Ruralite, Golden Valley Electric Association, May 2026

Ruralite

May 2026 • Volume 73, No. 5

CEO Michael Shepard

SENIOR VP OF CONTENT Leon Espinoza

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Chasity Anderson, CCC

DEPUTY EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Noble Sprayberry

SENIOR EDITOR Jennifer Paton, CCC

LEAD CONTENT EDITOR Victoria Hampton, CCC

ASSISTANT EDITORS David Herder, CCC; Sable Riley, CCC; Nina Todea, CCC

ASSOCIATE EDITOR

Valeri Saldanha Rosa

PUBLICATIONS PRODUCTION SR. MANAGER

Elizabeth Beatty

SENIOR PUBLICATIONS COORDINATOR

Alyssa McDougle

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Main Street, America

Some roads were built to move people from place to place. Route 66 was built to move the American soul.

One hundred years ago, a telegram sent from Springfield, Missouri, changed the way this nation moved, dreamed and understood itself. What began as a practical push to connect the Midwest to the West Coast evolved into something far more profound: a 2,448-mile ribbon of pavement, nostalgia and identity stretching from the shores of Lake Michigan to a pier at the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica, California.

memory. It was decommissioned in 1985, yet it refuses to disappear. Writer John Steinbeck called it the Mother Road, and that name still fits—it carries everyone who comes to it, generation after generation. Through song and film, from Bobby Troup’s classic ode to Pixar’s “Cars,” the highway has been reborn for every new audience that discovers it. This centennial is simply the latest chapter.

This month’s feature takes you along for the full ride, from Illinois to California, with the stories, the landmarks and the characters keeping the flame alive. There’s even a road quiz to test your Route 66 knowledge and a playlist built for the open highway.

This year, the world is paying attention. Springfield earned the honor of hosting the national kickoff of America’s Route 66 Centennial Celebration this spring. Communities from Illinois to California have been relighting neon signs, polishing roadside landmarks and readying themselves for visitors arriving from across the country and around the globe. Case in point: A group of Swedish motorcyclists turned up at a barbecue restaurant in Cuba, Missouri, filling the room with the thump of Harley-Davidsons and the happy sound of people experiencing something they’d long dreamed about. Route 66 has that effect on people. It always has.

What is interesting about this highway is how naturally it holds contradictions. It is both a monument to movement and an anchor for

Dave LaBelle’s Great Picture Hunt column has its own centennial connection this month. Photographer Amy Gaskin has spent four years documenting the world surrounding Marilyn Monroe—a project that has taken her as far as Australia and into the pages of National Geographic. Monroe would have turned 100 on June 1. It seems May is a month for marking a century of remarkable years.

And after all that road-tripping and reminiscing? Our kitchen feature delivers a collection of sheet pan dinners built for gathering, because the best journeys always end at the table.

Until next time, Chasity Anderson Editorial Director

The Mother Road Turns 100

Celebrations rev up America’s iconic Route 66 Spotlight, Page 10

Dinner Is Served

Sheet pan dinners are made for sharing In The Kitchen, Page 16

Marilyn Forever

The Great Picture Hunt, Page 22

2026 Voting Guide

Golden Valley Electric Association Districts 1 and 2 Board of Directors Elections

This year, elections are scheduled for Districts 1 and 2. Nominating committees from each of these districts were formed last November and the committees worked until mid-January to recruit candidates.

District 1 has two candidates nominated by committee. District 2 has two candidates nominated by committee.

The submission deadline for anyone seeking to apply to be a director candidate through the petition process was 9 a.m. March 6.

Get to Know Your Candidates

As a member of GVEA, the most important action you can take is to vote for your board representative. To help you in your selection, candidate bios are presented on Pages 5, 6 and 7.

Additional information about each candidate is on GVEA’s website at gvea.com/elections. Candidate information also will be in election packets mailed to members eligible to vote on May 13.

How to Vote

Members will receive ballots in the mail and can choose to cast their ballot via mail or online through their MyGVEA account.

• For members with multiple accounts, your district is determined by your membership primary account.

• Members with more than one type of membership (residential, commercial, etc.) are entitled to one vote for each type of membership.

Thank You for voting!

Tom

DeLong, GVEA Board of Directors Chair

“Voting is one of the most important actions you can take as a member-owner of Golden Valley Electric. You help set the direction of your local electric co-op through the representative you elect to the board of directors. Please take a few minutes to learn about the candidates and cast your vote.”

May 13—Ballots mailed and online voting opens at 12 p.m. on MyGVEA.

June 9—Ballots must be received by 5 p.m., electronically through MyGVEA or by mail.

June 11—Election committee counts ballots.

June 23—GVEA Board of Directors votes to accept election results.

Learn more at gvea.com/elections.

Special Notice

This year, all members, not only those in Districts 1 and 2, will receive a ballot to vote on proposed revisions to GVEA’s Bylaws. Although sections of these Bylaws have been amended over the years, the board of directors felt strongly that a thorough review was needed to ensure the Bylaws still met the best interests of GVEA’s membership and provide the flexibility to run the cooperative in an efficient and costeffective manner. More information on the proposed revisions can be found on GVEA’s website at gvea.com/bylaws.

District 1 candidate

Nominated by committee

Primary residence: 790 Pelican Way

Phone: 907-978-1866

Email: Dmessier@gvea.com

Years in Alaska: 17+

Occupation/employer: Project Manager, Tanana Chiefs Conference

Education: B.S., Cornell University, 2008; MBA, University of Alaska Fairbanks, 2012; Project Management Professional (PMP), 2014; Certified Energy Manager (CEM), 2014; Credentialed Cooperative Director, National Rural Energy Cooperative Association (NRECA)

Personal interests/hobbies: Hunting, fishing, boating, camping, building things and nearly anything else I can do outside with my wife and kids to enjoy our state. I also own and run a small energy-efficiency and solar PV company, Daylight Energy Services, and invest locally in real estate.

Organization affiliation: Board member, Renewable Energy Alaska Project (REAP) 20122024; Member, UAF Alaska Center for Energy and Power Advisory Panel 2013-2024; Member, University Park PTA 2024-present; Board member, LEAF—Learning and Education Advancement of Fairbanks 2024-present; GVEA Board Treasurer 2021-present

Areas of special interest to you and/or your community service: Reducing energy costs for Alaskans is a special interest for me. Since 2009, I’ve led dozens of renewable energy and energyefficiency projects, installed community scale battery energy storage systems, co-authored federal

James Strickland

District 1 candidate

Nominated by committee

Primary residence: 6085 Sharman Court

Phone: 907-347-7179

Email: flyninstructor@yahoo.com

Years in Alaska: 21

Occupation/employer: Airline Pilot (Retired)

Education: Master Training Specialist; BA in Education; Airline Transport Pilot; Flight Instructor; Airframe & Powerplant Certificates; Firearms Instructor; Range Safety Officer

Personal interests/hobbies: Flying, hunting, fishing, amateur radio, scuba diving, boating.

Organization affiliation: Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association; Experimental Aircraft Association; Alaska Airmen’s Association; American Quarter Horse Association; National Rifle Association; Veterans of Foreign Wars; Arctic Amateur Radio Club

Areas of special interest to you and/or your community service: Disaster preparedness, assisting others when able whether it’s a ride to the doctors or a quick fix of something minor in their residence.

legislation and presented to the Alaska legislature on energy challenges. As a GVEA board member, I’ve used my knowledge and experience to champion our ongoing large wind and battery energy storage projects as well as the onbill financing program that GVEA now offers. These efforts are projected to lower our longterm electric rates and help make the Interior a more affordable place to live and work.

Why are you interested in running for a seat on GVEA’s board? The high cost of energy and its impact on Fairbanks businesses and families is what caused me to run for the board nine years ago. Keeping our utility focused on lowering long-term costs is still a top priority I bring to every meeting. That said, as members in a cooperative it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our electrical system is managed and maintained to keep our power reliable and the lights on. Providing reliable electricity requires investment, not just through the rates we all pay but through the willingness of board members to commit their time, energy and experience to help our co-op succeed. I’m running because I have a proven track record of that commitment and I would be honored to have your vote so that I can continue to serve and continue to keep our utility focused on reliably delivering electricity to our members.

Why are you interested in running for a seat on GVEA’s board? As a retired Navy submarine sailor, I have many skills and knowledge on many different subjects. Being responsible for the operation and maintenance of all electronic navigation equipment on a nuclear powered submarine in addition to managing a $500,000 quarterly budget. I was always seeking ways to improve efficiency and reliability and improving moral of my division personnel. I implemented procedures that not only reduced cost, but man-hours, while improving reliability and readiness of submarines in the U.S. Atlantic fleet. With my experience, I believe I can contribute to improve GVEA for not only our members, but employees as well. It would be an honor to serve on the board of directors representing district 1.

2

Margaret Matheson

District 2 candidate

Nominated by committee

Primary residence: 1698 Bridgewater Drive

Phone: 907-978-5012

Email:

maggie.b.matheson@gmail.com

Years in Alaska: 28

Philip Wight District 2 candidate

Nominated by committee

Primary residence: 3813 Old Nenana Hwy

Phone: 513-515-8464

Email: wight.phil@mail.com Years in Alaska: 9

Occupation/employer: Ridge View Dental

Education: MBA, University of Alaska Fairbanks

Personal interests/hobbies: I enjoy reading in my free time.

Organization affiliation: N/A

Areas of special interest to you and/or your community service: I have a strong interest in my community and staying involved with youth development, our economic status and the well being of our community. I have participated in many services through my church, school board, and within the schools with their extracurricular

activities (i.e. football, chamber orchestra, hockey, tennis, art shows, wrestling). Why are you interested in running for a seat on GVEA’s board? I am interested in running for a seat on the GVEA’s board because I care deeply about our community and the longterm reliability and affordability of electrical services in the Interior. GVEA plays a critical role in supporting families, businesses and the local economy. I want to help ensure the co-op remains fiscally responsible, transparent and communicative with it’s members

Occupation/employer: History Professor, University of Alaska

Education: BA History, University of Maryland; MA History, Ohio University; PhD History, Brandeis University. Dissertation: “Arctic Artery: The Trans-Alaska Pipeline System and the World It Made”

Personal interests/hobbies: I’m a builder and aspiring carpenter, (hopefully) finishing my son’s epic treehouse this summer. I live for fresh powder days at Ski Land and Moose, summer days fishing and floating rivers, and dark winter nights in the Whites. I’m constantly working on my Chitina setup and smoked salmon recipe.

Organization affiliation: Alaska Historical Society Board of Directors, 2022–present; GVEA Member Advisory Committee Chair, 2024–2025, member, 2023–present

Areas of special interest to you and/or your community service: For the past decade, I’ve consulted on home energy projects and helped neighbors install insulation, solar panels and batteries to lower energy costs. After driving an electric vehicle 4,300 miles to Fairbanks, I’ve helped several friends acquire home chargers and plug-in vehicles. I want my friends and neighbors to have cleaner, cheaper energy options. Beyond energy, I groom and maintain local multi-use trails. I regularly write

newspaper op-eds and offer Alaska history presentations at the Tanana-Yukon Historical Society and Alaska Mining Hall of Fame. We have much to learn from our proud history of northern tenacity and bootstrap innovation.

Why are you interested in running for a seat on GVEA’s board? We are facing an energy crisis. With residential utility charges jumping 8.3%, the loss of lower-cost gas power, and the threat of rolling blackouts, “business as usual” isn’t working. Costs are rising with intensifying ice storms and forest fires.

GVEA must evolve to meet these serious challenges. Our Cooperative needs renewed board leadership, persistent innovation and bold action to secure our grid and save members’ money.

As Chair of GVEA’s Member Advisory Committee, I led a task force which demonstrated how GVEA can improve reliability and reduce bills by investing in member-owners’ homes. As an energy historian, I’ve written a comprehensive history of our grid, “Electrifying the Railbelt,” and testified on Alaska energy issues before the U.S. House. As a policy analyst, I authored successful bipartisan legislation (SB152) to save ratepayer’s money with Community Solar. As a father, I will ensure Fairbanks remains a land of opportunity for our children.

District Descriptions

District 1

Includes the railroad industrial area, Well Street and Phillips Field Road south of the Johansen Expressway to the Chena River; Graehl Subdivision to Hamilton Avenue and north of Adak Avenue; heading north out of Fairbanks, the general area west of the Steese Highway, including Fox, Chatanika, Haystack and Elliot Highway; Farmers Loop, Goldstream, Murphy Dome and Sheep Creek Roads; the University of Alaska; College Road; and north of Noyes Slough, excluding Lemeta Subdivisions south of College Road.

How to Vote

District 2

Includes Lemeta Subdivision; the general area south of Noyes Slough and north of the Chena River; Doyon Estates; Danby Street; Aurora Subdivision, Geist Road; University West; Chena Ridge; Goldhill Road; Ester; and the Parks Highway south to Mile 343.

Golden Valley Electric Association District 1 and 2 Board of Directors Elections and Bylaw Election for All Districts

Electronic Voting Is Easy—Vote Using Your MyGVEA Account! Members can vote electronically through their MyGVEA account. This process is easier and faster than ever before.

To vote electronically using MyGVEA:

1. Open MyGVEA via desktop or the mobile app.

2. Log in.

3. Click the “Vote Now” button.

4. Vote for your candidate of choice. For Bylaws, vote YES to adopt an amendment or NO to reject it.

If you do not have a MyGVEA account:

Desktop

1. Call the election helpline at 855-761-9111 or email goldenvalley@ alaska-cpas.com to receive your unique password. You will need your member number to receive a password from the election helpline. This is located on the top right corner of your billing statement.

2. Visit directvote.net/GVEA.

3. Log in using your member number and unique password.

4. Vote for your candidate of choice. For Bylaws, vote YES to adopt an amendment or NO to reject it.

Vote by Mail

1. Ballots will be mailed on May 13. When you receive your ballot, vote for only one candidate. For Bylaws, vote YES to adopt an amendment or NO to reject it.

2. Place the ballot in the postage-paid envelope and mail.

Mobile app

If your primary membership account is not in District 1 or 2, you will only vote on the proposed Bylaw amendments.

Need help? Contact the election helpline at 855-761-9111 or goldenvalley@alaska-cpas.com.

Rick Solie, the incumbent GVEA director for District 3, is running unopposed. As the sole candidate nominated by the committee and with no members nominated by petition, he will be considered for appointment by the board of directors to serve a three-year term, effective June 23, 2026, the date the board is scheduled to accept the election results.

If the board approves the appointment, the 2026 election for District 3 will be canceled, avoiding the cost of holding an uncontested election. This process is in accordance with Bylaws Article V, Section 2(h), which states:

“For the financial best interest of GVEA and its membership, if the deadlines have passed for nominations by the nominating committee and by petition, and there is only one qualified candidate seeking election, no election will be held provided that the Board appoints that candidate. In the event the Board declines to appoint that candidate, an election will proceed with that candidate as the only name on the ballot.”

Richard Solie

District 3 candidate Nominated by committee

Primary residence: 1639 Madison Drive

Phone: 907-978-8969

Email: rjsolie@gci.net

Years in Alaska: 55

Occupation/employer: Consultant, Solie

Consulting & Solie Group (clients include Tower Hill

Mines - Livengood Gold Project)

Education: BA Economics, University of Alaska

Fairbanks, 1984

Personal interests/hobbies: Outdoor activities including cross-country skiing, trail running, biking, boating, hunting and fishing. Serving at Radiant Church, choir singing (when I can) and hoping to start piano lessons soon. My family, friends, social gatherings and good ice cream. Working for worthwhile community projects that make Fairbanks a better place.

Organization affiliation: Alaska Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors 2017–present; Alaska Miners Association, current member and former board director, 2016–2022; Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce member; former board chair and current Energy, Environment & Natural Resources Committee chair; Radiant Church Fairbanks, Elder and treasurer, 2013–present; Safe Drivers of Alaska, Victims Impact Panel Speaker, 2021–present

Areas of special interest to you and/or your community service: Fairbanks has long hoped for a natural gas pipeline bringing lower cost energy to our community, providing jobs and economic opportunities. For years, I’ve worked toward this goal in various leadership roles, including with state of Alaska, FNSB Assembly, ConocoPhillips/Denali Gas Pipeline Project. Recent announcements by Glenfarne Alaska to advance AK LNG to Phase 1/

District Description

District 3

Includes the area south of Chena Small Tracks and east of Chena Pump to Rosie Creek; the west side of Fairbanks, south of the Chena River, west of Peger Road and south of Airport Way; north

Pipeline into early execution make this dream closer to reality. As a GVEA Director, I see the potential to substantially lower electric costs. Ensuring a lateral gas line to Fairbanks that will lower energy costs will continue to be my priority.

Why are you interested in running for a seat on GVEA’s board? The goal of lowering electric costs motivates me to stay on the board and keep working to help make that happen. GVEA’s proposed rate increase—though reasonable given inflation and needed system maintenance—is difficult for members especially with current high electric costs.

We should continue improving GVEA operations, like our coal plants, and consider power sources that will reduce rates and increase capacity. If the gas pipeline becomes a reality, GVEA should take advantage of what will be transformative. The battery energy storage system (BESS) replacement, made significantly more feasible by federal grants and tax credits, would provide power when electric demand spikes or power sources fail. BESS would also regulate wind energy (provides power when wind doesn’t blow) for proposed wind projects and current analysis indicates it would result in lower electricity costs to members. GVEA is a vital organization—I would be honored to continue to serve.

of the Richardson Highway to Woll Road; and south of the Chena River and Chena Slough over to Nordale Road; and Richardson Highway west of Mile 352.

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Celebrations rev up America’s iconic Route 66

By Jim McCarty

It’s midday at Missouri Hick Bar-B-Que along Route 66 near Cuba, Missouri. The lunch rush is almost over when the staff springs into action, moving tables together, preparing for a big gathering.

Soon, the restaurant walls vibrate with the two-cylinder thump of a dozen or so Harley-Davidson motorcycles. The door opens, and the happy sounds of a group that’s experiencing the time of their lives reverberate—in Swedish.

Scenes like this play out every day along what remains of the most famous highway in the world. It’s called the Mother Road, Main Street of America and the Highway That’s the Best. It once traversed eight states

along 2,448 miles, stretching from the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago to a pier at the Pacific Ocean in Santa Monica, California.

Its official name is Route 66, and it’s about to get busier than it’s been since it was decommissioned in 1985.

This year, Route 66 fans from around the world will look for new kicks as the celebrated road turns 100. Springfield, Missouri, was in the spotlight in April as the site of the national kickoff of America’s Route 66 Centennial Celebration.

The Queen City of the Ozarks earned that honor through a competitive process, but also due to its status as the birthplace of Route 66. On April 30, 1926, John Woodruff, a Springfield businessman, sent a telegram to Washington, D.C., requesting the new road be named U.S. Route 66. The

idea for the road didn’t originate here, but its iconic name did.

“This recognition is a testament to Missouri’s deep roots in the history of America’s most iconic highway and the vibrant spirits of the communities that keep that legacy alive today,” Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe says.

The governor’s farm sits along Route 66 in Jerome.

“We have some of the original roadway in Pulaski County that you can still drive on,” he says. “People come from all over the world to drive on that. This roadway is so historic, and it has made millions of memories for not just Americans but for people all over the world.”

Kickoff festivities included five satellite cities: Joliet, Illinois;

I think Route 66 is on a lot of visitors’ bucket lists. And I think whenever there’s a big milestone to be celebrated, people want to be a part of that and come experience Route 66 as it’s turning 100.

St. Louis, Missouri; Amarillo, Texas; Albuquerque, New Mexico; and Santa Monica, California.

In preparation for the yearlong celebration, communities all along the historic route are sprucing up their landmarks, planning events, relighting neon signs and prepping for a major influx of visitors who plan to motor west.

“I struggle to make a specific prediction, and part of that is because it’s really hard to track specific routes,”

Oklahoma Route 66 Association President Rhys Martin says. “But I would be surprised if traffic didn’t double just because of the attention and the people planning their trips.”

Nikki Terlesky, Historic Route 66 Association of Arizona director of operations, agrees travelers are coming in a big way.

“I think Route 66 is on a lot of visitors’

bucket lists,” she says. “And I think whenever there’s a big milestone to be celebrated, people want to be a part of that and come experience Route 66 as it’s turning 100. I know a lot of Facebook groups I follow are just buzzing with people voicing their travel plans.”

While Missouri can claim the creation of the name, an Oklahoma man is known as the Father of Route 66. Cyrus Avery, a Tulsa real estate developer and owner of a coal company, saw the need for a roadway from the Midwest to the West Coast, connecting small towns and cities along the way.

Don’t Miss This!

Here’s the top attraction for each of the eight states. ILLINOIS—GEMINI GIANT (WILMINGTON)

If you only stop once before leaving Illinois, make it here. The 30-foot-tall Muffler Man is one of Route 66’s most iconic photo ops and a perfect start to the journey.

MISSOURI—MERAMEC CAVERNS (STANTON)

A road-trip classic since the 1930s, billboards and barn roof signs for this cavern once lined the entire Mother Road, and the attraction still feels like pure Americana.

KANSAS—CARS ON THE ROUTE (GALENA)

Kansas has only 13 miles of Route 66, but this restored Kan-O-Tex gas station—home to the truck that inspired Mater in “Cars”—is its standout.

OKLAHOMA—BLUE WHALE (CATOOSA)

An absolutely essential stop is the giant, smiling blue whale beside a pond. It is one of Route 66’s most beloved and quirky landmarks.

TEXAS—CADILLAC RANCH (AMARILLO)

Ten Cadillacs sit nose-down in the desert. They’re covered in spray paint, and you’re encouraged to add your own. It’s irreplaceable Route 66 kitsch.

NEW MEXICO—BLUE SWALLOW MOTEL (TUCUMCARI)

See the best neon on the entire route. It is a family-run motel with beautifully preserved rooms, and a true 1940s motor court experience. Even if you don’t stay, stop for photos.

ARIZONA—PETRIFIED FOREST AND PAINTED DESERT (HOLBROOK)

This is the only national park the Mother Road drives straight through where classic roadside nostalgia meets staggering natural beauty.

CALIFORNIA—ROY’S MOTEL & CAFÉ (AMBOY)

A surreal desert time capsule features a legendary retro-futurist neon sign. Nothing captures the lonely, romantic end stretch of Route 66 like Roy’s.

Appointed in 1925 to the Joint Board of Interstate Highways, Cyrus managed to steer the route south from Illinois through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California instead of a more northern route through Nevada.

Along with Missouri’s John Woodruff, Cyrus helped launch the U.S. Highway 66 Association in 1927 to encourage its use.

“One hundred and thirty-seven delegates from 32 cities of the Southwest, meeting here today, organized the National Highway No. 66 Association and elected

John T. Woodruff of Springfield, Mo., its first president,” read a Springfield Daily News story. “From Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico, the delegates gathered in Tulsa today determined that Highway 66, which runs from Chicago via St. Louis to Los Angeles, shall in fact become the ‘Main Street of America.’”

At the beginning, the route joined various existing state roads, many of which were still gravel. Besides paving the highway, the association’s

leaders also marketed Route 66 over other transcontinental routes.

One of the first efforts to popularize the road was an epic foot race that followed Route 66 from its start in California to St. Louis, then on to New York City. The distance was 3,400 miles over just three months. It started with 275 runners, but 77 dropped out on the first day. Only 55 finished. The winner was 20-year-old Andy Payne of Claremore, Oklahoma.

Through publicity like this, the nation learned of the new route, and traffic grew exponentially. Truckers favored its flat terrain, with elevations measured in hundreds of feet compared to thousands crossing the Rocky Mountains.

CALIFORNIA

ARIZONA

ARIZONA

In the 1930s, Route 66 became a pathway for migrants fleeing the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression, heading west in search of opportunity.

When World War II gripped the nation, the route became strategic for moving troops and materials to support the war effort. This led to a major effort to rebuild the roadway for Fort Leonard Wood, an Army base in St. Robert, Missouri.

The highway was no match for the heavy trucks supplying the base. So, in 1941, construction began on a four-lane divided highway between it and Rolla. A deep cut bypassed a steep grade near Devil’s Elbow. Hooker Cut became the deepest highway excavation in the nation to date, and the four-lane, divided highway was the first of its kind. The improved roadway was fully open to traffic by September 1945—ironically, the same month the war ended.

Other improvements included rerouting to avoid a series of dangerous hairpin curves in Arizona, dubbed the Sidewinder. This 8-mile roadway has 191 curves with no guardrails and 12% grades. Today, it is often visited by adventurous travelers.

The Ultimate

(Ordered for the Drive) Playlist

DEPARTURE: CHICAGO (WINDOWS DOWN)

• Route 66 – Chuck Berry

• Sweet Home Chicago – The Blues Brothers

• Start Me Up – The Rolling Stones

• Good Times Roll – The Cars

• Real Gone – Sheryl Crow

• Life Is a Highway – Rascal Flatts

• Born to Be Wild – Steppenwolf

• Runnin’ Down a Dream – Tom Petty

• Drivin’ My Life Away – Eddie Rabbitt

• On the Road Again – Willie Nelson

HEARTLAND MILES:

MISSOURI → OKLAHOMA → KANSAS

• Missouri River Run – Chloe Hoecker

• If You Wanna Get to Heaven – Ozark Mountain Daredevils

• King of the Road – Roger Miller

• Boys From Oklahoma – Cross Canadian Ragweed

• Oklahoma Smokeshow – Zach Bryan

• Carry On Wayward Son – Kansas

• Dust in the Wind – Kansas

• Ain’t Going Down (‘Til the Sun Comes Up) –Garth Brooks

• Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma – Luke Combs

• Cadillac Ranch – Chris LeDoux

OPEN COUNTRY AND FREEDOM

• Wide Open Spaces – Dixie Chicks

• Follow Your Arrow – Kacey Musgraves

• Wagon Wheel – Old Crow Medicine Show

• Copperhead Road – Steve Earle

• Midnight Rider – The Allman Brothers Band

• Ramblin’ Man – The Allman Brothers Band

• Blue Sky – The Allman Brothers Band

• Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

DESERT STRETCH:

TEXAS → NEW MEXICO → ARIZONA

• Amarillo by Morning – George Strait

• I’ve Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

• A Horse With No Name – America

• Ventura Highway – America

• Take Me to the River – Talking Heads

• Running on Empty – Jackson Browne

• Take the Long Way Home – Supertramp

• Drive – The Cars

DUSK, MOTELS AND LONG THOUGHTS

• Fast Car – Tracy Chapman

• Angel From Montgomery – John Prine

• Into the Mystic – Van Morrison

• Gypsy – Fleetwood Mac

• Landslide – Fleetwood Mac

• The Mother Road – Alan Rhody

• Here I Go Again – Whitesnake

• Peaceful Easy Feeling – Eagles

• Take It to the Limit – Eagles

CALIFORNIA ARRIVAL

• Bad Moon Rising – Creedence Clearwater Revival

• California Dreamin’ – The Mamas & the Papas

• Hotel California – Eagles

• Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac

• California Girls – The Beach Boys

• Everyday Is a Winding Road – Sheryl Crow

• Beverly Hills – Weezer

SUNSHINE, CELEBRATION AND LETTING LOOSE

• Party in the USA – Miley Cyrus

• Hot to Go – Chappell Roan

• Paradise City – Guns N’ Roses

• Getaway Car – Taylor Swift

• Good Time - Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen

• Born in the USA – Bruce Springsteen

THE MEANING OF THE JOURNEY (CLOSING STRETCH)

• This Land Is Your Land – Woody Guthrie

• Take Me Home, Country Roads –John Denver

• Kyrie – Mr. Mister

• The Long and Winding Road – The Beatles

• Travelin’ Thru – Dolly Parton

• Running on Empty – Jackson Browne

• What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

• End of the Line – Traveling Wilburys

By the 1950s, Route 66 was the byway of a nation in love with the automobile. Cabins, motels, roadhouses and all manner of highway kitsch sprang up to lure motorists off the pavement. Among them was the first fast-food restaurant, believed to be Red’s Giant Hamburg in Springfield, Missouri.

Route 66 came to represent everything Americans hold near and dear: freedom,

adventure, nostalgia and small-town values. Those themes were shared in the1960s TV series “Route 66,” which helped fuel today’s nostalgia for the road.

Championed in songs such as Bobby Troup’s “(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66” and the Eagles’ “Take it Easy,” immortalized by John Steinbeck’s “Grapes of Wrath” and introduced to a new

generation through Pixar’s “Cars” movie, the Mother Road continues to fascinate those who prefer life in the slow lane.

The demise of Route 66 came with the rise of the new Interstate Highway System— including interstates 55, 44, 40, 15 and 10. Small towns where Route 66 was the main road were bypassed, and many businesses couldn’t survive as traffic moved away.

Route 66 was decommissioned in 1985. But the road never truly disappeared.

Mother Nature and the wrecking ball have taken their toll, but if you know where to look, you can still find remnants of the old route. New businesses have sprung from the ashes of those longgone oases on the road.

So, as the song says, “get hip to this timely tip, when you make that California trip,” and make this the year to get your kicks—on Route 66. n

The Ultimate

Q: WHO ORIGINALLY SANG “ROUTE 66”?

A: Nat King Cole, with the King Cole Trio, first recorded the song in 1946 at Radio Recorders in Los Angeles. Capitol Records released it as a single, which reached No. 11 on Billboard’s pop chart.

Q: WHO IS CONSIDERED THE FATHER OF ROUTE 66?

A: In the early 1900s, Cyrus Avery of Tulsa, Oklahoma, a real estate developer and owner of a coal company, began acquiring oil leases. With the need to reach the barren lands around him and the need for a roadway from the Midwest to the western lands connecting cities along the way, the road became a reality. With John Woodruff of Springfield, Missouri, Cyrus promoted the idea of a highway connecting the Midwest to the West Coast.

Q: WHAT TOWN IS CONSIDERED THE BIRTHPLACE OF ROUTE 66?

A: Springfield, Missouri, is widely recognized as the birthplace of Route 66. A passionate advocate for the “Good Roads” movement, Springfield businessman John Woodruff promoted highway development across Missouri. While the road itself did not begin in Springfield, the idea of the route was born here, making Springfield the home for the Main Street of America. John was elected the first president of the Route 66 Association.

Q: WHAT WRITER MADE ROUTE 66 FAMOUS?

A: John Steinbeck proclaimed Route 66 the Mother Road in his 1939 book, “The Grapes of Wrath.”

Q: WHERE DID THE ORIGINAL ROUTE BEGIN AND END?

A: Route 66 began in downtown Chicago, Illinois, and ended in Santa Monica, California, near the Pacific Ocean. The official start is at Adams Street and Michigan Avenue, with classic spots like Lou Mitchell’s diner nearby.

Q: HOW LONG WAS HISTORIC ROUTE 66?

A: It is generally accepted that, from beginning to end in 1926, Route 66 traversed 2,448 miles. However, as the route evolved over its 60 years of existence with new, improved alignments, the mileage varied over time.

Q: WHAT WAS THE ORIGINAL NAME FOR ROUTE 66?

A: John and Cyrus also played a key role in the naming the road. It had first been named Route 60, as all main east-to-west highways at the time ended in zero. However, the pair felt Route 66 would be easier to promote, especially with the flow of having two of the same number. Thus, on April 30, 1926, a telegram was sent to the Bureau of Public Roads asking for the name to be changed to Route 66.

Q: WHAT DISTINCTION DOES RED’S GIANT HAMBURG, A SPRINGFIELD, MISSOURI, ROUTE 66 RESTAURANT, HOLD?

A: It is considered the first drive-in fast-food restaurant. Red’s opened in 1947 and operated until 1984. In early 2019, Red’s Giant Hamburg made a comeback, 35 years after the original restaurant’s closure. The new restaurant, on Route 413, was a re-creation of the original Route 66 location. It opened in August 2019 and operated for almost six years, closing its doors in May 2025. In 2013, a fundraising campaign was established to re-create the Red’s Giant Hamburg sign. The sign, shaped like a cross, was installed in 2015.

Q: WAS U.S. ROUTE 66 PAVED?

A: When Route 66 officially opened in 1926, only 800 miles were paved, the rest being graded dirt, gravel, bricks or wood planks. It took 11 more years before the road would become the first national highway to be completely paved.

Quiz

Q: WHAT STATES DOES ROUTE 66 TRAVEL THROUGH?

A: Route 66 traverses eight states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California.

Q: WHEN WAS ROUTE 66 DECOMMISSIONED?

A: With the advent of the Federal Interstate Highway System, U.S. Route 66 was gradually decommissioned, with the last segment, in Arizona, removed from the federal system June 27, 1985.

Q: WHAT STATE HAS THE MOST MILES OF ROUTE 66?

A: New Mexico has the most miles, and Kansas has the fewest—Illinois, 301; Missouri, 317; Kansas, 13; Oklahoma, 432; Texas, 186; New Mexico, 487; Arizona, 401; and California, 314, for a total of 2,448 miles.

Q: WHAT ANIMATED MOVIE IS BASED ON ROUTE 66?

A: The 2006 animated movie “Cars” tells the story of Route 66 through characters Lightning McQueen and Sally and their escapades at Radiator Springs, a fictionalized representation of all Route 66 towns. Sally liked to say, “Those were the days we traveled to have a great time, not to make great time.” In the movie, Ramone’s House of Body Art looks similar to the U-Drop Inn in Shamrock, Texas. Other real-life locations that inspired parts of the movie include Cadillac Ranch, Wigwam Motels and Wagon Wheel Motel.

Dinner Is Served

SHEET PAN DINNERS ARE MADE FOR SHARING

Sheet Pan Gnocchi With Roasted Vegetables

16 ounces gnocchi

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

1 red onion, chopped

1 pint cherry tomatoes

6 garlic cloves, minced

1/4 cup olive oil

11/2 teaspoons dried oregano

Heat oven to 425 F.

11/2 teaspoons dried basil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Freshly ground black pepper

3 to 4 handfuls baby spinach

Shaved Parmesan cheese, for topping

On a large sheet pan, add gnocchi, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, basil, salt, thyme, red pepper flakes and black pepper. Combine everything, making sure it is well coated in the spices and oil.

Bake for 35 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Remove sheet pan from oven. Add spinach, and stir to combine. Return to oven for 5 minutes, just until spinach is wilted.

Serve with shaved Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

Everything Salmon Sheet Pan Dinner

Cooking spray

2 medium sweet potatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch wedges

1 tablespoon olive oil, divided

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, divided

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided

1/4 cup Dijon mustard

2 tablespoons honey

1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

5 cups broccoli florets

4 5-ounce salmon fillets

2 tablespoons everything bagel seasoning

2 teaspoons soy sauce

Heat oven to 425 F. Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with foil, and coat lightly with cooking spray.

Toss sweet potatoes with 2 teaspoons oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Place on half of the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes.

Meanwhile, combine Dijon, honey and cayenne in a small bowl. Toss broccoli with remaining oil, salt and pepper in a separate bowl.

Remove potatoes from oven. Add salmon to the other half of the baking sheet. Place 2 teaspoons of the mustard mixture on each filet. Brush to coat, then sprinkle with bagel seasoning. Add broccoli to sweet potatoes. Bake until salmon flakes easily with a fork and vegetables are golden, about 12 minutes. Stir soy sauce into remaining mustard mixture, and drizzle over vegetables.

Sheet Pan Chimichurri Chicken

1 large bunch flat-leaf parsley

1 large bunch cilantro

1 tablespoon oregano

2 medium garlic cloves

11/2 teaspoons kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

2 tablespoons red wine vinegar, plus more as needed

11/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs

1/2 teaspoon honey

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 cup whole cherry tomatoes

1 small red bell pepper

1/2 medium red onion

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt

Rice, flatbreads or potatoes

Using a food processor, pulse parsley, cilantro, oregano, garlic, salt and red pepper flakes until finely ground, about 30 seconds. Add olive oil and vinegar, and pulse until just combined. Season to taste with additional salt and vinegar.

In a large bowl, toss chicken thighs with honey and 1/3 cup of chimichurri. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Refrigerate remaining chimichurri until ready to use.

When ready to proceed, adjust oven rack about 6 inches below the heating element. Heat broiler to high.

Remove chicken from marinade. On a 13-by-18-inch rimmed baking sheet, arrange thighs out so there is plenty of space between them. Discard marinade. Arrange zucchini, cherry tomatoes, red pepper and onions around chicken. Drizzle vegetables with olive oil, and season with salt.

Broil until chicken is golden brown and vegetables are just beginning to char, about 10 minutes. Flip chicken and vegetables. Broil until vegetables are tender, and chicken is lightly charred. The chicken should read 185 F on an instantread thermometer, about 7 to 10 minutes.

Serve with reserved chimichurri, rice, flatbread or potatoes.

Sheet Pan Shrimp Tacos With Slaw

Cooking spray

8 corn tortillas

1 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

11/4 teaspoons ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon paprika

3/4 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice

For serving:

1 batch easy taco slaw (see below)

1 medium avocado, sliced

Sour cream

Lime wedges

Heat oven to 400 F. Lightly coat a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray.

Place a large sheet of aluminum foil on a work surface. Stack the tortillas on top, and wrap in foil. Place the packet of tortillas on one corner of the baking sheet.

Pat shrimp dry, and place on baking sheet. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt and a few grinds of black pepper. Toss to combine, and spread into an even layer.

Roast until shrimp are opaque and pink, stirring halfway through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Drizzle shrimp with lime juice, and toss to combine. Fill tortillas with shrimp, and top with slaw, avocado and sour cream. Serve with lime.

Taco Slaw

Shredded red cabbage

Salt

3/4 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup lime juice

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Grated or shredded carrot

Thinly sliced scallions

Cilantro, finely chopped

Jalapeño pepper, deseeded and cut into slices

Salt the cabbage in a colander. Massage it to help release its liquid, then set aside to drain for 15 minutes.

Place mayonnaise, lime juice and garlic powder in a large bowl. Whisk to combine. Using your hands, squeeze cabbage of its excess liquid one handful at a time. Add cabbage and remaining ingredients to the bowl, and toss to combine.

Sheet Pan Parmesan-Dijon Chicken Thighs

Nonstick cooking spray

1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs

1/4 cup freshly grated

Parmesan cheese

4 5-ounce bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs

1/4 cup melted butter

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

11/2 pounds baby potatoes

1 pound green beans, trimmed

1 teaspoon dried thyme

Salt, to taste

Freshly cracked pepper

Heat the oven to 425 F. Line a large sheet pan with aluminum foil, and coat with cooking spray.

Mix breadcrumbs and cheese in a small bowl. Set aside. Place chicken on prepared pan. Combine butter and Dijon in a large bowl. Brush chicken with mixture.

Add potatoes and beans to bowl. Toss in remaining mixture. Evenly spread vegetables on the pan around chicken Season everything with thyme, salt and pepper. Press breadcrumb mixture onto chicken thighs.

Bake until chicken is no longer pink at the bone, the juices run clear, and the potatoes can be pierced easily with a fork, about 25 to 30 minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted near the chicken bone should read 165 F.

READER EXCHANGE

Crafts/Hobbies

Does anyone have old jewelry you don’t want anymore? I would love pre-1970s jewelry. I wear my older jewelry every day, but it’s wearing down and I would love a new batch. I’d wear them with pride. Thank you.

Sandy Corliss

2948 Happy Valley Road Roseburg, OR 97471 scorliss@mydFN.net

I would love to have material to make quilts and at least 3 yards to make aprons. Also, some yarn for knitting. I volunteer at the school nearby and would like to use it with the children. Thank you.

Hilma Tonuchuk

P.O. Box 20013 Kotlik, AK 99620

I make cross-stitch Christmas ornaments each year for my grandchildren. I prefer smaller patterns, and I’m unable to find “Leisure Arts 101 Christmas Mini Book 1.” Also, I can’t find any 18- or 22-count Aida cloth in any color except white. If anyone has the book or cloth, I’ll gladly pay for it. Thank you.

Elaine Beers

P.O. Box 96 Swisshome, OR 97480

Marty and I would like to thank everyone for the supplies. It’s time to request more denim—used would be great to give it more life. We can turn any scraps into useable things. We also need batting to put inside our quilts. Thank you all.

Shirley and Marty Egbert

190 S. Crystal Drive Rupert, ID 83350

I’m looking for parts to old hurricane lanterns. I rewire them and make them useful again.

R. Anderson

82164 Red Bluff Road Seaside, OR 97138

Milestones

My amazing stepfather celebrates his 97th birthday this month. He has always been a traveler, beginning with two cross-country moves as a young child. In adulthood, he has visited nearly all of the United States and 34 different countries. He is a proud U.S. Navy veteran who raised three sons with his first wife. He was a widower for many years before marrying again at age 90. He remains mentally sharp and active with family, friends and church. He is a master woodworker and an avid Scrabble player. He still hosts Bible study groups. He would be thrilled to receive birthday greetings, especially with stories about interesting places. Send cards to Gary Miller, 150 Calle Del Sol St., Richland, WA 99352. Linda Freepons Prosser, Washington

Our mother is fast approaching her 100th birthday this month. She was born in White Sulphur Springs, Montana, and spent summers at the family’s Watson Ranch near Benton Gulch, which was also a Post Office in the earlier 1920s and ’30s. With seven aunts and uncles, she had a great early life. In the 1940s, she moved with her parents and sister to Portland, Oregon, where she married and had four children in the first five years of marriage. Another came along six years later. She moved to Sisters, Oregon, in 1998, near her daughter. She loves reading large print books— one to two a week. In her younger years, she did a lot of volunteer work around town, wherever she could help. She is a longtime Christian, loves jokes and always has a wonderful positive attitude. She gets mostly junk mail now, and I know she would love some real cards and letters. Thank you. Send cards to Marylinn Watson, 369 E. St. Helen’s Ave., Sisters, OR 97759.

Gaynelle Savage Redmond, Oregon

My mom, Hazel Hays, is turning 84 at the end of this month. She worked her entire life to help my dad and give her children a great home life. My dad and my middle siblings have passed on, but she still has me, my brother and her dog, Dew. Please shower my mom with your kind words. She would be so happy. Hazel Hays, P.O. Box 255, Scio, OR 97374.

Karen Miller Scio, Oregon

Submitting Requests Is Free

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Submissions are handled first-come, first-served as space allows. We cannot honor every request.

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Requests must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.

JUST RELEASED!

No coin embodies the spirit of America more than the Morgan Silver Dollar. From the Comstock Lode discovery that provided millions of ounces of silver to make them, to outlaws robbing stage coaches in the Wild West to pay for their bar tabs and brothel visits, the hefty Morgan Silver Dollar holds a special place in American history.

It’s no wonder collectors and history buffs alike clamor to get their hands on them. That is, if they can get their hands on them.

Prized Last-Year Coins

Collectors love “lasts” as no collection is complete without the last coin struck. Last year coins are often hard to find and always in demand. Little did master engraver George T. Morgan know the legacy he was creating when he designed what has become known as “The King of Silver Dollars” but it came to an end 104 years ago with the last-year 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar, the most beloved coin in American history.

Public Release - Only 832 Coins Available

Rarcoa®, America’s Oldest Coin Company, is announcing the public release of 832 of the very last year 1921 Morgan Silver Dollars, struck at the iconic Philadelphia Mint. Each coin today comes in Brilliant Uncirculated condition, pristine as the day they were struck!

Hold 104 Years of American History

Struck in 1921, each coin is one hundred and four years old. Could Charles Lindbergh have carried your coin in his pocket during his flight across the Atlantic? Or maybe your greatgrandfather carried it while storming the beaches of Normandy during World War II before ending up in a small coin shop in Tuscaloosa, Oklahoma. Each coin has its own unique history and you can hold 104 years of American history when you buy yours today!

A Miracle of Survival

Coin experts estimate that only 15%-20% of Morgans are still surviving today due to multiple mass-meltings over the years. The Pittman Act of 1918 melted over 270,000,000 coins, that’s almost 50% of all coins produced at the time. Untold quantities were melted in the 1980s and 2000s when silver prices rose up to $50 per ounce.

Sold Nationally for as much as $239

This same 1921 Morgan Silver Dollar sells elsewhere for as much as $239. But thanks to Rarcoa’s buying power and numismatic expertise, you can own one for as little as $89.95, in quantity while supplies last. That’s a difference of up to $149!

Because the precious metals market is always active and dynamic, prices may adjust to reflect the latest market opportunities.

BUY MORE AND SAVE!

1921 Morgan Silver Dollar Brilliant Uncirculated

1-4   $99.95 each

5-9   $94.95 each, save $5 each, save up to $45

Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest 2027

It is time to share your favorite photos for a chance to appear in our 2027 Ruralite calendar. Up to 13 winners are selected, and each receives $100. Photos must be submitted by June 30, 2026. The contest is open to recipients of Ruralite and Currents magazines. Each person may submit up to two photos. Each submission must include:

• Photographer’s name, address and electric utility.

• A short description—otherwise known as a caption—of what is shown.

• Photographer’s email address and phone number.

• JPEG file photos only. Photos must be horizontal (landscape) format and at least 300 dpi at 11 inches wide by 9 inches tall. Vertical photos and any photos created or altered by AI are not accepted. Enter today by visiting tinyurl.com/ruralitecalendar or use the QR code on this page.

Winning Tips

• Use the highest resolution setting on your camera.

• Photograph beautiful places and wildlife.

• Capture scenes full of vivid color.

• Reflect the seasons.

• Make us feel something—awe, joy, etc.

Marilyn Forever

By Dave LaBelle

During the pandemic, I taught an eightweek online photo class. One of my students, Amy Gaskin, struggled to find a project she felt comfortable photographing since so many people were masked and afraid of interacting with others. I suggested Amy consider shooting a “dead person” story, the kind magazines like National Geographic do on famous people who are deceased—such as Van Gogh, Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway or Abraham Lincoln. I asked her if there was

You can find Amy Gaskin’s story at amygaskin.com/marilyn/nationalgeographic.

LaBelle

anybody famous buried close by her home. She immediately thought of Marilyn Monroe.

That was more than four years ago. Amy is still tirelessly working on the Marilyn project, which has taken her as far away as Australia. Portions have been published in newspapers and magazines in the United States and abroad, including National Geographic online. She hopes to publish her book, “Marilyn Forever: A Symbol of Hope,” soon. June 1 would have been Marilyn’s 100th birthday.

While recently in Palm Springs,

Reader Challenge

California, I photographed the controversial 26-foot-tall, 34,300-pound statue of Marilyn Monroe created by the late American artist Seward Johnson.

As always, I considered various angles and times of day. Things look different in different light, and colors change rapidly— often within a few minutes or even seconds—as do shadows in the mornings and evenings.

I settled on a morning shot as the rising sunlight moved across the figure with a man walking past to offer scale, rather than midday with crowds doing selfies. n

What project would interest you enough to study, explore, photograph and/or write about? Who or what are you curious about? I’ve often said, as long as you have any camera you should never get bored. I would need a dozen lifetimes to explore all of the people and places I am curious about. This is your chance, your license, your challenge to start today. Who knows where your curiosity might lead you? Maybe a gallery showing, a newspaper or magazine article? Maybe even a book?

Email your best image—just one—with caption information, including an explanation of how it affects you, to gph@pioneer.coop. We may share submissions on our website and social media channels.

“I never expected it to be so beautiful that it takes your breath away.”

— Kaya C., on Stauer Opals

In a quaint village, nestled between rolling hills, lived a young woman with a deep appreciation for gemstones. Her grandmother gifted her a delicate cross pendant adorned with opals. The opals shimmered with a mesmerizing play of colors, reflecting hues of blues, greens, and fiery oranges. Her grandmother shared the legend of the opals, believed to bring hope, purity, and luck to those who wore them.

Using this story as inspiration, Stauer brings you the Opal Spirit Cross Pendant. With over 2 total carats of Kyocera lab-created opals set in .925 sterling silver encased in yellow gold, this pendant is a radiant celebration of beauty and craftsmanship. Each opal captivates with a kaleidoscopic dance of fiery oranges blending into oceanic blues, streaked with flashes of vibrant green that seem to come alive with every movement. The shimmering opals are skillfully arranged to create an enchanting, otherworldly glow, embodying the spirit of hope and harmony.

This breathtaking combination of color and craftsmanship is available as a limited availability of only

930 pieces, making it a rare and treasured addition to your jewelry collection. Plus, when you order today, you’ll receive the gold-finished sterling silver chain—a $69 value—absolutely free! Don’t miss your chance to own this exclusive tribute to timeless elegance and meaningful symbolism.

Necklace Specifications:

• 2 1/2 ctw. Kyocera lab opals and DiamondAura® accents

• Yellow gold-finished .925 sterling silver setting

• 18" gold-clad .925 sterling silver chain

GVEA Employee Spotlight: Jace Jimenez

Applying military skills to assist the GVEA community

By Rachael Kvapil

Jace Jimenez and his family relied on a coin toss to determine where they would live once he separated from the military in 2025. On one side of the coin was Alaska. On the other side was California, where he grew up in the Bay Area.

“Fortunately, it landed on Alaska,” Jace says.

Jace joined the Air Force after completing high school and eventually was assigned to Eielson Air Force Base. During their time here, he and his family grew to love the natural environment. After 10 years in the military, Jace decided it was time to transition back to civilian life. Once his family decided to stay in Alaska, he began looking for jobs in the Fairbanks area. He decided to apply for Golden Valley Electric Association’s human resources specialist position because he was drawn to the organization’s mission and vision, particularly its dedication to community support.

“I was searching for something that impacts the community,” Jace says. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to get started in HR at GVEA, and I’m excited to bring my military experience into this role.”

Jace says he didn’t have an extensive HR background, though he had plenty of experience working with people during his time with the military. Jace worked in the Air Force 3F1X1 (Services) career field, which sustains daily operations and boosts morale by managing dining facilities, lodging, fitness centers, recreational services, and performing mortuary affairs/search and recovery. In each of these roles, he often served in a leadership capacity, coordinating tasks and supporting team performance while providing administrative services to meet the needs of airmen and their families.

In his current position with GVEA, Jace handles recruitment and orientation responsibilities. He calls applicants for interviews, sits in on those sessions and welcomes them once they accept the job. On orientation day, he provides a rundown of organizational policy, explains their benefits and introduces them to their supervisor for a tour of the facility.

“It’s awesome to be the face of GVEA for applicants,” Jace says.

Though he has only been with GVEA since November 2025, he already has fond memories of helping with the holiday party planning committee’s preparation and setup. He was also excited to win a vacuum at the party, and he appreciates how welcoming the employees have been since he joined.

Jace also enjoys giving back. In the military, he volunteered for highway cleanup efforts, officiated at the Special Olympics and took part in other community volunteer events. He is looking forward to

participating in a few GVEA volunteer events and community activities soon.

Jace says transitioning to civilian life was initially a challenge. Most of the time, the military is structured and rigid, with clear boundaries and expectations. Just the act of choosing what to wear in the morning was different after 10 years in uniform. However, he has adjusted and enjoys his new commute listening to great music that sets his mood for the day.

“I’m going to work excited with this positive attitude,” Jace says. In addition to hiking and camping with his family, Jace’s other main hobby is basketball. He passed on this love to his daughter, who now plays for North Pole High School and competed in the state tournament this year. The Jimenez family also picked up snowboarding, and this past winter was their first season on the slopes. n

MARKETPLACE

Agriculture

Reinforced custom-sized pond liners (39 cents/sqft.). Hay covers, greenhouse covers, any width and length. Truck tarps and more. High puncture and tear strength. Best price guaranteed. Celebrating 45 years in business. btlliners.com. 541-447-0712. 0427

Strong and dependable 20-year-old female ag. graduate (May 2026) of Feather River College seeking ranch hand employment, preferably with cattle. Lilly, 916-717-9981. 0526

Antiques and Collectibles

Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo jewelry, blankets, rugs. CA/AZ baskets and beadwork. Quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Call 760-409-3117 or send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com. 0526

WC Collectibles. We buy comic books! Local to Inland Northwest. Willing to travel. WCCollectiblesCheney@gmail.com; 509-496-1835.

Buying antiques and collectibles: advertising signs, porcelain signs, gas pumps, beer signs, antique toys, cast-iron coin banks, neon signs and more. Jason, 503-310-3321, or tjabaughman@yahoo.com. 0926

For sale: two silk area rugs, medallion motif, fringed: 8x5’, $950; 5x3’, $450. Photos available. fisherdj_2000@yahoo.com. 0526

Two large wood tool chests on rollers, includes many old, vintage hand tools, photos available, no shipping, Baker City, OR. seabee69jim@gmail.com. 0526

Model train magazines. More than 900, from ’40s, ’50s and early 2000s. Selling one lot, no single sales. $100 or offer, no shipping, Baker City, OR. seabee69jim@gmail.com. 0526

Automotive

For Sale: 1982 and 1985 vintage Tri Hawk 304s and a 2002 Grinnell Scorpion. Roseburg, OR. 541-784-8233 or 541-784-8232; dsiasbuckle@gmail.com. 0526

Rare ’65 Buick Gran Sport, all original, frame up restoration. Numbers matching. Power brakes, steering, seat, windows, A/C. Engine 401, HP 325. North ID. 760-638-6574. 0526

Classic 1999 Chevy Suburban LT 2WD, immaculate condition, always garaged, maintenance records, original owner, photos available, $12K. tedsbaseball@gmail.com; 503-354-2051. 0526

Quick, Affordable: How to Place an Ad

„ Ads 25 words or fewer are $35 a month. An ad of up to 35 words is $50 a month. Contact information is included in the word count. Phone numbers and emails count as one word.

„ Longer ads may be placed. Contact 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop for pricing.

„ Ads are for customers of member co-ops, public utility districts and municipals only. Subscribers and nonmembers may inquire about pricing at 503-357-2105 or info@pioneer.coop.

„ Ads must be direct and in first person, and are subject to approval and editing.

„ Closing deadlines (in our office): July issue—May 29

„ If submitting ad by mail, send appropriate payment with your name, address, email, phone number and the name of the electric utility that provides your magazine to: Marketplace, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133. Make check or money order payable to Ruralite.

„ We accept credit card payments for ads submitted to info@pioneer.coop. Call 503-357-2105 to pay by credit card. Advertisements are accepted in good faith. Pioneer Utility Resources is not liable for interactions between buyers and sellers.

1977 Toyota Landcruiser FJ40; runs well. Original engine/running gear. In Plumas Co., CA. $8K, OBO. js9445@hotmail.com; 530-927-7679 for details. 0626

Boats

Beautiful Don Hill design wood drift boat with high-impact fiberglass bottom and Shorelander trailer. Includes 10-foot oars, lead anchor, plus HW. $4.3K, OBO. Rodger: sandyd@cbbmail.com or 971-227-1753. 0626

Mirrocraft 12’ aluminum fishing, recreation boat. Year 2000. Two seats. Electric motor and 15 horse Honda gas motor. Asking $1,995. 541-444-1394. OR Coast. 0526

Books, Magazines, Videos

Book restoration. Bibles, cookbooks, cherished family heirlooms. Beautiful work. We give renewed life, more durable than original, to last for generations. 775-537-7066; salacanstudio@gmail.com. 0426

I have 12 Etude magazines, 1926-27; some covers are missing. Free. I will mail to you. 541-475-6656. Leave your contact information.

Community Events

La Pine Rhubarb Festival, June 20-21! Free community event featuring more than 140 vendors/food trucks, live music, adult beverages, kids zone and granny rhubarb pies! La Pine Senior Activity Center. More information: 541-536-6237. 0626

“The Warmth Within My Shadow,” by Jason Hogge: May 1-June 27 at Art Center East in La Grande, OR. Also, free art classes for youth. artcentereast.org. 0526

Education

Long Creek Virtual Learning Acellus Academy. Free in OR, online, accredited, K-12 education. Contact Long Creek School for information and to sign up. longcreekschool.com; 541-508-9164. Furniture, Appliances

For sale, matching green couch and chair. Good condition, $135. 541-720-0865. 0526

Miscellaneous

Attention, landowners. Grants available now. Wildland fire fuel reduction service. Steep ground, remote, rocky, small lot, big acreage … no problem. Blue Mountain Defensible Space LLC. Bluemountainbrush@gmail.com; bluemountainbrush.com; 509-399-3473. 1126

Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. More information: Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or 541-815-8906, highdesertmemorials.com.

Local commercial fisherman sells summer catch of preserved freshness by blast freezing at sea, gourmet canned tuna on internet. Sept.June. 100% guaranteed the best canned tuna you ever tasted. Original, jalapeno and garlic flavors available. To order: twofisherstuna.com or 206-799-1082. 0526

Pets, Supplies

3 Australian/Husky purebred puppies in John Day, OR. Born Jan. 19, ready for new homes. 3 males. Please call if interested, can send pictures. Sherry Dress, 541-620-1372. 0526 Real Estate

Let me help you buy or sell ranch, farm and recreation property in OR. Fourth-generation Oregonian, prior ranch owner. For sale: Deschutes Canyon Mountain views, 118 acres, Riverfront. $11.9M. John Gill, 541-480-9161; johngill@landandwildlife.com. Land And Wildlife brokerage. 0526

John Day River Trading Post on more than 1 fenced acre, previous store, existing USPS lease, home. $375K. Duke Warner Realty, 541-987-2363; ddwr@ortelco.net. 0526

320 acres east of Adel, OR. Borders Hart Mountain views, Steens Mountain and Beaty Butte. Landowner tags, very rural. Reduced price: $145K. For maps: 541-659-1573; thejugglingman3@gmail.com. 0526

Private 10-acre wild tree farm near Sandpoint, ID, with older 3-bd. mobile home, countymaintained road, good building sites. $395K. Steve, 208-290-6505. 0526

Mobiles to mansions. Cabins to castles. Brookings, OR, area Principal Broker Pat Piper, Century 21 Agate Realty. Helpful. Educated. Caring. 28 years area experience. 541-251-2152; patpiperbroker@gmail.com.

For sale/rent: 20-acre developed land, 3,600sqft. shop with “barndominium” potential. Weddings/events, horse property, RV hookups, creek, views. $575K. Seller financing. Goldendale, WA. 509-378-5886. 0526

For sale in Rosarito Beach, Baja, Mexico. 2 lots. 2,153 sqft. each. Valles del Mar. Security, paved streets, lights, utilities ready. $33K, negotiable. 323-386-3613. 0626

Recreational Rentals

Ocean view Maui vacation rental. For the months of May-Oct. $210/now $185. One-time cleaning $150, 2 TVs, king-size bed, queen-size sofa bed. Beach chairs and umbrellas. Great view. 503-812-6689. 0626

Vacation rentals in Sisters, including Black Butte Ranch, or for local help managing your home in Central OR, call 541-778-7939 or visit avacationexperience.com. 0526

Sunshine and sand—Book your summer dreams at WaveCatcher for 2026. Oceanfront cottage with direct beach access, on the spectacular Central Oregon Coast. Sleeps 6. Pet friendly. All house amenities. Winter closure November-March. Reservations, information text 541-740-2846 or email relax@wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. 0526

Enjoy your ideal Maui getaway. This updated 2-bd., 2-ba. condo sleeps 4 and features a charming surf shack design. Just half a block from a beautiful beach, it’s perfect for morning strolls and sunsets. Plus, you’re steps away from shops and restaurants at Azeka Plaza. tinyurl.com/MauiGetaway. 0526

Recreational Vehicles

2004 Fleetwood Flair, 34’, 45.2K miles, like new, 2 slide-outs, Triton V-10, 5500 Onan, 2 AC. Garaged except when traveling since March 2009. $22.95K. 541-508-6866. 0526

1996 Pleasure Way motorhome. 83K miles, fully contained, 8 cylinders, gas, clean. $20K, OBO. For pictures and information, call or text 503-706-5846. Clatskanie, OR. 0526

Selling my 2022 Heartland Sundance UltraLite travel trailer. 24 ft., loaded. Single slider, awning, power leveling jacks and tongue jack. Large TV with Dish receiver. AM/FM/CD player, queen bed, microwave, 3-burner stove/oven, shower, gas/electric refrigerator, TireMinder system, gas furnace, A/C. Complete with anti-sway hitch. $19.5K, OBO. 541-403-2028. Baker City, OR. 0526

2014 Solo Rider Electric golf cart. Swivel and stand-up seat for disabilities. Gently used, well-maintained. New batteries and charger. $7K. 509-948-5759. Prosser, WA area. 0526 Services

Dawn Till Dusk Masonry. Brick, block, stone and pavers. Small jobs and repairs welcome. dawntillduskconstructionmasonry.com; 541-388-7605; 541-410-6945. License No. 245760 bonded and insured. La Pine, OR. 0526

Sheidler Bookkeeping. Wrangling those books so you don’t have to. QuickBooks and Xero certified. Contact Valia at 541-519-9005 or sheidlerbookkeeping@gmail.com for a free consultation. 0726

Blue Mountain Defensible Space LLC Wildfire Fuel Reduction: clearing brush, thinning trees, animal habitat enhancement. Expert service. Grant money available OR, WA, ID. Bluemountainbrush@gmail.com; 509-399-3473; bluemountainbrush.com. 1126

Situations Wanted

Attractive, active 60-year-old Christian gentleman in Umpqua, OR. Business owner. Loves hot rods, smooth jazz, beach. Seeks financially stable, adventurous woman, 40–60. grailgolf@hotmail.com. 0626

Want to Buy

Buying American Indian collectibles, Navajo jewelry, blankets, rugs. CA/AZ baskets and beadwork. Quality paintings of the early Southwest and Americas. Call 760-409-3117 or send photos to amer.ind.baskets@gmail.com. 0526

Gold, silver, coins/currency, buy, sell. Collections wanted. Fair prices paid. 45 years in retail store. Baker City, OR. 800-556-2133; garrymclin@aol.com. 0526

Old carpenter tools, planes (wood/metal), levels, chisels, slicks, adzes, axes, hatchets, handsaws, old rulers, spoke shaves, wrenches, shipwright tools, old tool chests. 503-659-0009; 971-666-0659. 0526

Coming to a Right of Way Near You!

Springtime in Fairbanks means our right-of-way crews are back in action at Golden Valley Electric Association. Our mission is to provide safe, reliable and affordable electric service to our members, and right-of-way clearing plays a crucial role in fulfilling that mission. By maintaining clear rights of way, we ensure uninterrupted service and reduce outage durations. Our right-of-way crews will be working across the Interior this spring and summer.

Early Spring (March-May)

• Crews will work north and south of Goldstream Road. Brushclearing machines are using the still partially frozen conditions to clear in areas that are predominantly wet in the summer seasons.

• South of Airport Way between University Avenue and Lathrop Street will be cleared by hand crews and machinery.

• Crews will address danger trees reported or found over the winter.

Summer and Fall

In Cantwell Crews will work their way through the area. In Fairbanks

• The area of Moose Mountain, Murphy Dome Road and Old Murphy Dome Road will be cleared by hand crews and machinery.

• Starting in Fox and working along the Elliot Highway, Himalaya Heights and Haystack Road, crews will clear in the late summer.

Contracting

• Contract crews will clear from Johnson Road in the Salcha area south to Noorvik Road off of the Richardson Highway. Work schedules and locations are subject to change due to weather conditions, accessibility and other logistical factors. For the most up-to-date information on where crews are operating, check our website or follow us on social media. For full details and updates, visit gvea.com/right-of-way-maintenance-program. n

GVEA’s right-of-way crews work year-round to clear trees and vegetation near power lines, with work ramping up in the spring and summer to help prevent outages and improve safety. The photo at left highlights the importance of keeping rights-of-way clear to protect GVEA crews and ensure power can be restored quickly and safely in the event of an outage. PHOTOS BY KELLY REYNOLDS (RIGHT) AND GRACE WILSON (LEFT)

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if a tree falls into a power line?

If a tree is in the power line, call GVEA immediately. Stay out from under the lines and keep your distance. The lines could be damaged and fall to the ground. Do not go near the tree or touch it. Trees conduct electricity.

Are property owners responsible for maintaining tree clearances within the power line easement?

No. GVEA crews clear trees and brush and cut limbs away from electrical conductors. Members are only responsible for clearing trees around their service drop. For more information, visit gvea.com/maintenance-of-service-drop.

What is cleared and how much will be cleared?

Most right-of-way easements are 30 feet wide. GVEA normally clears from ground to sky to maintain safe access.

Will GVEA leave brush and logs behind?

GVEA will mulch small brush as part of the clearing process. Logs are left behind, as most homeowners request them for firewood.

What is a hazard tree?

Hazard trees are dead, leaning or damaged trees that may fall on lines. GVEA has certified tree risk assessors who evaluate hazardous trees to determine the potential for danger. If you have a hazard tree, call 907-452-1151 or submit a hazard tree form at gvea.com/hazard-trees.

What kind of equipment does GVEA use?

You will see us clearing with machines as well as hand tools. Mechanical clearing is done with a Kershaw brush mower, Bobcat forestry mower and a Sky Trim. The mowers cut and mulch. The Sky Trim, which has a 75-foot boom with a rotating saw blade, cuts tree branches growing toward the power lines. Remember to stay at least 300 feet away from all equipment used to clear as they can throw wood and debris a great distance.

Will you clear around my electrical service drop?

Service drops are the lines that connect your home or business to GVEA’s high-voltage lines. Because the service drop is owned by the homeowner, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain it. The service drop should be kept clear of trees and brush. GVEA can disconnect power (free during business hours) with five days’ notice to allow safe tree removal.

How will I be notified of right of way clearing in my area?

GVEA takes proactive measures to inform residents well ahead of the clearing season through various communication channels. If your area is scheduled for clearing in 2026, you should have already received an informative postcard or email and an automated phone notification. Even if no clearing is planned in your vicinity, there may still be a need to access our work area through a right of way on your property.

To ensure that you stay informed about important updates from GVEA, verify or update your contact details by contacting Member Services at 907-452-1151, available 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Cabin Views

This is the view from Jane Phillips’ cabin deck on Craig Mountain. Only 45 minutes from her main home, the drive takes her family through wheat fields, farms and forest. After running a generator at the cabin for so many years, the Phillips family is now enjoying having power, thanks to Clearwater Power. PHOTO BY

JANE PHILLIPS

To submit your photo, email a JPEG to photos@pioneer.coop.

Include “Before You Go” in the subject line and share a bit about what inspired you to make your photo.

REACHING OUT TO OUR VETERANS IN NEED

One in four Veterans lives in rural areas. Every day, we strive to extend our reach, to make sure they have access to the compassionate care and attention they need—from advanced telehealth services to community-based outpatient clinics. Because all our Veterans deserve it, no matter where they are. We believe it’s up to us to ensure they lead healthier, happier lives.

Visit vacareers.va.gov to lend a hand.

When it’s you against nature, there’s only one tool you need: the tempered steel Stag Hunter from Stauer—now ONLY $59!

That first crack of thunder sounded like a bomb just fell on Ramshorn Peak. Black clouds rolled in and the wind shook the trees. I had ventured off the trail on my own, gambled with the weather and now I was trapped in the forest. Miles from camp. Surrounded by wilderness and watching eyes. I knew that if I was going to make it through the night I needed to find shelter and build a fire... fast. As the first raindrops fell, I reached for my Stag Hunter Knife

EXCLUSIVE FREE

Survival of the Sharpest

Stauer Pocket Binoculars -a $99 valuewith your purchase of the Stag Hunter Knife

Forget about smartphones and GPS, because when it comes to taking on Mother Nature, there’s only one tool you really need. Our stunning Stag Hunter is the ultimate sidekick for surviving and thriving in the great outdoors. Priced at $149, the Stag Hunter can be yours today for an unbelievable $59! Call now and we’ll include a bonus leather sheath!

A legend in steel. The talented knifemakers of Trophy Stag Cutlery have done it again by crafting a fixedblade beauty that’s sharp in every sense of the word. The Stag Hunter sports an impressive 5⅓" tempered German stainless steel blade with a genuine deer stag horn and stained Pakkawood™ handle, brass hand guard and polished pommel. You get the best in 21st-century construction with a classic look inspired by legendary American pioneers.

But we don’t stop there. While supplies last, we’ll include a pair of $99 Stauer pocket binoculars and a genuine leather sheath FREE when you purchase the Stag Hunter Knife.

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the craftsmanship. If you’re not completely impressed, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the item price. But we believe that once you wrap your fingers around the Stag Hunter’s handle, you’ll be ready to carve your own niche into the wild frontier.

BONUS! Call today and you’ll also receive this genuine leather sheath!

knife is beautiful!”

feel of this knife is unbelievable...

Owned By Those We Serve BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Tom DeLong, Chair, District 2

Rick Solie, Vice Chair, District 3

David Messier, Treasurer, District 1

Gary Newman, Secretary, District 4

John Sloan, District 6

Bradley Swope, District 5

Krista Zappone, District 7

Corporate Headquarters

758 Illinois St. P.O. Box 71249

Fairbanks, AK 99707-1249

907-452-1151

800-770-GVEA (4832) Fax: 907-458-6365

Delta Junction Office 1681 Richardson Highway Delta Junction, AK 99737

907-452-1151

800-770-GVEA (4832) Fax: 907-895-5472

Report Outages:

907-452-1151

800-770-GVEA (4832)

Select: Option 1, Option 1

View Outage Map: gvea.com/outages

gvea.com

AK-37

2026 Voting Guide

Golden Valley Electric Association District 1 and 2 Board of Directors Elections and Bylaw Election for All Districts

Electronic Voting Is Easy—Vote Using Your MyGVEA Account! Members can vote electronically through their MyGVEA account. This process is easier and faster than ever before.

To vote electronically using MyGVEA:

1. Open MyGVEA via desktop or the mobile app.

2. Log in.

3. Click the “Vote Now” button.

4. Vote for your candidate of choice. For Bylaws, vote YES to adopt an amendment or NO to reject it.

If you do not have a MyGVEA account:

1. Call the election helpline at 855-761-9111 or email goldenvalley@alaska-cpas.com to receive your unique password.

You will need your member number to receive a password from the election helpline. This is located on the top right corner of your billing statement.

2. Visit directvote.net/GVEA.

3. Log in using your member number and unique password.

4. Vote for your candidate of choice. For Bylaws, vote YES to adopt an amendment or NO to reject it.

Vote by Mail

1. Ballots will be mailed on May 13. When you receive your ballot, vote for only one candidate. For Bylaws, vote YES to adopt an amendment or NO to reject it.

2. Place the ballot in the postage-paid envelope and mail.

If your primary membership account is not in District 1 or 2, you will only vote on the proposed Bylaw amendments.

Calendar

May 13—Ballots mailed and online voting opens at 12 p.m. on MyGVEA.

June 9—Ballots must be received by 5 p.m., electronically through MyGVEA or by mail.

June 11—Election committee counts ballots.

June 23—GVEA Board of Directors votes to accept election results.

Learn more at gvea.com/elections and gvea.com/bylaws

Need help? Contact the election helpline at 855-761-9111 or goldenvalley@alaska-cpas.com.