Ruralite TILLAMOOK PUD
JUNE 2026
A Community in Motion Oregon Coast Dance Center marks 50 years of bringing dance—and connection—to the heart of Tillamook Page 4 Students in Oregon Coast Dance Center’s Bitsy Ballet class hold up hearts describing why they love dance. PHOTO COURTESY OF OREGON COAST DANCE CENTER
c-35 pp01 June2026.indd 1
5/20/2026 5:52:22 PM
pp02 June2026.indd 4
5/19/2026 12:06:00 PM
FROM THE PIONEER TEAM
Ruralite June 2026 • Volume 73, No. 6
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 Ruralite (USPS 397-460) is published monthly for members for $5.73 per year, plus postage, by Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124—a not-for-profit Oregon cooperative corporation—to serve the communication needs of 46 consumer-owned electric utilities in Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Idaho, Nevada and California. Preferred periodical postage paid at Hillsboro, Oregon, 97123 and additional mailing offices. © 2026 Pioneer Utility Resources. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Postmaster: Send address changes to Ruralite, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124-6454 HOW TO CONTACT RURALITE Subscription services: Nonmember subscriptions $15 (U.S.) per year; $25 per year (foreign). Prepayment required. Allow 4-8 weeks for first issue. Be sure to identify which local edition you want to receive. Address Changes: Utility members, contact your local utility. Subscribers, call us at 503-357-2105, option 3, or email mailingdept@pioneer.coop. Back issues: Back issues and extra copies are $3. Prepayment required. Supply is limited. Be sure to identify edition, month and year. Call first if ordering back issues to check availability.
Ready for a New Stage Some things travel with us no matter how far we move. Roger and Heidi Merrill built four decades of their lives around The Playmill, a theater company born inside an abandoned drugstore in West Yellowstone, Montana. This summer, they’re opening The Playmill’s brand-new home in Island Park, Idaho—a purpose-built theater with electronic stage backdrops, a trapdoor, a restaurant staffed by cast members and dormitories tucked beneath the stage. It is, by every measure, a spectacular leap forward. Yet, the most memorable line in their story isn’t about any of that. When Roger reflects on leaving the old building, he says, “The Playmill isn’t a building. It’s not about the building. It’s about what we do there and how we make people feel when they come. And that’s all coming with us.” That idea—that the essential item is never the container but what you put inside it—resonates far beyond a theater company’s move across a state line. It’s the kind of clarity most of us spend years trying to find. This month’s Spotlight feature on sleep carries a parallel insight. Quoted experts are clear that quality rest isn’t primarily about the latest
gadgets or sleep trackers—it’s about something simpler, yet harder: consistency, intention and protecting the conditions that allow rest to happen. June also brings one of summer’s great pleasures to the kitchen, fresh sweet corn. This month, Gertrude Treadaway takes the humble ear well beyond butter and salt, with recipes for Mexican street corn, sweet corn chowder, crispy corn fritters and mango corn salsa. They’re the kind of dishes that make you glad summer arrived. Speaking of arrivals, photographer Dave LaBelle turns his lens this month toward weddings, offering advice for capturing the moments that happen before, during and after the vows. His reminder to watch for quiet, unguarded scenes is a lesson that applies well beyond wedding photography. Finally, a reminder, the 2027 Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest deadline is June 30. Up to 13 winners each receive $100. Details are on Page 20. I can’t wait to see this year’s entries. Have a story idea from your community you think deserves to be told? I’d love to hear about it at editor@pioneer.coop. Until next time, Chasity Anderson Editorial Director
Taking the Show up the Road
To contact Ruralite: Ruralite magazine is published by Pioneer Utility Resources, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133-1306; 503-357-2105; email: info@pioneer.coop. For more information, visit pioneer.coop.
The Playmill’s longtime owners move theater company to Idaho
Up Close, Page 10
DISPLAY ADVERTISING INQUIRIES American MainStreet Publications 611 S. Congress Ave., Suite 504 Austin, TX 78704 800-626-1181 or 512-441-5200
Sleep Isn’t a Luxury Get into a rhythm that ensures quality rest
Spotlight, Page 12 For supplemental and interactive content, search @Ruralite on your favorite social media sites.
Great Picture Hunt 22 Reader Exchange 24
Marketplace Before You Go
Utility Pages: 4-5, 8, 25, 28-29, 32
26 30
Straight off the Cob In The Kitchen, Page 16
JUNE 2026
pp03 June2026.indd 3
3
5/21/2026 2:29:57 PM
TILLAMOOK PUD
A Community in Motion Oregon Coast Dance Center marks 50 years of bringing dance—and connection—to the heart of Tillamook By Joanna Stelzig The story of Oregon Coast Dance Center begins in 1975, when Patricia Hawkins opened the studio doors as Patrician School of Dance. Nearly 50 seasons later, the studio stands as a living piece of Tillamook’s history—one built on movement, music, community and a deep belief that dance belongs to everyone. For current owner and director Lisa Greiner, dance has always been home. “I’ve literally danced my whole life,” Lisa says. She began dancing at 6 years old with Patricia as her teacher. Though she tried other sports, nothing stuck quite like
dance. That identity carried through her adulthood and eventually back to Tillamook, where her life and the studio’s future intertwined. The studio changed hands throughout the years, including a period when ownership was shared by several individuals, among them longtime student Rachel Coon. Though leadership changed, the shared vision of growing it into a thriving studio remained constant. Lisa, a graduate of Dance Masters of America, left Tillamook and trained with several companies across the nation, including Pacific Northwest Ballet, The Portland Ballet, Dance Educators of America, and International Association of Dance Medicine & Science. After living in San Diego, she and her husband, Dennis, returned to Oregon in 2011. They settled in Fairview, but Lisa’s passion for dance drew her back to Tillamook. Before long, she was commuting to Tillamook to teach ballet at Oregon Coast Dance Center. “Rachel contacted me and said, ‘I need someone to teach a ballet class, would you be available?’” Lisa says. She immediately said yes. Soon, what began as teaching became much more. During Rachel’s maternity Friends and family of Oregon Coast Dance Center students came together to renovate the center’s new location. PHOTOS COURTESY OF OREGON COAST DANCE CENTER
c-35 pp04-05 June2026.indd 4
leave, Lisa stepped in to help keep things running. By 2013, she officially took ownership of the studio. Oregon Coast Dance Center has moved locations more than once. Throughout the decades, it has been near First Christian Church in the building now housing Pacific Restaurant, and at the corner of Main and First streets. In December 2018, the studio moved to Main Avenue into a historic downtown structure built in 1909. The building has served as a furniture store, a piano store, the 88 Cent Store and Hal’s Emporium. Transforming it into a dance studio took vision, grit and community effort. “It was a labor of love,” Lisa says. Studio families showed up in force to help renovate and rebuild. The result was an expansive space with three instruction rooms, dedicated dressing rooms and floating floors designed to protect dancers’ bodies. The windows are decorated throughout the year, adding life and color
5/21/2026 11:32:28 AM
to downtown Tillamook while promoting upcoming performances. Above the center are four workforce housing apartments owned by the studio. Performance has always been at the heart of the studio, not just for art’s sake, but also for community impact. In addition to a spring recital and the annual winter performance of “The Nutcracker,” Oregon Coast Dance Center dancers perform throughout the county at parades and the Tillamook County Fair. Each year, the dance center brings excitement and creativity to the stage through its spring recital. A cherished tradition, established during Rachel’s tenure, continues today: A portion of the recital’s proceeds is donated to the Oregon Food Bank Tillamook County Services. This commitment turns the art of dance into tangible support for the local community. During the past decade, the studio has contributed the equivalent of 150,000 meals, making a meaningful difference for neighbors in need.
Dance center owner Lisa Greiner teaches a tap class to Bitsy Tap students. ADOBE STOCK ILLUSTRATION BY NIKVECTOR
c-35 pp04-05 June2026.indd 5
The upcoming spring recital, held June 12-13 at Tillamook High School, features two productions: a blast from the past showcase and a ballet adaptation of “Alice in Wonderland.” The studio has performed “Alice in Wonderland” before, most notably during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. In January 2021, dancers took to a makeshift stage masked and without a live audience. The dancers worked hard to prepare, so Lisa did everything she could to allow them their time to shine. Oregon Coast Dance Center maintains a repertoire of classic performances, presenting them on a rotating basis each year. However, no two shows are identical. Lisa regularly reviews recordings and seeks ways to enhance each production, striving to make performances magical for dancers and audiences. Creating stage magic is her favorite part. “I love putting on a production and telling a story, then watching it all come together,” Lisa says. She finds, edits and reworks the music for each production, while also adding new elements and refining scenes. “Not everyone is interested in watching dance, but if you can bring that production value to make it exciting, so people are thinking, ‘Wait, how did they do that?’, that’s what excites me,” Lisa says. Dancers grow into roles over time, giving younger students something to aspire to and allowing longtime dancers to evolve on stage. Oregon Coast Dance Center serves dancers from 18 months old to adults, with no performance requirement to participate. Adult ballet has about 14 dancers, alongside adult tap, jazz, hula and conditioning classes. Social connection is a cornerstone of these classes. Parents dance alongside their children. Generations share the floor. In fact, about five families dance together across multiple classes. It’s not unusual to see someone in their 80s taking a tap class, sometimes for the first time, simply because they never had the chance as a child. Former students often return years later as adult dancers. Lisa has seen how beneficial dance is.
Ballet technique students work through their exercises.
“Dance can be such an important part of adult life,” she says. “I’ve had adult students report back that their doctors have said, ‘I don’t know what you are doing, but keep doing it. Your memory is incredible, your mobility is great and your bone structure is stronger,’ ” Lisa says. With about 200 dancers and five to six instructors on staff, the studio reaches beyond Tillamook, offering instruction in north county communities as well. Homeschool families and preschoolers find structure, socialization and creativity within the studio walls. Summer camps and classes keep the doors open year-round. Classes run Monday through Saturday, with Saturdays dedicated to the studio’s youngest dancers. Registration stays open as long as possible, only closing when costume orders must be placed for performances. Fifty years in, Oregon Coast Dance Center remains a place where movement tells stories, families connect, and magic is made—one step, one class and one generation at a time. n For more information about Oregon Coast Dance Center, including classes, registration and performances, visit oregoncoastdancecenter.com or check out its Facebook and Instagram. JUNE 2026
5
5/21/2026 11:32:30 AM
New tools and technologies allow electric utilities to be more effective in monitoring and responding to a variety of grid threats. PHOTOS COURTESY OF HORRY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Keeping the Grid Secure As threats to the power grid grow more complex, public utilities are building layers of protection—and asking consumers to help By Michael Leitman and Jennifer Paton The North American power grid— comprised of multiple regional grids— is the backbone of modern life. Considered the world’s largest machine, the grid powers homes, businesses and institutions, including hospitals and other critical infrastructure. As the grid becomes more interconnected and digitized, it faces growing threats, ranging from cyberattacks to extreme weather events and wildfires. Keeping the grid reliable and resilient is essential. Public power utilities are actively involved in national efforts to stay secure. Infrastructure Protection Electric utilities and grid operators follow standards set by organizations, such as 6
the North American Electric Reliability Corp., that mandate protections for critical infrastructure, including: Cybersecurity measures. Firewalls, encryption and multifactor authentication help prevent unauthorized access to control systems. Regular software updates and vulnerability scans reduce the risk of exploitation. Physical security. Electric substations and control centers are protected with fencing, surveillance and restricted access. Physical breaches or attacks can be just as damaging as cyberattacks. Redundancy and resilience. Backup systems and redundant lines ensure power can be rerouted during outages caused by natural events or deliberate attacks. This minimizes disruption and speeds recovery.
“Our grid security is protected by layered safeguards, including cyber, physical and operational security,” says John Luquette, information technology and facilities manager at Tillamook PUD, based in Tillamook, Oregon. “With that, it helps us reduce our risks, identify problems early and respond quickly to situations when conditions change.” John says cyber- and physical security are treated as core safety functions at the utility, not just IT or facilities responsibilities. All employees play a role. “The goal is to protect our system, our employees and the public while maintaining safe, reliable service,” he says. “A lot of this comes down to planning, training and coordination across teams and departments.”
JUNE 2026
pp06-07 June2026.indd 6
5/21/2026 9:40:02 AM
PLUGGED IN
Electric utilities create plans and conduct trainings to practice their responses to natural hazards and cyber- and physical attacks.
Advanced Technology As threats evolve, so do the tools to combat them. New tools—including drones, remote sensors and advanced controls—allow electric utilities to be more effective in monitoring and responding to a variety of grid threats. “When it comes to newer technology, the biggest benefit for Tillamook PUD is greater awareness and faster response times,” John says. “Improvements in monitoring, automation and data analysis help us spot unusual conditions sooner and respond more quickly when something changes.” One example is the PUD’s automatic meter reading system, which not only allows the utility to read meters but also provides insight into potential issues in the field. “We have dedicated staff monitoring this system 24/7 and reviewing daily reports,” John says. “A meter with a single blink can be identified and investigated right away.” Artificial intelligence can be a powerful technology to enhance these other tools, especially in sifting through large amounts of data or imagery to detect irregularities or patterns. To be effective, AI tools must be well designed, properly trained and incorporated into cybersecurity protections. System Hardening Electric utilities invest in hardening their local systems against the growing threat of wildfires, extreme weather events and
other natural hazards. These investments include identifying vulnerable parts of the grid, replacing wooden poles with metal or cement poles, burying lines or adding enhanced technologies that allow greater visibility and control to anticipate and respond to emergency conditions. Planning for the unexpected is critical. Emergency Readiness Utilities and government agencies conduct large-scale exercises to test their readiness for emergencies. One example is GridEx, a biennial event organized by NERC that simulates cyber- and physical attacks on the electric grid. Thousands of participants, from utilities to law enforcement, work together to identify weaknesses and improve coordination. Scott Corwin, American Public Power Association president and CEO, has participated in these exercises. “In our industry, exercises are an essential piece of the puzzle when it comes to operating a reliable and resilient electric system,” he says. “Practicing our response to a cyber- or physical attack or a natural disaster gives us an opportunity to collaborate with our industry brethren and government partners to test processes and look for areas of improvement.” These exercises also provide an opportunity to forge relationships with the people who would interact in the event of a reallife situation. “This is something we stress to our
Consumers Play a Role, Too One of the best ways consumers can help ensure safe and reliable service is to stay engaged and informed. Keeping contact information up to date, paying attention to outage alerts or safety notices, and reporting issues such as downed lines or unusual conditions help utilities respond faster and more safely. “During storms or outages, giving crews room to work and following safety guidance is also very important,” John says. “Tillamook PUD offers multiple communication methods for customers, and we make a point of staying active in our community at local events to share the latest information.” It’s important to be aware of email, text and phone scams that target consumers. Scammers often try to create urgency around payments or service shutoffs to pressure people into acting quickly. “We encourage our customers to be cautious about unexpected messages or phone calls and to verify requests by contacting our office through official phone numbers before sharing personal information or making payments,” John says. A secure electric grid isn’t just about keeping the lights on. It’s about protecting public health, economic stability and national security in the communities served by public power utilities. By combining robust industry standards, rigorous training, cutting-edge technology and consumer awareness, electric utilities help build a grid that is not only reliable but resilient today and in the future. n JUNE 2026
pp06-07 June2026.indd 7
ADOBE STOCK BACKGROUND BY KICHIGIN19
members,” Scott says. “It’s important to make these connections during ‘blue sky times’ rather than when a disaster strikes, and exercises are a perfect time to do this." In terms of preparing their consumers for emergencies, public power utilities— particularly those in disaster-prone regions—take a multifaceted approach. “They are active on social media, sharing tips, toolkits and information to help their customers prepare for—and live through—outage events,” Scott says. “They also cultivate relationships with the local media to quickly disseminate safety and restoration information.”
7
5/21/2026 9:40:04 AM
TILLAMOOK PUD Keep your space cool and comfortable with a
Ductless Heat Pump
Check out our DHP rebates!
A ductless heat pump provides your space with a highly efficient heating and cooling system. Ductless systems have an ultra-quiet fan that circulates air evenly throughout living areas, eliminating hot and cold spots.
Incentives are available through the Tillamook PUD Energy Efficiency Program on qualifying ductless heat pump installations. Visit www.tpud.org or call us at 503-842-2535
Customer Benefits
for more information.
Reduce heating energy use up to 50% compared to electric resistance heating systems. Built-in cooling is an added benefit for homes with electric resistance heat only. Uniformly heat main living area, eliminating hot and cold spots common with some types of heating.
8
TTillamook a PUD PUD ill mook
Contact us at:
503-842-2535
For more info visit:
www.tpud.org
JUNE 2026
c-35 pp08 June2026.indd 8
5/20/2026 11:26:48 AM
Summer like you mean it with
WORLD-FAMOUS
PERFECTION Omaha Steaks are hand-selected for unmatched quality, naturally aged for maximum tenderness, and flash-frozen to lock in that unforgettable flavor. Hot grills, cold drinks, and warm memories are waiting.
GET 8 FREE BURGERS MILY PRO FA
100%
M
E IS
R
A $23 value
O
U
IT
GUARANTEE Y
2 Bacon-Wrapped Filet Mignons (5 oz.) 2 Butcher’s Cut Top Sirloin Filets (5 oz.) 4 Air-Chilled Boneless Chicken Breasts (5 oz.) 4 Boneless Pork Chops (6 oz.) 4 Classic Jumbo Franks (3 oz.) 4 Caramel Apple Tartlets (4 oz.) 1 Omaha Steaks Seasoning (3 oz.) 8 FREE Omaha Steaks Classic Burgers (4 oz.)
OU
Tasteful Grill Pack SAVE 59%
WILL LOVE
81953KXA separately $240.94 ONE-TIME PRICE: $99.99 SUBSCRIPTION PRICE: $89.99 (Save 10%)
Order Now!
OmahaSteaks.com/GrillPack8719 | 1.800.963.3200 Ask for your FREE burgers with offer 81953KXA or Scan Now
Savings shown over aggregated single item base price. 8 free 4 oz. burgers will be sent to each shipping address that includes 81953. Limit 2. Standard S&H added per address. The 10% discount will be applied at checkout when selecting a subscription order on qualifying products. The subscription order total will be locked-in for all future shipments. While supplies last. Items may be substituted due to inventory limitations. Some products may not be available for sale in your area. All products, prices, and sales are subject to OmahaSteaks.com/terms-of-use. Not valid with other offers. Expires 08/31/26. | SRC0715
pp09 June2026.indd 4
OmahaSteaks.com/GrillPack8719
5/19/2026 12:08:12 PM
Taking the Show The Playmill’s longtime owners move theater company to Idaho By Ginger Meurer The Playmill in West Yellowstone, Montana, has been at the center of Roger and Heidi Merrill’s lives for more than four decades. This summer, they’re packing the 62-year-old theater company up for the move into its brand new home in Island Park, Idaho. The original building was never meant to be a theater, Roger says. It started out as a drugstore, bingo parlor and post office. After the 1959 earthquake shook the town, the drugstore’s owners locked up and walked away. Setting the Stage In 1964, Lynn Benson and his wife, Fern, were looking for a spot to put on shows near Yellowstone National Park. Seeing promise in the abandoned drugstore, they shoveled out the rubble, set up some chairs and started a theater. Tourists and nearby residents flocked to summer stock productions of musicals and plays featuring casts of college theater students. The actors didn’t just
10
sing and dance, they served as ushers and sold sodas, popcorn and homemade fudge during intermissions. John and Trudy Bidwell helped the Bensons run the place, and they bought the theater company from them in 1989. The Merrills bought it in 2005. Love for—and at—the Theater Even before they owned the theater, Roger and Heidi were dedicated stage veterans. Roger’s first season at The Playmill was in 1985. Heidi started a year later. The Merrills were students at Brigham Young University’s Idaho campus and met there, but their relationship didn’t spark until the summer season Heidi joined the theater. They started the season dating other people. “Through the course of the summer the other relationships kind of fizzled away, and we started hanging out together,” Heidi says. “By the end of June, we were a thing.” Heidi was 20, Roger was 22, and they’ve been at The Playmill every year since. “What made us stay?” Heidi asks. “Initially the reason that anybody stays there is they just love it so much. My first summer, ’86, was the best summer of my life. I absolutely loved it, and when Roger and I started dating, it just seemed natural to audition again, and we did.”
JUNE 2026
pp10-11 June2026.indd 10
5/19/2026 5:52:59 PM
ow up the Road
UP CLOSE
A New Home In addition to his work at The Playmill, Roger served full time as a theater professor at BYU-Idaho for 25 years and only recently retired to get the new Playmill location launched. All four Merrill children and their spouses help direct, choreograph, keep the books, handle marketing duties and more. The Merrills have been planning the move for years. Outgrowing the old building and with new parking ordinances, there just wasn’t anyplace in downtown West Yellowstone big enough to accommodate their dreams. But 20 minutes away, Island Park was booming with room to grow. Between rental cabins, resorts and a new hotel, Island Park hosts as many as 10,000 visitors a night. The Merrills bought land and planned to break ground for a new Playmill building in spring 2020. The COVID-19 pandemic delayed their plans, but they’re on track to kick off the summer season July 1. The Merrills are excited about the new space, which will feature everything audiences loved about the old theater, plus a few new bells and whistles. Audiences will still enjoy the intimacy and immersive experience of a thrust-theater setup, but with new perks, including better sight lines, a trapdoor and a second story on stage, which will give actors two levels to make shows like “Newsies” more dynamic. Set backgrounds will be displayed on two giant electronic screens, and productions will be enhanced by new sound systems and lighting. There is also a dedicated “cry room,” where parents can keep tabs on the show while young children who find it hard to keep their seats for the entire length of the show can play dress-up on a tiny stage. Speaking of stages, guests will find another one inside Steakhouse 64, The Playmill’s restaurant. Named for the year the theater opened, the eatery will be staffed by cast members who provide entertainment as they wait tables. A gift shop and oldfashioned ice cream fountain will round out the offerings. “It’s going to be a lot of fun,” Roger says.
When the cast isn’t at work, they won’t be far away. They’ll be housed in dormitories beneath the stage. More than 600 actors from 47 states plus Puerto Rico, Canada and Denmark auditioned online for the roughly 30 cast spots available. The Merrills were surprised to find students from top-tier musical theater programs at New York University and the Boston Conservatory among the hopefuls. Some of The Playmill’s alumni have gone on to take roles on Broadway, in national tours and at major regional theaters. So far, audiences seem ready to make the move. The Playmill has already sold more advance tickets than ever before. For the first time, the Merrills are selling season tickets and even VIP Club 64 memberships. Audience members are loyal, and the Merrills sometimes get celebrity treatment, like the time a woman spotted Roger outside a show in Times Square and shouted, “Oh, my gosh, it’s that guy! He’s famous!” He looked around to see who she was talking about and realized it was him. Or there was the time a convenience store clerk told them her son’s last wish when he was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor was to go to The Playmill. They’ll never forget the family from Holland who came so often the Merrills call them “our Dutch grandparents.” “It’s kind of a responsibility,” Heidi says. “And sometimes it’s a little, wow! That’s been the drive to keep this thing going.” A Glance Back The Playmill’s future is exciting. But Heidi says leaving the old building was still challenging. “It was like leaving a sacred space, leaving our home,” she says. “And our kids really struggled the day we walked out the door. It was really hard. It feels just as much like home as our house.” Roger is convinced that sense of home will come with them. “What we’ve come to learn over the years is that The Playmill isn’t a building,” he says. “It’s not about the building. It’s about what we do there and how we make people feel when they come. And that’s all coming with us.” n
Inaugural Idaho Season
The Playmill’s 2026 season at its new home is set to include summer performances of Disney’s “Frozen,” “Les Misérables” and “Newsies.” “The Foreigner” is slated for fall 2026, followed by “A Very Playmill Christmas.” The theater is at 4111 S. Big Springs Loop Road, Island Park, Idaho. For ticket information, visit playmill.com.
OPPOSITE PAGE, FROM LEFT: Heidi Merrill takes the stage in a 2010 production at The Playmill. Theater is a family affair for the Merrills and their children and grandchildren. Heidi and Roger take on plenty of acting roles. PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROGER AND HEIDI MERRILL JUNE 2026
pp10-11 June2026.indd 11
11
ADOBE STOCK IMAGES BY IRHAM
That’s not to say it was easy. “There were so many summers that we said, ‘Do we need to move on?’ It was hard, really hard raising little kids and on not very much money,” Heidi says. Roger says plenty of matches are made at The Playmill. All four of their children found spouses there, too. “It’s a pretty intense environment up there, and you spend a lot of time together as cast members in rehearsals and performances and living in the same complex,” he says.
5/19/2026 5:53:06 PM
Sleep Isn’t a
Luxury
12
JUNE 2026
pp12-15 June2026.indd 12
Get into a rhythm that ensures quality rest By Miguel Rios
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY LATEGAN/PEOPLEIMAGES.COM
5/21/2026 3:02:26 PM
SPOTLIGHT Most days, Daniel Lofland is up before the sun. He showers, makes coffee and enjoys a rare quiet hour before helping his two children get ready for school. As an Oklahoma Electric Cooperative employee, Daniel’s workdays can vary wildly. By midmorning, he might be verifying energyefficiency rebates. By afternoon, he could be answering member questions, prepping a safety demonstration trailer or recording an episode of his electric cooperative’s podcast. It’s a full day, but the routine is predictable. That predictability, Daniel says, helps him protect his sleep. “I wake up early, so I try to be in bed by 10 p.m.,” he says. Daniel, an energy-efficiency and solutions specialist, spent nearly a decade as a lineworker. In the electric utility world, being alert matters, especially when daily tasks include driving rural roads, responding to outages or making decisions around live power. “We prioritize sleep in our house, especially since we’ve got kids,” Daniel says. “In order to be successful in your day, you’ve got to be rested.” But across America, intentional approaches to sleep are increasingly hard to find. Shift work, long commutes, caregiving responsibilities, on-call schedules and screen time are quietly eroding sleep. Sleep Under Pressure For Curtis Chlouber, an electric cooperative construction foreman, routine is also important for quality sleep, especially in a line of work where safety is crucial. “When you’re dragging the day after not getting good sleep, you miss little things,” he says. “Every day is a little different, so you have to be ready to adapt and be alert even if it’s something you’ve done a hundred times.” Curtis wakes at 5:30 a.m. and is on the job by 7 a.m. Some weeks, he has long drives to distant parts of the utility’s service territory before the real work fully begins. After finishing his workday around 4:30 p.m., he heads straight to the gym, then home to help with dinner, baths, homework and bedtime for his three young children. Most nights, he’s in bed by 9 or 10 p.m. Once a week, he’s also on call, which can disrupt his routine. “The hardest thing is getting called in the middle of the night after you’ve been sleeping for a few hours,” Curtis says. “I take precautions and don’t hesitate to pull over just to walk laps around my car and wake myself up.” Mikala Jordan, sleep lab supervisor for Mercy Health, says that kind of disruption is common in many occupations, and it interrupts the body’s natural sleep rhythm. “The main issue with shift workers is they’re not getting that natural sunlight at the normal hours of the day,” she says. “As a shift worker, you might be jumping back and forth between schedules. Or, if you’re on your last shift of the week and you come home, instead of going to sleep, you make yourself stay awake to spend time with family or do other things. But having a set schedule and sticking to it is super helpful to avoid negative long-term effects.” Taryn Edwards is an executive assistant for Great Plains Sleep Specialist and a sleep lab supervisor. She says sleep disorders are often underdiagnosed in rural areas. “People just don’t realize that their symptoms are medical issues, or they might not have access to sleep specialists,” she says. The Cost of Poor Sleep Experts warn the cost of poor sleep is high. Over time, chronic sleep loss is linked to increased risk of heart disease, diabetes, depression, obesity and cognitive decline, according to the National Institutes of Health. Harvard Medical School research also found it raises the likelihood of workplace errors—leading to injuries and motor vehicle accidents. Taryn says lack of sleep affects people mentally and emotionally, and they may not realize sleep is part of the problem. “People might be more irritable, forgetful, they can’t think straight or focus,” she says. “Sleep isn’t a luxury. It’s a basic health need. When sleep disorders go untreated, they also affect someone’s family, workplace or school and even other people on the road. “Thankfully, sleep disorders are very treatable,” Taryn says. “They just rarely get better on their own, so the earlier people address them, the better the outcome.” AI ILLUSTRATION BY BRANDON POMRENKE
pp12-15 June2026.indd 13
JUNE 2026
13
5/21/2026 3:02:29 PM
Experts recommend sleeping only in your bedroom during a sleep reset. PHOTO COURTESY OF PEXELS
Experts recommend going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times each day to help reset the body’s internal clock. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY AUREMAR
14
A Sleep Reset Mikala emphasizes simple ways to improve sleep without resorting to expensive or unrealistic measures. Small, practical changes can make a measurable difference. • Protect the schedule. One of the biggest ways to improve sleep quality is to stick to a schedule as much as possible. Consistency matters, so going to bed and waking up at roughly the same times each day helps reset the body’s internal clock. If an on-call schedule results in unexpected sleep disruptions, Mikala recommends returning to the normal routine as soon as possible. • Mind the lighting. Bright, cool-toned bulbs and screens in the evening signal the brain to stay alert, so avoid them if possible. Ideally, that means no TV or phone time 30-60 minutes before bed. • Create a sleep sanctuary. To improve sleep, keep the bedroom dark and cool, and have a comfortable mattress and pillow. Mikala recommends using some sort of white noise—such as a fan or an app that simulates rain or other soothing noises— and sleeping only in the bedroom. That means you’re not watching TV in bed. “Your circadian rhythm takes awhile to reset,” Mikala says. “If you’re consistent with the changes, I’d say give it about a week before you might start to notice improvements. If you’re still experiencing a lot of sleep issues after making consistent changes, I would definitely seek additional help to make sure there’s not any underlying issues.” When and How to Ask for Help Sometimes, sleep problems aren’t just about habits. Underlying conditions could include narcolepsy and restless leg syndrome. One of the most prevalent sleep disorders is sleep apnea. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, sleep
JUNE 2026
pp12-15 June2026.indd 14
5/21/2026 3:02:32 PM
apnea affects nearly 30 million Americans, and an estimated 80% of cases go undiagnosed. “Sleep apnea is incredibly common, especially among men,” Mikala says. “Many people put off testing because they don’t want to deal with a CPAP machine, which is the gold standard for treatment.” CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. The machine helps keep a person’s airway open during sleep. Ignoring a potential sleep disorder can lead to worse health outcomes down the road. Today, testing options are more accessible than ever. Some patients can complete a sleep study at home, picking up a small device to wear overnight and returning it the next day. Follow-up care and monitoring may be available through telehealth. “If something feels off, talk to your primary care provider,” Mikala says. “Write symptoms down. Bring a partner who’s noticed changes. Your doctor is there to help, not judge.” Rest Is a Community Resource At home, Daniel and his wife are intentional about sleep, especially for their children. That decision grew out of her time as a substitute teacher, when she realized how much students’ days and attitudes were affected by nights of poor sleep. “Getting a good night’s sleep became priority No. 1,” Daniel says. “It sets us up for the next day. When we’re rested, we can stay focused and stay on task.” Electric utilities are built on the idea that shared resources strengthen communities. Sleep works in a similar way. Well-rested lineworkers respond more safely and efficiently to outages. Alert drivers make roads much safer. Focused parents and caregivers strengthen families. And focused individuals help communities thrive. n
Sleep Better and Use Less Energy Lower the thermostat at night. Temperatures at 68 degrees or lower support better sleep. Use fans. Ceiling or box fans improve air circulation and lower the need for air conditioning. In cooler months, remember to reverse ceiling fans’ direction to distribute warm air. Dim the lights. Dimming the lights after sunset supports natural sleep rhythms and reduces electricity use. Warm-toned bulbs are also better for supporting sleep. Keep it dark. A dark, cool bedroom is ideal for better sleep, often meaning fewer lights, appliances and devices running overnight. Block disruptions. Blackout curtains or thick shades keep outdoor light out and help regulate room temperature, keeping bedrooms darker, cooler and more comfortable. ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY HOME-STOCK
pp12-15 June2026.indd 15
JUNE 2026
15
5/21/2026 3:02:33 PM
ws
IN THE KITCHEN
Straight off the Cob ELEVATE CORN BEYOND BUTTER AND SALT
Mexican Street Corn 4 ears of corn, husked 4 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons sour cream 1/2 teaspoon salt
Recipes by Gertrude Treadaway ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY HARDVICORE
16
4 ounces cotija cheese, crumbled 1 teaspoon chili powder, divided 1 lime 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
Heat grill to medium-high. Grill corn, turning every 2 to 3 minutes until lightly charred all over. Mix mayonnaise, sour cream, salt and ½ teaspoon chili powder in a small bowl. Brush each ear generously with the sauce. Sprinkle with cotija cheese, remaining chili powder and cilantro. Squeeze lime over the top. Serve immediately.
JUNE 2026
pp16-17 June2026.indd 16
5/12/2026 8:44:56 AM
ws
Sweet Corn Skillet Cornbread Unsalted butter 11/2 cups buttermilk 2 large eggs 1/4 cup vegetable oil 11/2 cups all-purpose flour 11/2 cups cornmeal 1 cup sugar
11/2 tablespoons baking powder ½ teaspoon kosher salt 11/2 cups corn kernels, fresh or frozen Honey, optional
Heat oven to 350 F. Grease a 12-inch cast-iron skillet or a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish with butter. In a large bowl, whisk together buttermilk, eggs and vegetable oil. Add flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder and salt. Mix just until combined, then stir in the corn kernels. Pour the batter into the prepared dish. Bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cornbread to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Serve topped with honey, if desired.
Mango Corn Salsa
2 ears corn 1 large ripe mango, diced 1 jalapeno, seeded and minced ½ red bell pepper, diced
¼ red onion, finely diced 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped 2 limes, juiced 1 teaspoon salt
Grill ears of corn until kernels have some color. Cut off kernels, and let cool. Combine corn kernels, mango, jalapeno, red bell pepper, red onion and cilantro. Add lime juice and salt. Toss well. Let sit for at least 15 minutes for flavors to meld. Serve with tortilla chips, in tacos or over grilled fish or chicken.
Summer Corn and Tomato Salad 4 ears corn, kernels cut off 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 1 English cucumber, diced 1/2 red onion, finely diced Fresh basil, torn
3 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon honey 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper
Heat a skillet or grill pan over high heat. Add corn kernels. Cook dry, stirring occasionally, until lightly charred in spots, about 5 minutes. Let cool. Whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, honey, salt and pepper in a large bowl. Add cooled corn, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion and basil to the bowl. Toss to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Crispy Corn Fritters
3 ears corn, kernels cut off 2 large eggs 2 ounces all-purpose flour 2 ounces Parmesan, grated 2 green onions, thinly sliced 1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon black pepper
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper 3 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying Sour cream, for serving Hot sauce, for serving Lime, for serving
In a large bowl, combine corn, eggs, flour, Parmesan, green onions, salt, black pepper and cayenne pepper. Stir until a thick batter forms. Heat 3 tablespoons oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Drop heaping spoonfuls of batter into the pan, flattening slightly. Cook in batches, being sure not to crowd the pan. Cook fritters for about 3 minutes per side until deep golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with sour cream, hot sauce or a squeeze of lime.
Fresh Sweet Corn Chowder 6 ears corn 3 tablespoons butter 1 medium onion, diced 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 medium potatoes, diced 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon paprika 1 cup heavy cream 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled 2 green onions, sliced
Cut kernels off ears of corn. Run the back of a knife down the cobs to extract milky liquid. Reserve kernels and liquid. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Saute onion until soft, about 5 minutes. Add garlic, and cook 1 more minute. Add potatoes, broth, salt and paprika. Bring to boil. Simmer until potatoes are tender, about 12 minutes. Add corn kernels and their liquid. Stir in heavy cream, and simmer 5 more minutes. For a creamier texture, blend 2 cups of soup, and stir back in. Ladle soup into bowls. Top with bacon and green onions.
JUNE 2026
pp16-17 June2026.indd 17
17
5/12/2026 8:44:58 AM
— ADVERTISEMENT —
U.S. zip codes turn up silver for residents Sealed Vault Bags full of state silver bars are actually being handed over to the first U.S. residents who find their zip code listed in today’s publication and call before the 21-day deadline to claim the bags full of pure silver Operators at the National Silver Hotline are struggling to keep up with all the calls. That’s because Silver Vault Bags loaded with pure .999 State Silver Bars are now being handed over to everyone who beats the order deadline. “That’s why U.S. residents will be hoarding all the silver bars they can get their hands on before the deadline ends. This comes as no surprise after the standard State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury was dropped for everyone who gets the Silver Vault Bags making them a real steal,” said Mary Ellen Withrow, the emeritus (Ret.) 40th Treasurer of the United States of America. “As executive advisor to the private Lincoln Treasury, I get paid to deliver breaking news. And here’s the best part. This is great news for U.S. residents because the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury is a real steal,” said Withrow. The only thing residents need to do is find the first 2 digits of their zip code on the Distribution List printed in today’s publication. If their zip code is on the list, they just need to call the National Silver Hotline before the deadline ends. And here’s the good news. Residents who do are getting the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury of just $558 for each State Silver Vault Bag which is just over $55 for each pristine solid sil-
pp18 June2026.indd 4
■ U.S. RESIDENTS CASH IN: Calls are pouring in from state residents who are trying to get their hands on the Jumbo Silver Ballistic Bags pictured above before the deadline ends. That’s because residents who find the first 2 digits of their zip code printed in today’s publication are cashing in on the reduced State Minimum price set by the Lincoln Treasury until the 21-day deadline expires.
ver one quarter ounce bar as long as they call the National Silver Hotline at 1-877-828-8990 before the deadline ends. Phone lines open at precisely 8:30 A.M. this morning and are expected to be flooded by U.S. residents looking to cash in on the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury to date. That’s why U.S. residents who find their zip code on the distribution list today are being urged to call. Since this special advertising announcement can’t stop anyone from buying up all the new 2026 Edition U.S. State Silver Bars they can get their hands on, the Lincoln Treasury has not set a limit of how many
Jumbo Silver Ballistic Bags residents can get – these are the bags pictured that contain 100 individual Silver Vault bars each. Everyone who gets these will be glad they did. “Residents who want to cash in on the reduced State Minimum set by the private Lincoln Treasury better hurry. That’s because after the deadline ends, the State Minimum for these pristine quarter ounce U.S. State Silver Bars set by the Lincoln Treasury will go up to $84 per bar no matter how many bars people get,” Withrow said. “We’re bracing for all the calls and doing the best we can, but with just hours left before the deadline ends, residents who find the first
2 digits of their zip code listed in today’s publication need to call the National Silver Hotline,” Withrow said.
■ SILVER IS SOARING: It’s good news for state residents who get the Silver Vault Bags each loaded with 10 Fractional Reserve one quarter ounce State Silver Bars. That’s because residents are getting the State Minimum set by the private Lincoln Treasury as long as they call before the deadline ends.
5/19/2026 12:09:18 PM
— ADVERTISEMENT —
Who gets the Silver Vault Bags: Listed below are the zip codes that get to claim the Silver Vault Bags. If you find the first two digits of your zip code below immediately call: 1-877-828-8990 DEPT. SQR482 Alabama 35, 36 Alaska 99 Arizona 85, 86 Arkansas 71, 72 California 91 Colorado 80, 81 Connecticut 06
Delaware 19 Florida 32, 33, 34 Georgia 30, 31, 39 Hawaii 96 Idaho 83 Illinois 60, 61 62 Indiana 46, 47
Iowa 50, 51, 52 Kansas 66, 67 Kentucky 40, 41, 42 Louisiana 70, 71 Maine 03, 04 Maryland 20, 21 Massachusetts 01, 02, 05
Michigan 48, 49 Minnesota 55, 56 Mississippi 38, 39 Missouri 63, 64, 65 Montana 59 Nebraska 68, 69 Nevada 88, 89
New Hampshire 03 New Jersey 07, 08 New Mexico 87, 88 New York 00, 10, 11, 12 13, 14 North Carolina 27, 28 North Dakota 58 Ohio 41, 43, 44, 45
Oklahoma 73, 74 Oregon 97 Pennsylvania 15, 16, 17 18, 19 Rhode Island 02 South Carolina 29 South Dakota 57 Tennessee 37, 38
Texas 75, 76, 77 78, 79, 88 Utah 84 Vermont 05 Virginia 20, 22, 23, 24 Washington 98, 99 West Virginia 24, 25, 26 Wyoming 82, 83
I keep calling and can’t get through: Keep trying. Right now everyone’s looking to cash in on the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury. In fact, we won’t be surprised if thousands of residents order up as many Silver Vault Bags as they can get their hands on before the deadline ends. That’s because the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury has been reduced to just over $55 for each solid silver one quarter ounce bar for everyone who gets the vault bags. And since each Silver Vault Bag contains 10 pristine State Silver Bars for just $558 we’re guessing state residents will be claiming two or more bags while they’re up for grabs. But all those who really want to cash in are taking the Jumbo Silver Ballistic Bags containing 100 State Silver Bars before the deadline ends and the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury goes up to $840 per Vault Bag. In fact the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury is reduced even further for those getting the Jumbo Bags so just be sure to ask the National Silver Hotline operator for your discount. So if lines are busy keep trying. How much are the Silver Vault Bags worth: It’s hard to tell how much these Silver Vault Bags could be worth since they are in pristine condition, but those who get in on this now will be glad they did. That’s because the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury goes up to $840 per bag after the deadline ends. So you better believe that at just $558 the Silver Vault bags are a real steal for everyone who beats the 21-day order deadline. Can I buy one State Silver Bar: Yes. But, the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury of just over $55 per bar applies only to residents who purchase a Silver Vault Bag(s). That means only those residents who order a Silver Vault Bag(s) or a Jumbo Silver Ballistic Bag get the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury. All single bar purchases, orders placed after the deadline and all non-state residents must pay the normal state minimum of $84 per silver bar. Why is the State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury so low now: Thousands of U.S. residents stand to miss the deadline to get the silver at the reduced State Minimum set by the private Lincoln Treasury. Now all residents who find their zip code on the Distribution List above are getting the Silver Vault Bags for themselves and all the solid .999 pure State Silver Bars found inside. The price for each Silver Vault Bag after the deadline ends is set to the normal state minimum of $840 which is $84 per bar. But residents who beat the deadline only cover the reduced State Minimum set by the Lincoln Treasury of just $558 for each Silver Bar Vault Bag which is just over $55 per bar as long as they call the National Silver Hotline before the deadline ends at: 1-877-828-8990 DEPT. SQR482. Hotlines open at 8:30 A.M. or go to LincolnTreasury.com/State and enter: SQR482 at the secure checkout
*** All States listed above are available - States not listed are already sold out ***
ALASKA
DATE NUMBERED IN WHICH THE STATE RATIFIED THE CONSTITUTION AND WAS ADMITTED INTO UNION
WEIGHTS AND MEASURES ONE QUARTER OUNCE SOLID .999 FINE SILVER
BACK FRONT ARIZONA
THESE SILVER BARS BECOME A PART OF YOUR FAMILY LEGACY WITH YOUR LAST NAME INSCRIBED ON THESE .999 FINE SILVER BARS
NEVADA
OFFICIAL STATE ABBREVIATION CERTIFIED SOLID .999 FINE SILVER OREGON
.999 STATE SILVER BAR PHOTO ENLARGEMENT SHOWS DETAIL OF THE SOLID ONE QUARTER OUNCE PERSONALIZED SOLID SILVER BARS MEASURING TWO INCHES HIGH AND ONE AND A QUARTER INCHES ACROSS
P7505 OF24423R-1
TERMS AND CONDITIONS: PLEASE USE CHECK OR MONEY ORDER WITH NO TRANSACTION FEE. ALL OTHER PAYMENT FORMS HAVE A THREE PERCENT SERVICE FEE. FLUCTUATIONS OF MARKET SUPPLIES MAY RESULT IN EXTENDED SHIPPING DATES BEYOND THE EIGHT-WEEK ORDER FULFILLMENT PROCESS, SUBSTITUTION, OR REVOCATION OF THE ORDER AT THE SOLE DISCRETION OF LINCOLN TREASURY. LINCOLN TREASURY LLC. IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. THE COLLECTIBLE VALUE OF LINCOLN TREASURY PRODUCTS DOES NOT GUARANTEE ANY INCREASE IN FUTURE VALUE. LINCOLN TREASURY OFFERS AN IRON-CLAD MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE. IF FOR ANY REASON WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM SHIPMENT YOU ARE DISSATISFIED WITH YOUR PURCHASE, RETURN THE ENTIRE PRODUCT AND PACKAGING FOR A REFUND, LESS SHIPPING AND RETURN POSTAGE. ORDER CANCELLATIONS PRIOR TO SHIPPING WILL RESULT IN A REFUND OF THE TOTAL AMOUNT, INCLUDING THE SERVICE FEE. SHIPPED ORDERS QUALIFY FOR TOTAL AMOUNT LESS SERVICE FEE. LINCOLN TREASURY IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR LOST SHIPMENTS. THE HONORABLE MARY ELLEN WITHROW, ADMIRAL JAMES G. FOGGO, US NAVY (RET.), AND BRIGADIER GENERAL JAMES MOORE, US ARMY (RET.) ARE EXECUTIVE ADVISORS TO LINCOLN TREASURY AND COMPENSATED FOR THEIR COUNSEL AND CONTRIBUTIONS. ©LINCOLN TREASURY 2026.
pp21 June2026.indd 4
5/19/2026 12:10:27 PM
2027
Ruralite Calendar Photo Contest
BY RANDY HARVEY, WASHINGTON— COLUMBIA RURAL ELECTRIC ASSOCIATION
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.
pp20 May2026.indd 19
4/23/2026 1:47:30 PM
— ADVERTISEMENT —
Seniors born before 1964 get big boost
Free unlimited nationwide help with just the push of a button with no contracts, no deposits, and no monthly bills
■ NO MONTHLY BILLS: “My wife had an old style help button that came with hefty bills every month and she was embarrassed to wear it because it made her look old,” said Frank McDonald, Canton, Ohio. “Now, we both have FastHelp™, the sleek new medical alert device that our grandkids say makes us look ‘cool’ not old,” he said. With FastHelp, seniors never have to worry about being alone and the best part is there are no monthly bills ever.
■ FLYING OUT THE DOOR: Trucks are being loaded with the new medical alert devices called FastHelp. They are now being delivered to lucky seniors who call the National Rebate Center Hotline at 1-800-833-6408 DEPT. FSTH161 today. Everyone is calling to get FastHelp, the sleek new medical alert device because it instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere cell service is available.
■ SENIORS SNAP UP NEW MEDICAL ALERT DEVICE: Instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever. Nothing to hook up. You don’t need a land line or cell phone. It’s ready to use right out of the box. Comes with new cellular embedded technology that works at home or anywhere you go so you are never alone.
Seniors get new medical alert device Instantly connects with no contracts, no deposits, and no monthly bills Seniors born before 1964 get new medical alert device Nationwide: Demand for new Medical Alert Device soars The phone lines are ringing off the hook. That’s because for seniors born before 1964, it’s a deal too good to pass up. Starting at precisely 8:30am today the PreStore Release begins for the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp™ One-Touch 911 Button that instantly connects you to unlimited nationwide help everywhere with no contracts, no deposits and no monthly bills ever. “It’s not like old style help buttons that make you talk to a call center, only work when you’re at home and come with hefty bills every month. FastHelp comes with state-of-the-art cellular embedded technology. That means it works at home or anywhere and everywhere cell service is available whether you’re out watering the garden, driving in a car, at church or even hundreds of miles away on a tour or at a casino. You are never alone. With just a single push of the One-Touch E Button you instantly get connected to free unlimited help nationwide with no monthly bills ever,” said Jack Lawrence, Executive Director of Product Development for U.S. based Universal Physicians. “We’ve never seen anything like it. Consumers absolutely love the sleek new modern design and most of all, today’s instant rebate practically pays for it and no monthly bills ever,” Lawrence said. FastHelp is the sleek new medical alert device with the best of combinations: a quality, high-tech engineered device that’s also an extremely great value because there are no monthly bills ever. ■
pp21 June2026.indd 4
HOW TO GET IT BORN BEFORE 1964: Use the rebate coupon below and call this Toll-Free Hotline: 1-800-833-6408 EXT. FSTH161 BORN AFTER 1964: You cannot use the rebate coupon below and must pay $299 Call: 1-800-885-1424
BOTTOM LINE: You don’t need to shop around. We’ve done all the leg work, this deal is too good to pass up. With the instant FastHelp rebate, it is a real steal at just $149 and shipping. There are no monthly bills ever. PROS: It’s the sleek new medical alert device that comes with the exclusive FastHelp One-Touch 911 Button that instantly connects you to free unlimited nationwide help with no contracts or deposits. It connects you to the vast available network of cellular towers for free and saves seniors a ton of money because there are no monthly bills ever making this deal a must have. Plus it’s the only medical alert device that makes seniors look important, not old. CONS: Consumers can’t get FastHelp in stores until later this year. That’s why it’s so important for seniors born before 1964 to call the National Rebate Center Hotline within the next 21 days. For those who miss that deadline, the sleek little medical alert device will set you back over $300 bucks.
EXT. ADFH0626
REBATE COUPON
VALID FOR USE
21 DAYS ONLY
Amount of Rebate (AOR)
1P
$150.00 OFF
2Y
RE: FSTH161 DLVY: ML2077R1
1 OF 1
Five Star Customer Reviews
Hurricane Help “We had two hurricanes recently. I had no electricity for 6 days. I fell, so I pushed the button, and they came right out and picked me up off the floor. I tell many of my friends they need to get FastHelp!” - Virginia, FL LIFESAVER “When I got my FastHelp I never thought I’d have to use it, but when I fell and broke my hip it saved my life.” - Harold, OH Very appreciative of having FastHelp “I did have an emergency. Help RESPONDED quickly and came in a few minutes.” - Irving, PA WE LOVE THE PRODUCT “We bought it outright with no bills ever.”
- Rosemary, NY
Safe anywhere “This little FastHelp device is my guardian angel. I’m so glad my daughter-in-law got it for me.” - Pete, FL A+ Rating: These are unsolicited consumer feedback from satisfied customers as reported to Universal Physicians.
PLEASE USE CHECK OR MONEY ORDER WITH NO TRANSACTION FEE. ALL OTHER PAYMENT FORMS HAVE A THREE PERCENT TRANSACTION FEE. FASTHELP IS COVERED BY A 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE LESS SHIPPING AND A 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY. FASTHELP IS A 4G CELLULAR DEVICE. FASTHELP WILL NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE 911 CALLS WHEN CELLULAR SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE SUCH AS IN REMOTE AREAS. FASTHELP USES GPS TRIANGULATIONS TO APPROXIMATE YOUR LOCATION WHEN YOUR DEVICE IS TURNED ON. DR. HOWREN IS A COMPENSATED MEDICAL ADVISOR. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. UNIVERSAL PHYSICIANS 7747 SUPREME AVE, NORTH CANTON, OH 44720. P7506 OF24424R-1
5/19/2026 12:15:41 PM
THE GREAT PICTURE HUNT
Looking Beyond Story and photo by Dave LaBelle
‘I Do’
Wedding bells are ringing, and June is a popular months for couples to tie the knot. For many photographers—professional and amateur—weddings are a time they are called to make those pictures that forever preserve a couple’s special day. I’ve photographed many weddings, perhaps too many, in my lifetime. While I have captured some beautiful moments, I have never considered myself a wedding photographer. When I do get talked into photographing one of these sacred happenings, I agree only if I can make candid pictures and leave group photos and traditional pictures to the wedding photographer. I do what I do, they do what they do and I am careful not to interfere. When my wife and I photographed weddings together we sometimes alternated duties. One would capture the action while the other did the portraits, like having a play-by-play announcer and a color commentator. At my best, I am the color commentator. I watch for subtle, yet 22
storytelling moments most don’t see or look for—usually before or after the vows. Photographing weddings is not unlike covering sporting or political events. It’s important, if not critical, to know the lay of the land. When possible, attend any rehearsals to scout the best angles to capture the most important (or storytelling) pictures. Often the best pictures from any event happen beforehand, when people are relaxed. Watch for emotions after the actual event, after the nervousness and stresses of planning are over. As I often remind my students, “BAD is good!” BAD is an acronym for before, after and during an event. Also, it’s important—if a wedding photographer has been hired—not to overshoot or get in their way. Talk to them first and assure them you’re not there to compete but augment. And finally, don’t miss the kiss. You can miss everything else, but if the couple is counting on you to capture the moment their lips meet, and you miss that photo, it will be hard to live with the disappointment. n
NIKON D810 | 70mm lens ISO 2000 | f/3.2 at 1/160 Watching through a small door window, I noticed Lindsey Sabrizio performing double duty—busily ironing her daughter’s wedding dress while watching one of her seven children. Though lacking in technical quality, this real, spontaneous moment captures an important part of the wedding most never see.
Internationally renowned author, photographer and lecturer Dave LaBelle has captured special moments for more than half a century. He has shared photo tips and life perspectives with readers since 2009. For more of his writings, visit davidlabelle.com and bridgesandangels.wordpress.com.
JUNE 2026
pp22 June2026.indd 22
5/8/2026 10:15:24 AM
BEFORE
AF TER
TRANSFORM YOUR BATHROOM
IN ONE DAY Professionally Installed In As Little As One Day!
Why wait? Easily customize and build your dream bathroom with Safe Step! We’re here to help you every step of the way! Call today and receive exclusive savings.
FREE TOILET* PLUS $2,000 OFF!
1-800-667-9853
FOR A LIMITED TIME *Offer expires 7/31/26. Free toilet with purchase and installation of a walk-in tub or walk-in shower only. Offer available while supplies last. No cash value. Must present offer at time of purchase. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Market restrictions may apply. Offer available in select markets only. CSLB 1082165 • NSCB 0083445 • 13VH11096000 • CGC1537181 • ROC 312990 • CCB 244331 SAFESSW784PS • PA127501 • MHIC 134233 • TN 5887 • RL.884533 • RBB.49248 • UT 13229623-5501
pp23 June2026.indd 4
5/19/2026 12:17:21 PM
READER EXCHANGE
Crafts/Hobbies
Odds
I am making a huge pin cushion in a large glass salad bowl. I would like to have about an inch of thimbles in the bottom of the bowl but do not have enough for a single layer. If you have any used thimbles you could donate to my project, I will send you a thank-you letter and a photo of the finished project.
Can anyone use unused stamps from nonprofit request envelopes?
Lori Sharpe P.O. Box 185 Trout Lake, WA 98650
I would love information on the author of the poem “The Valley of the Kootenai,” by Margaret Woodland Everest. She talks in two of her poems about Hall Mountain in Bonners Ferry and “cottonwoods where my old log cabin stood.” I would love more information about the author and where she lived in Bonners Ferry as a child. Thank you.
Milestones My father, Chuck Feehely, turns 90 this month. He is a veteran, loves our country and feels very honored to have served with those who fought for the freedoms we are blessed with here in America. He cannot listen to our national anthem without getting choked up. A stroke paralyzed his right side, and his daily activities are limited. His mind is sharp, and he would enjoy listening to (and sharing with the other residents) stories from people around the world of your military adventures or of people you know. You can send your stories and cards to Chuck Feehely, c/o Post Falls Veterans Home, 590 S. Pleasant View, Room 2114, Post Falls, ID 83854. Thank you. Patti Luchte Lenore, Idaho
Our mom turns 90 this month. She and Dad loved and supported four children and numerous related and nonrelated grandchildren in the small town of Vernonia, Oregon. They attended almost every sports event their children and grandchildren competed in. Mom now watches her great-grandchildren in their endeavors whenever possible. She had season tickets to Portland Blazers games in her younger years and is still an ardent fan, watching games on TV. She loves to receive mail and is a good correspondent, keeping in touch with loved ones over the years. It would be a wonderful surprise for her to receive birthday wishes. Please send to Kathleen Gwin, P.O. Box 294, Vernonia, OR 97064. Stephanie Gwin La Pine, Oregon
Maxine Huntsucker, of Baker City, Oregon, is celebrating her 90th birthday this month. Her family would love to help make this milestone extra special by surprising her with birthday cards from friends and readers. Maxine enjoys the simple pleasures of life. She loves visiting the Oregon Coast, watching the deer and squirrels in her yard, and spending time around flowers. She also enjoys collecting painted rocks and appreciates homemade and handcrafted items. If you would like to help brighten her day, please consider sending a card, letter, painted rock or a small, handcrafted piece of art. Cards may be sent to Maxine Huntsucker, P.O. Box 3383, La Grande, OR 97850. Shannon White Baker City, Oregon
24
Elaine Fuchigami 8252 N.W. Oxbow Drive Corvallis, OR 97330-2835 lareifu@gmail.com
Linda Becker 4924 Highway 1 Bonners Ferry, ID 83805
Thanks Thank you for an outpouring of birthday wishes for my mother. Going to my mailbox every day became an adventure, and I had debated more than a couple of times about taking the garden cart. My mother was so tickled when she saw all the birthday greetings. These acts of kindness will always be held dearly in our hearts. Lee Ann Hough Fairbanks, Alaska
Submitting Requests Is Free
Send your request (no attachments) to readerexchange@ruralite.org or mail to Reader Exchange, 5625 NE Elam Young Parkway, Suite 100, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Fill in the subject line with Reader Exchange. Acceptance, scheduling and editing are at the editor’s discretion. Single requests only, please. No duplicates. If replying to a reader submission, please only send what is requested. Submissions are handled first-come, first-served as space allows. We cannot honor every request. Please affirm you have authorization from all appropriate parties before submitting. By submitting, you indemnify Reader Exchange, Pioneer Utility Resources Inc., its officers, directors, employees, utility clients and insurers from all legal liability incurred by the publication of information. We no longer accept pen pal requests. You may submit a pen pal request as a Marketplace ad (pricing applies). When submitting a milestone request, please send it at least two months before the milestone. Phone numbers are not published. Email addresses are if they are part of the ad, but you must include a postal address. Requests must include the name and address of the electric utility that provides your magazine.
JUNE 2026
pp24 June2026.indd 24
5/18/2026 4:19:18 PM
TILLAMOOK PUD
Community Health Minute Primary Care Through the Seasons Good health is a balance between the body, the mind, and a sense of purpose that helps people feel grounded and whole. Primary care is essential to maintaining that balance, offering a relationship with a provider who understands your history and helps guide decisions that support long-term well-being. Preventive care is the cornerstone of this work. Regular screenings and checkups identify concerns early, when they are most manageable. For children and teens, these visits prioritize growth, development, and immunizations. As summer progresses, this includes adolescent sports physicals. Scheduling these checkups early ensures young athletes can participate safely and helps families avoid the back-to-school rush at the end of August. As we move into adulthood, the focus shifts toward routine monitoring and essential screenings. This includes tracking blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, alongside vital preventive screenings like mammograms or prostate exams, while care for older adults centers on mobility and cognitive function. From those first childhood milestones through the retirement years, primary care provides the consistent support every family member needs to thrive.
Celebrate Community at the Tillamook County Fair Join Adventist Health at the fair August 5 – 8! Stop by the hospital booth at the conference center to visit with our team and enter to win daily prizes. Don’t miss our grand prize drawing for two eBikes and helmets on Friday, August 7, at 6 p.m.
TILLAMOOK COUNTY LOCATIONS
Adventist Health Tillamook Medical Center and Emergency Department 1000 Third St., Tillamook For significant pain, injury, or difficulty breathing, always dial 911 for emergency care.
Primary and Specialty Care 10445 Neahkahnie Creek Road Manzanita 503-368-6244 Primary, Urgent, and Specialty Care 1100 Third St. Tillamook 503-842-5546 For urgent care, come right in! No appointment necessary.
Primary and Specialty Care 38505 Brooten Road, Suite A Pacific City 503-965-6555 Scan QR code to learn more about primary care services
Your well-being is our priority Our team is staffing the First Aid Booth throughout the fair, ensuring a safe and healthy experience. We look forward to seeing you at the fair! JUNE 2026
c-35 pp25 June2026.indd 25
25
5/20/2026 11:24:33 AM
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 Seeking summer pasture for 20-80 cow-calf pairs. Call 541-519-7068 or 208-880-2518. ID to Eastern OR. 0626 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. 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 Buying older baseball cards, collections, from the 1950s and older. Will pay cash or by PayPal. budandvicky@msn.com; 541-430-6900. Automotive Classic 1999 Chevy Suburban LT 2WD, immaculate condition, always garaged, maintenance records, original owner, photos available, $12K. tedsbaseball@gmail.com; 503-354-2051. 0626 1966 Corvette coupe, BB. Beautiful, not for everyday driving. $70K. Carl, 509-420-6200. 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. 0626 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
26
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): August issue—June 30 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.
June 5-27: “Earth Verse” Broadside Exhibit (Nick Neely, curator). Art Center East in La Grande, OR. Through June: Ceramics open exhibit and solo exhibit by Jason Hogge. artcentereast.org. 0626
Olympia Steel garage/shed, 15’x30’, still in shipping crates, with engineering plans. Rustic red with white trim. $6.9K, price from Olympia was $17.5K. 310-384-5008; jwk20251@outlook.com. 0626
Main Street Union, Oregon, is hosting our annual Family Roots, Blues and Brews from 5:30-8:30 p.m. June 26 and July 31 in our beautiful Union, Oregon, city park. Music by Wasteland Kings and Elwood. There will be vendors and beer available. For more information, call Jana at 541-786-5129.
Granite cemetery markers at affordable prices. Will ship to most places. For more info: Joe, highdesertmemorials@gmail.com or 541-815-8906; highdesertmemorials.com. 0626
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. Farm Equipment 2007 Deere Gator. 600 hours. Power lift. Cosmetically very nice. Needs carburetor or engine work. Bob, 541-444-7421 or srjhuck@gmail.com. $3.1K, as is. 0626 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. 509-3993473 or Bluemountainbrush@gmail.com; bluemountainbrush.com. 1126
Old, clear glass telephone insulators. 150 Hemingray #42, 40 Hemingray #9. Make offer if interested. Mark, Gold Beach, OR. 541-373-9185. 0626 Tygh Valley Fire District, Wasco County, OR. Seeking materials, funds. Needed for firehouse water tender bay addition. Mail: TVRFPD, P.O. Box 213, Tygh Valley, OR 97063. Pools/Spas 2010 Artesian Swim Spa for sale. 7’x14’. Been inside all the time; excellent condition. $5K. 541-954-3884. 0626 Real Estate Boyers Cash Store & Keylock. Monument, OR. Thriving turnkey business. $500K. 4 Rivers Realty Inc., 541-987-2363 or ddwr@ortelco.net. 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. 0626
J U N E 2026
pp26-27 June2026.indd 26
6/9/2026 3:40:35 PM
For sale/rent: 20-acre developed land, 3,600-sqft. shop with “barndominium” potential. Weddings/events, horse property, RV hookups, creek, views. $575K. Seller financing. Goldendale, WA. 509-378-5886. 0626 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 $15K, Christmas Valley, OR, townsite. Block 7, lot 6. 1.14 acres, surveyed, photo, street aerial plot; opposite lot on Pine Street. One block long quarter horse race strip. Golf course two blocks away. 503-366-4424. 0626 2014 Fleetwood single-wide MH. 784 sqft. 14’x56”. 2 bd., 1 ba. Open concept kitchen/ living room. $30K. Must have proof of site to purchase. 541-444-1394. 0626 Local cash buyer for all real estate and homes. Any condition or situation. No agents, no repairs, no waiting. Ready with serious offers. AJ, 509-530-1182. 1126 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. 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 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 Nov.-March. Reservations, information: text, 541-740-2846 or email, relax@wavecatcherbeachrentals.com. 0626
Forest management and logging consulting, also do logging jobs too small for larger operators. 50 years of experience in forestry, log marketing and logging management, references available. Free on-site estimates. 541-430-6900; budandvicky@msn.com. 0626
100% Guaranteed Protective Sleeves
Old West Coffins. Simple, dignified, traditional. Pine coffins, made-to-measure in the USA. Live the cowboy way … leave the cowboy way. oldwestcoffins.com. 530-640-1940. 0826 Mel’s Furniture Restoration. Repair, rebuild and restore. Rescuing family heirlooms. Serving OR from Bend since 1975. Contact Frank, mfrankspiecker@gmail.com; 541-382-8316. 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. 0826 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. 1026
•Prevents Cuts & Scratches •Durable Soft Leather •Adjustable Air-Flow
a r m c ha p s. c o m 6 5 1- 492-4830
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 or 971-666-0659. 0626
Recreational Vehicles 1999 Newmar Dutch Star 38-ft. RV. Diesel. 3126B Catepillar engine. Freightliner chassis. One slide. 95K miles. $10K. 530-616-0388. 0626 Services 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
Contact us at: findwwp.org
There are many ways to help kids who stutter... Doing nothing is not one of them! THE
STUTTERING FOUNDATION
®
A Nonprofit Organization Since 1947—Helping Those Who Stutter
©2013 Wounded Warrior Project, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
800-992-9392 StutteringHelp.org
JUNE 2026
pp26-27 June2026.indd 27
27
5/21/2026 3:53:37 PM
TILLAMOOK PUD
Proceed With Caution—Watch for Work Zones
Summer not only brings increased traffic to our area, it also marks a busy season for Tillamook PUD system improvement projects. You may see TPUD crews working in different parts of our service territory, sometimes near heavily traveled roads. Stay alert as you drive, watch out for flaggers, and reduce your speed in work zones. We appreciate your efforts to help keep everyone safe.
Tillamook PUD Obtains Clean Opinion on 2025 Financial Audit Tillamook PUD has released the annual independent audit and financial statements for the fiscal year ending in 2025. Following an extensive audit, Tillamook PUD received an unmodified opinion from Baker Tilly US, LLP on financial statements, noting no issues with compliance and no material weaknesses found. An unmodified opinion, also referred to as a clean opinion, is the highest opinion an entity can earn. Baker Tilly conducted the audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in the government auditing standards issued by the comptroller general of the United States. The complete Tillamook PUD audit report is available on the Tillamook PUD website at tpud.org/about-us/audit-report. 28
JUNE 2026
c-35 pp28-29 June2026.indd 28
Highlights From the April Board Meeting and Board Workshops 2025 Audit Workshop Board action: None Workshop overview: Independent auditors Baker Tilly US, LLP presented the audit findings from the 2025 Tillamook PUD financial audit. Baker Tilly issued Tillamook PUD an unmodified opinion, the highest opinion an entity can earn. Board Meeting At its April meeting, the Tillamook PUD Board of Directors approved: X The March 16 Community Support Grant workshop, the March 17 rates workshop, regular board meeting minutes and accounts payable. X The 2025 Tillamook PUD financial audit. X Ordinance 1-26, “An Ordinance Establishing Certain Retail Rates of the District as Provided for in this Ordinance.”
X Resolution No. 26-04-02, “A Resolution Amending Employee Handbook Policy No. 22, Respectful Workplace Expectations.” Departmental Reports X Safety and Risk: Landon Myers, safety and risk program manager, announced Tillamook PUD earned a diamondlevel Safety Award of Excellence from the American Public Power Association. Only four other public power utilities received this high honor in 2026.
For additional board meeting information, visit tpud.org/about-us/board-of-directors. tpud.org
5/21/2026 11:35:16 AM
Calendar of Events June 1-30 Overeaters Anonymous meeting, Mondays, 5 p.m., held via Zoom. Everyone is welcome. Sylvia, 503-812-0838, for link
Nehalem Bay Al-Anon Family Group meeting, Mondays, 6 p.m., NRCD, 36115 Ninth St., Nehalem. Carolyn G., 503-702-0737
We The People Tillamook County meeting, first and third Mondays, 6 p.m., Tillamook. wethepeopletillamookco@yahoo.com; wethepeopletillamookcounty.com
Nehalem Al-Anon Family Group virtual meeting, Mondays and Thursdays, noon, Zoom ID: 824 7120 7748, PW: 973392. Judi M., 503-368-7356
Meals for Seniors lunches, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Seating at 11:30 a.m., St. Mary by the Sea, 279 S. Pacific St., Rockaway Beach. $4 suggested donation. Teri, 503-317-8967
Tillamook Senior Center meal site, meals to go, Monday through Friday, 10:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.; Meals on Wheels, Wednesdays and Fridays. 316 Stillwell Ave., Tillamook. Michelle, 503-842-9660
Tillamook Senior Center: Mondays—coffee hour, 8:30-10 a.m.; Mondays and Fridays— pinochle, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Tuesdays—square dancing, 4-6 p.m.; second and fourth Wednesdays—bunco, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and Thursdays—cribbage and mahjong, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; and Mexican train dominoes, 4-8 p.m. Bring a meal for lengthy activites. 316 Stillwell Ave., Tillamook. Senior center, 503-842-4511, leave a message
Tillamook Rotary Club meetings, Tuesdays, noon, Pacific Restaurant, 205 Main Ave., Tillamook. Joanna, 503-812-7079
Sisters in Sobriety Women’s Alcoholics Anonymous Zoom meeting, Tuesdays, noon to 1 p.m., ID: 86989656049, PW: 263508. Cecile, 503-338-8936
Salty Strings Ukulele Group of Rockaway Beach, 1-3 p.m., every Tuesday. Rockaway Beach City Hall, 276 US-101. All levels welcome. Steve, stephen111452@gmail.com
Nehalem senior lunches, Tuesdays and Thursdays. Seating at 11:30 a.m. with lunch served at noon, Nehalem Bay United Methodist Church, 36050 10th St., Nehalem. Delivery available for homebound. $5 suggested donation. Doug, nbumcnsl2020@gmail.com
Rockaway Beach Lions Club meeting, first and third Tuesdays, 11:30 a.m., 268 S. Anchor St.
Juanita, kittermanj2020@gmail.com; 503-896-0062
June 1-30 Senior meals, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 11:30 a.m., Kiawanda Community Center, 34600 Cape Kiawanda Drive, Pacific City. $3 suggested donation for seniors, $6 for others. 971-212-7131, kiawanda.com
Fresh Start AA meeting, Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:15 a.m., White Clover Grange, 36585 OR-53, Nehalem. 503-739-0293
c-35 pp28-29 June2026.indd 29
Trey West, anhwest075@gmail.com
June 13 Tillamook Beekeepers Association meeting, meet and greet at 12:30 p.m., meeting 1-2:30 p.m., OSU Extension Office, 4506 Third St., Tillamook. Brad York, 719-896-0000
Tillamook Kiwanis Club meeting, Wednesdays, noon, Rendezvous Bar & Grill, 214 Pacific Ave., Tillamook. Everyone is welcome.
Heart of Cartm Repair Cafe, 3-5 p.m., 395C Nehalem Blvd., Wheeler.
Take Off Pounds Sensibly meeting, Thursdays, 9:30-10:30 a.m., Bay City.
June 16 FL63 USCG Auxiliary Station Tillamook Bay meeting, 7 p.m., Upper Station Galley.
patsykct@gmail.com
Pat Neman, 503-801-2229
Civil Air Patrol Tillamook County Composite Squadron meeting, Thursdays, 6:15-9 p.m., ATV Training Center, 5995 Long Prairie Road, Tillamook. 262-308-1482
Tillamook Awakening Al-Anon family group meeting, Thursdays, 7-8 p.m., St. Alban’s Church, 2102 Sixth St., Tillamook. 503-842-5094
June 4 “Free to Grow” film viewing, 5:45 p.m., Bay City Arts Center, 5680 A St., Bay City. rockawaycitizen.water@gmail.com or healthywatershed.org
Tillamook County Republican Central Committee meeting, 7 p.m., Port of Tillamook Bay, 4000 Blimp Blvd., Suite 100, Tillamook. Office hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturdays, 115 Main St., Tillamook. tillamookcountygop.com or Mike Hanratty, 503-812-5443
June 6-7 Senior Citizens Club rummage sale, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tillamook Senior Center, 316 Stillwell Ave., Tillamook. Senior Center, 503-842-4511, leave a message
June 8 Nestucca Valley Lions Club meeting, 4 p.m., 34510 Parkway Drive, Cloverdale. nestuccavalleylions@gmail.com
Monday Musical Club of Tillamook presents, “Celebrating Classical Music,” 7 p.m., Tillamook United Methodist Church, 3808 12th St., Tillamook. Ron Watson, 541-992-3575
June 10 South Tillamook County Library Club board meeting, 5 p.m., Winkleman Library, 6200 Camp St., Pacific City. Stclc101@gmail.com
tpud.org
June 11 Tillamook Emergency Volunteers meeting, 5-6 p.m., Tillamook County Library, 1716 Third St., Tillamook.
RSVP at heartofcartm.org/repaircafe, repaircafe@heartofcartm.org or 971-389-8414.
Cammy Hickman, 503-961-2212
June 17 American Legion Tillamook Post 47 meeting, 1 p.m., Tillamook Eagles Lodge, 209 Stillwell Ave., Tillamook. All honorably discharged veterans are invited. Kevin, 541-364-8249
June 19 Second annual Cowbell Classic pickleball tournament, Tillamook County Fairgrounds, 4603 Third St., Tillamook
Laurie Langevin, pickleballisgreat.lauriel@gmail.com or 360-335-8103.
June 22 THS Alumni Scholarship Committee meeting, noon, Tillamook Elks Lodge, 1907 Third St., Tillamook. Debbi, debrakay54@charter.net
June 25 Tillamook County Democrats virtual meeting, 7 p.m. To attend, go to tillcodems.org and click on “Join Us,” “Attend Virtual Meeting” and “Main Room.” tillcodems@gmail.com
June 27 June Dairy Parade, 11 a.m., downtown Tillamook. Tillamook Area Chamber of Commerce, 208 Main Ave. tillamookchamber.org or 503-842-7525
July 3 The Friends of Rockaway Beach Library annual book sale, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Rockaway Beach Library, 120 N. Coral St., Rockaway Beach. Valerie, svaleri596@gmail.com
Contact Joanna Stelzig at 503-815-6024 or jstelzig@tpud.org to list items in the calendar. Items are due the first of the month prior to the month they should run.
JUNE 2026
29
5/21/2026 11:35:17 AM
BEFORE YOU GO
Spring Smiles Mike Osuna’s granddaughter, Autumn, visits her grandparents in Janesville, California in the spring as nature begins sprouting again. Mike says he keeps this photo of Autumn on his destop so it’s the first image he sees when he logs on in the morning. “She always makes me smile,” he says. PHOTO COURTESY OF MIKE OSUNA
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.
Salad Cookbook Want a fresh take on salads? More than 250 readerrecommended recipes are listed in an 8½-by-11-inch indexed book for $8, plus $3 shipping for any size order.
Salads Ruralite readers share their favorite salad recipes
To order by mail, send payment and number of cookbooks wanted along with your name and address to Ruralite Cookbooks, P.O. Box 1306, North Plains, OR 97133.
Recipes submitted by Ruralite Readers for October 1998 Contest
To pay with Visa, MasterCard, Discover card or American Express, call 503-357-2105. To order online, visit www.ruralite.org. Allow two to three weeks for delivery.
30
JUNE 2026
pp30 June26_RL.indd 30
5/12/2026 10:10:46 AM
Get a FREE consultation! Call 877-593-0951
SUMMER SIZZLER EVENT! Save Big on Replacement Windows and Doors
Buy One, Get One
40
% OFF
For a Limited Time, Get AND
50 OFF
$
All Windows and Doors1
Each Window and Door1
MINIMUM PURCHASE OF 4
MINIMUM PURCHASE OF 4
AND NO Money Down | NO Monthly Payments | NO Interest for 12 months
1
MINIMUM PURCHASE OF 4 – INTEREST ACCRUES DURING PROMOTIONAL PERIOD BUT IS WAIVED IF PAID IN FULL WITHIN 12 MONTHS
TESTED, TRUSTED, AND TOTALLY PROVEN.2 Offer Ends 7/31/2026 Call for your FREE consultation.
877-593-0951 FINDYOURWINDOW.COM
1 DETAILS OF OFFER: Offer expires 7/31/2026. Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Buy one (1) window or entry/patio door, get one (1) window or entry/patio door 40% off, and 12 months no money down, no monthly payments, no interest when you purchase four (4) or more windows or entry/patio doors between 6/5/2026 and 7/31/2026. 40% off windows and entry/patio doors are less than or equal to lowest cost window or entry/patio door in the order. Additional $50 off each window or entry/patio door, minimum purchase of 4 required, taken after initial discount(s), when you purchase by 7/31/2026. Only valid on initial visit. Subject to credit approval. 12-month Promo Period: while no payments are due, interest accrues but is waived if the loan is paid in full before the Promo Period expires. Any unpaid balance owed after the Promo Period, plus accrued interest, will be paid in installments based on the terms disclosed in the customer’s loan agreement. Financing is provided by various financial institutions without regard to age, race, color, religion, national origin, gender, or familial status. Savings comparison based on purchase of a single unit at list price. Available at participating locations and offer applies throughout the service area. See your local Renewal by Andersen location for details. License numbers available at renewalbyandersen.com/license. Some Renewal by Andersen locations are independently owned and operated. 2Based on testing of 10 double-hung units per ASTM E2068 20 years after installation. †It is the only warranty among top selling window companies that meets all of the following requirements: easy to understand terms, unrestricted transferability, installation coverage, labor coverage, geographically unrestricted, coverage for exterior color, insect screens and hardware, and no maintenance requirement. Visit renewalbyandersen.com/nationsbest for details. ‡Review aggregator survey of 5-star reviews among leading national full-service window replacement companies. January 2024 Reputation.com.“Renewal by Andersen” and all other marks where denoted are trademarks of Andersen Corporation. © 2026 Andersen Corporation. All rights reserved. RBA14201
pp31 June2026.indd 4
5/19/2026 12:19:31 PM
OR-35
1115 Pacific Ave. • P.O. Box 433 Tillamook, OR 97141 Phone: 503-842-2535 Toll free: 800-422-2535 tpud.org Office hours are 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. For EMERGENCY service after business hours, call 800-842-2122.
Board of Directors David Burt, President Tamra Perman, Vice President Barbara Trout, Treasurer Lonnie Jenck, Secretary Valerie Folkema, Director General Manager Todd Simmons Board meetings are at 6 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month in the PUD office.
Our Mission
Through collaboration and operational excellence, Tillamook PUD provides safe, reliable, sustainable and competitively priced power to our customers.
Our Vision
Tillamook PUD provides high value to our customers, staff and community, performing now and preparing for the future. We balance community, economic and environmental commitments.
32
Preparing for Summer: Weather Challenges and Wildfire Safety June marks the beginning of summertime fun for most of us. School is out, the days are longer, and one of my favorite summer activities—baseball—is in full swing. Although summer is often associated with enjoyable activities, it can also sometimes present challenges for our region. In particular, during late summer to early fall, rising temperatures and limited rainfall can lead to extremely dry conditions. This year, these concerns are heightened by the El Nino weather phenomenon we are experiencing in the Pacific Northwest. El Nino shifts the Pacific jet stream southward, which alters rainfall and temperature patterns globally and causes warmer ocean waters. We have already seen the effects of El Nino reflected in our 2025-2026 winter—we had a record-low snowpack, at about 25% of normal levels. This year is tied with the 1934 winter season as the warmest on record, according to historical data dating back to 1896. Nevertheless, Tillamook PUD is prepared for a hot, dry summer. Not only do we adhere to heat-related protocols to ensure employee safety during outdoor work, but we also follow our Wildfire Mitigation Plan. This comprehensive plan guides our efforts to prepare for, mitigate and respond to wildfire situations within our service area. We closely monitor weather patterns and local conditions throughout our service territory. In the event of approaching inclement weather, such as high winds combined with low humidity, we adjust our system operations and follow our plan. Included in our Wildfire Mitigation Plan is a section on Public Safety Power Shutoffs, or PSPS, which involves preemptively
turning off electricity to prepare for possible trees falling from outside of the right-ofway or easement. When wildfire risk is high, Tillamook PUD or our transmission providers may need to activate a PSPS. The decision to implement a PSPS is based on multiple factors. Considerations include wind speeds over 40 mph in highrisk areas, temperatures exceeding 100 degrees, red flag warnings, critically dry vegetation and active wildfires in the region. PSPS activation is a last resort in Tillamook PUD’s wildfire response strategy and is used only in extreme conditions. If activation becomes necessary, customers receive as much advance notice as possible. Notifications are distributed through our social media channels, website and direct customer messaging to those who have signed up to receive information from the PUD via the Nixle notification system. Last month, Gov. Tina Kotek acknowledged the growing severity of the upcoming wildfire season, noting nine counties are already under emergency declarations. It is critical we all stay vigilant and follow state protocols to reduce wildfire risk and keep everyone safe. Have a safe summer, General Manager Todd Simmons Visit tpud.org/safety/wildfire-safety for more information about the Tillamook PUD Wildfire Mitigation Plan.
JUNE 2026
c-35 pp32 June2026.indd 32
5/21/2026 11:47:50 AM