Rural Electric Nebraskan - 04/15 by Nebraska Rural Electric Association

April 2015

Volume 69, Number 4, April 2015

“The Rural Voice of Nebraska”

Staff Editor Wayne Price Editorial Assistant Kathy Barkmeier Graphic Design Intern Jordan Geisert Published by the

General Manager Troy Bredenkamp President Randy Papenhausen, Cedar-Knox Public Power District Vice President/Secretary Ron Jensen, Loup Valleys Rural Public Power District

Contents Features

A Family Tradition The tradition of public power runs deep in the Propp family’s roots. Five of Ben Propp’s sons followed in his footsteps to become electric linemen in Nebraska. Chelsea Gengenbach, communications specialist at Dawson Public Power District, shares the story of their journey.

Youth Energy Leadership Camp

Advertising in the Rural Electric Nebraskan does not imply endorsement for products by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association. Correspondence should be sent to Wayne Price, Editor, Rural Electric Nebraskan, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. The Rural Electric Nebraskan is printed by Quad Graphics, 2300 Brown Ave., Waseca, MN 56093. Form 3579 should be sent to the Rural Electric Nebraskan, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. Periodicals postage paid at Lincoln, Neb. POSTMASTER: send address changes to the Rural Electric Nebraskan, 1244 K Street, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. Publication numbers are USPS 071-630 and ISSN 0193-4937. Rates: $10 for one year; $15 for two years; $20 for three years, plus local and state tax.

April 2015

The NREA brings students from Nebraska and Wyoming together in July for Youth Energy Leadership Camp. The popular week-long camp is set up to give young people a better understanding of public power, electricity, power generation and the rural electric program.

Treasurer David Keener, Niobrara Electric Association, Inc. Published monthly by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association, 1244 K Street, Box 82048, Lincoln, Nebraska 68501, (402) 475-4988.

Departments EDITOR’S PAGE

SAFETY BRIEFS — Murphy

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS by James Dulley

RECIPES

MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS

On the cover Bob Cooper, NREA Job Training and Safety Coordinator, instructs Ben Dush of Elba, Neb. on pole climbing at the NREA Youth Energy Leadership Camp. See related story on page 12. Photograph by Wayne Price

EDITOR’S PAGE

Nebraska celebrates National Lineman Appreciation Day ark your calendar on April 13, 2015 to join me in celebrating a group of our state’s hardest working men and women -- the electric lineman. You probably don’t even notice these well-trained and highly skilled employees working hard to keep the electricity flowing in the areas they serve. It’s not until a storm strikes that most of us think about these guys. When the power goes out, for whatever reason, Nebraska’s electric linemen are the first to jump into action. Crews from neighboring systems will join in the effort to help restore power as quickly as possible. This type of mutual aid was evident last spring when crews responded to damage caused by tornadoes and high winds across the state. Linemen must perform their duties safely and efficiently while wearing special gear to protect themselves. This gear often makes their tasks more difficult. America’s public power districts and electric cooperatives have designated the second Monday of April as National Lineman Appreciation Day. On April 13, 2015, the Nebraska Rural Electric Association and its 34 membersystems will honor the hard working men and women who often work in challenging conditions to keep the lights on. The full text of the resolution, which the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) Board adopted unanimously, follows: “Whereas linemen leave their families and put their lives on the line every day to keep the power on; Whereas linemen work 365 days a year under dangerous conditions to build, maintain and repair the electric infrastructure; Whereas linemen are the first responders of the electric cooperative family, getting power back on and making things safe for all after storms and accidents; and Whereas there would be no electric cooperatives without the brave men and women who comprise our corps of linemen; Therefore be it resolved that NRECA

M by Wayne Price

recognize the Second Monday of April of each year as National Lineman Appreciation Day and make available to electric cooperatives, materials and support to recognize the contributions of these valuable men and women to America’s Electric Cooperatives.” We proudly recognize all electric linemen for the services they perform around the clock in dangerous conditions to keep power flowing and protect the public’s safety. Electric linemen do not often receive the recognition they deserve. They work all hours of the day, often in hazardous conditions far from their families, going above and beyond to restore power to their communities. Our linemen, as well as linemen from across the nation, truly deserve this special day of recognition. To honor their linemen, a number of public power districts and electric cooperatives across Nebraka have plans to celebrate National Lineman Appreciation Day. The office staff at Cedar-Knox Public Power District in Hartington, Neb. plans to make breakfast for the crews before they start their day. Linemen at Seward Public Power District in Seward, Neb. celebrate with a pizza party and KBR Rural Public Power District in Ainsworth, Neb. places an ad in their local newspaper to honor the linemen. Many of the systems will also have a resolution passed by their board of directors to celebrate the day. From restoring power after a storm to building new lines to serve customers, Nebraska’s electric linemen are the face of public power in Nebraska. They play a vital role in serving customers around-the-clock with reliable and affordable electricity. They don’t always get the recognition they deserve. Please take a moment on April 13 and join me in expressing your appreciation for their professional contributions in all kinds of weather conditions, day and night. Use #ThankaLineman to show your support for the men and women who light our lives.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

From the Mailbox Dear Editor, I am so appreciative of your Adult Pen Pal Service. I answered a submission in January 2011. Almost a year had passed and Freda answered my letter. I called and we set up a date to meet. The friendship and companionship grew and within a year we were engaged. On November 29, 2014 we were married in Sumner, Neb., in her childhood church. Please continue the Pen Pal column even if you print only one or two a month. Not everyone is computer literate or uses an online dating service. It is my favorite page in your magazine. People want companionship -- you did it for me and Freda -- please don’t stop. You brought us together. Sincerely, Ken and Freda Cook Potter, Neb.

everyone, not just a few. Today, NPPD is in need of a line to serve the bulk of Nebraska, which means that not everyone will see a difference. There will be more power there for all phases of use. NPPD needs a way to deliver power to the whole state to meet the growing load, as well as to have lines that create multiple paths of delivery for reliable backup service. As in the past, it is time for all of us to pull together and support the R-line. As to some disturbance to the ground, yes, it will take some care. At Rose, we have sand. If you want to see what you can do, come up. I can show you several quarters of pasture land that had blowouts, starting 1/2 mile from my house. They were torn up in the 1970’s, and today are now all in grass. You won’t find a blowout on any of them.

In answer to the fifth generation family, you need to be proud, as you are. I know your ancestors had respect for the land. But, I also know how happy they must have been to get REA power and not have to fuel the generator any more. I am sure he worked together with his neighbors with respect for the land, but also for the generations of the future. If he were here today, I believe he would perhaps feel as you do, but would not want to hold up something that deep down he knows will benefit everyone. If the line goes across, it may not be helping him at this time, but in the future if the line in the Platte Valley goes down, NPPD will have a way to back feed and help others that are down. Or, if this line would go down, the Platte Valley line would feed this. Dale Caskey Bassett, Neb. See what a difference it makes...

Advertise in Rural Electric Nebraskan Classifieds

NPPD’s R-Project needed Dear Editor, I attended the R-line meeting in Brewster, Neb. on November 6, 2014. I was appalled at the negative comments about the R-line, so this is my response. My wife and I ranched at Rose, Neb. (north of Taylor, Neb.) The REA was the best thing that ever happened to rural America.We got power in the fall of 1951. Three miles west of us in the valley it was so wet that the contractors could not get in with their equipment to do the digging for the poles. The ranchers went together with cattle sprayers and washed in the hole. The following year in 1952, they did 2-3 miles that way. The ranchers and contractor worked together for the common good. I’ve seen many a housewife cry with joy when they got electricity. In that moment her whole life changed. The first power lines were for

April 2015

The Propp brothers, from left, Jon, Scott, Randy, Kyle and Shaun

A Family Tradition The tradition of public power runs deep in the Propp family’s roots by Chelsea Gengenbach

amily traditions. Some are rooted within each generation and go way back, like a Nebraskan’s undying love for the Huskers, a farmer’s pride passing his life’s work on to his child. Other traditions begin at any point in time, intentionally or not; like a new recipe at Thanksgiving that soon becomes a favorite. For the Propp family, the tradition of a career as a lineman was not planned, but resulted in something the entire family is proud to call their own.

A hard-working man Robert “Ben” Propp was a hard worker. According to his wife, Mary, Ben started working at the ripe age of 12 cutting hay for a farmer. “Ben could never sit still,” Mary said. “He’d watch TV for about ten minutes and then go to the garage to tinker on something.” In the early 1960s, Ben was “hired off the street” as a lineman for the City of McCook. Earning about 75 cents an hour, the young father of two daughters spent a few years

learning the trades of a lineman on the job. “He’d always point to the power lines in the north part of town and talk about how he helped build them,” Mary said. “Ben was very proud that he had a part in electrifying some of McCook.” Ben needed a higher paying position to support his family. He left the city to work for a local packing house, and then eventually a feed mill where he met Mary. After Ben and Mary married in

Rural Electric Nebraskan

February 1968, they moved to her lineman. of the two to attend lineman school. father’s farm. There, the couple “It’s hard work, and when you’re “I really didn’t know what I wanted raised their children and wheat, driving into the storm when to do after high school,” said Jon, a milo, hogs, chickens and cattle. They everyone is driving away — that’s lineman at Hastings Utilities. “It had three daughters, Pam, Jeannie something not everyone can do. It’s took a conversation with my brother, and Becky, and four sons, Scott, kind of like being a modern day Scott, to decide I wanted to do it.” Randy and twins Jon and Shaun. cowboy,” he said. “You earn a good Jon was put on a waiting list at Due to tough times, the family moved living, they train you to help keep NECC for one year before he was in 1980 from south of McCook into you safe and you get to work admitted to the program. After town where they welcomed their outside.” graduation in 2000, he worked for youngest son, Kyle. the City of Cozad before “Even though he wasn’t joining the crew at Hastings a lineman for very long, Utilities. He has been with Ben must have thought the utility for 12 years. something about the job “Where else would you because I still have his rather be on a nice 75 degree belt and hooks hanging up day?” he asked. “I’d rather be in my basement,” Mary working outside. I don’t said. know what else I’d do; I Those belt and hooks enjoy my work.” made several appearances Shaun completed his over the years. program at NECC in 2001. “I can remember one He started working for time when dad used his Hastings Utilities upon belt and hooks to fix a graduation. neighbor’s yard light,” “The same as Jon, it was said Randy, a lineman at Scott who convinced me to McCook Public Power become a lineman,” he said. District. “It was after “He told us that it’s a good church, and the neighbor job and so was the pay. What called. They lived about else can you go to school for, half a mile away and my for two years and make a dad was more than happy good living right away?” to do it.” Shaun enjoyed his time at Ben Propp in McCook, Nebraska in the early 1960’s. “Growing up, we always college, saying that he made Photograph provided by Propp family saw dad’s belt and hooks many friends and met his hanging in the garage,” wife there, too. As for the remembers Shaun, a lineman for Even though he found his calling, career as a lineman, he notes that it Hastings Utilities. “One time, he the road there was not a direct path. is tough work, but rewarding. used his belt to hold painting “I originally had a football “I think working with high voltage supplies near the roof when we were scholarship and played for Midland and climbing poles is exciting,” painting the house.” Lutheran after high school,” he said. Shaun said. “It’s rewarding to see the “It wasn’t for me, so I came home.” lights come back on after working a After a one year hiatus from storm job.” First, there was one college, Scott and some convincing Although Ben never pushed his sons friends drove to Northeast to become linemen, it was clear that A trend begins Community College (NECC) in the skills he learned from his job Not all of the Propp brothers Norfolk to learn about the lineman transitioned well into other facets of attended the lineman program program. He signed up for classes life and made an impression on his shortly after high school. Kyle, the immediately and graduated in 1995. sons. youngest of the brothers, began Upon graduation, Scott began His oldest son, Scott, was the first working full-time for his brother, working for Southern PD. to begin his career as a lineman. Randy, after high school. Randy Scott has worked for Southern owned a business that specialized in Power District for 20 years; working Then there were three building grandstands, houses, his way through the ranks as a It wasn’t long until twin brothers Jon airplane hangars and more. The jobs construction lineman, construction and Shaun followed their big foreman and currently maintenance brothers’ footsteps. Jon was the first Please turn to page 8

April 2015

A Family Tradition From page 7

“Randy was a tough one to convince,” Scott said. “For my other brothers, I didn’t have to do a whole lot. I think they could see how well I was doing and they wanted that for themselves.” For Randy, it all came down to common sense. “I was constantly drumming up work. I didn’t get any paid time off and I didn’t have a retirement fund,” he said. “I realized that, after I met my wife, that my job wasn’t going to

as a lineworker,” Randy said. “If you can handle working in extreme weather conditions, it’s a great job to have. The pay and benefits are good, and all of my coworkers are professional and fun to be around.”

were located throughout the United States and required a lot of travel for A tradition is made its employees. “What are the odds that all five of my After working for his brother, Kyle boys would wind up in the same landed another construction job in profession?” Mary asked with a his hometown of McCook. There, he chuckle. met his wife. Although her sons have been “I realized that I had no benefits linemen for several years, with the work I was doing, Mary still worries about and I wasn’t earning them, especially when much,” Kyle said. “I saw they’re called out on a how well my other brothers storm job. were doing as linemen, and “I can remember one I wanted to go for it.” time I was at Scott’s Kyle applied for the house for his child’s lineman program at NECC birthday party, and there in 2006, but was on a was a terrible waiting list for a year. thunderstorm,” she said. Sometimes, applicants may “He got the call and had begin the program early if to leave the party, and it those on the list ahead of was still lightning them do not attend outside! I didn’t realize orientation — so it is a first linemen work during the come, first serve storms; I thought they opportunity. Kyle chose to waited for it to clear up.” attend the orientation and Ben may have been try his luck. And luck he short on words, but there did have. was no end to the pride he “I remember waiting in felt of his sons choosing the room with my mom and the lineman career. He wife when they called my passed away from cancer name,” he said. “I was in 2013. scared but excited to better Ben working in an alley behind his former home. “I know that he was my life. I did it for my Photograph provided by Propp family proud every time one of family.” his kids became a Kyle started the lineman work with a family. Scott talked with lineman,” Mary said. “I’m proud of all program in 2007 and graduated in me about becoming a lineman, and I of them, too. They all found a job that 2009. He was hired by Dawson decided it was the best option. I enjoy they like, and that’s what’s Public Power District shortly after working outside and wanted a job important.” graduation and has been with the where I could be out and about. Scott echoed his mother’s thoughts. company ever since. Besides, Scott was always trying to “I’m proud of all of them,” he said. “I’m happy where I’m at,” he said. talk me into it.” “I’m impressed with their dedication “Linemen are like another family; we Randy attended the lineman and am glad that they found look out for each other.” program at NECC, but was hired by something that works for them.” McCook Public Power District during The family hopes that its next The negotiator his summer internship in 2010 generation will consider the career. The last brother to join the before he completed the program. He Only time will tell. But if they do, bandwagon, Randy, took some has been with the company for five they can rest assured knowing that convincing. years. they will have a strong support “I enjoyed traveling for my “I recommend anyone who enjoys system to carry on the Propp family business,” he said. “It was a lot of fun working outside to consider a career tradition. and I got to see a lot of places.”

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Coffee’s on, but don’t forget to turn it off by Bret Curry

here’s nothing like a cup of coffee or hot tea to start your day. Preparation of hot liquid refreshments is a daily comfort enjoyed by millions of Americans. When it comes to preparing these hot beverages, we’ve come a long way from the days of percolating coffee upon a wood-fired cook stove. Thanks to electricity, there are countless appliances and methods for concocting hot beverages. The drip-style coffee maker became a household staple in the 1970s and is still among the most popular kitchen appliances. The new kid on the block is the single-serve hot beverage maker. This gadget uses a small disposable plastic cup filled with ground coffee, hot chocolate, or tea.

The U.S. Department of Energy reports that nearly 11 cents from every dollar spent on energy is for miscellaneous appliances, devices and gadgets. Coffee machines and hot beverage makers fall into this category. An often-overlooked fact is that while most consumer appliances generate heat while in use, some continue to generate heat even while sitting idle. Furthermore, when appliances are used inside the home, their heat output, or British Thermal Units (BTUs), is considered heat gain. Heat gain from appliances during winter months is a welcome byproduct. However, circumstances change in the summer when our air conditioners must run even more to remove the heat generated from appliance usage. Images from an infrared camera are a great way to see heat loss from

Become inspired, engaged at MarkeTECH arkeTECH is more than a conference. It’s cutting edge training, valuable networking, and a technology showcase. Be inspired, be engaged, and work hands on with today’s most innovative tools. Attendees walk away from this conference ready to take on the future of their business. Registration is now open at MarkeTECHconference.org. Chris Russell from Google will be the keynote speaker at this year’s MarkeTECH conference. Chris will be speaking about the future of marketing and Google tools. Paige Cahill with Constant Contact will also be speaking about putting it all together with digital marketing. MarkeTECH will also feature success stories such as Jill Thayer Liliedahl CEO of the successful eCommerce business SitStay.com and Paul Eurek CEO of Xpanxion. The conference on marketing and

technology for small business owners and entrepreneurs will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. April 22nd at the Holiday Inn in Kearney, Neb. The focus is on digital marketing, eCommerce, and technology. Conference attendees will hear from experts in the field and have a chance to use some of the new technologies. This year’s conference will also feature a new addition with a preconference on April 21st from 1:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The pre-conference will focus on online security and cash flow for business. There will also be one-on-one time with resource providers to help assist businesses in answering questions on business plans, financials and other business topics. For more information about speakers, conference agenda, and pricing; please visit MarkeTECHconference.org.

appliances. The infrared photo, above, is of the single-serve coffee maker at my office, which stays on throughout the day to keep my co-workers fueled with caffeine. Note that there is a significant amount of heat leaving the unit. This is because single-serve coffee makers experience standby heat loss when they remain in the “on” position. Much like conventional water heaters, the single-serve unit spends most of the time sitting idle while a heating element maintains a high water temperature within a boiler reservoir. This process assures a very short brewing time, which is very convenient for consumers who own these. However, our expeditious cup of “Joe” comes with a price tag. When left on continuously, our office unit consumed approximately three kilowatt-hours of electricity per day. That would cost about 30 cents a day to provide standby heating and fulfill the brewing process, or nearly $9 a month for 24/7 availability. During the summer, having such an appliance on 24/7 would require your air conditioner to work harder to keep your home cool. I am not saying you should pack up your single-serve coffee maker, or any other “always on” appliances. For those of you who love your single-serve coffee makers or who use drip-style coffee makers with hot water reservoirs, make sure to set the timer to shut off at a certain point, if yours has that feature. Regardless of your brewing selection, make sure to turn off the appliance when brewing is finished in order to obtain optimum energy efficiency. And may your cup always be filled to the rim.

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Rural Electric Nebraskan

Youth Energy Leadership Camp

ach year member-systems of the Nebraska Rural Electric Association accept applications from high school students to attend the NREA Youth Energy Leadership Camp at the State 4-H Camp in the Halsey National Forest. The 2015 Youth Energy Camp will be held July 13 - 17. The popular week-long camp is set up to give young people a better understanding of public power, electricity, power generation and the rural electric program. Our goal is to offer a program that challenges participants educationally, recreationally and socially. The NREA Youth Energy Leadership Camp is established as an operating power district and provides a “hands-on” approach to member-owned businesses. The students will join other high school students from Nebraska and Wyoming, along with adult counselors and junior counselors. The adult counselors are employees of rural electric systems who donate their time and talents to the camp. The junior counselors are selected by their peers to return to next year’s camp. On the first day of camp, a board

of directors is elected to oversee the operation of the newly formed electric power district. The board then chooses a general manager to oversee the committee activities and act as a liaison between the counselors and campers. Every participant has a role in the workings of the camp. Students can participate in the Ambassador competition or

Come for a week of summer fun and learning! actively seek a position on the Board of Directors. Each student must also volunteer to serve on at least one of the committees responsible for various aspects of the camp activities. There is even a talent show where the campers can show off their various talents. A highlight of the camp involves a tour of the Kingsley Hydro Station at Lake McConaughy and Gerald Gentleman Station, a coal-fired power plant at Sutherland, Neb. High school students who attend the energy camp may compete for a chance to participate in the National Rural

Electric Cooperative Association’s Youth Tour in Washington, D.C. with expenses paid by the Nebraska Rural Electric Association. Three students are chosen as part of the Ambassador competition held during camp. The competition involves submitting an application at camp, presenting a self-introduction speech and delivering a fiveminute speech on an assigned topic. Each camper votes for three candidates following the speech with the top male, top female and person with the next highest vote total becoming next year’s ambassadors. The top six finalists and ties are invited to return to next year’s Youth Energy Leadership Camp as junior counselors. Recreational activities include basketball, volleyball and canoeing. Camp expenses and transportation are provided by each sponsoring rural electric system. High school freshmen, sophomores and juniors whose families are customers of NREA member-systems may apply. For more information about attending Youth Energy Leadership Camp, send the form below to your rural electric provider.

2015 Youth Energy Leadership Camp Form Name: ___________________________________________________ Age: _____ Current Grade: __________________________________ Address: _________________________________________________ Phone Number: (____) _____________________________________ City: _______________________________ State: ___ ZIP: ________ Name of parent or gaurdian: _________________________________ Sponsoring Rural Electric System: _____________________________

April 2015

Home energy networks offer new tools for energy management early three quarters of U.S. households subscribe to high-speed, broadband Internet service, and most of them are blanketed in Wi-Fi networks. Most households, in other words, are already high-speed Internet gateways, and Americans are increasingly filling them with more connected devices, expanding the universe of products — smart appliances, streaming media players, smart thermostats, and “traditional” networked devices like computers and mobile devices — that can communicate with each other and the Internet. Homeowners use networks for a variety of purposes, including security, productivity and entertainment, but as network connectivity and control expand to large residential end uses like appliances, heating, air conditioning, lighting and electronics, these networks can increasingly be leveraged for energy monitoring. These home energy networks connect energy-using devices to provide services related to the consumption of energy. At their most basic, home energy networks provide information on energy use and control over connected devices. Forget to turn off

the lights or turn down the thermostat before going on vacation? Need to see how much money you’re spending to run laundry equipment? With home energy networks, there’s an app for that. Advanced home energy networks can analyze use trends, suggest behavior changes, automate/optimize the setup of certain devices and frequently provide mobile apps to centralize settings and controls. A well-known example is the Nest Learning Thermostat, which users train to recognize their temperature preferences and away-from-home schedules. The more complicated the network and the greater number of connected devices, the deeper the potential energy savings and the more sophisticated these “orchestrations” become. In the most advanced systems, homeowners can create scenarios that effectively provide a “sleep” or “standby” mode for the entire house. Home energy networks require a lot more than a smartphone and software wizardry. There can be significant hardware investments. Often systems cannot effectively communicate between manufacturers. Of course, some systems will be difficult to set up and configure. But some can be up and

running in under two minutes. The combinations of systems are almost endless, and the array of options can be confusing. New players are constantly entering the market offering the killer app to solve all of your home networking problems. Anyone looking to automate their home or monitor their home remotely should first ask what one or two things they really want to use -not what is trendy, but what is practical and useful. If your schedule is unpredictable, then a smart thermostat may be the best option. It will help you to make your home comfortable when you arrive while saving money when you are away. If you entertain a lot, then one of the smart lighting systems may be the best bet. They allow you to change the light output and color based on how you are using the room. They can help you make the room more romantic for that special someone or set the right light level for watching a movie. Big box stores are devoting prominent shelf space to a plethora of home energy network systems and devices. The challenge for consumers will be to find systems that perform a useful function and can be installed without having to consult customer support — or a third grader.

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SAFETY BRIEFS

Storm Safety: When Thunderstorms, Tornadoes Strike eware. Spring can usher in more than April showers. Now through the summer months, thunderstorms can quickly roll in and tornadoes can touch down, often during the afternoon and evening hours, according to researchers at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Severe Storms Laboratory. Follow these tips from NOAA and the American Red Cross to keep you and your home safe when tornadoes and severe thunderstorms come your way. • Prepare for high winds by removing diseased and damaged tree limbs. • Listen to local news or National Weather Service broadcasts to stay informed about tornado watches and warnings. • If in a mobile home, immediately head to a sturdy shelter or vehicle. Mobile homes, especially hallways and bathrooms, are not safe places to take shelter during tornadoes or other severe winds. • Designate a family meeting place for shelter during and after a storm.

Heed severe storm and tornado warnings when they come. Make sure that you are prepared—keep a flashlight, a battery-operated radio, and non-perishable food among the items in your emergency bag. Photograph provided by American Red Cross If possible, go to your home’s basement, a small interior room, or under stairs on the lowest level. Also, have a battery-operated weather radio handy along with emergency supplies.

• Unplug your electronics. Avoid using electrical equipment and corded telephones. • Remember that there is no safe place outside during a severe storm. If you are caught in a storm while on the road, the American Red Cross urges drivers to turn their headlights on, try to safely exit the roadway, and park. Stay in the vehicle with your seat belt on and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. If thunder and lightning is occurring, avoid touching metal or other surfaces that conduct electricity in and outside the vehicle. • Move or secure lawn furniture, trash cans, hanging plants or anything else that can be picked up by the wind and become a projectile. • Stay safe after a storm. Remain indoors at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder. Also, stay away from downed power lines and avoid flooded areas, power lines could be submerged and still live with electricity. Report them to your local rural utility immediately. Sources: NOAA’s National Severe Storms Laboratory, and American Red Cross

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Newest utility scam mimics Google calendar f a Google Calendar invitation pops up in your inbox, and it claims to be from your public power district or electric cooperative, you would be wise to call the electric utility before clicking on it. Luckily, some members of a Colorado electric co-op did just that when they received an email that flunked the sniff test. La Plata Electric Association has so far heard from a couple of dozen members who received the strange email. It claims to come from “Google Calendar” and has the subject line, “Your La Plata Electric bill is available.” It’s that last part that is most frustrating to Dennis Svanes, chief financial officer of Durango, Colo.based LPEA. “A lot of our members are now

April 2015

accustomed to getting emails from us,” said Svanes, noting that this one “is relatively similar in appearance” to the monthly notifications LPEA sends out. But there are some eyebrowraising characteristics to this message, which includes an email address “@plantationcable.net.” That domain belongs to Plantation Cablevision, a Georgia-based cable television company. A man answering the phone at that company said the email address “could easily be spoofed” by being in the address book of an infected computer. No one at LPEA clicked on the links in the email out of concern about viruses, and Svanes said that as far as they know, no members clicked, either. He said the email has

all the earmarks of a phishing scam, with someone likely looking to steal members’ personal information. “The other assumption is that when they make a payment—it is a payment reminder—it’s going to send money to the scammers,” Svanes added. LPEA quickly issued a press release to warn members. Svanes said the utility constantly hears from members about suspicious activity, and he encouraged consumers to always call their public power district or electric co-op if any communication doesn’t look or sound right. “There are a lot of different scams,” Svanes said. “It seems like every week we’re getting notified by our members of something a little unique. I don’t want a single dime of our members’ money going to a scam.” If you receive any suspicious emails from your electric utility, call the utility and speak with someone. If you’re not the one that initiated the conversation, don’t give out any personal information. Source: Electric Co-op Today

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS

Improve comfort by increasing thermal mass by James Dulley

are planning to remodel Q :ourWeolder home, and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve read that increasing thermal mass can improve energy efficiency. What exactly does this mean, and how do we incorporate it into our home? Increasing the thermal mass A :means increasing the ability of materials to retain heat energy. This can be done anytime, but it is ideal when remodeling. Increasing the thermal mass does not require a "Fred Flintstonesque" decor with a pile of rocks in the center of every room. Actually, most of these improvements are quite attractive. The concept of increasing thermal mass means having the house structure and interior objects absorb and hold as much heat energy as possible. The heavier the items in your home, the more mass it has to better absorb heat. As the outdoor temperature changes, thermal mass helps moderate indoor temperature swings to improve comfort and efficiency. It is comparable to the way a heavy, high "physical" mass automobile provides a smoother ride by absorbing the energy from bumps. Old-fashioned solid log and heavy timber-framed houses used this thermal mass concept. Even though a log house has a small amount of actual insulation R-value when compared to a typical framed house, its utility bills are often not significantly higher, particularly during the summer. There are several ways thermal mass can save energy in your home. By reducing the indoor temperature swings during winter months, less heat is lost through the walls and windows. This is particularly true in rooms where heat is generated, such

as the kitchen or bathroom, or rooms with large south-facing windows. During summer months, the mass will help keep rooms cooler and delay the use of air conditioning. In winter months, during the day, heat produced by the HVAC system is absorbed by the homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s thermal

Use synthetic stone trim on walls to increase the indoor thermal mass, especially near a fireplace. Photograph provided by Eldorado Stone mass. At night, heat is released to warm the home. The greater the mass, the more it will keep the home comfortable. During the summer, high thermal mass delays the need for the air conditioner to kick on in the morning and throughout the daytime. Unless high humidity is an issue, opening windows at night and running a whole-house or window fan allows the thermal mass to lose the heat stored from the daytime. Close the windows in the morning and the cooled thermal mass absorbs heat coming in without causing the room temperature to rise as fast. The thermal mass of air is extremely low, so the cold outdoor air quickly absorbs heat from the indoor

thermal mass. Increase the thermal mass in your house by selecting proper high mass, or heavier, materials. They should be located throughout the home, but concentrate on rooms that generate heat or tend to overheat during the summer. When building a house or adding rooms, use heavy foam insulating sheathing on the outside of the wall framing. This allows the framing lumber to become part of the interior thermal mass. The thermal mass of various materials is rated by heat capacity properties. Water has a high relative heat capacity of 62.4 per cubic foot compared to drywall at only 1.3 per cubic foot. Wet soil rates about 55, concrete is about 31, brick is about 27, and stone/tile ranges from 18 to 36 depending upon type. Their natural thermal properties, in addition to their densities, determine the above relative numbers. Installing a dark, ceramic-tile flooring near a door or window is an excellent source of thermal mass. Decorative walls using solid bricks work well in a room with a fireplace or large windows. Heavy granite or slate countertops in a kitchen are effective. Wooden floors can also be a good source for thermal mass. Remember, the idea is to replace lighter materials with heavier materials. The damp soil in large potted plants can store much heat, and the plants naturally purify the indoor air. For emergencies, storing old milk jugs full of water under cabinets and near your heating system increase thermal mass. Send inquiries to James Dulley, Rural Electric Nebraskan, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

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5 tips for easy family weeknight meals ost families aspire to spend more time together around the dinner table, but between work and after-school activities, it’s hard to find the time. If you’re finding it tough to get your family to the table each night, here are a few simple tips: • Keep the meals simple by choosing recipes with one star ingredient and easy preparation – like a pork tenderloin. Fresh pork cuts can be easily sliced into medallions or cubes to cook faster, while still maintaining juicy, delicious flavor, so you can have a dinner that’s ready in less than 10 minutes. • While waiting for dinner to finish cooking, slice and chop any ingredients that can be stored to cut down on some of the prep work for the next night’s meal. • Get the whole family involved and assign each member a task, such as setting the table or assembling a crisp green salad. • To save on time, choose meats that have done some of the work for you, such as Smithfield’s Seasoned Pork line. Slow-marinated in a variety of delicious seasonings, they’re perfect for any night of the week, and will taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. • On weekends, take the extra time in the kitchen to double a recipe for you to serve during the week. For a simple weeknight meal that’s sure to get your family in their dinner seats, try a pre-seasoned pork dish such as Fresh Pork & Veggie Stir-Fry, or Fresh Pork & Apple Salad. Source: Smithfield

Fresh Pork & Veggie Stir-Fry 1

1/2 2

pkg. Smithfield Teriyaki Seasoned Pork Tenderloin cups assorted fresh vegetables (i.e. sugar snap peas, carrots, broccoli), cut into bite-sized pieces cup teriyaki or stir-fry sauce cups prepared rice or rice noodles

Cut tenderloin into thin strips or 1-inch cubes. Heat large skillet over high heat; spray with nonstick cooking

spray. Sauté pork strips for 2 to 3 minutes until browned. Add vegetables and stir-fry until tendercrisp (about 3 minutes). Stir in teriyaki sauce; heat through. Serve stir-fry over rice or noodles.

Fresh Pork & Apple Salad 1

pkg. Smithfield Peppercorn & Garlic Seasoned Pork Tenderloin 1 (7-oz.) bag mixed salad greens 2 apples, thinly sliced 1 1/2 cups assorted fresh vegetables

(e.g., red onions, sugar snap peas, radishes) cut into bite-sized pieces cup nuts (e.g., cashews or almonds)

Cut tenderloin into thin strips or cubes. Heat large skillet over high heat; spray with nonstick cooking spray. Sauté pork strips for 2 to 3 minutes until done and browned. To make salad, layer salad greens, apples, vegetables, and sliced tenderloin in large bowl. Garnish with nuts. Serve with your favorite salad dressing.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Reader Submitted Recipes Move over alternatives, milk packs a nutrient punch Soy, rice, and almond milk. Are these non-dairy milks giving you the nutrients you need? The truth is, not all milk alternatives have the same nutrients as real milk, so it's important to know what you are getting in each glass. Dairy milk is the top food source for three out of the four nutrients of concern - the nutrients Americans are most lacking - calcium, vitamin D and potassium. Dairy milk, including lowfat and fat free, contains the same nine essential nutrients, including B vitamins for energy, high-quality protein for lean muscle, vitamin A for a healthy immune system and several bone-building nutrients, like calcium and vitamin D. Substituting another beverage for milk can lead to gaps in calcium and other key nutrients like protein, phosphorous and B vitamins. Apple-Raisin Breakfast Quinoa 1 cup quinoa, rinsed according to package directions 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 2 cups - lowfat or fat free milk 1/2 cup water 3 tablespoons brown sugar 1 tart-sweet apple (such as Braeburn), chopped 1/2 cup raisins 1/3 cup chopped toasted walnuts Toast quinoa and cinnamon in medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring often. Cook until quinoa is golden and cinnamon is fragrant, about 2 minutes. Add milk, water, and brown sugar, bring to a simmer, and cover. Reduce heat to medium-low and cook until liquid is absorbed, 20 to 25 minutes. Fold in chopped apple, raisins, and walnuts and let stand a few minutes, covered, to heat through. Serve with additional milk. Source: MilkPEP

April 2015

Enchiladas 1 1 1 1/2 1/4 2 1 1 8-9

lb. chicken breasts, diced small onion lb. mushrooms stick butter cup flour cups chicken broth or 2 chicken bouillons with 2 cups water (4 oz.) can green chilies cup sour cream (8 inch) soft tortilla shells Grated cheese

Add a little oil to skillet and cook until chicken, onion, and mushrooms are tender. Place mixture in tortilla shell, & add a little cheese. Roll and place seam side down in 9x13 baking dish. Melt butter. Add flour to make roux. Add chicken broth and cook until thicken. Remove from heat. Add green chilies and sour cream. Pour on top of enchiladas and add grated cheese. Bake at 375 degree oven for 20-30 minutes.

Bonnie Bayless, Indianola, Nebraska BBQ Spice Rub 1/4 1/4 1/4 3 2 2 1 1

cup brown sugar cup sweet paprika cup kosher salt tablespoons black pepper teaspoon garlic powder teaspoon onion powder teaspoon cayenne pepper teaspoon dried basil

Mix together. Shake or rub on meat. Let stand a few hours or overnight. Grill or smoke. Yields 3/4 cup.

Merry Venezie, North Platte, Nebraska Lemon Streusel Cake Cake: 1 (18.25 oz.) lemon cake mix â&#x20AC;&#x201C; save 2 tablespoons dry mix for topping 4 eggs 1 cup sour cream 1 box instant vanilla pudding 1/3 cup oil Beat on medium for 2 minutes. Pour into two greased and floured loaf pans. Topping: 2 tablespoons lemon cake mix 2 tablespoons brown sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 tablespoon softened butter 1/2 cup chopped pecans Mix in bowl. Sprinkle on top of both loaf pans. Gently press into top of loaf before baking. Bake 45-50 minutes at 350 degrees. Add a drizzle of icing on top for a complete touch.

Diane Cerny, Shelby, Nebraska 21

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