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January 2014

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Volume 68, Number 1, January 2014

“The Rural Voice of Nebraska”

Staff Editor Wayne Price Editorial Assistant Kathy Barkmeier

Published by the Visit us at www.nrea.org General Manager Troy Bredenkamp President Randy Papenhausen, Cedar-Knox Public Power District

Contents Features

TV [Efficiency] Guides If you bought a new television recently you might be in for a shock when the next electric bill arrives. Megan McKoy-Noe, a writer for NRECA, explains how you can cut energy costs with the latest technology.

Getting Down to Business

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

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.

Hefty Seed Company’s newest store opened its doors for business just south of West Point, Neb. last month. This location marks the first Nebraska store for one of the nation’s largest ag retailers.

Vice President/Secretary Ron Jensen, Loup Valleys Rural Public Power District Treasurer David Keener Niobrara Electric Association, Inc.

Departments EDITOR’S PAGE

SAFETY BRIEFS — Murphy

CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS by James Dulley

RECIPES

ADULT PEN PALS

MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS

The Rural Electric Nebraskan is printed by Quad Graphics, 660 Mayhew Lake Rd. NE, St. Cloud, MN 56304. Form 3579 should be sent to the Rural Electric Nebraskan, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501.

On the cover

Periodicals postage paid at Lincoln, Neb. POSTMASTER: send address changes to the Rural Electric Nebraskan, 1244 K Street, Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501.

Winter is an excellent time for Nebraska residents to build birdhouses to attract birds to their property. By providing shelter for birds in the winter, it is possible to overcome the cold winds, icy rain and snow that claim many birds' lives in the winter months. Photograph by Wayne Price.

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.

January 2014

EDITOR’S PAGE

Be prepared for a winter storm emergency ne thing I am not quite ready for is a winter storm. You would think I would be after living in Nebraska for most of my life. Winter storms that bring heavy accumulations of ice and snow coupled with fluctuating winter temperatures are just part of living on the Great Plains. These storms can bring down utility poles, trees and limbs which can often disrupt power for days on end. These storms carry the threat to property and also to life itself. My house is an all-electric home so if a storm knocks out the power for an extended period, my family could be in trouble. No electricity means no heat, no cooking and no lights. The storm could block the roads and if we couldn’t travel to stay with family or friends we’d be in a predicament. In a winter storm emergency, restoring power and heat to customers is the highest priority, and electric utility crews work around the clock to restore service. Depending on the extend of the damage, it can take days to repair the devastating power of a winter storm. If you are in the midst of storm recovery, avoid going outside if possible. Downed power lines could be submerged in snow and ice and difficult to identify. When outside, treat all downed and hanging lines as if they are energized electric lines: Stay away, warn others to stay away and immediately contact your utility company. Remember that downed power lines do NOT have to be arcing, sparking or moving to be live and deadly. It is important to be prepared for dangerous winter storms and the power outages they may cause. You need the right emergency items and knowledge to stay warm and safe in a winter storm. Follow these tips to prepare your home: • Before winter sets in, update your insulation and caulk and install weatherstrips. • Call your utility company or professional tree trimmers to cut branches away from your home and power lines. Everyone, particularly families with special needs, must be prepared in case of a winter emergency and long-term power outages. Prepare an emergency kit with the

by Wayne Price

following items: • Battery-powered radio and flashlights with fresh batteries. • Extra blankets. • Water for drinking and washing. • Non-perishable food and a can opener. • First aid kit and prescription medicines. When a storm hits, your preparation should include knowledge. The following tips can help you stay safe and warm. • Switch off lights and appliances to prevent damaging appliances and overloading circuits when power is restored. Leave one lamp or light switch on as a signal for when your power returns. • To prevent water pipes from freezing, keep faucets turned on slightly so that water drips from the tap. Know how to shut off water valves just in case a pipe bursts. • Do not use charcoal grills or gas ovens to heat your home; this could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Stay inside and dress in warm, layered clothing. • Close off unneeded rooms • When using an alternative heat source, follow operating instructions, use fire safeguards and be sure to properly ventilate. Always keep a multipurpose, dry-chemical fire extinguisher nearby and know how to use it. • Stuff towels and rags underneath doors to keep the heat in. • Cover windows at night. • Maintain a regular diet. Food provides the body with energy for creating its own energy. • Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. • Move around to keep warm, but not enough to sweat. Sweating causes the body to lose fluids which could potentially lead to dehydration. • Keep a close eye on the temperature in your home. Infants or persons over age 65 are more susceptible to the cold. You may want to stay with friends, relatives or in a shelter if you can’t keep your home warm. Following these suggested tips can keep you and your family safe during a winter storm and power outage. Don’t wait. Start your emergency kit today.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

ST YLES HAVE CHANGED OVER THE YE ARS. But our mission and commitment haven’t.

Since Thomas Edison first invented the light bulb, the countless ways we depend on electricity have revolutionized how we work, play and live. Tri-State has maintained a focus on its not-for-profit mission to deliver reliable, affordable and responsible power to our member electric cooperatives while keeping pace with generation and transmission technology advancements—all to provide the best possible value to rural electric consumers. Learn more about where we’re headed at tristate.coop.

Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association • P.O. Box 33695 • Denver, CO 80233 Wholesale power supplier to 44 electric cooperatives in Colorado, New Mexico, Nebraska and Wyoming.

By Megan McKoy-Noe

TV [Efficiency] Guides High-powered TVs drain energy, so opt for efﬁcient models hich appliance uses more energy: a refrigerator or television? Consumers may not realize that some large entertainment TVs—when used an average of five hours per day—can cost more to operate than a new, basic refrigerator. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, 44 percent of American homes have three or more television sets, and each new set adds to a home’s monthly energy bill. In the market for a new television? You’re not alone—U.S. consumers purchased an estimated 40 million new televisions with an average screen size of 50 inches last year. To keep your electric bills in check, here are some tips to consider before buying a new television:

Display Tactics Three parts of a TV impact energy use: display technology, screen size, and resolution. Plasma and liquid-crystal display (LCD) are the two most popular types of display technologies. Plasma screens often are cited as the largest energy user―mainly because their large 42inch to 65- inch screens typically draw between 240 watts to 400 watts. LCD TVs don’t need much power to operate―111 watts on average. Most LCD screens range in size from 21 inches to 49 inches. These TVs fall into two categories: those with cold-cathode fluorescent lamps to illuminate the screen; and backlit models employing a light-emitting diode (LED). LED units offer several benefits, notably better

Rural Electric Nebraskan

picture quality and thinner and lighter screens. They also use slightly less energy, at 101 watts. Most prospective buyers already have the ideal screen size in mind; remember that the larger the screen, the more energy you’ll drain. And although a high-definition TV (HDTV) transforms the latest blockbuster movie into a theater-like living room experience, these sets generally use more power to generate better picture clarity. Energy Star Boosts Ratings Energy Star TVs cut an estimated $3.5 billion from consumer electric bills annually. The joint energy efficiency ratings program of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) created the first set of voluntary television efficiency standards in 1998. Today’s Energy Star-qualified screens

January 2014

use, on average, 40 percent less energy than standard models, whether you’re watching the latest hit show (active mode) or have the screen

turned off (standby mode). Standards are constantly ratcheting up. In 2008, a 50-inch Energy Starrated television used 318 watts on average. In 2010, those sets had to

curb energy use to 153 watts or less, and by 2012 50-inch TVs could not drain more than 108 watts. Energy Star provides an online guide so potential buyers can find qualified televisions ranked by energy use, size, brand, and display type at www.energystar.gov. Energy Star Partners like TopTen USA also maintain lists of the top energy efficient televisions (and other household appliances) based on size at www.toptenusa.org. Tune in to Savings If you’re not in the market for a new TV but want to make sure your model is operating efficiently, these tips may help you save energy: • Turn off the TV and other connected devices when they’re not being used—consider using smart Please turn to page 8

TV [Efficiency] Guides From page 7 power strips to eliminate continually power draw. • Reduce TV brightness by turning down the LCD backlight―you’ll save energy and still retain good picture quality. • Turn on the power saver mode, which many new TVs offer. • If you're listening to the radio through your TV, make sure you use the radio screen blanking feature - it's a handy way to save energy. • If you're buying a new TV, think about the size and type of screen you choose. An energy-efficient 32-inch LCD will typically use half the power of a model with a 42-inch plasma screen. In general, the smaller your TV, the less it will cost you to run. • Control room lighting. While many energy-saving tips reduce brightness of the screen, you can compensate by dimming lights around your TV. Sources: Energy Star, Federal Trade Commission, Cooperative Research Network, CNET.com, Energy Information Administration

Look for Labels The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recognized the need for education and easy comparisons for the amount of energy televisions consume. In 2011, a yellow Energy Guide label—a common sight on refrigerators, dishwashers, and other large appliances—became a requirement for TV. “TVs now vary widely in the amount of energy they use,” comments FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz. “By comparing

information on the Energy Guide labels, consumers will be able to make better-informed decisions about which model they choose to buy, based on how much it costs to operate per year.” The label compares the annual operating cost of a specific television to the plug-in cost of similar models. The label must be attached to the front of all televisions; websites selling televisions must also provide an image of the label for prospective buyers.

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Warning: Don’t Bake All Bulbs ven lights are handy. Curious if a casserole’s ready? Flip the switch; no need to open the oven and release heat to get a baking update. But be careful when replacing this little light. Never put a bulb in the oven that’s not built for high heat. Compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) use less energy than classic incandescent bulbs, but they’re not safe in extreme temperatures. Most lighting labels designate safe temperatures, but warnings may be in fine print. Need to replace your oven light? Look for appliance light bulbs. Found at Home Depot, Lowe’s, and other retailers, these bulbs are designed for extreme temperatures in ovens and refrigerators. The hardy bulbs are here to stay; 40-watt appliance bulbs are exempt from federal lighting efficiency standards. Why won’t CFLs work? Instead of heating a filament until white-hot to produce light like an incandescent bulb, a fluorescent lamp contains a gas that produces (UV) ultraviolet light when excited by electricity. The UV light and the white coating inside the bulb result in visible light. Since CFLs don’t use heat to create light, they are 75 percent more energy efficient. But the technology that cuts energy use doesn’t stand a chance in an oven’s 400+ degree heat. CFLs are good for the pocketbook but not perfect in every situation. Keep these tips in mind: 1. Don’t dim unless it’s dimmable. Buy a specifically designed CFL for a dimmer switch application. 2. Don’t flip too fast. CFLs work best if they are left on for more than 15 minutes each time they are turned on. Older bulbs take 30 seconds to three minutes to reach efficient operation. Frequently switching them on and off shortens bulb life. Newer CFLs feature an ‘Instant on’ capability; look for that on the lighting label if you expect frequent flipping.

January 2014

3. Give them air. CFLs may be used in enclosed fixtures as long as the enclosed fixture is not recessed. Totally enclosed recessed fixtures create temperatures too high for CFLs. 4. Protect CFLs outside. Look at the package or bulb for temperature restrictions before using a CFL outdoors. 5. Don’t shake. Don’t use CFLs in vi-

brating environments such as a ceiling fan or garage door opener. 6. Do the twist. Always screw and unscrew the lamp by its base. Never forcefully twist the CFL into a light socket by the glass tubes. To learn more about using and recycling CFLs, visit www.epa.gov/cfl. Source: Empire Electric Association, U.S. Department of Energy

Don’t invite Old Man Winter into your home

he weather outside might be frightful, but inside, you can still keep things delightful. This winter, save money and stay warm. Considering that nearly half the energy you use in the home goes towards keeping things comfortable, often there are huge energy-saving opportunities you may not have considered. Keep your energy bills low this winter by taking a whole-house approach to heating.

Seal it up! • Weatherstrip and caulk windows. Check window frames for cracks and fill them with caulk that contains silicon. Putty-like “rope caulk” can help seal large cracks. • Replace any broken window panes and repair any large holes in attics, crawlspaces or basements. • Close the fireplace damper and seal the opening shut when not in use. • Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible. That includes overhead doors on attached garages. Install foam insulation gaskets behind electric outlets and switch plate covers. • Seal exposed ductwork. Sealing helps your heating system run more efficiently and also ensures that heated air gets to where it should go.

Open It! • During the heating season, keep the draperies and shades on south facing windows open during the day to allow sunlight to enter the home and closed at night to reduce the chill from cold windows. Tune it up! • Get your furnace inspected and tuned up by a heating professional. • Install a programmable thermostat and set it to lower the temperature at night and whenever the house is unoccupied. Lowering your thermostat by 10 degrees at night and unoccupied times can reduce heating bills by 10 to 20 percent. Remember, a programmable thermostat only saves energy when it is programmed! • Get a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Moister air feels warmer, so a humidifier can help you feel comfortable even though your thermostat is set at a lower temperature. Check it! • Check all exterior doors for air leaks. A one-eighth-inch gap around a door is equivalent to a 6-inch-square hole in the side of your house and causes a lot of energy loss. Have

someone stand on the other side of the door and shine a flashlight around the door’s perimeter. If you can see light through the cracks, your door needs sealing. • If you have a forced air furnace, inspect filters at the beginning of the heating season and monthly during the season. Clean or replace them if there is significant dust build up. • Measure attic insulation. If it is less than 7 inches deep or if it is less than R-38, consider upgrading with spray-foam or batt insulation. • Don't block radiators or heating vents with furniture or draperies. Doing these tasks now will help ensure Old Man Winter does not scrooge you this heating season. Not only will you help keep the heat inside your home, you will feel more comfortable, too. Before you know it, spring will be just around the corner! Source: Nebraska Public Power District Illustration by Tyler Rinne

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Scams targeting electric consumers increase he number of telephone scams trying to get money and personal information from unsuspecting victims is increasing, reports the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Callers pose as representatives of utilities, Medicare, law offices, charities and even the BBB. Some scammers have even shown up at homes, demanding payments. Public power districts and electric cooperatives are also being warned of increasing scams that target both the utility and their customers, reports Timothy Johnson, deputy chief member counsel for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). The newest is a text message telling a customer their electric account has been hacked and asked them to text back “send now” to reactivate it. Immediately delete this type of text without replying, and call the electric utility (preferably on a different phone). Texting back could completely compromise personal identification information. Another scare-tactic is a call claiming your power will be cut off if you don’t immediately pay the bill over the phone with a credit card. Utilities across the nation are reporting similar scams. Sometimes they instead ask you to make a payment through a third-party pay system or by getting a prepaid debit card. Others may say you have an unpaid credit card or traffic ticket and threaten legal action if you don’t pay immediately. In almost every situation, fraud experts say you should always be the one to initiate the call where you need to give personal information. It’s your money and your identity, so ask questions and stay alert. If it’s utility-related, also contact your local electric utility or other provider to report the incident. By calling directly, you can talk to a

January 2014

service represenative who will confirm your bill and let you know of any problems with your account. You public power district or electric cooperative will not call or email for your account number or password. Also, don’t trust caller ID to show a location because scammers use internet calling technology that may not reflect where they really are. Here are some other helpful tips from the Better Business Bureau: • Always confirm that you are speaking to a legitimate company representative. If there’s doubt, hang up and call the company back by using the phone number on your bill (not a number the scammer may have provided).

• Be ware of demands for immediate payment or in forms that are hard to trace, such as Western Union or MoneyGram. • Never give your credit card, debit card, Social Security, ATM, checking or savings account numbers to anyone who comes to your home are asks for information by phone, text, or email. You should always be the one to initiate such transactions. • Never allow anyone claiming to be a utility service person into your home unless you made an appointment and they show proper identification. Contact police if you become concerned for your safety. If you have any concerns about calls or visits from utility representatives, call your local electric utility at the number on your bill immediately.

GETTING DOWN TO BUSINESS Hefty Seed Company’s newest store opened its doors for business just south of West Point, Neb. on Friday, December 20, 2013.This location marks the first Nebraska store for one of the nation’s largest ag retailers. 12

Rural Electric Nebraskan

efty Seed West Point will be managed by agronomists Chad Odvody and Jacob Gubbels, who have 25 years of combined agronomy experience in eastern Nebraska. Jacob Gubbels, General Manager, has worked in the industry for nine years managing a similar operation. Chad Odvody, Operations Manager, has 16 years in ag industry, 11 with Pioneer and 5 with Monsanto. “We’re pleased to be a part of bringing the first Hefty location to Nebraska and to the community here in West Point,” said Odvody. “Area farmers will benefit from low pricing that our new facility and vast product network enables us to offer for both seed and ag chemical supplies.” The business will employ four people at the West Point facility. It was constructed by Leroy Semerad of Semerad Construction in Rogers, Neb. The 4,000 square foot facility includes bulk storage facilities allowing 37,000 gallons of ag chemical to be stored on site, as well as a fully equipped ag chemical supply warehouse and seed storage area. Upon opening, Hefty Seed West Point will have pricing on more than 400 varieties of ag chemical that will be available throughout the season. “When you’re working with crop protection, Hefty is the best source to aid you when you’re doing it yourself,” said Gubbels. “Hefty will give customers the most competitive advantage.” The building is served electrically by Cuming County Public Power District and features a Variable Refrigerant Volume heating and cooling system, the first of its kind in the area. John Tejkl, a NATE certified technician for Howells Plumbing and Heating, said the Daikin system is a highly energy efficient product. “This system will have energy savings close to geo-thermal, with lower equipment costs,” he said. It incorporates individual air handlers that operate on a single, 10-ton outdoor unit. The system operates on seven units upstairs and five units in the basement rooms. There is no duct

January 2014

Above: The facility includes a 37,000 gallon ag chemical bulk storage system. Left: John Tejkl, a NATE certified technician for Howells Plumbing and Heating, works on the Daikin outdoor unit. Opposite: The 4,000 square foot building is the new home for Hefty Seed Company, located south of West Point, Neb.

work which produces a more even heating and cooling for the business. The walls are insulated with a recycled paper product to provide a sound barrier and assist with HVAC zoning. Other features of the site include an office wing that incorporates meeting areas for agronomy and informational sessions throughout the year. Upcoming events at the site include an Open House on Thursday, January 16, 2014, where the public will be invited to tour the new facilities.

Hefty Seed Company was founded by Ron Hefty in Baltic, SD in 1969. Since then, Hefty Seed has grown into one of the largest seed and ag chemical retailers in the United States, with 34 locations spanning from the Midwest to the Pacific coast. Hefty Seed is dedicated to providing service and agronomic advice to help farmers make more money on the farm while producing the safest and most abundant food supply in the world.

Plug into energy efficiency habits stimates vary on how long it takes to form a new habit. There are a lot of factors involved—including difficulty of behavior, hurdles that might be in the way, and individual personality. A good habit with some low-difficulty changes is energy efficiency. The Energy Education Council encourages you to take steps to become more energy efficient. There are many ways to be more efficient. The Energy Education Council has the following tips to help you increase your energy efficiency: • Turn thermostats down in the winter and up in the summer. Dress in layers to stay warm or use fans to stay cool. • Save money by adjusting the thermostat when you are away from home. For all types of home cooling systems, you can reduce energy use by increasing the temperature when you are away. However, home heating is different. If your home has a heat pump, the most efficient option is to keep it constantly set to a moderate

temperature. For other types of home heating systems, you can save money by adjusting the temperature when you are away from home. • Timing is everything when it comes to energy. Electricity demand is at its highest in the afternoon and early evening. You can save money and ease stress on the electric grid by doing activities that require lots of energy in late evening or at night. • Upgrade to more efficient appliances. If it is time for a new appliance or electronic, consider purchasing an efficient Energy Star product. They consume less energy than other products and sometimes qualify for tax credits. • Turn off or unplug electronics you are not using. Use power strips so that you can turn multiple electronics on and off at once. • Use efficiency settings on televisions, computers, and other electronics. • Consider plugging your computer and television into smart power strips. Smart strips sense when a

computer is in sleep mode and when a TV is turned off. The smart strip will turn off all related electronics— like cable boxes, video game consoles, and printers. • Upgrade caulk, weather stripping, and insulation. If your home leaks air, you are losing money and wasting energy. Around windows and doors are common areas that could use caulking or weather stripping. Improving attic insulation is one of the best and easiest ways to improve your homes insulation. You can lay insulation on top of existing insulation in the attic. • Change water heater settings. Much of the energy a water heater consumes goes to storing the water at the selected temperature. Save money by lowering the temperature to 120 degrees. • When you leave a room, turn off lights, fans, and electronics that are not in use. For more information on energy efficiency, visit EnergyEdCouncil.org.

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Garage Door Safety: An Open and Shut Case ry this riddle: What weighs 600 pounds, deters intruders, and goes up or down at the push of a button? It’s your automatic garage door, the largest moving piece of equipment in many homes. Automatic garage doors may be a routine part of leaving and arriving home, but you should be aware of the potential for injury. Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., recommends these tips to make safety an open and shut case when it comes to your home’s garage: 1. Always keep automatic garage doors fully open or fully closed. Some folks may leave a small opening at the bottom for pets to get in and out for food or shade. But a small opening could also be an invitation for a child to try to crawl through and get stuck. Another push of the button could send the heavy door down—causing injury—instead of bringing the door up when trying to free anyone stuck underneath. If you encounter someone stuck in an automatic door, call your local fire department. 2. Read instructions on how to operate and maintain your garage door properly. Check your automatic door monthly to be sure safety precautions are working. Many garage doors boast a safety feature that triggers an automatic reversal if anything is encountered while closing. To check, place a 1.5inch object (like a flat 2x4) in the path of the door to make sure the door correctly reverses when contact is made. Instructions should also advise on maintaining a properly balanced door. Call a qualified repair company for service or maintenance. 3. Do not allow children to operate a garage door. It may seem like a harmless, simple task to

allow children to push the garage opener. But activating heavy equipment should be taken seriously. 4. Avoid walking under a door that is opening or closing. You never know when a malfunction may take place. Steer clear of a moving door. 5. Know when and how to use the emergency release. You’ll find a cord with a handle hanging along

the track of your garage door. Always use caution when using this release, and only use it when the door is fully closed. An automatic garage door opener is a common convenience powered by electricity. Just as electricity demands safety and respect, so does the equipment it operates. Source: Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.

Garage doors add convenience and security to a home, but should be routinely inspected. Photograph provided by Overhead Door

Rural Electric Nebraskan

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All calls with Find Home Security are monitored and recorded for quality assurance and training purposes. $99.00 Customer Installation Charge. 36-Month Monitoring Agreement required at $36.99 per month ($1,331.64). Form of payment must be by credit card or eleccctrtronic charge to your checking or savings account. Offer applies to homeowners only. Local permit fees may be required. Satisfactory credit history required. Certain restricicctions tions may apply. Offer valid for new ADT Authorized Dealer customers only and not on purchases from ADT LLC. Other rate plans available. Cannot be combined with any other offer. ADT Pulse Interracctiv tive Solutions Services, which help you manage your home environment and family lifestyle, requires the purchase and/or activation of an ADT alarm system with monitored burglary service and a compatible computer, cell phone or PDDAA with Internet and email access. These ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services do not cover the operation or maintenance of any household equipment/systems that are connected to the ADT Pulse Interacctiv tive Solutions Services/Equipment. All ADT Pulse Interacctiv tive Solutions Services are not available with the various levels of ADT Pulse Interactive Solutions Services. All ADT Pulse Interacctiv tive Solutions Services may not be available in all geographic areas. Yoou may be required to pay additional charges to purchase equipment required to utilize the ADT Pulse Interacctiv tive Solutions Services features you desire. Visa® gift card must be requested through your Representative at time of purchase. $100 1 Visa® gift card requires acctiv tivation and $2.95 shipping and handling fee. You will receive a claim voucher within 3-4 weeks and the voucher must be returned within 30 days. Yoour Visa® gift card will arrive in approximately 6-8 weeks. Find Home Security charges a one-time $49.95 non-refundable processing fee. Indiana C.PP.DD. Reg. No. T.S. R1903.

SAFETY BRIEFS

Use extension cords safely during the new year ow that the holidays are over its a good time to make sure you are being safe around the house. If you received a new electronic device or appliance it is time to take note of where your electrical outlets are located. The placement of new, or rearrangement of current, appliances and electronics in your home can be problematic. Extension cords seem like the practical, costeffective solution. However, Safe Electricity urges you to keep in mind that extension cords are not designed for permanent use and that it is important to choose a cord that meets your needs. If you go shopping for extension cords, you will find there are a variety of options available. It is important to choose an extension cord that is properly rated for the device(s) you

will have plugged into it. According to Underwriters Laboratory (UL), if an appliance or power tool is drawing more current than an extension cord can carry, it may cause the cord and tool to overheat and create a fire. Check the packaging or the tag on the cord for its rating, and check the appliance or its use and care booklet for its power usage. The Safe Electricity program offers these additional tips for the safe use of extension cords: • Check the condition of extension cords. Look for fraying or cracking along the entire length of the cord and for damage to the plug or sockets. Replace any damaged extension cords.

• Make sure the extension cord that you are using has been certified by a recognized laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratory, ETL, or CSA. • Do not overload extension cords with too many electronics or appliances. • If any part of the extension cord becomes hot while in use, unplug it immediately and discard it. Do not continue to use it. • Keep all extension cords away from children, pets, and high-traffic areas. • Do not place extension cords under carpets, rugs, furniture, or other objects. • Unplug extension cords when they are not in use. • When using extension cords outside, use only extension cords rated for outdoor use. • An extension cord should never be put in place as a long-term solution. A qualified electrician can help you install the necessary wiring and receptacle outlets for a permanent solution. For more information on electrical safety, go to SafeElectricity.org.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

Lights Out Automatic controls can keep lighting costs in check hether you can’t train your kids to turn out lights when they leave a room or need a better outdoor lighting scheme, automatic controls might be a cost-effective solution. No matter what type you use, “the most important thing to remember for any lighting control is to use a type of light bulb that doesn’t need to ‘warm up,’” says Brian Sloboda, a senior program manager specializing in energy efficiency for the Cooperative Research Network, the research and development organization for the nation’s public power districts and electric cooperatives. “All of the light bulbs for residential use now on the market will work—incandescents, compact fluorescent lamps [CFLs], and LEDs [light-emitting diodes].”

Outdoors If you already have or are thinking about installing an outdoor security light, consider combining it with a photosensor to keep it from burning all day. A motion sensor goes one step further, if you don’t want continuous light. Timers are commonly used for aesthetic or holiday lighting, sometimes in conjunction with a photosensor—so they turn on at dusk and turn off at a designated time. Visit EnergySavers.gov to learn more about energy efficiency in your home. Indoors Occupancy sensors are helpful indoors, as long as they’re positioned to detect people in any corner of the room. They’re also good as task lighting—above places like a desk or kitchen sink—so you get the extra light you need while working, but you don’t forget and leave it on all night.

January 2014

They are two types of occupancy sensors: ultrasonic and infrared. Ultrasonic sensors detect sound; infrared sensors detect heat and motion. Timers make an empty home look occupied. If kids are still running in and out, however, timers aren’t as effective as occupancy sensors. Plug timers into a wall outlet or install them in the wall, like a light switch or thermostat. New varieties are digital. Photosensors are generally best outdoors, but new applications have found they’re also useful for LED nightlights. When an overhead light is on, the nightlight shuts off auto-

If your kids won’t turn the lights out when they leave a room, try automatic lighting controls to keep costs in check. Photograph provided by GE matically. Source: U.S. Department of Energy (EnergySavers.gov)

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CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS

Hard facts about space heaters by James Dulley

: I’m considering a small electric Q space heater for my living room and bedroom. What space heaters are best for these spaces, and will they cut my utility bills as some ads claim? electric space heaters A :canSmall reduce your utility bills, but only if you set your central heating system (heat pump or furnace) thermostat lower. They make sense if there are only one or two people living in a house, with no need to keep vacant rooms warm. Another common situation is when there is a room or two in a house which do not stay warm enough. Often a person gets chilly in one of those problem rooms and turns the central thermostat higher. This warms the entire house and more heat is lost through the walls, windows, and ceiling. It is much more efficient to use a small space heater in these rooms. First, it is important to understand all electric space heaters are effectively 100-percent efficient. Don't let advertising stating this fact influence your buying decision. This just means all of the electricity it consumes ends up as heat in your house. It does not mean it’s cheap to operate. Also, the maximum heat most small space heaters can safely produce is about 5,100 Btuh (Btu per hour). Houses typically use central heating systems with a capacity or 50,000 to 100,000 Btuh, so a single space heater cannot heat an entire house. Be wary of advertising stating a small electric space heater can allow your central system to run dramatically less for 50 percent or more savings.

There’s not a ‘best’ electric space heater for every situation. The proper selection depends on the room and how you plan to use the heater. For example, are you looking for quiet heat in a bedroom at night, heat for just one person watching TV, or will there be a group of people in a large room?

This is a tower-style ceramic convetion heater with an oscillation feature and digital controls and thermostat. The ceramic heating element does not get red hot as most other heaters do. Photograph provided by Holmes. Choose between direct radiant and convection (air circulation) space heaters; both types have advantages. Within each group, there are many comfort features and options which may impact your decision. If you have young children, there are also safety considerations. Radiant Space Heaters Radiant style heaters heat quickly. These use a red-hot ribbon, long quartz or carbon tubes to produce

infrared heat radiation similar to the sun's rays. They primarily heat objects and people directly in front of them. Carbon tubes produce infrared heat which penetrates objects and skin slightly below the surface. This makes it very comfortable, effective heat. Radiant heaters are quiet and ideal for heating a specific spot. For example, I use one across from my computer desk to keep me warm while I am writing. My body and the furniture in its path gradually reradiate the heat so the room air also heats up slightly. To heat a slightly larger area, select a model which automatically oscillates. Convection Space Heaters Convection heaters are designed to heat the air in the room. This is often done using a built-in fan to circulate room air over the heating elements. Oil-filled, old radiator-style heaters use natural air circulation (hot air rises) to move room air over the heat source, gently warming a room without bursts of heat. For a living room, often the largest room in a house, consider a convection style heater. This heats an entire room more effectively. Choose a model with a thermostat and multispeed fan to control the heat output. A ceramic convection heater is safe around young children. If the air flow gest blocked, the heating output automatically drops and there are no red hot ribbons. For a bedroom, where quiet operation is important, use an oilfilled radiator or a convection heater with a low-speed setting. Another option is a radiant model facing the bed if you don't mind the red glow. A horizontal shaped one will heat the entire bed area.

Send inquiries to James Dulley, Rural Electric Nebraskan, 6906 Royalgreen Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45244 or visit www.dulley.com.

Rural Electric Nebraskan

An Affordable Option

Perfect Choice HD™ is easy to use, hard to see and costs far less…

The invention of the year is great news for your ears. NEW Now with more power and clarity!

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Perfect Choice HD is NOT a hearing aid. It is a Personal Sound Amplification Product (PSAP). Hearing aids can only be sold by an audiologist or a licensed hearing instrument specialist following hearing tests and fitting appointments. Once the audiologist had you tested and fitted, you would have to pay as much as $5000 for the product. Now, thanks to the efforts of the doctor who leads a renowned hearing institute, there is Perfect Choice HD. It’s designed to accurately amplify sounds and

deliver them to your ear. Because we’ve developed an efficient production process, we can make a great product at an affordable price. The unit has been designed to have an easily accessible battery, but it is small and lightweight enough to hide behind your ear… only you’ll know you have it on. It’s comfortable and won’t make you feel like you have something stuck in your ear. It provides high quality audio so sounds and conversations will be easier to hear and understand. Try it for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Some people need hearing aids but many just want the extra boost in volume that a PSAP gives them. We want you to be happy with Perfect Choice HD, so we are offering to let you try it for yourself. If you are not totally satisfied with this product, simply return it within 60 days for a refund of the full product purchase price. Don’t wait… don’t miss out on another conversation… call now!

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ver the years, digital electronic technology has made the way we live easier, safer and more convenient. In many cases, it’s even made many products more affordable… (remember how much the first VCRs used to cost?). Unfortunately, the cost of many digital products, including the hearing aid never seemed to come down. Now, a new option has been invented… it’s called Perfect Choice HD™.

DOWN HOME

RECIPES

Cheesy Chicken Chowder 2 cups chicken broth 2 cups potatoes, peeled & diced 1/2 cup carrots, peeled & sliced 1/2 cup celery sliced 1/2 cup onion, chopped 1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon pepper 1/4 cup butter 1/4 cup flour 2 cups milk 2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese 1 cup cooked chicken, diced

Bring chicken broth to a boil in a stockpot over medium-high heat. Add vegetables, salt & pepper. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Set aside. Melt butter in a second pan over low heat; add flour and mix well. Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Add cheese, chicken and broth mixture together. Heat through without boiling. Makes 6-8 servings.

Dee Roeber, Pender, Nebraska

Country Buns

Breakfast Biscuit Cups Nonstick cooking spray 1 can (16.3 oz.) reduced fat refrigerated buttermilk biscuits 8 eggs 1/2 cup cubed ham 1/2 cup shredded reduced fat extra sharp Cheddar cheese Preheat oven to 400°F. Spray 8 regular (2-1/2-inch diameter) muffin cups with nonstick cooking spray. Separate biscuits into 8 pieces and press into each muffin cup. Bake 6 to 8 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove from oven. Meanwhile, beat eggs in a small bowl until well combined. Spray a large skillet with nonstick cooking spray. Heat on medium heat. Pour in eggs. Scramble eggs until firm, but still moist. Divide eggs, ham and cheese over each muffin cup. Bake an additional 8 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Recipe provided by the American Egg Board

2 packages yeast 2 cups warm water 1/4 cup oil 1/2 cup sugar 2 1/2 teaspoons salt 2 eggs at room temp Combine all ingredients in a large 5 quart bowl; set aside

1 1/2 cup Quaker quick oats 1 cup wheat flour 3 cups white flour Mix all the dry ingredients together add to yeast mixture. Beat until smooth. 1 1/2 – 2 cups additional flour for kneading

Turn dough out onto floured surface. Knead, adding flour until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, turning to grease dough. Cover bowl with wax paper and a towel. Let rise in a warm place 1 hour. Punch down and let rest 10 minutes. Shape into buns. For sandwich buns make a flatter shape. Place on greased cookie sheet. Loosely cover and let rise 1 hour or until doubled in size. Bake at 375 degrees for 20-30 minutes or until golden brown.

Barbara Ann Christensen, St. Libory, Nebraska

Brownie Goody Bars 1 box brownie mix – water, oil, and eggs as directed on box 12 oz tub whipped vanilla frosting 3/4 cup salted peanuts, coarsely

chopped 3 cups crisp rice cereal 1 cup creamy peanut butter 12 oz. semi-sweet chocolate chips

Mix brownies as directed. Bake in greased 9 x 13 pan as directed on mix. Cool completely. Frost brownies with frosting. Sprinkle with peanuts. Refrigerate. Melt peanut butter and chocolate chips together in microwave. Stir in cereal to coat evenly. Spread peanut butter mixture over frosted brownies. Refrigerate until set before cutting.

Stephanie Karsten, Grand Island, Nebraska 24

Rural Electric Nebraskan

JAN- 1: I am looking for a woman that likes most of the same things I do. A woman that is a one-manwoman, and has a good sense of humor, my likes are car shows, rodeos, listening to country music, cuddling on the couch watching a movie. JAN- 2: WidWF, 55, looking to meet good/nice guy who likes to camp, dining out, have a good time and spend my life with. Send picture without a hat on.

To appear in print The Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service is exclusively for member-readers ages 18 and over. To be considered for use, submissions must: (1) Identify rural electric system providing magazine; (2) Include $6 to cover mail forwarding costs; (3) Be 25 words or fewer; (4) Include full name and mailing address (will not be used in magazine); and (5) Be first person, submitted directly by person to receive responses. Acceptance, editing and issue scheduling is at editor’s discretion. Address all submissions to Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service, P.O. Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. All responses received by the Adult Pen Pal Service are routed directly, postage paid, to the response number assigned to each submission.

JAN- 3: WWidF, 77, is there anybody that’s lonely around that age? I’m thinking I’m the only lonely lady this age.

JAN- 5: DWM, 61, NS, 5’8”, brown hair looking for a petite lady to have fun with. Like to go fishing, short trips, football, dining out, quiet evenings at home watching movies together. I know how to treat a lady. JAN- 6: DWF, 50, from central Nebraska looking for a nice honest guy, mid 50s or 60s. Love to camp. Send photo & phone number please. JAN- 7: DWM, 64, NS, from central Nebraska. Enjoys farm life, livestock, short trips, quiet time at home and family. Looking for a young at heart lady with similar interest to share a day or maybe a life with.

JAN- 4: WidW, NS, 76, loves country living, like to meet gentleman 70s. Share retirement. I enjoy travel, walks, golf, books, grandchildren. Please write.

To write To respond to one of the adult pen pal requests, write letter, place in envelope, seal and affix first class postage. Address to full, correct response #, c/o Rural Electric Nebraskan Adult Pen Pal Service, P.O. Box 82048, Lincoln, NE 68501. Your letter will be forwarded unopened. Do not send money or additional postage; forwarding is prepaid. Enclose your full mailing address for return correspondence. Once again . . . it is very important that all responses carry the full response number—both month and number—to be properly forwarded. Abbreviation Code C — Christian; C/W — Country-western; D — Divorced; F — Female; M — Male; NS — Non-Smoker; ND — Non-Drinker; R&R — Rock and roll; S — Single; W — White; Wid — Widowed

January 2014

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Rural Electric Nebraskan

Breakthrough technology converts phone calls to captions.

New amplified phone lets you hear AND see the conversation. The Captioning Telephone converts phone conversations to easy-to-read captions for individuals with hearing loss.

A simple idea… made possible with sophisticated technology. If you have trouble understanding a call, the Captioning Telephone can change your life. During a phone call the words spoken to you appear on the phone’s screen – similar to closed captioning on TV. So when you make or receive a call, the words spoken to you are not only amplified by the phone, but scroll across the phone so you can listen while reading everything that’s said to you. Each call is routed through a call center, where computer technology – aided by a live representative – generates immediate voice-to-text translations. The captioning is real-time, accurate and readable. Your conversation is private and the captioning service doesn’t cost you a penny. Captioned Telephone Service (CTS) is regulated and funded by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and is designed exclusively for individuals with hearing loss. In order to use CTS in your home, you must have standard

telephone service and high-speed Internet connectivity where the phone will be used. Federal law prohibits anyone but registered users with hearing loss from using IP Captioned Telephones with the captions turned on. Callers do not need special equipment or a captioning phone in order to speak with you.

SEE what you’ve been missing! Finally… a phone you can use again. The Captioning Telephone is also packed with features to help make phone calls easier. The keypad has large, easy to use buttons. You get adjustable volume amplification along with the ability to save captions for review later. It even has an answering machine that provides you with the captions of each message.

Hello grand ma this is kaitlynn ho w are you today I wa nted to tell you tha nk you for the birth day card

See for yourself with our exclusive home trial. Try the Captioning Telephone in your own home and if you are not completely amazed, simply return it within 60-days for a refund of the product purchase price. It even comes with a 5-year warranty.

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The Captioning Telephone is intended for use by people with hearing loss. In purchasing a Captioning Telephone, you acknowledge that it will be used by someone who cannot hear well over a traditional phone.

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Do you get discouraged when you hear your telephone ring? Do you avoid using your phone because hearing difficulties make it hard to understand the person on the other end of the line? For many Americans the telephone conversation – once an important part of everyday life – has become a thing of the past. Because they can’t understand what is said to them on the phone, they’re often cut off from friends, family, doctors and caregivers. Now, thanks to innovative technology there is finally a better way.

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