Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News December 2022 Eau Claire

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December 2022 Vol. 83 No. 6

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-mem bers 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.

Join

us on

A new natural gas plant is stalled, despite enabling more renewables.

A small city puts on a big holiday show thanks to community support.

Hurry Up and Wait Wisconsin Favorites Kids & Critters

Enjoy the best of cute co-op kids and their critters.

SYMBOL SEARCH

HIDDEN OBJECT GAME

This month we selected two winners to atone for hiding the October symbol a little too well. Our rst winner is a member of Oakdale Electric Cooperative. She said, “This is one tough game! But I nally found it by myself. It’s on page 31, bottom left picture, in the ear of the black and white cow. Phew! Truth is that as

Our second winner is Jay Lyngaas, a member of Riverland Energy Cooperative. Jay said, “I wasn’t even going to turn this in (because I’ve lost faith in winning) but my co-worker told me that it would be a good moooooove to try again—she said you’d pick me this month. The symbol is located in picture #3, on the cow’s ear on page 31. Love your magazine!!!”

Now we challenge readers to nd this kerosene lamp like the one in the story on page 9. 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 December 14.

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

SYMBOL SEARCH WECA

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

TIME TO REFLECT

As we wrap up 2022, re ecting on some of the stories we shared with you this year feels tting.

Speci c themes seem to repeat. Unfortunately, one that we touched on multiple times was problems with the supply chain for electric cooperatives. In March, we shared a story, “Powering Through the Potential Perfect Storm,” about co-ops struggling to get transformers. We updated that story in October with “Resourceful RESCO,” highlighting a cooperative of cooperatives that provides utility distribution materials and supplies to members. Unfortunately, the supply-chain woes did not abate. Still, we found the cooperative form of business is an advantage in today’s supply-chain crisis.

In May, we shared “A New Look at Nuclear Power,” which explained how small-scale nuclear reactors could check all the boxes for a carbonfree fueled future. This month on page 13, we look at how a natural gas plant can actually add more wind and solar to the energy mix with “Hurry Up and Wait.”

Perhaps one of the most eye-opening features this year was “Wisconsin’s Wakeup Call,” which ran in our July magazine. It previewed the potential for rolling blackouts over the summer months, as our regional transmission organization, MISO (Midcontinent Independent System Operator), predicted. Thankfully, those predictions never materialized, but it’s important to understand how close we are to that reality.

Finally, last month we learned about how the Federated Youth Foundation uses unclaimed capital credits from the state’s cooperatives to support local communities with the story “It’s the Principle.”

There is a thread through all our content that ties it together. Your cooperative is looking out for you and your communities to keep power owing and our rural communities vibrant. We pledge to continue that mission into the new year. Have a happy holiday season!

Dana Kelroy Editor

PSC Considers Third-Party Financing

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) is considering whether to allow third-party financ ing of solar installations, a move that would threaten Wisconsin’s histori cally well-regulated utility system that provides safe, reliable, and affordable electricity equitably to all cooperative members. The proposal would allow unregulated entities to sell power in the state, which goes against state statute.

Vote Solar and the Midwest Renewable Energy Association filed the petitions with the PSC after the legislature did not act on the issue. WECA, Customers First! Coalition (CFC), and Wisconsin Utilities Association provided testimony opposing the request. CFC, which advocates for all utility customers and members, argued, “This is a major piece of energy policy, and if granted, the Petition will upend a model that has been successful in Wisconsin for over 100 years. There are substantial concerns about consumer protection and cross subsidization raised by the Petitioner’s request.”

Middle-Mile Fiber to Washington Island Complete

Cellcom reports it has now completed the middle-mile fiber connection to Washington Island.

In 2018, the underwater electrical cable serving Washington Island suf fered catastrophic damage and had to be replaced. WIEC General Manager Robert Cornell advocated to have a fiber line included with the electrical cable replacement, bringing fiber in ternet service to the island for the first time. The PSC supported the project with two broadband grants.

“WIEC was fortunate to have the support of a local company who truly cared about helping our rural com

munity. This allowed us to pursue and win additional grant funding and po sitions us for the future and project to serve every single home and business on Washington Island, not just picking the easy ones,” said Cornell.

Shellenberger Featured Speaker at WECA Annual Meeting

The WECA 2022 Annual Meeting took place on November 15–16, 2022, in Stevens Point with electric cooper ative leaders from across the state in attendance.

The meeting featured a presentation by Michael Shellenberger, best-selling author and Time Magazine’s “Hero of the Environment.” His books include San Fransicko: Why Progressives Ruin Cities and Apocalypse Never: Why Environmental Alarmism Hurts Us All. Shellenberger has been a cli mate and environmental activist for over 30 years and spoke of his experi ence supporting nuclear energy.

The annual meeting also includ ed discussions on supply-chain constraints and challenges, funding availabilities under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, election results and what they mean for electric co-ops, and more.

Rural School Districts Awarded Electric Bus Grants

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awarded grant money for electric and propane buses to 19 Wisconsin school districts, most of which serve some electric cooperative members. The “Clean Bus Program” is aimed at spurring a transition to electric buses and requires the re tirement of diesel-fueled buses in ex change for the funding.

Wisconsin districts were awarded almost $26 million for the purchase of 73 buses as well as charging infra

structure. The Investment in Infrastructure and Jobs Act (IIJA) in cludes the $5 billion grant program for school districts to purchase new clean buses, with a focus on electric buses.

The EPA is currently reviewing additional applications and the agency plans to announce more grantees in the coming weeks.

Report: Wisconsin is 10th Most Energy Efficient State

The personal-finance website WalletHub released its annual report on the most and least energy-efficient states, and Wisconsin comes in at num ber 10 for most energy efficient. The ranking is down from last year, when WalletHub listed Wisconsin as the 8th most energy efficient state. The group compares both home and auto energy efficiency in its assessment.

Of 48 states (Alaska and Hawaii are not ranked due to limited data), Wisconsin ranked:

8th Home Energy Efficiency 16th Vehicle-Fuel Efficiency 29th Transportation Efficiency

Barron Electric Hosts Candidate Forum

Barron Electric Cooperative held its candidate forum on October 19, where co-op staff and directors had the op portunity to ask candidates questions relating to energy industry issues, as well as other topics. Candidates in the 25th State Senate District race, Romaine Quinn (R-Barron) and Kelly Westlund (D-Ashland), participated, as well as Tom Tiffany (R-Wisconsin) and Dick Ausman (D-Wisconsin), who ran to represent the 7th U.S. Congressional District.

Quinn and Tiffany won their races. Quinn’s win gave Republicans a super majority in the Senate by flipping the seat held by Janet Bewley, who did not seek re-election.

I WONDER IF SANTA COULD GET ABOVE 53% IN WISCONSIN?

This month’s “Message from the CEO” is guest commentary from Rob Richard, WECA Director of Government A airs. WECA President and CEO Steve Freese is currently on medical leave.

Iknow you all want to forget and move on. The political ads prob ably still play repeatedly in your dreams. While the 2022 election is now in the rearview mirror (whoops, sorry Georgia) it’s also a good time to reflect on what happened and what this means moving forward for your electric cooperative.

writing, no call for a recount was announced].

The Republicans in the Wisconsin State Senate accom plished their goal—a supermajority—reaching 22 members with a seat-flipping win by Republican Romaine Quinn in Senate District 25, currently held by outgoing Democratic Minority Leader Janet Bewley, who did not seek re-election. Though most every political prognostica tor in the state considered it a longshot, Assembly Republicans were hoping to accomplish the same super majority goal in the lower house. They fell short and will come back next session with a 64–35 majority, once again setting up a divided government with the GOP controlling both houses of the legislature and Governor Evers in firm control of the executive branch with veto power.

Richard WECA Director of Government A airs

One thing is clear: Wisconsin is pur ple. Not like Minnesota Viking purple, but that purple you get after a long and bruising fight. That’s what Wisconsin just went through. Like after any fight, we can only hope that we have time to heal a bit before we are forced to face the next one. Political analysts will argue over what the results may mean and why some won while others lost, but at the end of the day Wisconsin’s voters simply don’t like to be put into a neat, prepackaged ideological box.

Since I’m writing this column only a few days after the election, official results are not yet available to me, but Senator Ron Johnson won a third term with a one-point victory over Lt. Governor Mandela Barnes. With this win, the nation quickly turned its attention to Nevada, Arizona, and Georgia, but with late-called Senate victories in Nevada and Arizona, the Democrats will once again control the upper chamber in Congress.

The statewide race results have Governor Tony Evers returning for a second term, but this time he will be joined by a new Lt. Governor, State Representative Sara Rodriguez. Democrat Josh Kaul also won a second term as Attorney General. In an open seat, Republican John Leiber won the race for State Treasurer. Finally, in what was the tightest statewide race with 0.3% difference, it appears long-time Democratic incumbent Secretary of State Douglas La Follette won yet another term by besting Republican challenger Amy Loudenbeck [at time of this

Wisconsin’s congressional seats remain the same except for the 3rd congressional district. The sprawling seat along the Mississippi River, left open due to the retirement of 26year incumbent Congressman Ron Kind, had Republican Derrick Van Orden defeating Democratic State Senator Brad Pfaff 52%–48%.

What’s changed politically? Not much. What all of this means for your local cooperative and the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association is that we will continue our mission to work with both sides of the aisle to find effective solutions to the challenges, and opportunities, that await us. We have big issues ahead of us on unregulated third-party ownership, electric vehicles, renew able energy initiatives, broadband expansion, energy reliability, etc. and, with so many new members coming into the Assembly and Senate, we have some introductions to make and policy positions to share.

For those cooperative members who engaged in this election and took the time to vote—thank you!

Democracy requires participation, so thank you for taking the time to let your voice be heard. When literally hundreds of millions of dollars are spent in this state to try to sway your opinion, it can easily get frustrating and annoying. But in the end, all that matters is the vote. Your vote.

As we approach putting 2022 behind us, I want to wish you a very blessed and happy holiday season, and may you find joy, peace, and prosperity in the New Year!

Rob

A CHRISTMAS CO-OP MYSTERY

Can you help us esh out this holiday ghost story?

We’ve had many calls for action in the Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News (WECN) over the years. Since it rst rolled o the press as the Wisconsin REA News in July 1940, this publication has called upon its members to contact their legislators about issues a ecting their cooperative; cast a vote in local, state, and national elections; participate in their co-op’s annual meetings; and even help fellow readers nd long-lost recipes.

Sandy and the Ghost

Sandy and her family were watching Scrooge on TV after Christmas dinner when Sandy’s Grandpa said he recalled reading that story when he was a boy, on a stormy winter evening just like this one, and he was so spooked that he was afraid to go out to the barn to do chores.

Sandy replied that he was dumb to have believed in ghosts, and her mother sent her to the kitchen to do the dishes herself.

Sandy let out a “bah, humbug” as she stalked to the kitchen, muttering about the grown-ups who always talked about how much harder it was to do chores back in their day.

After the dishes were done Sandy went to bed and was awakened in the middle of the night by what she assumed to be the howling winter wind. She was surprised to see an old kerosene lamp, just like the keepsake lamp Mother kept on the mantel, on the table beside her bed. Before Sandy’s very eyes, the lantern grew taller, its ame ickering more and more until the lamp’s glass chimney took the shape of an eerie face with two smoke spots for eyes and a ame for a mouth.

Frightened, Sandy demanded to know who this was, and the lantern responded, in a voice that sounded suspiciously like Grandpa’s, “I am the ghost of The Cold Dark Time and I’m here because you need light.”

Sandy responded that she didn’t need any light from the lantern—she’d just ip the light switch on the wall. The ghost pointed out that there were no light switches because she was back in the time before she was born, when there was no electricity on her farm.

They went downstairs, where nothing looked the same. Sandy discovered a huge black stove in the kitchen, but she didn’t see the refrigerator, washer, or dryer. The ghost explained that there were no nice electric kitchen appliances. Instead, the tub and washboard served as the washer, the wind outside was the dryer, the sink was a pump in the backyard, and refrigerator was a cold, dark cellar.

Sandy assumed they had traveled back in time before there was any electricity at all, but the ghost said there was indeed electricity, with a power plant at Capital City. There just weren’t any power lines bringing that electricity into the country.

Sandy didn’t believe the ghost, so it gathered her up in its lantern prongs and ew outside through the dark, howling sky, over the farm and surrounding countryside where Sandy could see for herself there were no electric poles or wires—nothing to light their way except the moon.

As they traveled on, they ew over Capital City, which was bathed in lights.

“Well, I just can’t understand why there’s all this electricity here, but none on the farms,” Sandy remarked.

The ghost explained that it takes money to put up miles of poles and wires, and the people who own the power company are expected to make money selling their electricity. “They think it would cost more money to build the lines beyond the cities than the rural people would spend to buy their electricity.”

From there, the ghost ew on to the schoolhouse, where Sandy spotted her Grandpa inside along with neighbors she recognized. They appeared to be signing a paper.

The ghost said the grown-ups were forming a cooperative, “a group of people who share the ownership of power lines, sometimes even power plants, which they all use.” The ghost went on to explain that together, as a cooperative, Sandy’s Grandpa and neighbors would get a loan like her parents did for their home so they could put up power lines themselves.

When Sandy wondered how they would pay this loan back, the ghost responded, “When they get electricity, they’ll produce more and earn more money. Enough money to buy lots of appliances and equipment. That keeps factories in cities producing and earning more. The farmer who has electricity not only earns more, he helps others to earn more.”

“A kind of circle,” remarked Sandy.

“Yes,” answered the ghost, “like the one we’ve made tonight.”

The ghost returned Sandy safely to her house and she woke up warm in her bed, with the light switch on her bedroom wall and the sounds of her mother running the vacuum cleaner down stairs, stopping to comment with surprise that the old kerosene lantern on the mantel was empty.

“Well, I guess if it could happen to Ebenezer Scrooge, it could happen to me,” Sandy said.

To read the entire story “Sandy and the Ghost,” complete with all of its illustrations, go to our website, wecnmagazine.com.

This month, we’re reaching out with yet another call to action, this one with a holiday twist. We’re hoping someone out there can help us fill in the elusive details behind “Sandy and the Ghost,” a children’s story about rural electrification published by the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative (WEC), now the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association (WECA), in 1967.

Written by Rusty Hoffland with a plot channeling Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” this 24-page hard-covered book follows the Christmas-night journey of a little girl named Sandy, who’s sent to bed after grumbling about having to do chores. At night she receives a visit by a ghost who whisks her away to The Cold Dark Time before farms had electricity to show her how difficult life was before electric cooperatives brought power to farms like hers.

Delightful Discovery

Our quest to learn more about this unique bit of Wisconsin electric co-op history began with a random email from Washington Island Electric Cooperative General Manager Robert Cornell back in January. He came across a few copies of the book in his office and sent us a picture of the cover, commenting that he remembers reading this book when he was a schoolboy, growing up on Washington Island. He recalled that the book was available in both the school and the public libraries.

We were intrigued. We weren’t familiar with the book ourselves, which surprised us a bit considering our work requires an occasional deep dive into electric cooperative history, with frequent references to our dog-eared copies of “Statewide,” a history of the association written by Michael J. Goc. But we couldn’t recall ever hearing about “Sandy and the Ghost,” and there’s no mention of it in “Statewide.”

We had to learn more. Our first move was to contact Perry Baird,

who served as editor of WECN from 1987, when it was known as the Wisconsin R.E.C. News, until retiring at the end of 2013. Baird isn’t nearly old enough to have been part of the book’s publication, but he’s a human encyclopedia of Wisconsin’s rural electrification history and our go-to source for any questions regarding WECA’s past. If anyone could tell us more, he could.

So we contacted Baird to see if he’d ever heard of “Sandy and the Ghost.” He had. Of course he had. Not only had Baird heard of the book, he had a copy himself, given to him by Lloyd Spears, retired manager of Head of the Lakes Electric

At night [Sandy] receives a visit by a ghost who whisks her away to The Cold Dark Time before farms had electricity…

Cooperative (now part of East Central Energy). Baird also reminded us that he had written about the book in WECA’s internal newsletter in the 1990s soon after Spears gifted him with a copy.

However, Baird had very little information about how the book came to be despite valiant efforts to unearth some. In fact, his brief newsletter items about “Sandy and the Ghost” point out the curious lack of information.

WECA records show several thousand of the books were published; however, a search through old WECA board minutes turned up nothing in the way of discussion about the decision to commission such a book, the cost of the project, the author, or anything else. All that could be found in WECA’s extensive archives was an ad in the March 1967 issue of the Wisconsin REA News announcing that the book was ready and available for

purchase through WEC’s public relations department for $1.30 each plus 30 cents postage and handling. A similar ad appeared in Contact, WEC’s weekly newsletter, about the same time.

The book itself offers no other clues. It’s got a © Copyright, Wisconsin Electric Cooperative, 1967 stamp on the inside front cover, but no forward or introductory words, no author’s notes, not even a mention of the artist who created the beautiful full-color illustrations.

The Search Continues

We thought we might be able to find more information with the tools that weren’t fully at Baird’s disposal in 1996—namely, the internet. Also, we were too eager to read the story ourselves to wait for Cornell’s eventual delivery of his copies to our office, so we searched online for the book to see what else we could learn.

We found a used copy of “Sandy and the Ghost” with no problem, but alas, not much else. A search for Rusty Hoffland turned up a similar book by the author published in 1965 by CUNA Supply Cooperative, which was formed in 1936 as an affiliate to the Credit Union National Association (CUNA). This book, called “Mike’s Big Idea,” is about a young boy who accidentally breaks his piggy bank and discovers a better way to save his money through his credit union. It seems Hoffland found a niche writing children’s books about cooperative forms of business.

An inquiry to the CUNA headquarters in Madison to see if the organization had any records of “Mike’s Big Idea” turned up empty; no one there had heard of the book, and no one found any records of it.

The only other title by Rusty Hoffland that we were able to find is “Mountain Getaways,” a travel guide of Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee first published in 1984. We ordered a used copy to see if there were any helpful author’s notes and

learned the “Mountain Getaways” Hoffland is a Wisconsin native, but that’s about all that could link this author to the Hoffland who wrote about Sandy and Mike. It’s not impossible that the two Hofflands could be the same, but given the years between the books and the different styles of writing, it’s also not likely.

Calling on Co-op Leaders

After hitting an internet dead-end, we returned to old-fashioned sleuthing. We reached out to some long-serving co-op leaders to see if they could remember anything about “Sandy and the Ghost.” Among them were Robert Kretzschmar of Bayfield Electric Cooperative and Dan Kanack of Oconto Electric Cooperative, each of whom has served his respective co-op as a director for 48 years. In addition, Kretzschmar has been a member of Bayfield Electric ever since his family’s farm first got electricity when he was 11 years old, and other than a seven-year span, Kanack is a lifelong Oconto Electric Co-op member as well. However, neither could recall ever having seen, or even heard of, “Sandy and the Ghost.”

Dan Smrekar, who has served as a director of Jackson Electric Cooperative for 46 years, said he has vague memories of seeing the book around the co-op office when he first came on the board in 1976, and he recalled that individual co-ops might have purchased the books and gifted them to area libraries. That makes sense of the stamps within the used copy we purchased online—“Property of Bellaire Elementary Library” is stamped on the inside cover, with “Compliments of Top O’ Michigan Rural Electric Company, Boyne City, Michigan” stamped on the opposite page. So evidently it wasn’t just Wisconsin electric cooperatives that purchased and distributed this book.

Marian Trescher of Rock Energy Coopeerative couldn’t recall anything

specific about the book either, but she did offer a little more insight. Trescher has served as a director of Rock Energy since 2004, when she was elected to fill the seat of her late husband, Howard. She was also an active co-op member and leader during Howard’s 43year tenure on the board, plus she spent 27 years as a public school teacher. If this book was a one-time staple of school libraries, especially those in rural communities, Trescher might have come across it.

She said the book title indeed sounded familiar to her, and she also shared that it wasn’t uncommon in those days for cooperative organizations to publish children’s books to help tell their stories. She recalled a long-ago similar book published by the Grange, an agriculture advocacy group with which she and Howard were also once actively involved.

Calling on You!

We hope some of our readers remember “Sandy and the Ghost” and can help us fill in a few gaps surrounding this unique book. If so, please email mary@weca.coop or mail your memories to Sandy and the Ghost, WECA, 222 W. Washington Ave., Suite 680, Madison, WI 53703.

We also hope all of our readers enjoy this delightful holiday story, which we have summarized on page 10, as much as we do. May this little tale inspire all to heed the lessons of the past, present, and future, just as three Christmas spirits once did for Ebenezer Scrooge.—Mary Erickson

HURRY UP AND WAIT

On a brisk fall day in October, the sounds of change echoed through Vernon County as Dairyland Power Cooperative demolished some outer buildings of the Genoa #3 coal plant, which was retired in June 2021, reducing them to rubble. The demolition solidified the generation and transmission co-op’s commitment to cleaner energy and a diverse portfolio that includes more wind and solar. To ensure reliability, Dairyland is partnering with Basin Electric Power Cooperative and Minnesota Power to build a $700 million, 625-megawatt “renewable enabling” combined-cycle natural gas facility plant near Superior.

“Nemadji Trail will be the most efficient natural gas plant in the upper Midwest,” said John Carr, vice president of strategic growth at Dairyland.

The project has been in the works since 2014 as part of

A NEW NATURAL GAS PLANT WOULD REDUCE OVERALL EMISSIONS AND OPEN THE DOOR FOR MORE WIND AND SOLAR GENERATION. SO WHY IS IT STALLED?

strategic planning to accommodate the expansion of renewables without risking reliability. The big picture, according to Carr, is that the Nemadji Trail Energy Center will drive emissions down by displacing coal and lessefficient natural gas generation.

“If wind and solar resources are adequate at the time to meet demand, Nemadji Trail goes offline, and it sits there and waits until the point in time when we don’t have enough wind or solar energy, but electric demand is still there,” Carr explained. “Then the plant can be brought on line quickly to meet that demand. It is renewable enabling. It allows us to use those intermittent resources and also fill in the gaps to make sure that reliability in the upper Midwest is not compromised.” In addition, Carr says the plant will be able to burn up to 30% hydrogen, reducing emissions further.

The complex process of

getting approval to build a new power plant includes layers of state and federal reviews. Nevertheless, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission approved the project in 2019 and the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin issued its approval of the project by granting a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) in 2020.

“One of the requirements of the process is the project is subject to what’s called the ‘energy priority law,’ which looks at wheth-

OUR 60th YEAR

Artwork courtesy of the Nemadji Trail Energy Center

er you can meet the demand with energy efficiency, renewable energy, or zero-emmisions resources instead of building the plant. The states that approved this project looked at all of that, and they agreed that no, you cannot,” Carr said. “They concurred that the project is necessary to ensure reliable electricity.”

The permitting process continued at the federal level, where the Rural Utilities Service (RUS), which approves funding for rural infrastructure projects, conducted a National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review of the project. In June of 2021, the RUS issued a “Finding of No Signifi cant Impact” (FONSI) ) indicating that the proposed project would not have a sig nificant effect on the quality of the human environment.

With the major hurdles cleared, Nemadji Trail was mov ing forward. Until it wasn’t.

The Sierra Club and other environmental groups challenged the project at every turn, arguing it is “both unnecessary and harmful to efforts to curb the climate crisis.”

The groups petitioned the RUS to rescind the FONSI and draft a Supplemental Environmental Assessment (SEA) to further explore the greenhouse gas emissions and climate change impacts of the project. The RUS agreed to the additional review and the SEA was pub lished for public comment during the summer of 2022. Since then, nothing. Today, Dairyland and its partners are still waiting for a decision to move forward.

“At this point in time, the project, in my own words, appears stuck,” Carr said. “What is interesting is that nothing has changed since the finding of no significant impact. So we’re a little puzzled by it. We do believe that we went through all of the steps necessary. The record is very thorough, and it supports proceeding and issuing a finding of no significant impact, but we’re awaiting that before we can move ahead.”

The project is center to a global debate amid the urgency to reduce emissions and the role natural gas should play. Coal contributes the most CO2, but it is highly reliable. Wind and solar generation are emissions-free, but they are intermittent resources and cannot consistently meet the electric demand. Natural gas is significantly cleaner than coal, but some still say that’s not good enough.

“While burning coal continues to be the most en vironmentally dangerous source of electricity, burning

fracked gas is not a source of ‘clean’ energy, especially when compared to renewable sources like wind or solar. When both carbon and methane emissions are consid ered, the latest science shows that the build-out of gas infrastructure will prevent us from reducing greenhouse gas emissions enough to avoid the worst impacts of climate change,” The Sierra Club said in a release.

The consequences of a greater dependence on in termittent resources are already apparent in Wisconsin and across the nation. This past spring, Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), the grid operator which directs the flow of electricity among 15 states, in cluding Wisconsin and part of Canada, issued a historic alert, saying the region was at risk of rolling blackouts. Stepping outside its neutral stance on the source of generation, a MISO representative spoke out in support of the Nemadji Trail project, saying, “natural gas must be in the mix.”

In response to MISO’s warning about blackouts due to the expansion of intermittent resources, two investorowned utilities in Wisconsin decided to delay the planned closing of coal plants.

Carr pointed to real-time data from MISO which shows that even on a mild, windy fall day, 52% of the demand across the central part of the United States was being met with fossil fuels.

“So how do we get to zero fossil fuel use in five years? Or ten years? Wind and solar won’t be enough to do it alone. So we think that highly efficient combinedcycle natural gas that can be there when those resources can’t, just makes sense,” he said.

Complicating the delay in the permitting process for Nemadji Trail was navigating it during COVID and staff turnover at RUS. President Joe Biden appointed a new RUS administrator, Andrew Berke, who took over in early October 2022.

“We have the opportunity to meet the same goals that the people trying to block this project have, and that is to reduce overall emissions,” Carr said. “We are aligned with them. This project helps us reduce greenhouse gas emissions in this part of the world. It gives us the ability to add more intermittent renewables. This plant does not displace or prevent wind or solar from coming in; it actually enables it.”

Carr says Dairyland is still hopeful the approval will come through, and construction of Nemadji Trail can begin in April 2023, bringing with it up to 260 construc tion jobs and infusing much needed revenue in the state and local area.

If the Nemadji Trail project doesn’t happen, it may result in further delays to coal plant closings, added risk of rolling blackouts, and potential increased energy costs.

“It would be a real shame,” Carr said.

Because the demand for electricity will remain. And the Genoa #3 plant will still be gone.—Julie Lund

John Carr. Photo courtesy of DPC

Eau

Claire Energy Cooperative’s Youth Ambassadors took advantage of a seasonable October day to visit one of ECEC’s most unique farms— Outlaw Farms in Fall Creek. Ashley Schulner, co-owner with her husband Josh, toured the group around the farm, introducing them to the animals as they went. Unfortunately, Wisconsin’s cold temperatures kept the students from seeing the kangaroo, lemurs, alligator and other popular animals, but being able to feed the goats, buffalo and llamas made up for it!

HOLIDAY DÉCOR TIPS FOR AN ENERGY-WISE HOME

Whether you’ve already decked your halls or you’re just getting started, there’s still time to incorporate energy savings into your holiday décor planning.

If you haven’t strung your twinkle lights, be sure to use LED light strands. LEDs consume far less energy than incandescent lights and they can last 40 holiday seasons. They’re also safer because they’re made with epoxy lenses, not glass, making them more resistant to breaking––and they’re cool to the touch, so no burnt fingers!

If you missed Santa’s memo about energy-saving LEDs and your holiday lights are already up, you can still save on lighting costs. All you need is a programmable light timer. Most models cost between $10 and $25 and can be purchased through online retailers like Amazon or at big box stores like Lowe’s or Wal-Mart. With a light timer, you can easily program when you want your holiday lights turned on and off, which will save you time, money, and energy. If you’re using a timer for exterior lighting, make sure it’s weatherproof and intended for outdoor use.

If Clark Griswold’s décor style is a bit much for your taste, consider a more natural approach. Many Christmas tree farms, and even retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot, give away greenery clippings from recently trimmed trees. With a little twine, extra ornaments and sparkly ribbon, you can create beautiful garlands and wreaths to hang over your front door or windows.

To add extra twinkle at night, you can install solarpowered spotlights to illuminate your new (essentially free!) greenery. Solar spotlights can vary in price, but you should be able to purchase a quality set of four for about $30––and because they run on natural energy from the sun, there’s no additional cost to your energy bill.

Regardless of how you decorate your home for the holidays, there are plenty of ways to save energy throughout the season. Visit Eau Claire Energy Cooperative’s website for additional energy-saving tips.

Janicki’s Christmas Trees in Cadott has been providing a ordable and quality Christmas trees for over 40 years. They annually have provided a Christmas tree for free to the Cadott Elementary School since their kids went there. Now, 45 years later, their grandkids have come and gone from the school, and they continue to provide a tree to spread the joy of Christmas to all the students and sta .

JANICKI’S CHRISTMAS TREES BY

FAMILIES, FOR FAMILIES

Michael and Barb began the tree farm to provide joy to those in their community with quality Christmas trees. They both have roots tied to Christmas tree growing. As a teen, Michael worked for a large Christmas tree grower and Barb’s family grew Christmas trees as well. They both loved the business and wanted to continue. They purchased 51 acres in 1977 which turned into a family business with a passion for people. In the summer of 1987 Michael and Barb planted 10,000 trees with the dream that in 8–10 years those trees would be ready to be cut. Unfortunately, they lost about 95% of their crop the following summer to a drought. Fortunately, they persisted and today they provide Christmas trees to many loyal customers.

The Janickis plant and maintain many acres of different varieties of Christmas trees for customers year after year right in ECEC’s service territories. During their working years the couple maintained the tree farm to provide affordable and beautiful trees for local residents. Now, in retirement, they continue to do so because they love the business and the happiness that comes with it. Michael stated that he continues because he loves the joy that comes with seeing families come and pick out their Christmas tree. There is a happiness that comes with providing cost-effective and gorgeous trees for families and community members during the most wonderful time of the year.

While customers come and go during the holiday season, there is work that goes into a tree farm all year-round. Planting and maintenance are done

regularly during the spring, summer, and fall months. All of the work is worth it when it comes time to precut trees and assist families in picking out the perfect tree. If you and your family are looking for a tree, look no further! They have lots located in both Cadott and La Crosse. Visit them anytime from Thanksgiving to Christmas to either select a precut tree or cut one yourself!

Know a business or individual that would be great for a member spotlight? Email Taylor at tskibba@ecec.com or call 715-832-1603.

Barb and Michael Janicki

CHANGES IN LOAD MANAGEMENT PROGRAM

Grid

reliability is at the forefront of strategic planning for utilities—from the regional Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) all the way down to Eau Claire Energy Cooperative’s system. To ensure generation resources are adequately available year-round, MISO recently changed its requirements for power providers, including our wholesale power provider, Dairyland Power Cooperative. This has resulted in modifications to our Load Management program. Water heater load control receivers will no longer be affected by peak alerts. Instead, they will be controlled as the need arises based on peak demand on the MISO market. In the event of a peak alert, ECEC will notify members via www.ecec.com, on our social media pages, and radio messages. Additionally, other load-controlled program times will shift. The Dual Fuel program peak alerts will happen between 7:00 – 10:00 a.m. Enrolled dairy water heaters, grain dryers, and manual stand-by generators will remain on the traditional winter schedule of 5:00 p.m., with restoration beginning at 8:00 p.m.

Please see the chart below to determine your program and peak alert time:

Controlled Device Load Management Timeframe Water Heaters As need arises Dual Fuel 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. Dairy Water Heaters 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Grain Dryers 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Manual Stand-By 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Generators

8214 Hwy 12, P.O. Box 368, Fall Creek, WI 54742-0368 www.ecec.com

Office Hours: 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Mon–Fri Non-emergencies: 715-832-1603 Emergencies & outages: Toll FREE 800-927-5090 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Diggers Hotline: 811 or 1-800-242-8511 Call 3 working days before you dig.

When

You are a man of the wilderness. The only plan you have is to walk up that mountain until you feel like stopping. You tell your friends that it’s nothing personal, but this weekend belongs to you. You’ve come prepared with your River Canyon Bowie Knife sheathed at your side. This hand-forged, unique knife comes shaving sharp with a perfectly fitted hand-tooled sheath. The broad stainless steel blade shines in harmony with the stunning striped horn, wood and bone handle. When you feel the heft of the knife in your hand, you know that you’re ready for whatever nature throws at you.

This knife boasts a full tang blade, meaning the blade doesn’t stop at the handle, it runs the full length of the knife. According to Gear Patrol, a full tang blade is key, saying “A full tang lends structural strength to the knife, allowing for better leverage ...think one long steel beam versus two.”

With our limited edition River Canyon Bowie Knife you’re getting the best in 21st-century construction with a classic look inspired by legendary American pioneers. What you won’t get is the trumped up price tag. We know a thing or two about the hunt–– like how to seek out and capture an outstanding, collector’s-quality knife that won’t cut into your bank account.

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

This quintessential knife can be yours to use out in the field or to display as the art piece it truly is. But don’t wait. A knife of this caliber typically cost hundreds. Priced at an amazing $49, we can’t guarantee this knife will stick around for long. So call today!

Your satisfaction is 100% guaranteed. Feel the knife in your hands, wear it on your hip, inspect the craftsmanship. If you don’t feel like we cut you a fair deal, send it back within 30 days for a complete refund of the sale price. But we believe that once you wrap your fingers around the River Canyon’s handle, you’ll be ready to carve your own niche into the wild frontier.

What customers are saying about Stauer knives...

HOLIDAY CHEERS!

Drinks for the season

Blueberry Mulled Wine

Recipe and photo courtesy of Live Eat Learn, via the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council.

Is there any cocktail more classic for the holidays than a mulled wine? Well, it’s time to twist it up! Add in your favorite fruit for a blueberry mulled wine recipe that’s sure to please a crowd. With all the spices you’d expect in a seasonal drink, this blueberry mulled wine will have you ready for the holidays in no time.

2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries

1/3 cup sugar

10 whole cloves

2 large cinnamon sticks

1 bottle (750 ml) dry red wine

Orange slices (optional)

Cinnamon sticks (optional)

In a saucepan over medium heat, combine blueberries and sugar. Cook until lightly simmering, approx. 5 minutes.

Puree blueberry mixture until smooth, then add in cloves and cinnamon. Continue lightly simmering for 20 minutes.

Pour wine into the pot and reduce heat to a very slow simmer (don’t boil), at least until wine is warm (simmer on low heat approx. 15 minutes to 3 hours). Strain before serving. Serve warm, optionally garnished with a slice of orange and a cinnamon stick. Serves 4.

NOTE: For a mocktail version, swap out red wine with grape juice.

Peanut Butter Hot Chocolate with Honey

Recipe and photo courtesy of the National Honey Board.

4 Tbsp honey

4 cups milk

4 Tbsp cocoa powder

4 Tbsp creamy peanut butter

Coconut Cream Honey Eggnog

Recipe and photo courtesy of the National Honey Board.

3 Tbsp honey 2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 cup coconut milk 2 egg yolks

1/2 cup condensed milk 1 cup rum (optional)

1 cup evaporated milk

Place the honey, three milks, cinnamon, and egg yolks in a blender and blend. Pour the mixture into a medium-sized saucepan and cook over low to medium heat for approx. 5 minutes. Add the rum and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and strain to eliminate any solid residue. Store the eggnog in the refrigerator for 5 to 8 hours before serving. Serves 4. NOTE: The rum may be omitted for a kid-friendly version.

Apple, Pineapple, and Honey Cider

Recipe and photo courtesy of the National Honey Board.

3 Tbsp honey

2 medium apples, chopped

1 cup pineapple, chopped

1 tsp ginger, grated

2 sticks cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

1/2 tsp cloves, ground

4 cups water

Place all ingredients in a medium-sized saucepan and heat over medium heat. Allow to boil for an hour. After an hour, test fruit with a fork; fruit should be very soft. Break the fruit apart with the fork to integrate the fruit’s pulp into the cider. Cook for another 15 minutes. Serve hot. Serves 4.

In a medium-sized saucepan, add milk and honey and heat over medium-high heat. When the mixture comes to a boil, add the cocoa powder. After cocoa dissolves, turn heat off and add the peanut butter. Stir the ingredients with frequent and quick strokes so that the peanut butter blends well and the hot chocolate reaches a creamy, thick consistency. Serve immediately. Serves 4.

Blueberry Ginger Toddy

Recipe and photo courtesy of Coley Cooks, via the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council.

Fresh ingredients are the star of this warm blueberry ginger toddy. It’s a holiday season craft cocktail perfect for sharing with a friend to warm up on a cold winter day. Fresh lemon, blueberries, and a hint of ginger give this blueberry ginger toddy a unique avor that will be hard to resist!

1/4 cup fresh blueberries, plus more for garnish

2 tsp freshly grated ginger

2 lemon wedges, plus 2 more for garnish

1/2 cup boiling water

2 oz bourbon (optional)

2 Tbsp honey

In the bottom of a teapot or heatproof pitcher, muddle blueberries, ginger, and lemon wedges. Pour boiling water over the top and let steep for 5 minutes. Measure one ounce of bourbon (optional) and one tablespoon of honey each into two glasses. Add strained blueberry mixture and divide between the glasses. Stir until honey is dissolved and garnish with a few blueberries and a lemon wedge. Serve immediately. Serves 2.

READER RECIPES

Pulled Chicken

RECIPE COURTESY OF KATELIN MAIDMENT, NEW AUBURN

This is my favorite slow-cooker pulled chicken recipe. It’s so easy to make and is lower in calories, fat, and sugar than traditional pulled pork.

5–6 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1 (18 oz) bottle sugar free BBQ sauce (or more—enough to cover all chicken breasts)

Grease slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. Add the chicken breasts into slow cooker, covering with BBQ sauce. Cook on LOW for 3–4 hours, until the chicken breasts are cooked through and shred easily with a fork. For frozen chicken breasts, cook 4–6 hours. Transfer cooked chicken to a large bowl and shred, using two forks. Add additional BBQ sauce, if needed, and transfer back to the slow cooker on WARM setting to serve.

REQUESTS FROM OUR READERS

An online reader is looking for “bark candy” or nut-brittle recipes.

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

BBQ Hamburger

RECIPE COURTESY OF DIANNE WILKE

This is a 4th generation secret BBQ hamburger recipe. I usually make it in 3-pound batches but have made it in 12-pound batches with the same results, and it can be frozen with the same avor. Be aware of notes at the end. This recipe is old and bottle contents have changed. Hope this will work well for your needs. Our family loves it and often takes containers to go.

3 lbs ground beef 1 onion, diced 1 green pepper, diced 24 oz spicy ketchup, if available, original otherwise 1 Tbsp dry mustard 3 Tbsp sugar 3 Tbsp white vinegar  12 oz prepared BBQ sauce

Brown beef in large pot. Add remaining ingredients except BBQ sauce. Stir and simmer 1 hour. Add BBQ sauce and cook for another hour.  Serve on hamburger buns.

NOTES: When this recipe was originally made, ketchup only came in 12-ounce bottles. Brooks ketchup is a spicy blend and I can only nd it online, so use what you have available. The BBQ sauce available at the time was Open Pit, so we used half of a 24-ounce bottle. Very good if made the day before. I have tried the current, o -theshelf brand of spicy ketchup and it is not the same as Brooks brand.

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.

Lazy Day Overnight Lasagna

RECIPE COURTESY OF JUDY STONEY, CLINTON

1-1/2 lbs ground beef 32 oz spaghetti sauce 1 cup water

15 oz ricotta cheese 1/2 tsp oregano 1 egg

8 oz uncooked lasagna noodles 16 oz shredded mozzarella cheese 2–3 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

Brown the beef; drain well. Add spaghetti sauce and water. Blend well and simmer ve minutes. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, orgeano, and egg. In the bottom of a 9-x13-inch pan, spread 1-1/2 cups meat sauce, top with noodles, half of ricotta cheese mixture, and half of mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers and top with remaining meat mixture. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Cover and refrigerate overnight. To cook, bake uncovered at 350 degrees for 35–40 minutes until lightly browned. Let stand 10 minutes before cutting. Serves 12.

Italian Beef with Au Jus

RECIPE COURTESY OF JUDY STONEY, CLINTON

3–5 lbs boneless sirloin tip 1 (1 oz) pkg au jus mix 1 (7 oz) pkg Italian salad dressing mix 1 (14.5 oz) can beef broth

Place sirloin tip in a slow cooker. Combine remaining ingredients and pour over sirloin. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 hours. Slice or shred with two forks and serve on French bread rolls. Makes 8–10 servings.

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

RECIPE COURTESY OF JUDY STONEY, CLINTON

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

4 chicken breast halves

4 Tbsp Italian seasoned breadcrumbs

Combine mayonnaise with Parmesan cheese. Arrange chicken on a baking sheet and top with mayonnaise mixture. Sprinkle tops of chicken with breadcrumbs. Bake at 425 degrees for 20 minutes. Serves 4

ROTARY LIGHTS IN THE PARK

SMALL CITY PUTS ON BIG HOLIDAY SHOW THANKS TO COMMUNITY SUPPORT

If you’re looking to brighten up your holiday season, one surefire way to do that is to take a stroll—or a drive—through Rotary Lights in the Park at Krouskop Park in Richland Center. It’s not just the cheerful displays that will fill you with holiday spirit, although the sparkling lights that cover the show area from Thanksgiving Eve to New Year’s Eve will certainly do the trick. You’ll also feel the warmth of the community embrace that enables the small city of Richland Center (population 5,100) to put on a holiday light show of this magnitude, which last year drew more than 14,000 visitors from all over southwest Wisconsin and beyond.

“We wouldn’t be able to do this unless we had the volunteers in the community,” said Dottie Behling, a

longtime Rotary Club member and chair of Rotary Lights in the Park. “Our Rotary Club isn’t big enough for us to do this all by ourselves. So volunteers assist with repairing, building, and assembling displays from February through October. November 1 show set up begins. During the show other volunteers will come in and work evenings when we have the lights on and people are coming through.”

Among those volunteers are employees and directors of Richland Electric Cooperative, who staff the event for a night during its monthlong run. Richland Electric is also among the area businesses and organizations that sponsor a decorated Christmas tree at the park.

Visitors are just as generous as the

sponsors and volunteers. Because of the community support, the Rotary Club is able to offer the holiday light display to the public for free. Instead of charging admission to walk or drive through the brightly lit park, the club accepts donations to the Richland Community Food Pantry from anyone who wants to contribute. At last year’s event, the club collected 6,373 non-perishable food items and almost $4,500 in cash donations for the food pantry.

Winter Wonderland

For the price of an optional foodpantry donation, guests are treated to a spectacular scene of holiday cheer, lit up solely with energy-saving LED bulbs. The grand centerpiece of the show is a 45-foot tree with 29,000 flashing lights

Facing page and below left: Towering over all the displays at Krouskop Park is the 45-foot tree made of 29,000 ashing lights that change patterns to music. Below, right: Richland Electric Cooperative employees and directors volunteer an evening to sta the Rotary Lights in the Park each year. This year, REC’s volunteer night is December 7. In addition to volunteering, Richland Electric supports the show monetarily, having donated $5,000 since the show began 11 years ago.

History of Holiday Electric Lighting

1895: President Grover

1903: General Electric sold the rst pre-assembled string of Christmas lights, but at a cost of $12 per set—that’s well over $300 in today’s dollars—they were an extravagance only the very wealthy could a ord.

1919: General Electric introduced the ame-shaped MAZDA lamp. Over the next two decades innovations in design and production made string lights more a ordable and accessible.

1946: Bubble lights were introduced in the United States by NOMA Electric Company. These lights contained a liquid that was heated to the point where it would bubble visibly through the plastic casing (pictured above).

1950s: The rst aluminum Christmas trees, illuminated with a plug-in color wheel, were manufactured in Chicago. Tom Gannon, toy sales manager for Aluminum Specialty in Manitowoc, noticed a metal Christmas tree in a Chicago Ben Franklin store in 1958 and brought the idea back to his own company, which produced a commercially viable version for display at the American Toy Fair in 1959.

1966: General Electric introduced the Merry Midget mini lights, which were smaller, cheaper, and more outdoor-friendly, leading to a burst of outdoor holiday lighting.

1998: LED Christmas lights hit the commercial market, changing the game of holiday lighting. LED lights use up to 75 percent less energy than incandescent holiday lights and last up to 25 times longer. Also, LED lights eliminate the long-frustrating issue of “one goes out, they all go out.”

2006: The Capitol Christmas tree was illuminated by all LED lights for the rst time. The famous Rockefeller Center Christmas tree followed suit the following year.

Sources: Smithsonian Magazine; Christmas Light Source, Wisconsin Historical Society; U.S. Department of Energy

that change patterns in sync with the holiday music that’s piped through the park. There’s also a lane of decorated Christmas trees reflecting the businesses and organizations that sponsor them, another portion of trees decorated in memory of loved ones, a tunnel of arches that light up to music in alternating patterns, and a patriotic tribute featuring military emblems, silhouettes, and a big American flag.

The many jolly animated displays—121 of them at last count—include a snowman on skis and a mouse on a sled sliding down a hill; a Ferris wheel with candy cane seats turning round and round; a fire-breathing dragon; and a farm scene complete with reindeer peeking through the windows of a little red barn, a red tractor pulling a wagon of Christmas trees, and an old-fashioned windmill with blades spinning.

New for 2022

Rotary Lights in the Park at Richland Center has been growing and evolving since the event was first launched in 2011, so repeat visitors always see something new.

Heading up the grounds crew for the event are Rotary Club members Keith Behling and Richard Wastlick, who work year-round acquiring and building new displays as well as maintaining existing ones. They also oversee display setup at the park, which begins in early November, as well as display breakdown after the holiday season is over. “Without them the show wouldn’t go on,” Dottie Behling pointed out.

For the 2022 season, Keith Behling said the club is introducing 11 new elements. Among the new animated features is a 13foot carousel that rotates, a streetcar with turning wheels, a green tractor with Santa Claus riding in it, a horse-drawn carriage, a

1882: Edward Johnson, friend and business partner of Thomas Edison, hand-wired pear-shaped lights in red, white, and blue around a rotating Christmas tree at his home in New York and invited the press to see it. The tree attracted attention, but it was just a novelty and a means of promoting electrical power.

Cleveland used electric bulbs to light up a Christmas tree in the White House for the rst time.

pair of gingerbread figures playing on a teeter-totter, a jack-in-the-box, and a bear with penguins sliding down its back.

“We’re also adding eight race cars all put together in one display,” Behling said. “There will be two different rows of those cars with four in each row, and they’ll be on sequence controls so it looks like they’re racing.”

And as always, some of the existing favorites have been tweaked. Behling said the sledding mouse mentioned earlier will now be sliding down a hill through an 8-foot hoop of “fire” that’s been added to the scene.

“We keep adding displays to keep people’s interest in our show,” Behling said. “Maybe we will fill up the show section of the park.”

Walk or Drive

Rotary Lights in the Park opens on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving— November 23—and is open every evening through New Year’s Eve. It’s open to walkers only from 6 to 6:50 p.m., and then for vehicle drive-through only from 7 to 9 p.m.

“The best way to see it, if you’re capable, is walking through,” Behling advised, “and if you’re going to do that it’s best you come as close to 6 as possible so you have plenty of time to stop and look and take in everything that’s there.”

Behling added that those who choose to walk through should enter from WI Hwy 80 into the north parking lot by the athletic fields and walk across the footbridge lit with blue lights to the show entrance. Drive-through entry is via North Jefferson St.

Whether you walk or drive, a trip through the Rotary Lights in the Park is sure to make your holidays merry and bright.—Mary Erickson

Rotary Lights in the Park is located at Krouskop Park, 1050 Orange St., Richland Center WI 53581. It’s open Wednesday, November 23, through Saturday, December 31, from 6 to 9 p.m., with walk-through traffic only from 6 to 6:50 p.m. and drive-through traffic only from 7 to 9 p.m. For more information, visit richlandcountyrotaryclub.com.

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

WANTED: DEER TAGS, back tags. Trapping, bear, hunting licenses. Otter, bobcat, sher tags. Old traps. David Schober, W4234 Rock Creek Rd., Loyal, WI 54446. 715-255-9284.

CHAINSAWS WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE. Buying 1 or 100 McCulloch, Pioneer, Jonsereds, Echo, STIHL, Homelite, Remington, Mall. Buying all brands and sizes. Non-running, running, seized, parts. Let me know what you have—will travel. Call Chainsaw Mike at 715-828-9414.

SEPTIC PROBLEMS: Do you have standing water on your drain eld? Have you been told you need a new expensive septic system? I have an alternative that works, also comes with a warranty (no digging). Call toll free 855-797-6072 or email mmtagm@ yahoo.com.

OLD MOVIES TO DVD—Transferring 8mm, VHS, slides, and all formats. Saving family memories! Special on now! DVD Productions. Gene 715-827-2302.

COLLECTOR LOOKING FOR ANTIQUE OR HAND-MADE LARGE TRAPS. For sale: smaller trapping traps. 715-563-6658.

WANTED: OLD BEER CANS AND BOTTLES. Let me know what you have. 715-8289414 Willing to travel. Paying cash.

HARDWOOD AND CONIFER SEEDLINGS AND TRANSPLANTS. Thousands available, Oaks, Maples, Poplar, Hickory, Milkweed, Brown Eyed Susan Dogwoods, Ninebark, Cranberry, Balsam Fir, Fraser Fir, Spruce, Pine, Cedar, Food plot and grafted apple trees too, large bareroot shade trees including Autumn Blaze. Check us out on the web at www.paintcreeknursery.com, Facebook and YouTube also. Paint Creek Nursery, Cadott, WI 715-723-2072.

FOR SALE: NEW GARAGE DOORS. HAAS Insulated 770 raised panel with prairie view glass. R-Value 16.8. Almond color. All hardware included. 9’-x 8’-x 1-1/2” thick. Waukesha County. Call 262-751-0297.

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.

POWERING YOUR COMMUNITY

There’s power in the simplest of actions, like one neighbor helping another. Where everybody looks out for everybody else. Community is everything to your electric cooperative. We’re grateful for your trust to provide energy you need, giving you the power to power on.

YOUR SOURCE FOR POWER. AND INFORMATION.

1–3 Gingerbread House Decorating Contest— Alma. Wings Over Alma Nature and Art Center, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. There are two categories for kids and adults in 2022. All entries will be voted on by visitors who stop by Wings Over Alma from Dec. 1–3. Prizes will be awarded to the best-dressed gingerbread houses. Details at www.wingsoveralma.org.

1–20 Jolly Jingle Shop Local Promo—Platteville. Downtown Platteville, all day. For every $10 you spend at select stores, you will earn a ticket to be drawn for prizes! Make sure to save your receipts and bring them into the Chamber of Commerce office to fill out your ticket. Weekly drawings will be done as well as a grand prize drawing.

1–21 Holiday Show and Glassblowing Demos— Brule. Oulu Glass Gallery, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Free admission. Holiday show and glassblowing demos every day. Come to shop or take a class in glassblowing. Follow current Covid rules. One hour north of Hayward, between Ashland and Superior. For more info, 715-372-4160.

2, 3 Christmas Sale with Porch Pot Supplies— Eau Claire. Plymouth UCC Church, Fri., 3–7 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.–3 p.m. Get a start on your Christmas shopping here and buy local. For more info, contact Lyn at 715-579-6557.

2, 3 Winter Wonderland— Platteville. Katie’s Garden | Platteville Chamber & Visitor Center (275 W Business Highway 151), 5–8 p.m. Come for a fun family event, enjoy the displays in Katie’s Garden, and see Santa and all the helpers! Displays will be up until Jan. 1.

2, 9, 16 Hometown Friday Nights—Platteville. Downtown, 4–8 p.m. Enjoy shopping, horse-drawn carriage rides, and so much more on these nights! Every night has a different activity happening. Make sure to check www.platteville.com, to keep up to date!

3 Holiday Happenings—La Farge. Kickapoo Valley Reserve, 1–6 p.m. Cookie walk, Clive evergreen wreath sale, soup and salad meals, and the announcement of the annual photo contest winners. Entertainment will be provided by local groups including the La Farge band, Pam Hughes String Students, Piano Man Steve Hall, and Whiskey Chicken. The new enhanced Discovery Center will be open for self-guided tours. See the brand-new displays about the Kickapoo area and enjoy the night sky exhibit.

3 Christmas In Alma—Alma. Visit all the Main Street shops for Christmas specials, and to see and vote for best decorated window. St. John’s Lutheran Church is having their Christmas Bazaar, including a bake sale, basket raffle, craft sale, silent auction, and lunch. The Christkindl Market Shop Hop, 10 a.m.–3 p.m., includes a merchant basket giveaway. Pick up an info card with participating merchants, get it stamped at each shop, and when complete, submit it for the basket drawing. Visit inside designated festively decorated homes and businesses during the late afternoon Christmas walk from 3–7 p.m., $10 donation. For detailed info, visit www.almawisconsin.org.

3 Second Chapter Christmas Sale—Cable. United Church of Christ Fellowship Hall, adjacent to the parking lot, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Sale of gently used items including decorations, linens, dishes, and books will not be priced but will be available with a free-will donation. For more info, please phone the church at 715-798-3066.

3 Christmas Bazaar—Chippewa Falls. Faith Lutheran Church, 9 a.m.–12 p.m. Featuring baked goods with lots of Christmas cookies, white elephant table, homemade noodles, and crafts.

3 Christmas Bazaar—Plainfield. St. Paul Catholic Church, 9 a.m.–2 p.m. Crafts, in-house raffles including a signed packer football, delicious lunch, Delores’s nook, and homemade bakery.

3 A Dickens of a Christmas! Dinner Theater—Iron River. White Winter Winery, 6–9 p.m. A thought provoking and humorous rendition of Charles Dickens’ classic, A Christmas Carol. Information and tickets online at www.whitewinter.com.

4 Santa Breakfast—Elroy. American Legion Post 115, 8:30–11 a.m. Get your photo with Santa, and enjoy a pancake breakfast. Cost is $6 a plate, kids 8 and under are free.

4 Barbershop Chorus Concert—Colfax. Elementary School, 2–4 p.m. Red Cedar Sounds Barbershop Chorus will be performing. There will be raffles for a handmade patriotic quilt and several baskets. Free will offering or $5 suggested admission. Light refreshments will be served. For more info, contact Cathy at 715-308-0927.

7 Red Cross Blood Drive—Iola. Iola-Scandinavia Aquatic & Fitness Center, 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Masks optional. Please pre-register at www.redcrossblood.org.

9 Hometown Christmas—Tomahawk. Downtown area, 4–7:30 p.m. Join us for a magical Christmas event! UTV/ ATV parade starts at 4:30 p.m. and live window displays start at 5 p.m.

10 Cookie Walk—Bowler. Grace Bible Church, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Walk through and purchase your Christmas cookies from our great selection. Sold by the pound unless previously marked.

14 Taste of Tilden—Chippewa Falls. St. Peter the Apostle Church, 3:30–5:30 p.m. Fresh homemade goodies for Christmas featuring homemade noodles, dumplings, cookies, candy, homemade soaps, and more. Dumplings may be ordered ahead by calling Peggy at 715-577-6138. Free hot chocolate, coffee, and snacks. Handicap accessible. For updates on the event, check the St. Peter’s Christian Mothers’ Society Facebook page.

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

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.

1. Landon and Max the goldendoodle are Packers backers. Photo submitted by Millissa Larson, a member of Chippewa Valley Electric.

2. Lydia loves when Chief comes to visit. Photo submitted by Janice Hep er, a member of Eau Claire Energy.

3. Brantley thinks it’s all fun and games until someone gets licked. Photo submitted by Erica Beilke, a member of Central Wisconsin Electric.

4. Arianna loved grandma’s bunnies. Photo submitted by Grandma Toni Cleasby, a member of Riverland Energy.

5. Evy meets a newborn calf at grandma’s farm. Photo submitted by Karla Yanske, from Vernon Electric.

6. Evelyn shares cookies with Myles the dog. Photo submitted by Grandma Barb Wilke, a member of Price Electric.

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

As tempting as it may be to add just one more string of lights to the tree, don’t do it if it means overloading your outlet. Overloaded outlets are the number-one cause of electrical res during the holiday season.

Don’t connect more than three incandescent holiday light strings together. That can overheat the wire, creating a re hazard. Better yet, use LED lights that stay cool and are long-lasting. Make sure extension cords are properly rated for their use.