Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News March 2023

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WE’RE EVERYWHERE IN WISCONSIN

Arcadia/Mondovi

Water Source Htg & Clg

(715) 833-9001

Ashland/Iron River

Brown Plmbg & HVAC

(715) 682-0444

Beaver Dam/Green Lake

Air Care, Inc.

(920) 356-8860

Black River Falls/ Stevens Point

Northern Indoor Comfort

(715) 937-2676

Cashton/Sparta

Flock’s Htg & A/C

(608) 269-1500

Chaseburg/Viroqua

Flock’s Htg & A/C

(608) 269-1500

Clintonville/Oshkosh

Van’s Refrigeration (920) 833-2051

Cornell/New Auburn

Water Source Htg & Clg

(715) 833-9001

Dodgeville/Baraboo

Modern Htg & Clg

(608) 767-2689

Eau Claire/Osseo

Water Source Htg & Clg (715) 833-9001

Escanaba/Iron Mountain

GPS Htg & Clg (715) 732-2111

Green Bay/Onedia

Van’s Refrigeration (920) 833-2051

Hudson/Stillwater

Massmann Geothermal (612) 900-4228

Hurley/Park Falls

QS Plmbing & Mechanical (715) 685-4330

Madison Black Earth

Modern Htg & Clg (608) 767-2689

Marinette/Peshtigo

GPS Htg & Clg (715) 732-2111

Marengo/Ashland QS Plmbing & Mechanical (715) 685-4330

Menomonie/Bloomer

Water Source Htg & Clg (715) 833-9001

Neillsville/Medford

Northern Indoor Comfort (715) 937-2676

New Lisbon/Shamrock

Deans Refrig. & Heating (608) 372-6928

Oconto/Rhinelander

Van’s Refridgeration (920) 833-2051

Oseola/New Richmond

Sustainable Htg & Clg (651) 462-1300

Princeton/Waupon All Phase Geothermal (920) 763-2301

Redwing/Wabash

Earth Energy Htg & Clg (507) 421-3156

Richland Center/ Viroqua Strang’s Htg Electric Plmb (608) 647-2855

Sturgeon Bay/Denmark

Van’s Refrigeration (920) 833-2051

Tomah/Oakdale

Dean’s Refrig. & Heating (608) 372-6928

Wasau/Rhinelander

Van’s Refrigeration (920) 833-2051

Westby/La Crosse Flock’s Htg & A/C (608) 654-5522

Winona/Pepin

Earth Energy Htg & Clg (507) 421-3156

Wisconsin Rapids/ Marshfield

Northern Indoor Comfort (715) 937-2676

The Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News (Formerly Wisconsin R.E.C. News) has been published monthly and distributed since July 1940 to members of Wisconsin’s non-pro t, consumer-owned rural electric cooperatives. It is available to non-members for $13 per year or $35 for three years. Members pay $6.93 per year.

Published by the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703.

Steve

Freese, president & CEO.

USPS number: 688-480.

Postmaster: please send address changes to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703.

Periodicals postage paid at Sun Prairie, Wis.

Send correspondence to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Phone (608) 467-4650.

Web site: www.wecnmagazine.com.

Co-op Members: Please send address changes to your local electric co-op. Contact information can be found on page 18.

Steve Freese WECA president & CEO

Dana Kelroy editor

Mary Erickson associate editor

Julie Lund contributing writer

Ann Bailey graphic designer

Geri Miller advertising consultant

Jennifer Taylor editorial assistant

For advertising opportunities please email geri@weca.coop. The appearance of advertising or events does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. We reserve the right to refuse advertisers.

Please recycle

page

SYMBOL SEARCH

HIDDEN OBJECT GAME

CHALLENGES FOR YOU

Our Symbol Search contest continues to challenge our readers each month (some months more than others), and we love hearing from you in your submissions. This month, we have two additional challenges for you.

Our February Symbol Search winner is Jack Krause, a member of Central Wisconsin Electric Cooperative. He found the tractor on, “Page 9, located just outside of the bottom left corner of the photograph. I was just peeking around and thought why is there a tractor? I sure was glad to nd it. I just hope I found it before my grandmother, Betty Krause, as she always nds it rst!”

This month, we challenge Jack, Betty, and all our readers to nd this shamrock in honor of St. Patty’s Day. Remember that the symbol can be anywhere and any size. One randomly selected winner will receive a Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News kitchen kit. One entry per household, please, and provide your permanent home or mailing address with your entry. Send entries by March 17.

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

You can also enter by mail (don’t forget to include the name of your cooperative):

SYMBOL SEARCH WECA

222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703

Good luck!

First, we received a letter from a reader named Bob that said: This is going to be a hard one for you. I’ve been looking for a recipe for Bry. BRY. It’s made from the rendered fat from pigs. My dad made it years ago. Along with my dad, went the recipe or where could I get some?

This left us scratching our heads. Of course, we turned to our old friend Google, to no avail. Then we wondered if BRY is maybe something Wisconsin-speci c? We even red o texts to family members who are usually well-versed in matters like pig fat. Nothing.

So, as we have in the past, we turn to our best resource for solving these mysteries—you. We’re hoping that readers will help us solve this mystery about Bry.

Our second challenge this month is also related to your recipes. We’re looking for your best casserole (a.k.a. hotdish) recipes for our Casserole Contest. Send us your main course, side dish, breakfast, or dessert recipe. We’ll pick our favorite and send the winner a WECN kitchen kit. Send entries by April 14. Please add “Casserole Contest” (ex.: Cheesy Potato Casserole—Casserole Contest) to the title and include your name, address, and co-op in the recipe notes section at the bottom of the web form.

Casserole recipes or answers to our question about Bry can be sent to jennifer@weca.coop or:

WECN, Reader Recipes

222 West Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703-2719

Bonus points if you submit your recipe on our website at https://wecnmagazine.com/submit-arecipe/

Dana Kelroy Editor

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Correction: HOMES Rebates Program Launch

The state of Wisconsin is finalizing its plan to launch the federally funded HOMES Rebates Program, which will offer up to $14,000 per household for lower- and moderate-income residents of Wisconsin to make energy efficient upgrades.

Depending on income, the grants will cover up to 50 percent of the cost of certain investments including up to $8,000 for heat pumps, $4,000 for electrical panel/service upgrades, and $1,750 for heat pump water heaters. Efficient electric stoves and clothes dryers and insulation may also be eligible for rebates.

Last month, WECN reported the funds are now available. The state has been awarded $75 million for the rebate program but is still finalizing program details and has not yet begun accepting applications. WECN regrets the error and will publish more on the program as it becomes available.

CVEC Announces Leadership Change

After 31 years at Chippewa Valley Electric Cooperative, President and CEO Dean Ortmann has announced plans to retire in April. The co-op’s board of directors has named Russ Falkenberg, Jr. (pictured above) as his replacement.

Ortmann started at Chippewa Valley in February of 1991 as an accountant. He was promoted to office manager in 2000 and has served as president and CEO since July of 2016.

Falkenberg was hired at the co-op as a member services technician in 2006, promoted to member services director in 2010, and has served as director of IT & member services since July of 2016. He has been instrumental in the development and startup of Ntera, which has offered the successful deployment of broadband services to unserved or underserved co-op members.

Falkenberg officially takes over on April 3, 2023.

Minnesota Passes Clean Energy Bill

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz signed into law a bill that requires 100% carbon-free electricity by 2040, joining 10 other states that have such legislation on the books.

The law includes some concessions, including short-term protection for Minnesota Power’s use of the proposed Nemadji Trail project, in which it is a partner with Dairyland Power Cooperative, along with North Dakota’s Basin Electric Power Cooperative.

In response to concerns about the proposed legislation brought by the Minnesota electric cooperatives and Justin Jahnz, president and CEO of East Central Energy, electric cooperatives were granted some flexibility in the final bill.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed an executive order calling for 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050, but it is not mandated by law.

NuScale’s Small Modular Nuclear Reactor is First to be Certi ed in U.S.

The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission has officially certified the NuScale design as the nation’s first small modular nuclear reactor. The rule that certifies the design was recently published in the Federal Register, which opens the door for companies to apply for a license to build and operate a 50-megawatt, advanced light-water small modular nuclear reactor from NuScale Power.

Dairyland Power Cooperative entered into an agreement with NuScale last year to explore the possibility. NuScale has signed a total of 19 agreements worldwide to deploy its small reactor technology.

DOE to Invest $15 Million in Rural Energy Systems

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced it is launching a $15 million cash prize pool to improve energy systems in rural or remote

communities. The “Energizing Rural Communities Prize” challenges individuals and organizations to develop partnership plans or innovative financing strategies for rural or remote energy improvement projects.

New EPA Water Rule Brings More Uncertainty, Legal Challenges

The back-and-forth action at the federal level related to the Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) rule has taken another turn, as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers released a new rule late last year.

The latest rule includes a “dual test” approach that authorizes EPA and the Corps to determine on a case-by-case basis whether certain waters and features are subject to Clean Water Act mandates. The rule does retain an exclusion for “waste treatment systems,” but it removes a 2020 WOTUS definition of these systems that provided greater clarity.

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association called the new rule “overly broad and a burden to co-ops’ efforts to shore up and expand their system infrastructure.”

Legal challenges by some states are pending. The rule is set to take effect in March.

U.S. Emissions Increase in 2022

Despite growth in the clean energy sector, overall U.S. emissions increased by more than 1 percent last year, according to a new report from the Rhodium Group. Emissions also increased in 2021, after dropping during the pandemic. The 2021 surge was 6.2 percent, due to the return to normal activities.

Researchers point out that emissions did not increase as fast as the rise in overall economic activity, which shows signs that the country is becoming less carbon intensive.

The report notes that power sector emissions actually fell year over year, while carbon pollution from the transportation and building sectors continues to rise.

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HAPPY TO BE BACK

When you last heard from me in my August 2022 column, I shared that I was going on medical leave because of a cancer diagnosis. At the time, I didn’t think I would write another column after my first CAT scan results.

My doctors told me I had stage 4 colon cancer, which had spread to my lungs, liver, and lymph glands, and filled my body cavity. They told me to get my affairs in order and start working on my bucket list in earnest. Following that scan, they scheduled a PET scan with a slightly more promising and accurate diagnosis. We evaluated treatment options, and a plan was put in place.

Steve Freese President and CEO

The diagnosis was a real punch in the gut since I had been seeing doctors since the previous October for walking pneumonia and Long COVID symptoms. However, at no point did I have any signs of colon cancer.

I will share with you that this diagnosis scared the heck out of me, and I didn’t think it was likely that I would make it to Christmas. But, I shared with my kids that I wasn’t afraid of dying because I knew where I would be going and asked them to pray for me. I told them I would be sad not being able to see them and their lives ahead of them, but we must play the hand we are dealt.

This is where prayer, my cancer doctor’s plan, and ultimately the medicine and treatments I received made a remarkable difference. I received my first chemo treatment on July 5. I received my 12th and final one on December 21, and I am happy to report that the plan worked remarkably well.

I want to thank you, the readers of this magazine, who sent get-well cards and notes about my monthly column. I received almost 250 cards in the mail, each with personal messages of encouragement. I also received care packages and phone calls that lifted my spirits through these last eight months, which made a huge difference in my recovery.

One reader from River Falls wrote:

I read about your experience with colon cancer, and am writing to send you my support as you go through treatment.

I always enjoy reading your column in the Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News. Your observations seem consistently fresh and relevant and are really helpful for someone who wants to keep abreast of current issues affecting rural electricity.

It was gratifying to see this since my goal in writing the column is to give you accurate information so you can make informed decisions about issues affecting your electric cooperative.

After my final treatment in December, doctors did another CAT scan. I am pleased that the prayers and medicine have worked since the cancer mass in my colon is gone. The cancer on my lungs, lymph glands, and body cavity is also gone, and only a small amount remains in my liver, which my doctor thinks is manageable. I was cleared to return to work on February 1 and am happy to be back. Again, I want to thank everyone for your support and prayers for me. It made a big difference.

Freese rang a bell to celebrate the end of his cancer treatment. He returned to work on February 1 to o ce decorations and a sta lunch.

COLLABORATION BEYOND COOPERATION

In the days leading up to Christmas 2022, while most people were busy with last-minute baking, shopping, and gift-wrapping, Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association’s (WECA) Vice President of Operations Tim Clay was on the phone, multiple times a day, working in partnership with a group of utility and state leaders to help Wisconsin stave off

an energy crisis that was threatening the grid. The transition to more intermittent energy resources, complicated by problems with a natural gas pipeline, and compounded by increased demand from a major winter storm that brought high winds, heavy snow, and frigid temperatures, meant people in some areas of the state were uncomfortably close to a critical call to action—slash energy usage, or face rolling blackouts. For once, getting coal for Christmas might not have been a bad thing.

Clay’s collaboration calls are another tool available through the Utility Public Private Partnership (UP3). WECA’s participation ensures the state’s electric cooperatives have access to all possible resources at the state and regional level, as well as a seat at the table before, during, and after emergency situations that may threaten power supply to members, from extreme weather to cyberattacks, to domestic terrorism. The publicprivate partnership, which has earned national recognition for excellence, brings together the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, which includes Wisconsin Emergency Management and

WECA Vice President of Operations Tim Clay collaborates on behalf of the state’s electric cooperatives as part of the Utility Public Private Partnership.

the Wisconsin National Guard; WECA, representing all of the state’s electric cooperatives; several investor-owned utilities serving the state; and American Transmission Company (ATC).

“The world we live in is changing, and we need to stay ahead of any and all potential threats that may affect electric cooperative members,” said WECA President and CEO Steve Freese. “Communication and collaboration are key to ensuring a swift and safe response in the event of a crisis.”

“The UP3 members recognize co-op utilities provide a critical life-line service to local governments, businesses, and residents across a wide geographic area in Wisconsin,” said Drew Werner, Wisconsin Emergency Management, lead all hazards planner. “Their participation enables greater information sharing and collaboration between the state and these utilities.”

That pre-Christmas storm that had Clay on speed dial with the partnership group rose to crisis level. Dairyland Power Cooperative broke its winter peak load record from 2019, setting a new record of 1,038 MW on December 22, 2022. The next day, the regional grid operator declared a Maximum Generation Emergency Event, a warning to power plant operators that the electricity supply on the grid was getting dangerously low. This, as much of the state was blanketed with snow.

Jump River Electric Cooperative’s territory was among the hardest hit, with 16 inches of heavy, wet snow recorded in Hayward, and 10 to 14 inches to the south, causing downed powerlines and widespread outages. At the peak, 46% of Jump

River members were out of power. “One member described the scene outdoors as one that looked like a tornado had gone through, followed by a lot of snow,” said Jump River General Manager Kurt Harris. “Other members, a few

in their 90s, said they had never seen anything like this in their lifetime.”

Despite the looming holidays, crews from multiple cooperatives responded to Jump River’s call for help. The lack of access due to the heavy snow and downed trees created a challenge for lineworkers. This difficulty went beyond the average storm.

UP3 engaged early on, communicating storm status and resource needs between partners.

“WEM was able to share outage information collected during the call with affected county and tribal emergency managers to allow them to make decisions about opening warming centers,” said Lieutenant Colonel Chris Robbins, deputy director for strategic plans, Wisconsin National Guard.

“Additionally, WECA identified

“The UP3 members recognize co-op utilities provide a critical life-line service to local governments, businesses, and residents across a wide geographic area in Wisconsin”

the benefit of suspending International Registration Plan (IRP) and International Fuel Tax Agreement (IFTA) requirements for electric utility vehicles responding to coop outages. WEM was able to relay this to the governor’s office, and the measure was included in Executive Order 181, declaring an energy emergency.”

WECA’s input helped ensure the order eliminated barriers to power restoration, including waiving restrictions for out-of-state line workers.

“We’re continually looking at our preparedness and ways we can enhance our preparedness for all types of emergencies, whether it’s man-made or natural disaster, and participation in this partnership is one additional thing that we’re doing to make sure we have access to every resource possible,” Clay said.

The state partnership can help fill the gap with needed resources, as it did in July 2019 after an extreme derecho tore through parts of central and northern Wisconsin.

“Hundreds of linemen came from other states to help restore electrical service, but there were not enough hotel rooms available. So within a short period, WEM brokered lodging in state Army National Guard armories, the American Red Cross provided cots, and the Business Emergency Operation Center procured and coordinated water and other basic needs. Without the UP3, there would have been a significant lag in getting those resources,” David Wilson, manager of corporate security at ATC, told WECN

The partnership also ensures utilities and state leaders are cohesive in response to potential threats that are less evident than a significant storm.

“Electric cooperative infrastructure and utility infrastructure is a target, as we’ve seen in other parts of the country,” Freese said. “There are documented cases of people intentionally trying to sabotage the electric distribution system, and we must be prepared for the potential risk of coordinated attacks. In this situation, it is imperative that we have immediate dialogue among utilities so we can have a timely, heightened level of alert.”

“The state partnership makes sense because the restoration of electric service is one of the highest priorities in terms of critical infrastructure. It must be restored as fast as possible to help aid other recovery efforts that rely on the use of electricity,” Clay added.

In addition to the UP3 partnership, WECA is finalizing a regional mutual aid plan to ensure communication and collaboration with other Midwest states in case of an energy crisis. That’s another additional tool WECA will have, as we hope for the best but prepare for the worst.

As Clay says, “What electric cooperatives do for members is just too important. There is no such thing as being over-prepared.”—Julie Lund

Jump River Electric Cooperative’s service territory was especially hard hit during the pre-Christmas storms. Photos courtesy of Jump River Electric Cooperative

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There are several reasons why people are interested in cutting back on energy consumption––some are primarily motivated to save on their monthly energy bills while others may be more concerned about reducing their personal carbon footprint.

Actively practicing energy efficiency and conservation provides multiple benefits. For parents, being more conscious about energy use can be used as a tool to teach kiddos about sustainable habits for the future; conserving energy also means fewer carbon emissions, which results in better air quality and a healthier environment; and I think we can all agree that saving money on our monthly utility bills is a great reason to monitor home energy use.

Regardless of why you’re interested in using less energy, there are several smart phone apps that can help you do just that.

Here a few apps that can help you achieve meaningful energy savings:

Smart thermostat apps: I know what you’re thinking, and yes––to use a smart thermostat app, you must purchase a smart thermostat. But heating and cooling make up a large portion of the average home’s energy consumption (and cost!), so saving on heating and cooling

APPS TO HELP YOU SAVE ENERGY

can make a big impact on bills. Smart thermostats and their accompanying apps are handy and promote energy efficient behavior––and these devices have become much more affordable over the years. You can purchase an ENERGY STAR®-certified smart thermostat for as low as $100, which can save you 8% on annual heating and cooling costs, about $50 per year. The device will quickly pay for itself, and you’ll gain insight into better ways to heat and cool your home. Plus, the ability to control the thermostat from anywhere can equate to real savings. We recommend trusted brands and devices, like Google’s Nest Learning Thermostat and Ecobee’s Smart Thermostat.

Energy cost calculators: If you’re wanting to reduce energy use at home, it’s important to know where your consumption is going. Energy cost calculators can help pinpoint your energy use with a few simple steps and identify areas to save. The concept is pretty simple; just plug in the wattage of your various appliances and how often you use them to see which are using the most energy. Most energy cost calculator apps are free and can be downloaded to any Apple or Android device. If you browse the app store, you’ll find multiple energy cost calculator apps, but most are similar in

functionality. Be sure to read the app’s reviews and download the one that best aligns with your energy efficiency goals.

JouleBug app: If you’re competitive and enjoy gamifying––well, everything––the JouleBug app is right up your alley. JouleBug makes energy conservation simple and fun through personal tasks and badges earned within the app, group challenges you can tackle with friends, and communities you can join to learn about local sustainability efforts. The JouleBug app is free and can be downloaded to Apple or Android devices, and it’s an easy tool to make saving energy fun.

These are just a few apps that can help you find new ways to save energy. Smart light bulbs are typically paired with apps for convenient control of home lighting; smart plugs also come with apps to help you control how you power everyday devices and electronics.

Whether you use an app or not, saving energy is always a smart idea that can help you save money on your monthly bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Abby Berry writes for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association which represents more than 900 local electric cooperatives.

CRAVING CABBAGE

Avocado Orange Napa Salad with Honey Ginger Dressing

Recipe and photo courtesy of the National Honey Board.

HONEY-GINGER VINAIGRETTE

1/2 cup olive oil

1/4 cup rice wine vinegar

2 Tbsp honey

1 orange, zest and juice reserved

2 Tbsp fresh ginger, peeled and minced ne

1 Tbsp mayonnaise

1 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds

1 chili pepper, seeded and minced

1 clove garlic, nely minced

1 tsp sugar

1/2 tsp kosher salt

1/2 tsp freshly ground pepper

Whisk all ingredients together in a bowl until well blended.

SALAD

1/2 head Napa cabbage, cored and washed (approx. 8 cups)

2 oranges, peeled and segmented, all pith and membrane removed

1 red pepper, seeds and stems removed, cut into slivers

1 cup macadamia nuts, toasted and roughly chopped

1/2 cup chopped cilantro leaves

2 rm but ripe avocados, halved and diced

Separate, roll, and cut cabbage leaves across the roll into thin strips. Toss the orange segments, red pepper, macadamia nuts, and cilantro leaves with the cabbage. Pour the honey-ginger vinaigrette over the cabbage mixture and toss to combine.

Next fold the diced avocados into the rest of the ingredients, taking care not to break up the avocados. Serve immediately. Serves 8–10

Red Cabbage and Ginger Fried Rice

Recipe and photo courtesy of USA Rice. Looking to change up your usual fried rice? Look no further than our Red Cabbage and Ginger Fried Rice! This recipe brings together a range of avors to deliver one delicious (and healthy) meal that is perfect for utilizing leftover rice.

SAUCE

3 Tbsp soy sauce

1 Tbsp cider vinegar

1 Tbsp sugar

2 tsp hot pepper sauce or to taste

Combine the soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and hot sauce in a small bowl, stir until well blended, and set aside.

BASE

4 eggs, beaten

3 Tbsp butter, divided

1 cup chopped onions

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1 tsp bottled minced garlic)

1 Tbsp grated ginger

3 cups cooked white rice

1/2 cup chopped green onions (green and white parts)

2 cups baby spinach

1 cup shredded red cabbage

2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds, optional*

Heat a large skillet coated with cooking spray over medium heat. Add the eggs, cook approx. 1–2 minutes or until just set, place on a separate plate, and roughly chop. Increase heat to medium high. Add 1 tablespoon butter, onions, and red bell pepper. Cook 3 minutes or until onions are soft, stirring frequently. Stir in the garlic and ginger until blended. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter, rice, green onions, spinach, cabbage, and reserved chopped egg. Cook approx. 1–2 minutes or until heated through and spinach is slightly wilted, stirring constantly using two utensils as you would a stir-fry. Remove from heat, stir the soy sauce mixture, and drizzle evenly over all. Sprinkle with sesame seeds, if desired. Serve immediately for peak flavors and texture. Makes 6 cups rice mixture plus 1/3 cup sauce total. Serves 4.

1/2 lb penne pasta

2 tsp vegetable oil

2 cups diced onion

4 cups sliced red cabbage

1/2 lb bratwurst or other favorite German sausage

German Sausage Penne

Recipe and photo courtesy of Pasta USA. Bring the avors of Germany to your table with our recipe which makes German sausage meet pasta! Classic German ingredients like red cabbage, onions, sausage, and mustard give this meal a avor a true German will love.

1 Granny Smith apple, cored and sliced (approx. 2 cups)

6 Tbsp German-style or Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper, to taste

3 Tbsp chopped parsley

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package directions; drain and reserve. Heat a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the oil and onion and cook until the onion starts to brown, approx. 5 minutes. Add the cabbage and cook until softened, another 5 minutes. Remove the sausage from its casing and put directly into the pan. Cook using a fork or whisk to break up the sausage into small pieces. Add the apple and continue to cook until it starts to soften and break apart (but not turn to mush), approx. 3 minutes. Stir in the mustard and penne. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Divide between bowls and sprinkle with parsley. Serves 8.

Pork Medallions Over Cabbage, Onions, & Tagliatelle

Recipe and photo courtesy of Pasta USA. Pork medallions over pasta make a lling, healthy, and best of all, delicious dinner in just 30 minutes. It’s the perfect recipe for any busy weeknight!

2 oz tagliatelle or other long-cut pasta

2 Tbsp vegetable oil, divided 1-1/2 cups thinly sliced onion

6 cups thinly sliced cabbage

2 tsp thyme leaves

1/2 cup apple cider

4 center-cut boneless pork medallions (approx. 3 oz each)

Salt and pepper

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the tagliatelle according to package directions; drain and reserve. While the pasta is cooking, heat a large sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of the oil and cook the onions until they start to brown and soften, approx. 5 minutes. Add the cabbage and thyme and continue to cook, stirring often until beginning to brown in spots (approx. 3 minutes). Deglaze the pan with the apple cider. Cover and cook for 2 minutes until wilted, then uncover and continue to cook 5 more minutes until most of the cider has evaporated; stir in the tagliatelle. Heat a medium sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season pork with salt and pepper on both sides. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and cook pork until nicely browned on one side, approx. 2 minutes. Repeat on the second side. Remove to a plate and let rest while plating the pasta mixture. Divide pasta between 4 plates. Top each with one piece of pork. Serves 4.

READER RECIPES

Old Settlers Beans

RECIPE COURTESY OF LINDA SMITH, GENOA

1 lb ground beef

1 Tbsp dried onion OR 1/4 cup chopped white or yellow onion

1/2 lb bacon, fried and crumbled

1 tsp dry mustard

2 Tbsp molasses

1 cup catsup (or more, to taste)

1 (28 oz) can pork and beans

1 (15 oz) can pinto or kidney beans, drained

1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained

1 (15 oz) can butter beans, drained

1/2 cup brown sugar (or more, to taste)

Fry ground beef along with dried or fresh onion; add crumbled bacon. In a separate bowl, mix dry mustard, molasses, and catsup together. Combine with beef mixture. In a casserole pan, place all the beans and brown sugar, then add the ground beef mixture. Stir to combine. Bake at 350 degrees for 1-1/2 hours.

REQUESTS FROM OUR READERS

An online reader is looking for honey recipes.

SEND TO: WECN, Reader Recipes, 222 West Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703-2719 or jennifer@weca.coop.

Pickled Fish

RECIPE COURTESY OF DEBRA HAILE, PLATTEVILLE

PICKLING SOLUTION

2 cups white vinegar (may use 1/2 Riesling wine if desired)

1 cup sugar

2 Tbsp pickling spice

Bring vinegar, sugar, and pickling spice to boil.  Simmer 5 minutes; cool.

FISH AND EXTRAS

3 lbs white sh, such as northern, walleye, pan sh, white bass, drum, or sheepshead

3/4 cup canning salt

1 gal white vinegar

1 cup white onions, sliced (optional)

1 cup bell or banana peppers, sliced (optional)

1 jalapeño pepper, sliced (optional)

Fillet sh and freeze for 48 hours to kill parasites. Thaw and cut into 1-inch square pieces. Place sh into large plastic, glass, or pottery container. (We use gallon glass jars.)  Add canning salt and cover with white vinegar. Refrigerate for 5 days. Stir or shake the jar occasionally.  After 5 days, remove sh from jar and rinse well in cold water. Let sh stand in fresh cold water for 30 minutes. Layer sh in jars alternately with sliced raw onions and peppers (optional). Cover with cool pickling solution; refrigerate. It should be ready in 4 or 5 days; keep refrigerated. Recipe makes 1 quart and should last about a month in the refrigerator.

Submit your favorite recipes to be featured on our reader recipe page. Email to jennifer@weca.coop or submit directly at http://wecnmagazine.com/submit-a-recipe/. Due to food safety issues, we cannot accept canning recipes.

Pickled Fish RECIPE COURTESY OF GENA SCHACHTSCHNEIDER, JANESVILLE

2 quarts bite-size, sh llets

2/3 cups non-iodized salt

2-1/2 cups apple cider vinegar

Place the above ingredients in a 5-quart container. Cover and refrigerate; stir once every day for 5 days.

2 cups white vinegar

3 cups sugar

1 cup white port wine

2 cups onion, sliced thinly

3 tsp mixed pickling spice

Drain sh and rinse sh well. Put white vinegar, sugar, and wine in a container and stir. Add sh, onions, and spices. Refrigerate for 7 days; stir once a day. Ready after 7 days; keep in refrigerator.

Roasted Cauli ower

RECIPE COURTESY OF GEORGE STONE, COLFAX

This is in response to a reader’s request for cauli ower recipes, an under-rated and often misunderstood veggie.

1 small head of cauli ower, cut into orets

1 stick butter, melted

1/4 cup nely chopped red bell pepper

3/4 tsp paprika

1/4 tsp salt

1/4 tsp pepper

1/3 cup dry breadcrumbs

In a bowl, stir together the butter, red bell pepper, and spices. Blanch the orets in boiling water for 2 minutes; drain and toss the orets and butter mixture together. Add the breadcrumbs and toss to coat. Place cauli ower on a baking sheet or shallow baking dish and bake at 425 degrees for 15 minutes or until nicely browned.

Brussels Sprouts with Cranberries

RECIPE COURTESY OF KAREN VICK, ONALASKA

1 lb brussels sprouts, outer leaves and stems removed

1/4 cup butter

2 tsp our

1/2 cup dried cranberries (adjust quantity to taste)

1–2 tsp grated orange peel (optional)

3–4 Tbsp orange juice (optional)

Boil brussels sprouts in salted water for 6–7 minutes; drain. Melt butter over medium heat and cook until light brown, stirring constantly. Add our and cook for 2 minutes. Add brussels sprouts, dried cranberries, orange peel, and orange juice; cook 3–4 minutes.

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SPRING INTO ART WITH SCULPTURE TOUR EAU CLAIRE

If you’re yearning for a spring break escape but don’t have the time or budget for a major trip, consider heading to the Chippewa Valley to take in Sculpture Tour Eau Claire. Recently recognized as the largest rotating outdoor sculpture tour in the nation, the tour offers a major experience without major effort or expense. It encompasses more than 100 public art pieces installed at parks, along river walks, in front of local institutions, and along the streets of Eau Claire’s vibrant downtown, as well as key points in the neighboring communities of Menomonie and Altoona.

The sculptures cover a wide range of media and come in every shape imaginable, from the abstract forms that provoke thought to the whimsical pieces that evoke joy. The sculptures are up-close accessible and encourage interaction (just try walking by the high-fiving dog in Eau Claire’s Phoenix Park without rushing forward to press your palm against its paw).

Best of all, this abundance of high-quality

artwork, all created by established artists, can be enjoyed at no cost, by all ages and abilities, at the viewer’s own pace, whenever the viewer so chooses. All that’s really needed are a map, available online or at select local businesses; some walking shoes; and a sense of adventure.

“That’s part of our mission: To make art accessible and to remove the socioeconomic barriers,” said Julie Pangallo, public arts manager with Visit Eau Claire and a member of Eau Claire Energy Cooperative. “We feel it’s very important to make art available. We know a lot of families use the art tour, a lot of schools use it as part of their art curriculum, it provides a sense of community pride, and it gives us a chance to show inclusion.”

Adding to the appeal of the tour is that it never stays still. With the sculptures changed out annually and new installations constantly added, Sculpture Tour Eau Claire is a different experience each year.

Eau Claire Energy Cooperative member Don Gaber’s intricate sculptures, made with reclaimed objects, are among the most popular along Sculpture Tour Eau Claire. They include a horse (left), located in Eau Claire, and a bear (above), installed in Menomonie.

Are

Art from All Over Sculpture

Tour Eau Claire has grown steadily since it was launched in 2010 with just 12 sculptures. Pangallo explained the tour was started by a couple who had moved to Eau Claire from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where a similar sculpture tour was already in place. Eau Claire partnered with Sioux Falls and a few other cities to form a sculpture exchange where each community could tap into a network of artists to procure a wide variety of sculptures from different parts of the country.

“It’s like a draft,” Pangallo explained. “We get together once a year and look at what’s in the market and what’s available, and about a third of our sculptures come from that. That really got us started and gave us a good foundation. It introduced us to a lot of our artists and made us able to offer art from around the country and Canada as well.”

Other pieces are solicited from local artists, who are encouraged to submit their own sculptures for consideration. Selected pieces are essentially “on loan” for a year from the artists, who receive a stipend. The sculptures are on display for 11 months and taken down in April to make way for the pieces installed for new the season that begins in May. When the sculptures are removed, they’re placed back into the exchange for consideration by the other partnering communities.

One piece from each season is added to the community’s permanent collection. The public is invited to cast votes for their favorite sculpture each summer, with the top vote-getter receiving the People’s Choice award. Sculpture Tour Eau Claire, a non-profit organization, purchases the People’s Choice winner each year and gifts it to the city of Eau Claire. Menomonie’s portion of the tour has a similar People’s Choice award system.

However, it’s not just the People’s Choice winner that finds a buyer; the

tour has proven to be an effective vehicle for sales for the participating artists. “Since the program has started we’ve sold over 40 sculptures,” Pangallo said. “It’s really a good gallery for the artists.”

For the public as well. Pangallo pointed out that for many people, especially families, visiting an art gallery can be either intimidating or costprohibitive.

“High 5” by Louise Peterson (also on the cover) is Sculpture Tour Eau Claire’s rst People’s Choice winner, from 2011. This cheery Great Dane greets passersby along Eau Claire’s Phoenix Park and draws the kind of interactive attention Public Arts Manager Julie Pangallo aims to encourage. “We want people to get up close and touch and interact with the art, “Pangallo said. “It makes art more personal to them.”

(Photo above courtesy of Jolene Fisher, Dunn Energy Cooperative; photo at left courtesy of Visit Eau Claire)

Sculpture Tour Eau Claire

turns the city into a great, outdoor gallery that families can enjoy together for free.

Still Growing Over the years, Sculpture Tour Eau Claire has continued to grow, even—in fact, especially— through the pandemic. During that time, interest in the tour boomed since it was an outdoor activity people could enjoy safely, but some of the sponsorships that had helped support it dried up. That’s when the city’s tourism arm, Visit Eau Claire, stepped in to manage the program.

“Visit Eau Claire opened the doors to us for a lot of resources that we didn’t have before,” Pangallo said. “It’s helped us grow exponentially. In one year, we became the largest rotating art tour in the nation.”

Some of that growth is due to added partnerships, with four new sculptures recently installed in the River Prairie area in Altoona and six installed in key areas in Menomonie.

Because Menomonie’s sculptures were installed late last summer, five of the original six will remain in place for an additional year so the public can fully enjoy them, with two or three additional sculptures to be installed this season. Tammy Simon, tourism manager for the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce, said the chamber plans to have a map of all the public art sites in Menomonie, including the murals (see sidebar), available this summer.

Murals Make for Community Connections

The youngest artist featured for Sculpture Tour Eau Claire’s 2022/23 season is Mattison Rouleau, 7, granddaughter of Holcombe artist Vic Rouleau, a member of Chippewa Valley Electric Cooperative. They worked on this installment, located in downtown Eau Claire, together; “Springtime Surprise” is Vic’s piece, while Mattison created “Square Bear.” (Photos courtesy of Visit Eau Claire except for EggCited, opposite page, courtesy of Jolene Fisher, Dunn Energy Cooperative)

In addition to the many sculptures that are installed throughout Eau Claire and its neighboring communities as part of Sculpture Tour Eau Claire are the massive murals covering the exteriors of some downtown businesses. These colorful, often quirky murals are part of Sculpture Tour Eau Claire’s ColorBlock program. They’re the work of local artists of all di erent backgrounds.

“The murals are a chance to show some diversity and give emerging artists a canvas for their work,” said Julie Pangallo, public arts manager with Visit Eau Claire and a member of Eau Claire Energy Cooperative. “Last year, we put up 20 murals in the Chippewa Valley.”

The artists behind the murals represent di erent communities within the Chippewa Valley area. Plans for this year include new murals created by Hmong artists, Latino artists, and a group of special-needs students. Pangallo is also working to solicit Native American artists to contribute a mural.

“We want the program to be personal and inclusive,” Pangallo noted. “How can you feel it’s part of your community if your art isn’t there?”

ColorBlock murals can also be found on two public buildings in Altoona, and a number of new murals have recently been added to some buildings in Menomonie’s historic downtown as part of the city’s “Let’s Paint the Town” program.

“We just want art to be everywhere,” Pangallo said.

Tourism Tool While Sculpture

Tour Eau Claire has benefitted from being part of Visit Eau Claire, numbers show that the area’s tourism has in turn gotten a boost from the sculpture tour. Pangallo said Sculpture Tour

Eau Claire is Visit Eau Claire’s most inquired-about event, and the tour’s link on the website draws the greatest number of clicks. Sculpture

Tour Eau Claire is intertwined with many of the city’s popular attractions, with the sculptures often reflecting or complementing the businesses or areas they’re placed in front of. Consequently, the tour provides plenty of opportunities for fun side excursions to the interesting restaurants, shops, museums, and parks along its path.

Simon describes a similar experience in Menomonie, citing the sculpture in front of the Rassbach Museum, home to Dunn County’s Historical Society, as an example. That sculpture is one of three pieces on the tour created by Don Gaber, who works with reclaimed items at his studio outside of Mondovi, on Eau Claire Energy Cooperative lines.

“It’s a bear that’s made out of found items,” Simon said. “There’s a parking meter in there, there’s some suncatchers in there, there’s some bottles from the Coca Cola factory that used to be in Eau Claire, so it’s a very historical piece. It brings people out to the museum. People come to see that bear, which has turned out to be one of the most popular sculptures we have.”

Come see the sculptures—and their surroundings—for yourself. The experience is sure to put some spring in your step.—Mary

Erickson

For more information about Sculpture

Tour Eau Claire, including a downloadable map and a list of businesses where paper maps are available, visit www.visiteauclaire.com/sculpture-tour/ or call 715-831-2345. To learn more about the Menomonie portion of the sculpture tour, visit exploremenomonie.com/ sculpture-tour/ or call 715-235-9087.

Story Hour by Sandra Johnson

Encore by Harold Link

Double Trouble by Scott Schlag

EggCited by Kimber Fiebiger

Come Together by Alex Mendez

New Life by Brian Paral

WANTED: Paying cash for WWII ags, daggers, swords, guns, etc. Also, lever-action ri es. 715-340-1974.

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HARDWOOD AND CONIFER SEEDLINGS

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MCKAY NURSERY COMPANY - Wisconsin

Grown Since 1897. Provider of quality shade & ornamental trees, fruit & owering trees, evergreens, shrubs, perennials, ground cover, and vines. Design services & delivery available. Contact Eric at ezlandscapewi@ gmail.com or call 608-462-3197. “Your McKay Independent Sales & Service Provider.”

ADVERTISE WITH US

geri@weca.coop

Classi ed ads reach more than 152,000 mailboxes. RATES: For non-members of Wisconsin rural electric co-ops: one insertion, $25 minimum (up to 20 words); additional words, $1.25 each. For members of Wisconsin rural electric co-ops: one insertion, $14 minimum (up to 20 words); additional words, $.70 each. Count name, address, and phone number as part of ad. Please include zip code. FOR PROOF OF MEMBERSHIP, please include your address label from your copy of the magazine. FREQUENCY DISCOUNTS: 2% discount for 3 months; 5% for 6 months; 10% for 12 months. DEADLINE: 1st of the month prior to the month in which the ad is to appear. All classi ed ads must be paid in advance. There is no agency discount on classi eds. Make check or money order payable to: WECA. Mail to: WECN—Classi eds, Attn. Jennifer, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Ph: 608-467-4638. Email jennifer@weca.coop. We reserve the right to refuse ads.

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

WISCONSIN EVENTS

1–31 Nature Photography Exhibit—Alma. Wings Over Alma Nature & Art Center, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Photographer T. Cooper Hansen. Open Thursday through Sunday.

3 Candlelight Hike—Coon Valley. Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center, 5:30–8:30 p.m. Any necessary weather updates will be posted on our website. Admission $8 ages 11 and up; $3 ages 3–10. Members are free with current membership card. For more info, call 608-452-3424.

3, 10, 17, 24 Fish Fry Dinner—Fall Creek. St. Raymond of Penafort Church, 4–7 p.m. Knights of Columbus fish dinner. Carry-outs available. For more info, call 715-877-3400.

5–26 Sunday Polka and Old Time Dances— La Crosse. Concordia Ballroom, 1–5 p.m. Doors open at noon. Off-street parking. Lunch, desserts, and beverages available. Fun atmosphere, live bands, and great dance floor. Admission $10 per person.

10, 17, 24, 31 Fish Fry Dinner—Rosholt. St. Adalbert Parish, 4–7:30 p.m. Fish, shrimp, or combo. Dine-in or take-out. Raffles.

11 Spring Craft Show—Sparta. Middle School, 8:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. Nearly 200 vendors, many will be new to the event. Baked goods, leather, stained glass, crochet items, wooden pieces, 18-inch doll clothes. For more info, call 608-372-5121.

11 Liver Feed—Menomonie. Moose Lodge, 11:30 a.m.–3 p.m. Menu: fried liver, BBQ sandwich, baked beans, chips, coleslaw, coffee, dessert. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for 12 & under. For more info, contact Lisa at 715-308-1279.

11 Red Balloon Collector’s Event—Boscobel. Blaine Gym, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. A mini museum for a day of personal collections. Fun for the whole family. Door prizes and voting for your favorites. Farmer’s market next door. For more info, call 608-375-2466.

12 Spring Polka Jam—Stratford. Country Aire Bar & Banquet Hall, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Come to play, dance, and tap your feet. Public welcome. Free Admission. For more info, contact 715-389-1232.

12 First Responders Benefit Dance—Century Hall, 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Two bands, great dance floor, food, and drinks.

18 Outdoor 3-D Cabin Fever Shoot— Withee. Northwoods Archers Clubhouse, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Register by 9:45 a.m. Shoot starts at 10 a.m. sharp. For more info, check us out on Facebook.

18 Boy Band Review Concert—Reedsburg. High School CAL Center, 7–9 p.m. The #boyband show re-lives the full band, choreography, and harmonies of the 1990s. Join us for hits of NSYNC, Backstreet Boys, New Kids on the Block, and much more. Tickets $25 to $35. For more info, visit www.calcenterpresents.org

25 Welcome Back the Cranes—Necedah. National Wildlife Refuge, 8:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. Schedule: 8:30 –9:30 a.m. join visitor services manager at the observation tower to discover which migratory birds have returned. Meet at observation tower parking lot. 10:30 –11:30 a.m. learn about “whoopers” at the refuge. 11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m. chili lunch available. 1–1:45 p.m. meet two members of the ground crew during the early years of whooping crane re-

covery at the refuge. They will share photos and stories about their work with the cranes and what it was like to live on-site at the refuge. Between 10 a.m.–2:30 p.m. there will be family friendly activities to visit at your own pace. Activities throughout the day: children’s crane discovery challenge, discover cranes with volunteer naturalists, crane art and photography exhibit and sale, Adopt-A-Crane program, silent auction of crane quilt, and Pat Dobrinska, illustrator of “I Love You Unconditionally,” book signings with read-aloud at 10:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m.

26 Farm Toy & Craft Show—Thorp. High School, all-day. Admission: $3: 10 & under are free. For more info, call 715-773-2643.

26 Fundraising Auction—Osseo. Grand Occasions Banquet Hall, 12–3 p.m. New and gently used items, antiques, and collectibles are up for bid. Each year brings surprises! There’s plenty of parking and food is available. Some items will be posted on our Facebook page. Donations accepted. For more info, call 608-525-2300.

29 Blood Drive—Iola. Iola-Scandinavia Fitness & Aquatic Center, 12–5 pm. Please register, if possible, at www. redcrossblood.org or 800-733-2767.

Wisconsin Events is a public service for our readers. Due to space limits, we may need to eliminate details, so be sure to include a phone number (with area code) where callers may obtain more info. If we receive more listings than space allows us to print, we reserve the right to select those we believe will be of interest to the greatest number of readers. Please no virtual events. Events can also be mailed to: WECN, Events, 222 W. Washington Ave. Ste. 680, Madison WI 53703-2719

DEADLINE: 1st of the month prior to the month in which the event is to appear. Upload

1. Camper lets Addy know that they are not done playing. Photo submitted by Grandma Dorothea Green, a member of Vernon Electric.

2. Wade is all smiles with one of his turkeys. Photo submitted by Shannon Anderson, a member of Vernon Electric.

3. Lily reads a kitten book to Trip. Photo submitted by Shannon Anderson, a member of Vernon Electric.

4. Corduroy made two new dragon y friends while shing at grandma’s pond. Photo submitted by Grandma Dorothea Green, a member of Vernon Electric.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR LIGHT BULBS TO LUCK

Use only bulbs that match the wattage of a lamp or outlet. A bulb with a higher wattage than is speci ed is a re hazard. Switch out incandescent blubs with LEDs. They last longer, and they’re much cooler and less of a re hazard.

Turn o the lights before you switch out a bulb. Secure light bulbs tightly in their sockets.

Source: SafeElectricity.org

Send photos of kids with animals, along with a brief description, to WECN Magazine, 222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703. Please include the name of your electric co-op. Photos will be returned. If in good-resolution, electronic format, photos may also be uploaded via wecnmagazine.com through the “Submit a photo” tab. By submitting, sender implies that he/she has rights to and owns the image, and grants WECN permission to use the image. By submitting, the parent or legal guardian also authorizes us the right to publish the image.

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