-781-9568. 17 Snowmobile Club Anniversary Celebration— Phillips. Elk Lake Park, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Vintage sleds, our groomer and drag, and history displays. Kids’ scavenger hunt, food, and more. ChaparralsSnowmobileClub@gmail.com 18 Swedish Meatball Dinner—Greenwood. Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Drive-thru only (lower level). 715503-0183.

24 Polka Event—Jump River. Community Center, 2–6 p.m. Food, refreshments, and a full bar for purchase. 715-452-5369. 24 Colton Dixon + Micah Tyler Concert— Reedsburg. CAL Center, 7–9 p.m. Award-winning artists, known for their contemporary Christian music. Reserved Tickets $30–$50. 608-768-8928 ext.1190. 30 Night of Laughs with Comedian Mickey Bell—Richland Center. Grace Community Church, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Nationally touring comedian known for blending clean, family-friendly comedy, and reallife struggles with a goal to help people laugh and feel better. $30 VIP at 5:30 p.m. with a chili supper and a meet-and-greet. For more info, call 608-604-6780.

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

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, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102, Middleton, WI 53562-2200. DEADLINE: 1st of the month prior to the month in which the event is to appear.

Upload events to wecnmagazine.com

9/11/26 5:19 PM

YOUNG MEMBERS

Kids and Critters October 2026

1 1. Maylee gives morning hugs to one of her favorite hens, a 4-year-old Australorp. Photo submitted by Lissy Meyer, a member of Riverland Energy.

Upload photos directly to wecnmagazine.com through the “Submit a photo” tab.

Garrison, a member of Scenic Rivers Energy.

3. Sisters Josie and Maci help with morning chores by feeding the cows. Photo submitted by Linda Nennig, a member of Central Wisconsin Electric.

2. Emma meets a baby calf. Photo submitted by Kim

Send photos of kids with animals, along with a brief description, to WECN Magazine, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102, Middleton, WI 53562-2200. 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.

CO-OP MONTH QUIZ October is National Co-op Month

Did you know there are many different kinds of cooperatives? A cooperative, or co-op, is a business that’s owned by the people who use it. Some co-ops help people buy groceries, some help farmers sell their crops, and some—like your electric co-op—bring power to your home. Read each clue below and guess the type of cooperative you think it is.

Answer Choices:

Worker Producer Consumer Utility Retail Financial Housing

1. Your local electric cooperative It keeps the lights on, restores power after storms, and is owned by the members it serves. Type: ______________________ 2. REI People can become members to shop for outdoor gear, enjoy special benefits, and help support the business. Type: ______________________ 3. Ocean Spray Thousands of cranberry and grapefruit farmers work together to grow fruit and produce juice sold across the country. Type: ______________________ 4. Your local credit union Members save money, open checking accounts, and apply for loans through a financial institution they own together. Type: ______________________ 5. A grocery co-op Local shoppers become members to help support a community grocery store and buy fresh foods. Type: ______________________ 6. A cooperative apartment building People work together to own and manage the place where they live. Type: ______________ 7. A cooperative bakery The people who bake the bread, decorate the cakes, and serve customers also own the business together. Type: ______________________ 1. Utility 2. Retail 3. Producer

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