October 2016
Path of Discovery
Exploring the MoPac East Trail
Contents Volume 70, Number 10, October 2016
“The Rural Voice of Nebraska”
Staff
Editor Wayne Price
Editorial Assistant Tina Schweitzer Published by the
Visit us at www.nrea.org General Manager Troy Bredenkamp
President David Keener, Niobrara Electric Association, Inc. Vice President/Secretary Butch Gray, Cornhusker Public Power District
Treasurer Greg Weidner, Elkhorn Rural Public Power District
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.
The Rural Electric Nebraskan is printed by the Aradius Group, 4700 F Street, Omaha, NE 68117. 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.
October 2016
Features
Path of Discovery
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The MoPac East Trail, which starts near 84th Street and Hazelwood in Lincoln, Neb., and passes rural areas including the small towns of Walton, Eagle, Elmwood, and Wabash, provides visitors with activities that include walking, jogging, bicycling, horseback riding, and nature viewing.
Rural Electric Careers
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Over the next five years, rural electric utilities are expected to hire nearly 15,000 employees nationwide. Despite competitive wages, excellent benefits, job stability and rewarding work, public power districts and electric cooperatives often have a difficult time attracting new employees. Learn how a career in the electric industry can provide both a paycheck and a purpose.
Departments
GUEST EDITORIAL
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SAFETY BRIEFS — Murphy
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CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS by Pat Keegan
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RECIPES
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MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS
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On the cover Steve and Nancy Gade enjoy a bike ride on the MoPac East Trail. See related article on Page 6. Photograph by Scott Casper
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EDITOR’S PAGE
Attaching anything to power poles is dangerous hat do yard sale signs, basketball hoops, deer stands, satellite dishes, and birdhouses have in common? Believe it or not, they’re often found illegally attached to utility poles. But this isn’t only a crime of inconvenience. Safety issues caused by unapproved pole attachments place the lives of lineworkers and the public in danger. It may seem innocent, but a small nail partially driven into a pole can have deadly results around high-voltage electricity. You may be saying to yourself, “What’s one little sign going to hurt?” What you may not realize is obstacles such as garage sale signs and satellite dishes, nails, pins, and staples make climbing a pole extremely dangerous for utility linemen. Working on or near power lines is dangerous enough without added hazards on poles. Your local electric utility line crews climb these poles at all hours of the day and night, in the worst of conditions. Anything attached to utility poles can create serious hazards for our line personnel. Sharp objects like nails, tacks, staples, or barbed wire can puncture rubber gloves and other safety equipment, making linemen vulnerable to electrocution. Lineworkers with Nebraska’s public power districts and electric co-ops have reported poles used as community bulletin boards,
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satellite mounts, and even support legs for deer stands, lights, and carports. Not only do these attachments put line crews at risk, anyone illegally placing these items on poles comes dangerously close to energized power lines with thousands of volts of energy pulsing overhead. It’s always wise to keep any structure at least 10 feet away from utility poles. Unauthorized pole attachments violate the National Electrical Safety Code, the accepted manual containing guidelines for safe electrical engineering standards. Utilities strictly follow this code that includes a section that reads, “Signs, posters, notices, and other attachments shall not be placed on supporting structures without concurrence of the owner (the utility is the owner of the pole). Supporting structures should be kept free from other climbing hazards such as tacks, nails, vines, and through bolts not properly trimmed.” Please help us keep our linemen — and our communities — safe. Don’t attach any of these unauthorized and dangerous items to utility poles. Fixtures not belonging to the public power district or electric cooperative or another utility will be removed by utility line personnel; the utility is not responsible for any losses if an item is damaged or destroyed during removal.
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Path of Discovery
Exploring the MoPac East Recreational Trail he MoPac trail was originally a railroad line from Missouri to the Pacific Ocean, and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how it got the name MoPac. Ground breaking for the MoPac railroad lines took place on July 4th, 1851. The railroad lines on the MoPac are no longer used. However, there is still a lot of action on the corridor. This story pertains to a section of the trail known as the MoPac East Trail which starts near 84th Street and Hazelwood in Lincoln and passes rural areas including the small towns of Walton, Eagle, Elmwood, and Wabash. Activities on the trail include; walking, jogging, bicycling, horseback riding, nature viewing, and other activities, too. Horseback riders Kim Wilnes, and her horse Pearl, as well as Shiloh, and her horse Ty, like the MoPac East Trail because of the
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convenience of the trail. Their horses are boarded right next to the trail so it is easy to saddle up the horses and go for a ride. Bird watchers may want to bring their binoculars to the trail. The trail is home to many species including gold finches, cardinals, blue jays, as well as Canada geese flying over head and red-tailed hawks soaring high above. The sound of nature on the trail can be impressive, too. Sure, bird songs are common. However, on occasion, one can hear the eerie sound of coyotes howling as the skies darken. Bicycling is one of the most popular activities on the trail. Automobiles in the area are likely familiar with bicyclist on the MoPac trail crossing the roads in places.
Rural Electric Nebraskan
Kim Wilnes and her horse, Pearl, enjoy an afternoon ride.
A common destination for bicyclists is Bailey’s Local in Eagle, Neb. Owners Natasha Hoyer and Ty McIntosh have carried on the tradition of serving bicyclists on Tuesdays. Bailey’s Tuesday menu includes homemade tacos, taquitos, and of course, nachos. Phil Wolfe, also known as Nacho Man, started the nacho rides with four people about 10 years ago. It turned in to a social event that grew and grew. Wolfe said, weather permitting, between 200 - 300 hundred riders show up each Tuesday. Even bigger crowds can show up on theme nights, such as Birthday Rides, Freedom Rides, Hawaiian Rides, and of course, Big Red Rides. Runner Chris Hansen laughed that he not only runs to get in shape for local running events, but also so he can stay in shape for his kids. One big running event that takes place on the MoPac East Trail is the Harvest Moon Hustle which takes place near Elmwood. As advertised, the 10k race is “Fast. Flat. More on Page 8
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Top: Chris Hansen uses the trail to exercise. Middle: A sign marks the Fletcher Prairie Wachiska Audubon Society. Above: The trail gets a lot of use throughout the year. Left: A sculpture sits near the trail. Opposite: A common destination for riders is Bailey’s Local in Eagle, Neb.
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MoPac East Trail From page 7 And in the dark.” The 2016 Harvest Moon Hustle sold out to its 1,250 runner capacity in only four days. The race starts as the moon is rising. The MoPac Trail is a great place for memories.
Trail Facts
The MoPac Trail East is 21.7 miles and seamlessly connects to the 5.3-mile MoPac Trail West, for a total 27-mile ride from the east end of Lincoln to nearly Omaha.
A deer pauses as it crosses the trail.
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Rural Electric Nebraskan
Jim Matheson takes reins of NRECA
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im Matheson, the former seven-term Utah congressman, recently began his tenure as CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). “On behalf of our board of directors, we are extremely excited to have Jim join NRECA,” said NRECA President Mel Coleman. “Jim will bring to the position a broad knowledge of the issues facing rural America and will be an inspirational leader for America’s Electric Cooperatives.” Matheson was selected for the position in June by NRECA’s board of directors. He succeeds Jo Ann Emerson, who fell ill in August 2015 after serving as CEO since March 2013. Emerson’s chief of staff and NRECA COO Jeffrey Connor served as interim CEO and will continue with the association in the position of COO. “I’m thrilled to be here and eager to roll up my sleeves and get to work with my new colleagues and NRECA’s members,” Matheson said. “My initial focus will be learning the business side of NRECA and what makes it such an exceptional and successful organization. I’m really looking forward to getting out to meet with our members to learn more about their interests and discuss how NRECA can best continue to represent them in the nation’s capital.” Matheson brings a wealth of experience and skills to his new position. During his time in the U.S. House of Representatives, Matheson was known first and foremost as someone who could work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to find and build upon common ground. He was Chief Deputy Whip for the House Democratic Caucus and served as co-chairman of the Blue Dog Coalition. He also was a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, as well as the Financial Services, Transportation
October 2016
and Infrastructure, and Science Committees. The respect Matheson has on both sides of the aisle, and his ability to bridge political and policy divides to find common ground, will serve NRECA and all members very well. Before entering government service, Matheson worked in the energy industry for several years. Immediately prior to joining NRECA, he served as Principal, Public Policy Practice for the international law firm Squire Patton Boggs. Matheson was born and raised in Salt Lake City, Utah. He received a Bachelor’s Degree in Government from Harvard University, and an MBA in Finance and Accounting from UCLA. His wife, Amy, is a pediatrician, and they have two sons, William and Harris.
Jim Matheson NRECA CEO
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Avoiding Air Invasions
Properly sealed, insulated homes lead to comfort, lower energy bills
e all know the symptoms of a house that’s leaking air. Drafty halls in the winter lead to rooms that suffocate in summer. Then there’s the most uncomfortable pain of all high electric bills. Talk to an energy efficiency expert from your local electric utility, and one of the first things he or she will do is ask about insulation in your house. What type do you have? Is it in the attic, walls, and floors? How about the basement or crawl space? Chances are leaky homes aren’t properly insulated. But it takes more than a roll of the familiar pink fiberglass to stop air invasions.
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Sealing the Envelope = Zipping Your Coat “A major factor in larger monthly energy bills in both the summer and winter is an uninsulated, unsealed building envelope,” remarks Wade Rahn, Customer & Technical Service Coordinator for Butler Public Power District, based in David City, Neb. “You can lower energy bills by just identifying and stopping air infiltration.” A “thermal building envelope” separates you from outside elements. It’s like wearing a coat when it’s cold: If you zip up your coat, it’s nice and warm, but if it hangs open, you’re left freezing. By properly sealing the building envelope and creating air barriers, and then installing insulation, you keep hot air out in summer and cold air out in winter. Sealing your home’s thermal envelope involves applying caulk and foam to cracks and gaps and correctly installing insulation. If the insulation isn’t put in well, it’s not doing its job. Typically, incorrectly placed insulation leaves gaps
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Caulk, weather stripping, and expanding spray foam should take care of those problem areas listed above. You can also make a box of rigid foam board for the attic pulldown stairs.
It’s All About Air Infiltration Understanding air infiltration is only half the battle. You have to find and stop the invaders. “There are many tools we make available to our customers to identify and correct these deficiencies” Rahn relates.
Choosing Insulation But insulation won’t do any good if you don’t have proper air barriers — if your house jacket isn’t zipped. While loose-fill fiberglass or fiberglass batts keep heat from moving in or out of your house, they do little to stop air flow. In fact, if every single joint and crack is not sealed with caulk or expanding foam, your fiberglass batt insulation does little more than catch dust. “Discoloration around the edges of your insulation is a sign that outside air and dust is being blown through
If your local public power district or electric cooperative offers home energy audits, take advantage of them. Your utility’s energy advisor will determine if your home needs a blower-door test, one of the best ways of finding out how much air goes in and out of your residence every hour. If a thermal imaging camera is available, the auditor can pinpoint exactly where your home loses air. Typical culprits include the roof, around doors and windows, recessed can lights, attic hatches and pulldown stairs, and unfinished basements or crawl spaces. Don’t overlook the obvious — check where ceilings and floors meet the walls, too. Do you routinely have to clean a cobwebby corner? That’s a good indication of air infiltration because insects like fresh air. “What you don’t see could be adding a large portion to your monthly bill” Rahn warns.
the insulation” Rahn reveals. Cellulose, made from recycled newspapers and blown in, provides good attic insulation because it does more to stop air flow. Foam insulation, while the most expensive, also boasts the highest R-value — the effectiveness rating given to insulation — and completely blocks air. Your local energy professional can help determine the best type of insulation for your house and also help you work out a payback period on your investment. You can also check EnergySavers.gov for more information about insulation, and use their ZIP code calculator to find out how much insulation you need for your location. The bottom line: “If outside air is getting into your conditioned space, your bills will be higher and you won’t be comfortable,” Rahn concludes.
between walls and doors or windows, or where the ceiling meets the walls. If there’s a gap in insulation, heat gets through.
Before you purchase a home — whether a new construction or an old farmhouse — it’s smart to do two things: ask for previous years’ electric bills, and ask for a blower-door test.
Rural Electric Nebraskan
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Rural electric careers offer paycheck and a purpose by Justin LaBerge
very day in this country, more than 75,000 men and women go to work at America’s public power districts and electric cooperatives to keep the lights on for 42 million energy consumers in 47 states. It’s challenging work, but in addition to a paycheck, rural electric utility employees go home each night knowing they’ve helped make their communities better places to live. Over the next five years, thousands of workers will get to experience that sense of purpose and pride as electric utilities hire nearly 15,000 employees nationwide. These new hires will replace Baby Boomers reaching retirement age and accommodate organic growth in the energy industry. Despite competitive wages, excellent benefits, job stability and rewarding work, public power districts and electric cooperatives often have a difficult time attracting new
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employees. One reason for this recruiting challenge is a lack of awareness among potential new hires. To overcome this challenge, public power districts and electric cooperatives have joined forces with other energy companies to celebrate Careers in Energy Week. The event, which runs October 17 through 21, is an opportunity for rural electric utilities to promote their career opportunities and correct common misconceptions about jobs in the energy industry.
Many career options A lineworker high atop a pole is the first image that comes to mind for most people who think about public power district and electric cooperative employees. It’s true that lineworkers comprise the largest segment of the electric utility workforce – approximately 25 percent – but it takes a variety of talents to keep an electric utility running smoothly. Information technology and engineering are two rapidly growing
career opportunities. The need for more high-tech workers is driven by the shift to a smarter electric grid and the growth of renewable energy sources that must be carefully monitored and managed. Other in-demand career paths at public power districts and electric cooperatives include finance, member services, equipment operators, energy advisors, communications and marketing, purchasing, administrative support and human resources. For people who enjoy the rural quality of life but want to explore other parts of the country, a public power district or electric cooperative career might be the perfect option. There are more than 900 public power districts and electric cooperatives in the United States, and combined they serve 75 percent of the nation’s land mass. Rural electric utility lines stretch across every region, climate and geographic feature America has to offer, and each utility reflects the character of the community it serves.
Rural Electric Nebraskan
No matter what living situation and work environment prospective employees might be seeking, they’re sure to find it somewhere in the electric cooperative network. Although the national statistics are impressive, it doesn’t mean much to a job seeker if his or her local electric utility is fully staffed and doesn’t anticipate any openings in the near future. Many jobs – especially lineworkers, equipment operators and other similar roles – are available through regional and national contractors. These contractors are typically hired to supplement local utility crews to help build large projects or repair widespread storm damage. They move from project to project over time, offering employees a chance to see different parts of the country. They provide a great option for individuals who would like to join their hometown utility when a position becomes available, but want to start working in the energy industry immediately. Second careers Some people think the only time to start a new career is fresh out of high
October 2016
school or college. While the energy industry offers many rewarding careers to recent grads, it is also a great place to start a second or third career. Lineworker training programs offered through community colleges are growing in popularity among people who previously worked in oil and gas, manufacturing, mining, forestry and other similar industries. Public power districts and electric cooperatives are also eager to hire military veterans and their spouses. Last year, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association launched a program called “Serve Our Co-ops; Serve Our Country” to honor and hire veterans and their spouses. More information about the program is available at www.ServeVets.coop. As not-for-profit, member-owned, locally based businesses, America’s public power districts and electric cooperatives offer careers that allow employees to make a difference in the communities they serve. They are guided by a set of principles that put people ahead of profits, and offer fulfilling work to those who enjoy serving others.
Clockwise from top left: Carol Heineman, Operating System Analyst and Tracy Gordon, Technology Integration and Security Manager, inspect a computer program in the server room at Dawson Public Power District. Valerie Eastman, an inventory supervisor, receives a shipment of parts at High West Energy, Inc. Elkhorn Rural Public Power District’s Warehouse Clerk Garland Goracke assembles a 3-phase irrigation meter loop. Kevin Zohner, an IT specialist at Elkhorn RPPD, installs a backup drive on the network storage server. Jennifer Adams, a HR Specialist/Corporate Communicator at Elkhorn RPPD, meets with representatives from the newspaper. Operations Clerk Josie Lytle takes a customer call during a storm outage at Southwest Public Power District. Kevin Clark, stores supervisor at Norris Public Power District, unloads a spool of wire. At Southwest PPD System Engineer Gary Hanken, left, and General Manager Curtis Kayton discuss an outage. Niobrara Valley Electric Membership Corporation linemen prepare to build a section of power line for an irrigation pivot. Consumer Accounting Representative Charla Thuernagle assists a customer at Dawson PPD. Stacie Young, a customer service representative, monitors Elkhorn RPPD’s SCADA system for load management.
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Controlling appliances from mobile devices by Brian Sloboda
oday’s world offers smart phone apps for anything and everything. Some apps let you chase imaginary Pokémon around parking lots, while others allow you to control your vast financial empire with merely a few clicks, swipes and shakes. It should be no surprise that a growing number of household appliances are app enabled. Most of the apps exist to make your life more convenient, assuming keeping your eyes glued to a small screen is your definition of convenience. But some of these apps can actually help you save energy and make your home more comfortable. Manufacturers are now adding communication modules inside home appliances. For around $130, you can purchase a Crock-Pot that will communicate with your smart phone. If you are late coming home, you can adjust the heat setting and achieve the perfect pot roast. Some companies are selling electrical outlets that include communication modules. These modules often use Wi-Fi to communicate simple messages to a home’s wireless network. What the messages are will vary from device to device. Typically, the system will allow you to monitor energy consumption, turn devices on and off and change the setting on your thermostat. The bulk of any energy savings will come from the ability to remotely control your HVAC system’s thermostat. Apps associated with Wi-Fi controllable thermostats are often easier to use. Thermostats from companies such as Nest, Honeywell and Ecobee allow you to adjust your home’s temperature from your phone. This comes in handy when you forget to turn the air conditioner off while on vacation, or when you want to heat your living space before returning home. These thermostats are also capable of learning your schedule and can provide energy savings by turning the systems back when no one is home. Studies have shown these smart thermostats tend to perform as advertised. App-enabled appliances won’t be right for every homeowner. It depends on a variety of factors, and many questions should be answered before going down this road: 1. What are my goals? Do I want home security, energy savings or just the latest app technology? 2. Do I have broadband internet in my home? Many of these systems require a broadband internet connection to work properly. 3. What appliances and devices in my home do I want to control? Thermostat, doors, lighting, refrigerator? 4. Can I afford the additional cost, and is it worth it to me? 5. What appliances need replacing and does an app really make sense for that appliance? One appliance
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manufacturer says consumers can turn their oven on from their phone while driving home. Will you really use this feature? 6. Who owns the data collected from your appliances, and how will they use it? So far, none of these smart appliances will cook dinner with the mere push of a button, but the devices do allow you to see what is going on at home, who is home and even turn lights and air conditioning on and off. For some, these gadgets and apps are cool and worth the additional expense. For others, it’s just one more piece of technology that can break or go unused while trying to rush kids off to baseball practice. To learn more about app-enabled appliances and how to save energy, contact the energy experts at your local electric utility.
Rural Electric Nebraskan
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Big Pharma execs stand to lose billions as doctors and their patients abandon drugs like NexiumÂŽ and PrilosecÂŽ. Drug free remedy could put Big Pharma out of the digestion business. By David Waxman Seattle Washington: Drug company execs are nervous. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s because the greatest health advance in decades has hit the streets. And analysts expect it to put a huge crimp in â&#x20AC;&#x153;Big Pharmaâ&#x20AC;? SURÂż WV So whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all the fuss about? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s about a new ingredient thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s changing the lives of people who use it. Some call it â&#x20AC;&#x153;the greatest discovery since penicillinâ&#x20AC;?! And others call it â&#x20AC;&#x153;a miracle!â&#x20AC;? The name of the product is the AloeCure. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a drug. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something completely GLŕľľ HUHQW $QG WKH SURGXFW LV DYDLODEOH WR anyone who wants it, at a reasonable price. But demands may force future prices to rise.
Top Doc Warns: Digestion Drugs Can Cripple You!
Company spokesperson, Dr. Liza Leal, a leading integrative health specialist out of Texas recommends Aloecure before she decides to prescribe any digestion drug. Especially after the FDAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stem warning about ORQJ WHUP XVH RI GUXJV FODVVLÂż HG DV SURWRQ pump inhibitors like PrilosecÂŽ, NexiumÂŽ, and PrevacidÂŽ. In a nutshell, the FDA statement warned people should avoid taking these digestion drugs for longer than three 14-day treatment periods because there is an increased risk of bone fractures. Many people take them daily and for decades. Dr. Leal should know. Many patients come to her with bone and joint complaints and she does everything she can to help WKHP 2QH ZD\ IRU GLJHVWLRQ VXŕľľ HUHUV WR help avoid possible risk of tragic joint and bone problems caused by overuse of digestion drugs is to take the AloeCure. The secret to AloeCureâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;health adMXVWLQJ´ IRUPXOD LV VFLHQWLÂż FDOO\ WHVWHG Acemannan, a polysaccharide extracted from Aloe Vera. But not the same aloe vera that mom used to apply to your cuts, scrapes and burns. This is a perfect strain of aloe that is organically grown in special Asian soil under very strict conditions. AloeCure is so powerful it begins to benHÂż W \RXU KHDOWK WKH LQVWDQW \RX WDNH LW ,W soothes intestinal discomfort and you can
Drug companies are understandably upset since the AloeCureÂŽ GHOLYHUV TXLFNHU DQG EHWWHU KHDOWK EHQHÂż WV
avoid the possibility of bone and health damage caused by overuse of digestion drugs. We all know how well aloe works externally on cuts, scrapes and burns. But did you know Acemannan has many of RWKHU KHDOWK EHQHÂż WV"
Helps Calm Down Painful Inflammation
According to a leading aloe research scientist, the amazing Aloe plant has a powHUIXO DQWLLQĂ&#x20AC; DPPDWRU\ Hŕľľ HFW $ORH 9HUD FDOPV WKH Âż UH LQ \RXU EHOO\ OLNH LW GRHV WKH sunburn on your skin and in many ways KHOSV KHDO GDPDJHG FHOOV ,QĂ&#x20AC; DPPDWLRQ LV \RXU ERG\ÂśV Âż UVW UHDFWLRQ WR GDPDJH 6R whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s damage that is physical, bacterial, chemical or auto-immune, the natural SODQW KHOSV VRRWKH LQĂ&#x20AC; DPPDWLRQ UDSLGO\ reducing redness, heat and swelling.
lead to all sorts of health problems. But what you may not realize is the reason why youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not sleeping. I sometimes call LW Âł*KRVW 5HĂ&#x20AC; X[´ $ ORZ LQWHQVLW\ IRUP of acid discomfort that quietly keeps you awake in the background. AloeCure helps GLJHVWLRQ VR \RX PD\ Âż QG \RXUVHOI VOHHSLQJ through the night.
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One of the Best-Kept Secrets in Hollywood. Certain antacids may greatly reduce your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to break down and absorb calcium. Aloe delivers calcium as it aids in balancing your stomach acidity. The result? Thicker, healthier looking hair ... more youthful looking skin ... And nails so strong they may never break again.
Save Your Kidney
National and local news outlets are reRapid Acid and Heartburn Fix porting Kidney Failure linked to PPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Aloe has proved to have an astonishing Your Kidney extracts waste from blood, Hŕľľ HFW RQ XVHUV ZKR VXŕľľ HU ZLWK GLJHVWLRQ EDODQFHV ERG\ Ă&#x20AC; XLGV IRUPV XULQH DQG DLGV SUREOHPV OLNH ERXWV RI DFLG UHĂ&#x20AC; X[ KHDUW in other important functions of the body. burn, cramping, gas and constipation be- Without it your body would be overrun FDXVH LW DFWV DV D QDWXUDO DFLG EXŕľľ HU DQG by deadly toxins. Aloe helps your kidney soothes the digestive system. But new stud- function properly. Studies suggest if you ies prove it does a whole lot more. started taking aloe today youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d see a big Side-Step Heart Concerns GLŕľľ HUHQFH LQ WKH ZD\ \RX IHHO So youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been taking proton pump inSpecial Opportunity For hibitors (PPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s) for years and you feel just Readers of this Magazine Âż QH ,Q -XQH RI D PDMRU VWXG\ VKRZV :LWK WKLV LQWURGXFWRU\ Rŕľľ HU WKH PDNHUV that chronic PPI use increases the risk of RI WKH $ORH&XUH DUH H[FLWHG WR Rŕľľ HU \RX D heart attack in general population. Debilitating brain disorders are on the risk-free supply. Readers of this magazine rise. New studies show PPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s are linked to DUH SUH TXDOLÂż HG IRU XS WR )5(( PRQWKV an increased risk of dementia. Cutting edge of product with their order. Take advantage research shows that the health of your brain of this special opportunity to try AloeCure is closely linked by the state of healthy bac- LQ \RXU RZQ KRPH DQG Âż QG RXW KRZ WR WHVW teria that comes from your gut. The things $ORH&XUH IRU D IXOO GD\V %XW WKDWÂśV QRW happening in your belly today might be all. ... If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see remarkable changdeciding your risk for any number of brain es in your digestion, your body, and your conditions. Studies have been ongoing overall health ... Simply return it for a full VLQFH WKH ÂśV 1HZ VWXGLHV VXJ JHVW WKDW refund less shipping and handling (when taking PPIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at both low and high dosage applicable). also disrupts a healthy human gut! -XVW FDOO 1-800-748-3311 to take advanWDJH RI WKLV ULVN IUHH Rŕľľ HU EHIRUH LWÂśV WRR Sleep Like A Baby A night without sleep really damages ODWH 7KLV Rŕľľ HU LV OLPLWHG FDOO QRZ your body and continued lost sleep can
THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. INDIVIDUAL RESULTS MAY VARY ALOECURE IS NOT A DRUG. IFYOU ARE CURRENLTY TAKING A PRESCRIPTION DRUG YOU SHOULD CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE USE. FOR 7+( )8// )'$ 38%/,6+(' :$51 /1* 21 352721 3803 /1+/%,7256 3/($6( 9,6,7 +7 73 ::: )'$ *29 ' :1/ $'6 ) 5&21680(56 &21680(583'$7(6 8&0
Pokémon at Substations? Players Beware! SAFETY BRIEFS
otta catch ‘em all? Fine. Just be careful catching Pokémon around high voltage equipment. That’s the warning public power districts and electric cooperatives are sounding to players of Pokémon Go, the smartphone-based augmented reality game in which players try to catch Pokémon in real world places. Pokémon turn up everywhere— from the Pentagon to Hollywood Boulevard, from restaurants to gas stations. But they’re also appearing at substations, and that’s got utilities concerned. “The reality game is drawing players into some dangerous situations,” warns the Nebraska Rural Electric Association. The statewide association urges players to “exercise extreme caution when playing this new global phenomenon,” adding that “electric utilities cannot control where the Pokémon appear, making it important for players to make sure they catch their Pokémon from a safe distance.” “Climbing a utility pole or a fence surrounding a substation is not only
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trespassing, it’s just plain dangerous,” NREA General Manager Troy Bredenkamp said. “Serious injury, or worse, is a likely result. Poles, substations, and transformers are for processing electricity—not for playing games.” Some utilities around the country
have reported gamers following employees who have swiped an access card, into power plants, and it urged electric utility staffers to be vigilant. Numerous public power districts and electric co-ops have taken to social media to get the word out.
Rural Electric Nebraskan
“We checked. There are no #Pokémon in Dawson PPD’s substations,” Dawson Public Power District wrote on its Facebook page. “You can catch your Pokémon from a safe distance, so there’s no need to ever attempt to climb on, or enter, these restricted areas. Not even for #Pikachu.” The post continues: “Parents, remind your children to stay away from dangerous high voltage environments like our lines, towers, padmount transformers and substations.” High West Energy posted on its Facebook page a screen shot of a Pokémon outside one of its substations. “Searching for the rarest of the rare in #PokemonGO? Well, we know one place NOT to look,” the Pine Bluffs, Wyoming-based co-op wrote. “Entering electrical substations is both a crime and incredibly dangerous - NEVER attempt to gain access to one.” Butler Public Power District wrote
on their Facebook page “There are online threads that are suggesting ‘electric’ type Pokémon characters can be found near electrical facilities.” They provide a few safety tips for those playing the game, such as do not climb power poles or throw items into power lines, do not climb trees near power lines, never climb on, stand on, or place items into facilities such as padmount transformers, and to stay clear of utility job sites. Bud Branham, NRECA director of safety and loss prevention, encouraged co-ops to continue spreading the word to help protect members. “Any game or activity that creates excitement and distracts people of the possible dangers around them— whether it’s our electrical facilities, traffic on a road, driving a vehicle— and at the same time potentially brings them in proximity to our electric equipment and lines, is a major concern for all of us,” said Branham.
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CUT YOUR UTILITY BILLS
Is your attic haunted by lack of insulation? by Pat Keegan Winter will be here before we Q :know it, and I’m wondering if more insulation could help keep my heating bills low. Where in my home should I look to add insulation? you venture outdoors in A :theWhen winter without a hat and coat, you obviously will feel much colder, much faster. Similarly, when your home is not properly sealed and insulated, cold air sneaks in and heat escapes, making your heating system work harder and your home less comfortable. Sealing and insulating your home to efficient levels can cut your heating and cooling costs by an average of 15 percent, and sometimes much more—all while making you more comfortable in your home. Your attic is one of the first places you should consider insulating since it is usually accessible and easy to inspect for air leaks and insulation levels. Additionally, most homes do not have enough attic insulation. Insulation standards for new homes increased in 2012, and many homes built before then do not have the current recommended amount of attic insulation. Insulation is graded by its “Rvalue” – the higher the R-value, the greater the insulating power. The Nebraska Energy Office recommends the following R-values in the following home areas: Attic – R-45 to R-60; Exterior walls – R-20 to R-30; Floors over unheated spaces – R-30; Basement walls and concrete slabs – R-10. How can you tell if your attic is lacking in insulation? As a general rule, if you go into your attic and can see the ceiling joists on the attic floor, there is not enough insulation.
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Hiring a trained energy auditor is one way to diagnose shortcomings with insulation or any other energyrelated issue. Check with your rural electric utility to see if they offer energy audits or can refer you to a local energy auditor. Your utility may also offer a rebate for adding attic insulation.
Blown-in insulation can fill spaces better than batt insulation, but requires special equipment. This equipment can sometimes be rented at home improvement stores. Photograph provided by the Weatherization Assistance Project Once you have determined that you need more insulation in your attic, there are a few things you can do before laying down additional insulation: • If you currently store items like holiday decorations in your attic, consider another suitable storage location in your home. If you must use your attic for storage, build a platform high enough to allow installation of the recommended level of insulation. • If you live in an older home, you should check your attic’s electric wiring. Is the insulation around the wires degrading? Do you have knob
and tube wiring? In either case, you will likely need to replace the wiring before proceeding. You will then need to decide who will do the insulation work. If a “DIY” project interests you, you’ll need to do some homework. Installing insulation is messy, potentially dangerous and requires special equipment. Fortunately, there are many experienced insulation contractors. You should discuss a few things with the contractor before you agree to hire them: • Be sure that you or your contractor seals any air leaks, such as around furnace flues and around any exposed air ducts in the attic. Air leaks can bring warm, moist air from your home into the attic, which can reduce the insulation value and create mold. • Pay particular attention to your attic door or hatch. This entry point is a significant contributor to heat loss and heat gain in the home. • If you have existing attic insulation, it is usually not necessary to remove it unless it is wet, moldy or contains animal waste. • Make sure there is sufficient ventilation in the attic. Warmth and moisture can build up in an improperly ventilated attic, which can lead to roof problems, such as roof rot or ice dams. There are two types of insulation that you could place on your attic floor: batt/roll or blown-in/loose fill. Blown-in insulation requires special equipment to install, but it fills the space better than batt insulation, which can leave gaps and voids without careful cutting and placement around ceiling joists, vents and other attic impediments. Before you get started, consult with your local energy auditor or insulation contractor. They can help determine what type and material of insulation will work best in your home.
Rural Electric Nebraskan
Pros and cons of heat pump water heaters major consumer of electricity in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home is the water heater. Because of how electric water heaters work, using electric resistance elements, these units max out in efficiency at about 96 percent. As the government and industry seek ways to reduce energy use and the resulting carbon emissions, they have turned their attention to the electric water heater. After a lengthy study, the Department of Energy issued rules governing the efficiency of electric water heaters that went into effect in 2015. The rules resulted in a jump in efficiency requirements for larger residential electric water heaters. Enter the heat pump water heater (HPWH). Heat pumps have been in use for general home heating and cooling since their invention in the 1940s by Robert C. Webber . When the oil embargo of the 1970s brought the
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October 2016
need for improved efficiency to the forefront, heat pumps became an important source of increased energy efficiency in the heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) arena. Heat pumps operate by using compressors, refrigerant, heat exchangers and the difference in outside air temperature versus indoor temps to produce heating and cooling for homes and businesses. These units historically have been most successful in areas with moderate winter temperatures, although advances in technology are making use in colder climates more feasible. So, how does a HPWH function and what are its advantages and disadvantages? In short, the HPWH absorbs heat from the surrounding air using it to heat water within the tank. Because the HPWH uses heat pump technology, it can be up to 2.5
times more efficient than a traditional resistance electric water heater. This means it will cost you less to produce hot water for your home and reduce carbon emissions. The following table details the key advantages and disadvantages of the HPWH. As with heat pumps for general space conditioning, the HPWH will provide greater yearround savings in moderate climates. Like any new application of a technology, the HPWH will benefit from steady improvements over time. They are undeniably more efficient than electric resistance water heaters and will pay for themselves in a reasonable amount of time (2-3 years or so). However, they may not be the right choice in every situation and climate. If your water heater is over 10 years old, you should be looking at a replacement anyway to avoid the risk of water damage should the tank fail. Take the time to weigh the pros and cons of the HPWH as a replacement and, if it is right for you, it is a choice that will pay dividends on your budget and in contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions.
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Down Home Recipes
Pledge to pack a healthier lunchbox ipe vegetables, fresh herbs and fragrant spices all lend vibrant, bold flavors to mouthwatering meals that are worth lingering over with friends. This is what Mediterranean cooking is all about. Add some Mediterranean inspiration to your everyday meals with these recipes using Crisco olive oils to help you turn an ordinary meal into a memorable one. Use extra virgin olive oil to add a full-bodied flavor to salads, vegetables and meats. Pure olive oil offers a mild, subtle olive flavor with a hint of fruit to sautés and stirfries. Light tasting olive oil is ideal as an all-purpose cooking oil that can be used for sautéing, roasting vegetables or in baked goods like muffins, cakes and brownies. For more recipes, visit www.crisco.com.
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Roasted Lemon-Garlic Chicken Chicken: Crisco Olive Oil No-Stick Cooking Spray 1 tablespoon Crisco Pure Olive Oil or Crisco Light Tasting Olive Oil 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 (4 to 5 pound) whole chicken, rinsed with neck and giblets removed Salt and pepper Gravy: 1/2 cup cold water 1/4 cup milk 1 (0.87 to 1.2 ounces) package chicken gravy mix 1/2 teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon minced garlic 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice Heat oven to 400°F. Spray a shallow roasting pan with rack with no-stick cooking spray.
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Mix oil, oregano and garlic. Brush mixture over entire chicken. Season chicken liberally with salt and pepper. Place in prepared pan, breast side down; let stand 30 minutes. Turn chicken breast side up. Roast 65 to 70 minutes, basting occasionally. Chicken is done when meat thermometer registers 170°F or when juices run clear when thickest part of thigh is pricked. Transfer chicken to carving board; tent with aluminum foil. Allow to rest 10 minutes. Skim grease from the pan drippings. Place 1/4 cup skimmed pan drippings into small saucepan. Add water, milk, gravy mix, oregano, garlic and lemon juice to pan. Cook, stirring constantly until gravy thickens. Carve chicken. Place on serving platter. Serve with warm lemongarlic gravy.
Rural Electric Nebraskan
Reader Submitted Recipes
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Ghool – Ade (Halloween Punch)
envelope Kool-Aid grape flavor envelope Kool-Aid orange flavor cups sugar quarts cold water bottle (quart or liter) ginger ale, chilled
Dissolve Kool-Aid and sugar in water, chill. Add ginger ale just before serving. It’s black as midnight and frightfully delicious.
Alyssa Boller, Farnam, Nebraska
Mediterranean Linguine with Basil and Tomatoes 1 1-pound box linguine pasta 1 tablespoon salt, or to taste 1/2 cup Crisco 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil 2 pints grape tomatoes (4 cups), cut in half 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Salt and pepper to taste 18 basil leaves, cut in thin strips 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus additional for garnish Heat 6 quarts water to boiling. Add pasta and salt. Cook for the minimum recommended time on package directions. While pasta cooks, prepare sauce. Heat olive oil in large skillet on medium heat. Add tomatoes and garlic. Cook and stir 2 minutes or until tomatoes are soft. Remove from heat. Stir in vinegar and pepper flakes. Drain cooked pasta. Add to skillet. Cook and stir 1 minute or until pasta is coated and hot. Remove from heat. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in basil and cheese. Serve with additional cheese, if desired.
October 2016
S’mores Cupcakes
1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup flour 2 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 cup butter, softened 3/4 cup sugar 2 eggs 1 teaspoon vanilla 3/4 cup milk In a small bowl combine graham cracker crumbs, flour and baking powder; set aside. Beat the butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time. Beat well with each addition. Add the vanilla. Alternately add flour mixture with milk, beat well after each addition. Divide the batter into two muffin tins lined with 16 cupcake liners total. Bake at 350 degrees for 22 – 25 minutes or until done. Cool in pans for 15 minutes. Remove from pans and cool completely on a wire rack. For the icing, I use a vanilla whipped kind, store bought. It has the EXACT consistency as gooey marshmallows. For the topping I sprinkle clumps of minimarshmallows on aluminum foil and toast them in a toaster oven. Brown them to your liking, then scoop them off the foil and place them on the iced cupcakes. Then drizzle with chocolate syrup, add more crushed graham crackers and a small chocolate square for the campfire effect.
Ashley Cerny, Shelby, Nebraska
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Hamburger Casserole
lbs. hamburger stick Oleo small box stovetop stuffing can cream of chicken or cream of mushroom soup onion, chopped stalks celery, chopped fine cups hot water
Brown hamburger, onion and celery. Blend oleo in hot water with stuffing. Mix all together. Blend 1/2 cup water with soup. Mix all together and put in 9” X 13” casserole. Sprinkle with grated cheese. Bake 350 degrees for 30 – 35 minutes. Add a can of green beans or corn if desired.
Dolores Florian, Ord, Nebraska
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MARKETPLACE/CLASSIFIEDS
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Rural Electric Nebraskan
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