Since 1940
December 2023
EVERGLEAM,
EVER HOPEFUL
MAKING HISTORY, FILLING A NEED ENERGYSAVING GADGETS AND GIZMOS MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: LOWES CREEK TREE FARM
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CONTENTS December 2023 Vol. 84 No. 6
10 Making History, Filling a Need
The Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News (Formerly Wisconsin R.E.C. News) has been published monthly and distributed since July 1940 to members of Wisconsin’s non-profit, consumer-owned rural electric cooperatives. It is available to non-members for $13 per year or $35 for three years. Members pay $6.93 per year.
Vernon Electric Cooperative’s “solar for all” Bluff Prairie project follows Wisconsin’s tradition of leadership
Published by the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102 Middleton, WI 53562-2200. Steve Freese, president & CEO.
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Gadgets 13 Energy-Saving and Gizmos Four tips for getting the right smart technologies for under the tree
USPS number: 688-480. Postmaster: please send address changes to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102 Middleton, WI 53562-2200.
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Periodicals postage paid at Sun Prairie, Wis.
24 Wisconsin Favorites
Enjoy some old-world holiday fun at Sparta’s award-winning outdoor Christmas market
Send correspondence to Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102, Middleton, WI 53562-2200. Phone (608) 467-4650.
31 Kids & Critters
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 Dana Kelroy Mary Erickson Julie Lund Ann Bailey Geri Miller Jennifer Taylor
WECA president & CEO editor associate editor contributing writer graphic designer advertising consultant editorial assistant
For advertising opportunities please email geri@weca.coop. The appearance of advertising or events does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. We reserve the right to refuse advertisers.
Enjoy the best of 2023’s cute co-op kids and critters
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Join us on
On the cover: Wishing you all a merry and bright holiday season with Steve Freese’s Evergleam tree. More on page 8.
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
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NEWS BRIEFS
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MESSAGE FROM THE CEO
15 MY CO-OP 20 RECIPES 22 READER RECIPES 27 EVENTS 28 CLASSIFIEDS
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SYMBOL SEARCH HIDDEN OBJECT GAME
OUR GIFT
TO YOU
Finding our November symbol was Heather Schneider, a member of Rock Energy Cooperative. Heather said, “There is a TINY pie on page 31. It is on the orange lightning bolt to the left of the people, just above the purple word Energy. We’ve entered a bunch but haven’t won. My 11-year-old loves doing this each month and would love to win this one as it is his birthday in November!” Now, we challenge you to find this olive, like the ones found in our recipes this month. 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 12.
Enter via the “Symbol Search” link on the homepage of wecnmagazine.com. You can also enter by mail (don’t forget to include the name of your cooperative):
SYMBOL SEARCH WECA 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102 Middleton, WI 53562-2200
Icy Morning Amy Krumenauer, Jump River Electric
W
hile being the editor of a statewide electric cooperative publication may seem pretty glamorous (ha), it’s not all “kitchen kits” and “kids and critters.” But the good outweighs the bad, and I’m supremely lucky to be able to work with staff and directors from electric cooperatives across Wisconsin. In the hustle and bustle of the holidays, it is important to take a step back and really be thankful for the simple things. When working on this issue of this publication, I had a moment of gratitude for my job—specifically, when we were combing through the submissions for our Favorite View Photo Contest. First was the gratitude for this beautiful state we live in. Flipping through the photo submissions was a reminder that we are surrounded by beauty, often right outside our kitchen windows. Second was the gratitude that looking through beautiful pictures is part of my job, though it wasn’t as easy as it sounds. My colleagues and I struggled to pick a winner. But this image, titled “Icy Morning” and submitted by Amy Krumenauer from Jump River Electric Cooperative, was our favorite. Amy wins a Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News kitchen kit for her submission of the Flambeau River starting to freeze. So as our gift to you, our readers, please enjoy these contest submissions on the next page. Wishing you health and happiness this holiday season!
Dana Kelroy Editor
Good luck! 4
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Camp Luther at Three Lakes
Fall Colors of Round Lake
Pam Pfankuch, Eau Claire Energy
Aaron Conner, Jump River Electric
Sun Setting on Farm
Christina Benson, Scenic Rivers
Tower Ridge Ski Trail
Barton G., Eau Claire Energy Cooperative
Around the Bend
Laura Hannan, Oakdale Electric
Mom’s Road
Melody Behringer, Riverland Energy
Winter Pasture
Tim Bliek, Eau Claire Energy
Brighter Days After the Storm
Samantha Maaske, Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services
Sunflowers
Joclynn Paris Kudzinski, Oakdale Electric wecnmagazine.com
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NEWS BRIEFS AWARDS RECOGNIZE CO-OP SERVICE
Winning recognition last month for distinguished service to Wisconsin’s electric cooperatives were (l–r) Wendy Fassbind, Dallas Sloan, and Liz Gunderson. Fassbind was honored with the 2023 Herman C. Potthast Award for outstanding service, dedication, leadership, and cooperation with an emphasis on safety. The Job Training & Safety (JT&S) Committee selected Fassbind, who has been with the statewide for nearly 23 years and has been instrumental in growing and expanding WECA education and safety program offerings. Sloan, former head of Barron Electric Cooperative, accepted the 2023 Ally of Cooperative Electrification (ACE) award, WECA’s highest honor. Finally, Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services and local pages editor Liz Gunderson were honored with the 2023 N.F. Leifer Memorial Journalism Award, bestowed upon the co-op adjudged to have had the strongest overall local pages in the Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News over the previous 12 months. This is Pierce Pepin’s first-ever Leifer award since the local pages contest was established in 1966. The awards were presented on November 8 at the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association annual meeting in Eau Claire.
ASSOCIATION PICKS NEW LEADERSHIP TEAM
The executive committee of the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association (WECA), elected at the organization’s November annual meeting in Eau Claire, includes (front row, l–r) Dan Hillberry, Richland Electric Cooperative, board chair; Karen Newbury, Price Electric Cooperative, board vice chair; (back row, l–r) Craig Buros, Vernon Electric Cooperative; Barb Miller, Rock Energy Cooperative; and Steve Johnson, Chippewa Valley Electric Cooperative, board secretary/treasurer. Also serving as directors are Monica Obrycki, Eau Claire Energy Cooperative; Roger Wiff, Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services; Justin Jahnz, East Central Energy; Cindy Thorman, Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative; Robert Cornell, Washington Island Electric Cooperative; Al Jicinsky, Clark Electric Cooperative; and Les Dokkestul, Jackson Electric Cooperative. 6
ANIBAS ELECTED TO NRECA BOARD
Judy Anibas, former WECA board member and chair, and Eau Claire Energy Cooperative director since 2009, was elected to represent Wisconsin on the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) board of directors. Anibas and Ken Ceaglske, president and CEO of Taylor Electric Cooperative, ran for the seat that was vacated by Chuck Simmons. “These are exciting and challenging times for the electric cooperative world. I’m up for the challenge. I’m committed to advocate for Wisconsin. I’m invested and I’m proud to be able to serve on the national board for you,” said Anibas.
FOUNDATION INVESTMENTS REBOUND, BOARD FILLED
The Federated Youth Foundation (FYF), the charitable arm of Wisconsin’s cooperative businesses, awarded 665 college scholarships totaling just over $797,000 and made 753 charitable distributions totaling $441,000 in 2023, according to reports at the group’s annual meeting. Held in conjunction with the WECA annual meeting in Eau Claire, FYF reported member contributions came in at $1.459 million. Due to more favorable market conditions, FYF saw an unrealized gain on investment of $288,339, an increase of $1.02 million over last year. Eau Claire Energy Cooperative CEO Monica Obrycki and Vernon Electric Cooperative Manager of Member Services Trevor Clark were both elected unanimously to fill two open board seats. The organization’s philanthropic activities are financed with unclaimed capital credits, which may be donated by any cooperative business operating within Wisconsin.
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MESSAGE from the CEO
A
EVERGLEAM, EVER HOPEFUL
s I prepare for Christmas and Hanukkah, I can’t help but reflect on the path I have been on since this time last year when dealing with my cancer journey. I have shared my challenges with you in past columns, and I must tell you how blessed I feel that prayers and medicine have Steve Freese created a miracle for me. President and CEO Just four days before Christmas, I will mark my first anniversary of finishing 12 rounds of chemotherapy to combat stage 4 colon cancer, along with lung, lymph glands, and liver cancer. If you ever wondered if miracles really happen, I can tell you I believe they do, and I am a living example of one that is in progress. Since I finished my treatments, my doctor has been monitoring me closely with blood tests and CT scans that show the cancer is now almost undetectable. What this journey has done is reinforce how important family, faith, and friends have really been. My faith has been an absolute anchor for me, along with my family and friends, which includes so many in our cooperative family. The support I received shows the very best humanity has to offer and helped me get to this Christmas when I didn’t expect to get to last Christmas. This journey also has me reflecting on my family’s Christmas celebration traditions. As always, I look forward to my family getting together to help decorate my home on the farm. The cookie and candy making, along with the special meals for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, will bring my family together for some very special moments. I shared some recipes in past December issues that have been my favorites and our family’s traditions for many years. This year, I will add a new tradition to our family decorating. I remember back in the 1960s, my Mom’s twin sister had one of those unbelievable modern (at the time) trees that were made entirely out of aluminum. The Aluminum Specialty Company of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, made this tree called the Evergleam. I have been searching for a four-foot one for years and finally found one at an estate sale. My kids won’t know what to think with Dad’s new space-aged tree! Next March 17, will mark the 150th anniversary of my Great-Great-Grandparents Henry and Adeline Freese buying the farm that my family and I still live on and own to this day. 8
Steve Freese sits with his new (to him) 1960s Evergleam Aluminum Christmas Tree. In the photo behind him, his Grandfather Henry Freese looks over his shoulder while hauling corn in a horse-drawn wagon.
2024 will also mark the 175th anniversary of the founding of my hometown, the Town of Jamestown, where I serve as the town chairman. I am looking forward to the celebrations of life and community that will happen next year. I hope you and your family have a wonderful holiday season, and remember to keep your faith, family, and friends close because they will help you get through the toughest of times. EDITOR’S NOTE: Unfortunately, after submitting this column for print, Steve found out that his cancer had returned. He sees this merely as a setback and is hopeful and in good spirits, but we ask that you continue to keep him in your prayers.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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Photo courtesy of Trevor Clark, manager of communications and member relations, VEC
MAKING HISTORY,
FILLING A NEED T
VERNON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE’S ‘SOLAR FOR ALL’ BLUFF PRAIRIE PROJECT FOLLOWS WISCONSIN’S TRADITION OF LEADERSHIP
here is a first time for everything, and in the electric cooperative world, that first often comes with Wisconsin. Almost a century ago, when electric cooperatives were still forming under the newly created Rural Electrification Administration, local leaders in the Badger state got together to create the Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association (WECA) to help coordinate efforts. It was the launch of the first association of its kind in the nation. The year was 1936. (There are now 39 statewide associations.) Before long, some for-profit utilities launched an effort to block electric cooperative systems, which included negative propaganda aimed at turning members away. Recognizing the value of a coordinated communications effort, WECA created this monthly magazine for electric cooperative members, another first of its kind.
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In the years that followed, Wisconsin’s statewide earned a reputation for leadership and innovation as it worked to fill the needs that arose for members. Wisconsin founded the insurance company that serves most electric co-ops in the country and organized a purchasing co-op to ensure electric co-ops have access to the supplies and equipment they need at the best prices. Wisconsin’s electric cooperatives have also led the way in clean energy innovations. In 2014, Vernon Electric offered its members the opportunity to participate in the first community solar array in the state. At a cost of $600 per member, the 1,001-panel array sold out in just two weeks. Members see the benefits in the form of solar output credits on their electric bills for the life of the panels, but the up-front cost excluded Vernon’s many lower-income households from participating.
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FEATURE
Top row, left: Vernon Electric General Manager/CEO Craig Buros addresses the crowd saying, “We can do some some great things working together.” Top row, right: Four area news stations as well as Wisconsin Public Radio were on hand to cover the historymaking project. Above left: Among the distinguished guests were Governor Tony Evers, Senator Brad Pfaff, and Representative Loren Oldenburg, who joined members of the Vernon Electric Cooperative Board of Directors in cutting the ribbon. Front row, left to right, are VEC Director James Goodman, Board President Bernadine Hornby, Buros, Evers, Pfaff, and Oldenburg. Back row, left to right, are VEC Directors Jerry Kramer, Richard Nemec, Michael Paulsrud, Orlan Bakkum, Daniel Giese, Dan Korn, and Ole Yttri. Above right: Evers praised the project as “something that benefits everyone.”
Vernon Electric General Manager and CEO Craig Buros says they saw the need and have been waiting for the right opportunity. The Bluff Prairie Community Solar plan works for all members. “My goal has always been to develop a project that was cost-neutral. We have members who struggled to pay their monthly bill, let alone be able to pay extra for
solar,” Buros explained. Recognizing the strength and savings in numbers, Vernon Electric signed an agreement to work together with nine other electric cooperatives in the state—basically to buy solar in bulk. “So instead of going out for pricing for this 1.5-megawatt project, we were able to go out and get pricing for
12 projects at 22 megawatts,” he explained. Seeking to be more inclusive, Vernon Electric Cooperative members can buy into the 3,276-panel solar array at just $50 per panel per year, with an estimated annual credit of $56, a savings of more than 10%. (By contrast, Vernon can use 60% of the solar array for community solar, and wecnmagazine.com
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The 3.276 panel array includes state-of-the-art solar panels that operate on a tracking system to follow the path of the sun for maximum power generation. Thanks to partnerships, a portion of the solar project will serve low-income members.
the other 40% is committed to the co-op’s wholesale power supplier, Dairyland Power Cooperative.) Vernon Electric had a plan for “solar for most” that was about to become “solar for all.” While the Bluff Prairie Community Solar project was still in its infancy, Couleecap Community Action Agency Executive Director Hetti Brown and her team sought ways to help make clean energy more affordable for lower-income households. The organization works to fight poverty in Vernon, La Crosse, Monroe, and Crawford counties. “We know lower-income members have a strong interest in clean energy and solar, but the cost is a barrier,” Brown told the crowd gathered near the Bluff Prairie project in Red Mound for a ribbon-cutting ceremony in the fall. “A little-known fact is that poverty burdens households in Vernon County, where some people here and in surrounding counties pay about 15-30% of their income on energy bills. And this is not a burden that can be managed by asking a household to budget differently or save more. This has to be addressed through infrastructural changes.” Armed with an idea for low-income community solar and the drive to make it happen, Brown went to the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin’s Office of Energy Innovation. Director Joe Pater took the idea from the commissioners and secured a grant. Now, all they needed was a utility to work with them. “And then we reached out to our friends at Vernon Electric Cooperative because we know they are forwardthinking, and well, they like to be first,” Brown said at the Bluff Prairie launch, with a solar-filled field of dreams over 12
her shoulder. “And now we stand here today launching a significant project, which is, I believe, the first of its kind in Wisconsin. Today marks a significant achievement in our fight against energy poverty.” The rest is, well, more history in the making, thanks to the three-way partnership between the state of Wisconsin, a non-profit community action agency, and a local electric cooperative. Under the newly formed “Energize Wisconsin” program, using the grant funds from the state, Couleecap will buy into the Bluff Prairie solar project as a proxy bulk subscriber, and Vernon Electric will allocate the benefits to low-income households with the highest energy burden, at no cost to them. “It really is solar for all,” Buros said. “It’s pretty amazing, and I think we have a good story to tell here. This should be an example of what we can do when organizations come together with common interest and work to achieve the best outcome for all.” While this is a first, it’s not the last project of its kind in the works. Pater says they split the grant they secured into two parts and are working with Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services on a similar project. “Some of the details will be different, but our goal is to have the same kind of impact,” he said. Speaking under overcast skies amid a chilly mist at the Bluff Prairie ribbon-cutting, Governor Tony Evers said, “It’s a beautiful day every time you’re in the Coulee Region, but this a special one because these folks are really doing something extraordinary. This is something that benefits everyone.” It’s also one more first. But who’s counting.—Julie Lund
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FEATURE
When it comes to cool new technology, many consumers are turning to smart home devices that offer convenience as well as other benefits, including energy savings. Smart home technologies allow you to sync devices throughout your home, offering greater control and convenience. Smart lights allow you to manage home lighting from anywhere, anytime.
ENERGY-SAVING GADGETS AND GIZMOS
Four tips for getting the right smart technologies for under the tree
W
ith the holidays approaching, shoppers will soon be eyeing an abundance of devices and gadgets to gift friends and loved ones—or to buy for themselves. When it comes to cool new technology, many consumers are turning to smart home devices that offer convenience as well as other benefits, including one oftenoverlooked perk: energy savings. With so many options available, choosing the best tech for your needs can be overwhelming. Here are four tips to help you determine the right smart home technologies for your home.
1. Ask yourself how smart you want your home to be. Smart plugs, energy-use apps, and home monitors are cool devices that can help you save energy. But to make the most of them, it helps to understand how they work. Before you invest your time and money, ask yourself, how much technology do you want? What are your habits when it comes to setting up and using the latest development? If you like to tinker, an energy app on your phone could be fun and help you save money. But as electronics get smarter, even non-tech savvy people are finding them easier to use.
2. Get the most bang for your buck. The most frequentlyrecommended energy saving device is a smart thermostat. And that makes sense, because the thermostat controls your heating and cooling, which account for the most energy consumption in your home. Smart thermostats can do things like program an energy schedule to adjust the heating or cooling when you’re sleeping or out of the house during the day. Additional smart thermostat features include detecting movement in a room to adjust energy use, learning your daily habits, responding to voice commands and
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tracking the weather. Renters might even be able to convince a landlord to pay for an energy-saving smart thermostat. If you have a heat pump, you could benefit by contacting your electric co-op before using a smart thermostat. Lowering the temperature too much when you’re not home could result in switching to more expensive auxiliary heat to bring the house back to room temperature. Other devices that can produce energy savings for minimal cost and effort include smart light bulbs, outlets, and charging stations.
GO ELEC TRIC! From eco-friendly thermostats to energy efficient lighting systems for your business, technology is making everything smarter. Good thing your Touchstone Energy Cooperative® can help you make smarter work harder. Today there are more ways than ever to make your world more energy efficient, and we can show you how. Take the next step to go electric and put the power of your co-op to work for you. Your source for power. And information. WWW.TOUCHSTONEENERGY.COM
3. Determine your energy-saving goals. A home energy monitor is one way to save on electricity, and the range of choices means you’ll need to ask how much you’re willing to pay and if it’s worthwhile. One study found that spending about $1,800 on a full home, commercially installed energy monitor could save about 16% on electric bills and pay for itself in 10–15 years. Much less ambitious approaches involve downloading an app on your phone so you can keep track of your electricity use, and even turn smart appliances on and off when you’re away. 4. Do a simple energy checkup. Take a walk through your home with the intention of identifying everything that uses electricity. You’ll likely notice a lot of functions that could be managed with smart devices. If your phone sits plugged in long after it’s charged, smart power strips and smart outlets can stop the electricity use when the battery is at 100%. Smart light bulbs can be controlled with an app on your phone, saving energy and giving your home that lived-in look when you’re away. Ceiling fans can now adjust themselves for the best air flow depending on the temperature. Motion detectors can turn indoor lights on and off when you enter or leave a room, and even solar-powered outdoor lights can detect when you’re approaching and light the way. With just a little planning, you can make sure this gift-giving season is merry, bright––and smart. Paul Wesslund writes on consumer and cooperative affairs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, the national trade association representing more than 900 local electric cooperatives. From growing suburbs to remote farming communities, electric co-ops serve as engines of economic development for 42 million Americans across 56% of the nation’s landscape.
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SAFELY Jingle ALL THE WAY
T
he winter holiday season is a busy time of year for many of us. Along with putting out decorations and baking cookies, we often spend more time in our cars than usual: shopping for presents, traveling to family gatherings, or attending holiday events. However, all that time in the car can also mean facing extreme weather conditions that can make safe driving difficult. Between the added traffic and the not-so-ideal road conditions that come along with Wisconsin winters, the risk of car accidents is much higher this time of year. Along with risk of injury, possible damage to your vehicle, and plain inconvenience, collisions may also involve downed power lines or other electrical hazards. Unfortunately, when this happens, it adds another very significant danger to the mix that can cause severe shock, burns, or electrocution. Knowing what to do in this situation can save lives. If you are in an accident involving a downed power line: • Call 9-1-1 and tell the dispatcher a downed power line or other electrical equipment is involved in a collision. Power company personnel will be dispatched to the scene to deenergize the power. • Put your window down and alert others not to approach the scene. They could be shocked or electrocuted if they walk or run over the energized area or touch anything that is energized.
MY CO-OP
• Never attempt to drive over a power line or through water, snow, or other debris that could be hiding one. There is no way to tell if a power line is energized, even if it is not sparking or buzzing. • Do not exit the vehicle UNLESS the vehicle is on fire or you see smoke. The vehicle acts as an insulator that keeps you safe from stray electricity. • If your vehicle collides with a pad-mounted transformer (the green boxes on the side of the road), which houses electrical equipment connected to underground power lines, the same safety precautions apply. • If you MUST exit the vehicle, cross your arms across your chest, put your feet together, and make a clean jump from the vehicle. Then hop with feet together as far as you can—at least 50 feet away. Once a power line is in contact with a car or truck, the ground, or other objects, it energizes the area. The electrical current spreads to the vehicle and ground, and it ripples out. Each “ring” of the ripple represents a different voltage. Stepping from one voltage to the next can cause your body to become a path for electricity and electrocute you. • If a power line is inside the vehicle due to damage or an open window, stay in the vehicle. DO NOT touch or try to move the wire. DO NOT attempt to use other objects to move it. Keep your family safe while on the road this holiday season. For more information about safety around electricity, go to www.ecec.com.
www.ecec.com December 2023
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There is still time to apply! Scholarship applications are due by January 9, 2024
Apply at www.ecec.com 16
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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MY CO-OP
BRAVO2BUSINESS AWARD: RESILIENT BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
W
Thank you!
e are incredibly grateful and deeply honored to announce that Eau Claire Energy Cooperative has been recognized as the 2022 Resilient Business of the Year. This prestigious award stands as a testament to our collective strength, determination, and unwavering commitment to you, our valued members. In the face of numerous challenges over the past few years, your trust, support, and understanding have been our guiding light. Your unwavering belief in our mission empowered us to navigate these hurdles with resilience and creativity. Together, we have not only sustained our operations but also adapted to meet your evolving needs, ensuring that our members remain connected, supported, and empowered. This award belongs to each and every
one of you. As we celebrate this honor, please accept our heartfelt gratitude for being the driving force behind our success. We look forward to continuing
Recycle your holiday string lights here –
our journey together, fostering a brighter, more sustainable future for our cooperative membership. Thank you for being the best part of ECEC!
FREE!
January 12, 2024 deadline
Drop off your dud holiday light strings at ECEC headquarters at 8214 Hwy. 12, Fall Creek, and we’ll get them recycled for you.
www.ecec.com
Please have a safe and joyous holiday season!
www.ecec.com December 2023
EauClaireDecember2023.indd 3
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You can enjoy lower energy bills with these 12 cost-saving tips.
Inspect windows and doors for leaks and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.
Have your chimney and fireplace cleaned and inspected by a qualified professional.
After your holiday meal, scrape dishes instead of rinsing them, and run only full loads.
Light up your home for less by switching to energy-efficient LED holiday lights.
Bake multiple batches of holiday cookies and pies at one time to maximize energy use.
Turn off your stereo or TV after listening to holiday music or re-watching holiday classics.
Optimize savings and convenience by using timers to turn holiday lights on and off.
Give energy-saving gifts. LED bulbs and smart plugs make great stocking stuffers.
Taking a holiday trip? Turn off lights and equipment and set the thermostat to vacation mode.
Make handmade decorations, such as a wreath for your door, that don’t use energy.
Turn down the thermostat when holiday guests arrive. Those extra bodies mean free heat.
Start the new year by making a resolution to use energy more efficiently every day.
8214 Hwy 12, P.O. Box 368, Fall Creek, WI 54742-0368 www.ecec.com
Monica Obrycki, President and CEO Taylor Skibba, Marketing and Communications Coordinator 18
Lobby Hours: 7:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Monday–Thursday; 7:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. Friday 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.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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FOR THE LOVE OF
OLIVES Baked Feta with Honey, Orange, Olives, and Thyme Recipe and photo courtesy of the National Honey Board.
4 oz block feta cheese, drained and patted dry 1 cup green Castelvetrano/Sicilian olives 1 orange, sliced and slices cut in half 1 cup Kalamata olives 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup honey, plus extra for drizzling on top 4 sprigs fresh thyme Freshly ground pepper Loaf of French bread Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the feta into a small casserole dish along with the olives and oranges. Pour the olive oil and honey over all and add the thyme sprigs and pepper. Bake the feta for approx. 30 minutes and then broil for approx. 3 minutes, watching carefully so as not to burn, until the feta is golden on top. Serve warm alongside French bread and additional honey for drizzling. Serves 6–8.
TIP: Choose good quality whole milk feta for this recipe, if available. It makes all the difference.
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Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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RECIPES Olive Tapenade with Honey Dates Recipe and photo courtesy of the National Honey Board.
Beef Bruschetta with Roasted Garlic-Feta Spread Recipe and photo courtesy of the Wisconsin Beef Council through the Beef Checkoff. Beef Flat Iron Steak is served on crusty bread with a garlic-feta spread, tomatoes, and olives.
5 cloves garlic, smashed 2 Tbsp vegetable oil 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 (11–14 oz) loaf ciabatta bread 3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled 1 (8 oz) beef flat iron steak 1/2 tsp kosher salt 1/4 tsp black pepper, coarsely ground 1 cup diced Roma tomatoes, seeded, ribs removed (approx. 4 medium tomatoes) 1/3 cup packed Kalamata olives, cut in half lengthwise, then into 1/4-inch half moons 1/3 cup thinly sliced fresh basil leaves Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Heat garlic, vegetable oil, and olive oil in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook 8–10 minutes or until the garlic begins to brown. Remove from heat; set aside to cool. Drain garlic from oil. Reserve 2 tablespoons of oil for the bread and 2 tablespoons for the tomato mixture; set aside. Cut ciabatta bread in half lengthwise. Slice into 18 half-inch pieces; place on a shallow-rimmed baking sheet. (You may have some left-over pieces.) Brush each piece with some of the 2 tablespoons of the reserved garlic oil. Bake for 10 minutes; set aside. Chop cooled garlic and return to same saucepan; add feta. Heat on medium heat and cook 4–5 minutes until cheese is melted and looks like ricotta cheese; keep warm. Season steak with salt and pepper. Place steak on grill over medium, ash-covered coals. Grill covered for 10–14 minutes or over medium heat on preheated gas grill, covered, 12–16 minutes for medium rare (145 degrees) to medium (160 degrees) doneness, turning occasionally. Combine tomatoes, olives, basil, and the remaining reserved 2 tablespoons garlic oil in small bowl; set aside. Spread 2 teaspoons garlic-feta mixture on each piece of toasted ciabatta. Carve steak into 1/4-inch slices. Cut each slice into 1-1/2-inch pieces. Place two steak pieces on each piece of ciabatta. Top with 1 tablespoon tomato mixture. Serves 6.
1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted 1/2 cup walnuts 1/4 cup dried dates or figs 1/4 cup olive oil 1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 Tbsp honey Zest of 1 orange 1 Tbsp capers, drained 1 tsp thyme leaves Pita or French bread Add olives, walnuts, dates or figs, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey to the food processor and pulse to a minced texture, do not purée. Remove to a bowl and stir in the orange zest, capers, and thyme. Serve with warm pita or French bread. Makes 2 cups. TIP: Double this recipe and store in a glass jar up to 2 weeks.
Olive and Feta Stuffed Mushrooms Recipe and photo courtesy of the Mushroom Council. These stuffed mushrooms make a great starter or party snack, but they can also be paired with a salad for a filling vegetarian meal. A mix of olives and onions with a bit of hummus make up the flavorful stuffing. It’s used to fill mushrooms that are baked until tender and then finished with a sprinkle of feta cheese.
20 white button mushrooms (approx. 16 oz) 4 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup pitted green olives, diced 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, diced 1/4 cup diced red onion, divided 3 Tbsp prepared hummus 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese Chopped parsley for garnish Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Remove the stems from the mushrooms. Finely chop the stems and set aside. Use 2 tablespoons of olive oil to rub each mushroom cap. Place the mushrooms top side down in a 9-x-13-inch baking dish. Bake for 10 minutes. Heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and the chopped mushroom stems. Cook until the stems soften, about 3 minutes. Stir in the green and Kalamata olives; cook for 1 more minute. Stir in half of the red onions and cook for 1 more minute. Remove from the heat and stir in the hummus. Use a spoon to fill each mushroom cap with an equal amount of olive-hummus mixture. Return to the oven and bake for 10 more minutes until the mushrooms are tender. Sprinkle with the remaining onion, feta cheese, and parsley before serving warm. Serves 8–10. wecnmagazine.com
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READER RECIPES
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.
CHEESE STUFFED SHELLS RECIPE COURTESY OF DEBRA PEPIN, AUGUSTA 8 oz mushrooms, sliced or diced 3 green onions, sliced REQUESTS FROM OUR READERS 2 tsp garlic, minced An online reader is looking for recipes 1 (10 oz) bag fresh spinach, chopped using real maple syrup. 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1-1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, SEND TO: WECN, Reader Recipes, shredded; reserve 1/2 cup 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102 1 cup ricotta cheese Middleton, WI 53562-2200 1 cup cottage cheese or jennifer@weca.coop 1/4 cup grated Romano cheese 2 Tbsp Italian seasoning 1 lb extra-large pasta shells, cooked, drained, and cooled 2 cups prepared spaghetti sauce Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cook mushrooms, onions, and garlic until just soft. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Cook spinach in microwave for 1-1/2 minutes; let cool. Mix all ingredients together except reserved mozzarella cheese, pasta shells, and spaghetti sauce in a large bowl with a mixing spoon. Spray a 9-x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray. Use a 1-ounce scoop (or a spoon) to fill shells. Add stuffed shells to baking dish and top with spaghetti sauce. Bake 45 minutes, remove, and top with reserved mozzarella cheese. Bake an additional 10 minutes until cheese is melted.
“FOR THE CROWD” HOTDISH
WHITE CHOCOLATE WITH PISTACHIOS AND FRUIT RECIPE COURTESY OF KAREN VICK, ONALASKA 16 oz good-quality white chocolate 1/2 cup pistachios, shelled 1/4 cup dried cranberries, chopped 1/3 cup dried apricots, chopped Melt white chocolate in a double-boiler. Stir nuts and dried fruits into melted chocolate; pour onto waxed paper. Cool and break into pieces.
PEPPERMINT WHITE CHOCOLATE BARK RECIPE COURTESY OF KAREN VICK, ONALASKA 10–12 oz good-quality white chocolate 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies Melt white chocolate in a double boiler; stir in peppermint candies. Pour mixture onto wax paper. Let cool, break into pieces, and enjoy.
RECIPE COURTESY OF CINDY DENK, NELSON 1-1/2 lb ground meat 1 cup onion, chopped 1 (14.5 oz) can whole kernel corn, drained 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup 1 cup sour cream 1 (4.5 oz can) mushrooms in water (do not drain) 1/4 cup chopped pimentos Salt and pepper, to taste 4 cups cooked egg noodles 3/4 cup buttered breadcrumbs Combine all ingredients except noodles and breadcrumbs; mix well. Gently stir in noodles and pour into a casserole dish. Top with breadcrumbs and bake at 350 degrees for approx. 45–60 minutes.
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BACON CHEDDAR DIP RECIPE COURTESY OF EILEEN OSTENDORF, BELDENVILLE This is a great Superbowl snack! 1 cup mayonnaise 1 cup cheddar cheese 1 cup green onions 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled Mix all ingredients together. Serve on rice crackers for best flavor.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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I ‘Bearly’ Made It Out Alive A 12-inch stainless steel knife for only $79
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I
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10/30/23 9:58 AM
WILLKOMMEN to KRISKINDLMARKT
F
ENJOY SOME OLD-WORLD HOLIDAY FUN AT SPARTA’S AWARD-WINNING OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS MARKET
or three Fridays and Saturdays in December, the city of Sparta in west-central Wisconsin is transformed into an old-fashioned Christmas card. Visit at this time of year and you’ll find the city’s modest population (10,025 as of 2021) expanded with visitors from all over the state and beyond who come to take in the annual Kriskindlmarkt, a traditional, European-style outdoor holiday market. On these weekends (as well as the final weekend of November), downtown Sparta is aglow with twinkling lights and elaborately decorated storefronts, filled with people wandering past rows of Bavarian-style huts stocked with holiday ornaments and other goods handmade by local artisans. Visitors sip from mugs of steaming gluhwein (mulled wine) as they shop the stalls, stopping for treats with old-country flair like Bavarian pretzels, roasted nuts, and schnitzel. Market-goers might pause to take in a holiday musical performance, listen to a storyteller recount a holiday tale, or gather around an open fire to make s’mores.
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“It’s definitely more than just shopping—it’s a whole experience,” said Heidi Prestwood-Funkhouser of the Sparta Chamber of Commerce, who serves as coordinator of the event. “When you hear the Christmas music start playing and a light snow starts falling, it’s a Hallmark movie.” An award-winning one, at that. Just this past spring, the Sparta Kriskindlmarkt received the State of Wisconsin Tourism Award for Innovation. The event has also been named “When you hear the best Kriskindlmarkt in the Christmas Wisconsin by a couple of different travel bloggers. music start playing Despite its wide acclaim, and a light snow however, the event remains starts falling, it’s a a charmingly local affair. Artisans come from all over Hallmark movie.” to sell their handmade goods, – Heidi Prestwood-Funkhouser, but a great many are from Sparta Chamber of Commerce
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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WISC NSIN FAVORITES the area, some of them members of Oakdale Electric Cooperative as well as neighboring Vernon Electric and Riverland Energy Cooperatives. The food stands are mostly run by local nonprofit organizations including the Rotary Club, Lions Club, Kiwanis, Community Hunger Solutions, Snowmobile Club of Monroe County, Friends of the ElroySparta Trail, and the Sparta School District Backpack Program. This sense of community is just one aspect of the event that keeps Oakdale Electric Cooperative IT Director Chad Schauf coming back year after year. A lifelong Sparta resident, Schauf said he loves seeing his hometown transformed every holiday season. “Who hasn’t watched the movie ‘A Christmas Story,’ right? It’s my favorite Christmas movie and runs continuously at my house on Christmas Day,” Schauf said. “In the movie there are scenes of local parades, Christmas tree shopping, and
large crowds. A local community gathering in the streets and really enjoying the season. The Sparta Kriskindlmarkt reminds me of this. People walking around everywhere, visiting shop after shop and booth after booth. Running into family members, old friends, and new friends. You never bump into someone who isn’t thoroughly enjoying themselves. Everyone is beaming with Christmas spirit!”
Variety of Vendors Now in its ninth year, the Sparta Kriskindlmarkt keeps changing and growing. This year’s event will feature 27 vendor huts in three clusters in the downtown area: Mueller Square, Creekside Village, and—new this year—Love Lock Village. These chalet-like huts house a rotation of handcrafted items for sale. Vendors change from week to week, and even day to day, so visitors who stroll through the Kriskindlmarkt
multiple times in a season will find something different each time. There are knitted and crocheted pieces, home décor, candles, woodwork and metal arts, as well as some imported German Christmas ornaments. “We also have a lot of groups that make candies and chocolates, we have someone who makes cotton candy, another lady sells hand-printed paper and she writes books and sells her books,” Prestwood-Funkhouser added. “We have another lady who makes pillows and quilts and her own stuffed animals. What you’ll see just depends on what day you’re there.” Visitors will also find plenty of food and spirits to sustain them while shopping. A new amenity added to the grounds this year is the Bier Hausl, where guests can pick up beer and wine. There’s also hot cider, hot cocoa, and coffee to sip while wandering around the market grounds.
wecnmagazine.com
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WHAT IS A KRISKINDLMARKT?
A
Kriskindlmarkt—or Christkindlmarkt—is a German tradition dating back to medieval times. Literally translated to Christ-Child Market, a Christkindlmarkt is an outdoor street market held during the four weeks of Advent, leading to Christmas. Historically, these markets were festive gatherings typically held in a town square, with food, Gluhwein (mulled wine), and seasonal items like nativity scenes sold from openair stalls. In many German-speaking communities, townspeople kicked off Christkindlmarkt by welcoming the Christkind (Christ child), a role portrayed by a local child. These traditional outdoor markets evolved over time and are now commonly held throughout Europe. The tradition is also practiced in the United States. However, Germany still reigns supreme when it comes to the Christkindlmarkt. The country hosts about 2,500 to 3,000 holiday markets each year and is credited with several Christkindlmarkt records: •
City with the most Christmas markets: Berlin, with about 80 markets
•
City whose market is generally considered to be most well-known: Nuremburg
•
City with what is considered to be one of the first—if not the first—genuine Christmas markets in the world: Dresden
At the octagon-shaped Sausage Hut—just added to the Creekside area of the market last year—locally produced German-style sausages are served up piping hot. Visitors can also warm up with cheese curds, hearty soup, and freshly made crepes.
Holiday Fun Kriskindlmarkt also features a full schedule of holiday entertainment throughout its four-week run. The first weekend, which this year was November 24 and 25, serves as a grand kick-off to the holiday season, with corresponding holiday events including a Santa Scamper fun run, an evening parade, an official lighting ceremony at EvansBosshard Park, and an appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. Over the following three weekends, Kriskindlmarkt will offer additional entertainment including musical performances, storytelling, and a chainsaw-carving demonstration. Check the Kriskindlmarkt Facebook page for updated schedules, as well as updated lists of vendors for each day of the market. Or, just stop by and enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas. Regardless of what’s on the schedule, Sparta’s Kriskindlmarkt will offer a total holiday immersion that’s sure to fill you with good cheer.—Mary Erickson (Photos courtesy of Sparta Chamber of Commerce)
Source: National Geographic Magazine
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Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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WISCONSIN EVENTS 1 Christmas Parade—Phillips. Downtown area, 6–7 p.m. 1, 2 Katie’s Winter Wonderland— Platteville. Regional Chamber, 5–8 p.m. A winter wonderland of lighted trees and animated and inflatable holiday displays, including an 18 ft. tall Frosty the Snowman! Fri., 5 p.m., see Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive by fire truck. Kids can tell Santa what they want for Christmas and get a little goody bag. Sat., visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy the lights, and receive goodies. For more info, call 608-348-8888. 1–9 Christmas in Alma—Alma. Downtown area businesses, 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Prize drawings, historic house and building walk, gingerbread house, and window decorating contests, community lights, church bazaar, and a cookie walk. Most events occur on Main Street. 2 Christmas Sale—Cable. United Church of Christ, Fellowship Hall, 9 a.m.–1 p.m. Sale of gently used Christmas items. Decorations, linens, dishes, and books available with a free-will donation. For more info, contact the church at 715-7983066.
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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.
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December 2023 2 Cookie, Candy, Craft, Porch Pot, Vendor Sale & Children’s Christmas Shop—Loyal. American Legion Post 175 Auxiliary, 9 a.m.–3 p.m. One-of-akind gifts and holiday decorations. Kids can shop at the Children’s Christmas Shop. Want to be a crafter or vendor for the show or donate items for the Christmas Shop? Call or text Liz at 715-650-0205. 2 Santa’s Cookie Problem—River Falls. Public Library, Lower-Level Gallery, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Show times: 11 a.m. & 1 p.m., approx. 30 min. each. River Falls Community Theatre presents a fun-filled play for the entire family. Meet Santa and his crew after the performance for milk and cookies. Tickets available at the door for a suggested donation of $5 each or $15 per family. For more info, call 715-425-0905. 2 Christmas House Walking Tour—Alma. Downtown area, 3–6 p.m. Selfguided tour of homes and buildings decorated for the holidays. Tickets $10, available in advance and day of event. For more info, call or text 715-716-0928. 2, 3 Red Higgins Classic Country Christmas Show—Medford. Area High School, Red and White Theater, 2 p.m. With Lisa Marie and Freedom Train, also featuring A.J. Walker, Dan Chroninger, Steve Cox, Tim Quinell, and Virgle Lee. Tickets $15 in advance and $20 at the door, available at Medford VFW, WIGM/K99/ Kickin Country Radio Station, Abby Bank, Prevail Bank, Medford Cafe, and Phil and Eleanor’s. 3 Sweet Adelines “Cookie Christmas” Concert—Colfax. Elementary School Gym, 2–4 p.m. Performances by Red Cedar Sounds Chorus, Dunn County Northern Lights Men’s Chorus, and Con Brio Quartet. Basket raffle, homemade Christmas cookies, and beverages available. For more info, contact Kathy at 715-962-3383.
8, 9 Holiday Open House—Alma. Yonder Way Designs, Fri. 12–6 p.m.; Sat. 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Handmade ornament challenge and a kids’ coloring contest! Food samples, giveaways, and a grand-prize drawing. For more info, call or text Sarah at 715-716-0928. 8 Hometown Christmas—Tomahawk. Downtown area, 4–7 p.m. Parade line up at 3:30 p.m. and starts at 4:30 p.m. at Crossbridge Community Bank, and travels West down Wisconsin Ave. to Railway St. Live window displays 5–6:30 p.m. This year’s theme is ‘Christmas Around the World.’ 9 Candies, Cookies, and Crafts— Beldenville. Our Savior’s Lutheran Church and St. Paul’s Church, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Candies $12/lb; homemade cookies $6/lb. St. Paul’s will be having a cookie walk, 9 a.m.–noon. The two churches are three miles apart. Visit both to stock up on sweet treats for the holidays and pick up handcrafted gifts made by our members. 9 Christmas in Bagley—Bagley. Downtown area, 2–6 p.m. Parade line up at 3:30 p.m. Visit with Santa, cookie walk, silent auction, vendor/ craft tables, face painting, gun raffle, and wagon rides around town. Fun for all ages! 9 Lantern Walk Through the Bible— Tigerton. N4880 Spiegel Road, 5–7:30 p.m. A free event where visitors walk a candlelit trail through the snow with Bible scenes and verses along the way. Inclement weather may postpone this event so for information call 920-450-6402. 19 Christmas Get-Together—Camp Douglas. American Legion Hall-Post 133, 4–8 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Meat raffle at 6 p.m., fun and games, food, Christmas cheer, gift drawings, and a euchre tourney at 7 p.m. Bring a friend! For more info, call 608-343-3949.
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CLASSIFIEDS Miscellaneous WANTED: Paying cash for WWII flags, daggers, swords, guns, etc. Also, lever-action rifles. 715-340-1974. WANTED: DEER TAGS, BACK TAGS. Trapping, bear, hunting licenses. Otter, fisher, bobcat tags, party permits, old traps. 715255-9284 David Schober, W4234 Rock Creek Rd., Loyal, WI 54446. 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, siezed, parts. Let me know what you have - will travel. Call Chainsaw Mike at 715-828-9414. OLD MOVIES TO DVD / FD - Pro transferring 8mm, VHS, slides, audio, and all formats. Saving memories! DVD Productions Gene 715-827-2302. BEAVER TRAPS FOR SALE. Also, muskrat, mink, and fox traps. Stretchers for all of them. 715-563-6658. FAMOUS ORIGINAL VINTAGE RECORD ALBUMS in covers. List available. Jane 715-333-5796.
STEP-IN SHOWER—Transforms your existing tub into a safe step-in shower in just one day. Call 608-726-0769. COLLECTOR LOOKING FOR ANTIQUE OR HAND-MADE LARGE TRAPS. 715563-6658 For sale: smaller trapping traps, lever-action rifles from 1800’s. HISTORIC CONCORDIA BALLROOM in Lacrosse. Dancing of all kinds—newly refurbished maple dance floor! Polka, swing, 2-step, waltz, tango, Salsa, rumba, samba, Cha Cha, folk, Contra, square, line, and lindy—with many free lessons. Live music and DJs. info@concordiaballroom.com 608-782-7049.
Plants & Shrubs HARDWOOD AND CONIFER SEEDLINGS AND TRANSPLANTS. Thousands available, Oaks, Maples, Hybrid Poplar, Hickory, Milkweed, Alder, Dogwoods, Elderberry, Cranberry, Balsam, Fraser Fir, Spruce, Pine, Cedar, fall 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, Instagram, and YouTube also. Paint Creek Nursery, Cadott, WI 715-723-2072.
Classified 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 classified ads must be paid in advance. There is no agency discount on classifieds. Make check or money order payable to: WECA. Mail to: WECN—Classifieds, Attn. Jennifer, 222 W. Washington Ave., Ste. 680, Madison, WI 53703. Ph: 608-467-4638. Email jennifer@weca.coop. We reserve the right to refuse ads.
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DECK THE HALLS
SAFELY
As you light up your home for the holidays, take care to avoid any potential fire hazards. These tips from SafeElectricity and the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) will help keep your home merry, bright, and safe. •
Choose decorations that are flame-resistant, and inspect all electrical decorations for frayed cords or loose bulb connections.
•
Think carefully about where you set up your Christmas tree. Keep it away from any heat sources.
•
According to the NFPA, a third of all holiday decorationrelated home fires are caused by candles. Keep candles away from anything flammable, and be sure to extinguish them before leaving a room or going to bed. Even better, switch to battery-operated candles.
•
Replace your old holiday light strings with LED strings. LEDs don’t generate heat the way incandescent bulbs do, so they’re safer to touch and to wind around real Christmas trees, wreathes, and garland.
Wisconsin Energy Cooperative News
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Do you have… 4 A special recipe? 4 A beautiful photo? 4 A fun event planned in your community?
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HOLIDAY EFFICIENCY WORD SEARCH
The holidays are a fun, festive time of year! We typically use more electricity during the holiday season.
Read the holiday efficiency tips below, then find and circle the bolded words in the puzzle.
W G W P D K S S J J W S U M M V Y F K F N E Z Z H T T F C B T J L P C W V E B H V P V W J P I G I L Z V L G W K K Z G R I U M D M WW I H C N J N K O G F X E R A L S D N E I R F G J K H W R D F P X G V L F B O C A T H E R M O S T A T I D E F E V L Y C H U O Y O T R T O U I O K C S N X G Q V J E C T J C A J G L X M Y A W A P Q V N O D R I A S U E D K S L B D P C H G S Q X P X H C U A V A Q V H E A L X O S D U E C V G O T R N F Z H Q G V V S E H V
• Decorate your tree with energy-saving LED lights. • Control home heating costs with a smart or programmable thermostat. • Save energy by using a timer to turn off holiday lights when you’re sleeping. • If you have a fireplace, ask an adult to close the damper when a fire is not burning. • Open blinds and curtains during the day to let sunlight in to warm your home. • Lower the thermostat when you invite friends and family over. (The extra people in your home creates additional warmth.) 30
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Kids and Critters December 2023
YOUNG MEMBERS
BEST of
2023
OCTOBER
SEPTEMBER
MARCH
APRIL SEPTEMBER Dakota reacts after getting a big wet kiss from Zeus the dog, as Maddox looks on. Photo submitted by Jack Pardy from Oconto Electric. OCTOBER Tatum plants a kiss on her friendly burro, Bismark. Photo submitted by JadeAnn Oliver, a member of Vernon Electric. MARCH Lily reads a kitten book to Trip. Photo submitted by Shannon Anderson, a member of Vernon Electric. APRIL Bryson smiles as his dog Bailey sticks out her tongue. Photo submitted by Grandma Sue Boettcher, a member of Rock Energy.
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
JANUARY Eowyn loves her pet chickens, ducks, dogs, and cat. This is her with Rotisserie. Photo submitted by Great Grandma Lisa Root, a member of Oconto Electric.
JUNE
FEBRUARY EJ shows that Petey is “sooooo big.” Photo submitted by Andrew Draper, a member of Eau Claire Energy. JUNE Hadley has the full attention of her dog, Bailey. Photo submitted by Grandma Cindy Wasrud, a member of Central Wisconsin Electric. Photo by Jessica Narum MAY Anna and her kitty Cheddar say cheese for the camera. Photo submitted by Grandpa Skip Nordahl, a member of Jackson Electric Cooperative. AUGUST Lilly loves her favorite miniature pony, Gus. Photo submitted by Sandy Hintz, a member of Oconto Electric.
MAY
AUGUST
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Send photos of kids with animals, along with a brief description, to WECN Magazine, 6405 Century Avenue, Suite 102, Middleton, WI 53562-2200. Please include the name of your electric co-op. Photos will be returned. If in good-resolution, electronic format, photos may also be uploaded via wecnmagazine.com through the “Submit a photo” tab. By submitting, sender implies that he/she has rights to and owns the image, and grants WECN permission to use the image. By submitting, the parent or legal guardian also authorizes us the right to publish the image.
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