AUGUST 2021

THE MAGAZINE YOU COME HOME TO Preserving Penn’s woods Volunteer program teaches forest management

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1. 26% through 2022 and 22% through 2023 • The Reliable Renewable is a trademark of WaterFurnace International, Inc. Contents AUGUST 2021 Vol. 56 • No. 8 4 Keeping Current Editor News from across Peter A. Fitzgerald the Commonwealth Senior Editor/Writer Katherine Hackleman 6 Energy Matters Managing rights-of-way from Associate Editor top to bottom Michael T. Crawford Layout & Design 8 feature: Preserving W. Douglas Shirk Penn’s woods 8 production coordinator Volunteer program teaches Michelle M. Smith forest management Contributing Columnists John Kasun 12 Time Lines Anne M. Kirchner Your newsmagazine George Weigel through the years

Penn Lines (USPS 929-700), the newsmagazine 12a Cooperative of Pennsylvania’s electric cooperatives, is published Connection monthly by the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Associa- Information and advice from tion, 212 Locust Street, P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1266. Penn Lines helps 166,000 house- your local electric cooperative holds of co-op consumer-members understand issues 16 that affect the electric cooperative program, their local 16 COUNTRY KITCHEN co-ops, and their quality of life. Electric co-ops are not- for-profit, consumer-owned, locally directed, and tax- Connect with local farmers paying electric utilities. Penn Lines is not responsible for unsolicited manuscripts. The opinions expressed 17 TECH TRENDS in Penn Lines do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, the Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, or Energy efficiency keeps improving, local electric distribution cooperatives. even through a pandemic Subscriptions: Electric co-op members, $5.39 per year through their local electric distribution coopera- 18 Smart circuits tive. Preferred Periodicals postage paid at Harrisburg, When to DIY and when to PA 17107 and additional mail­ing offices. POST- hire a pro MASTER: Send address changes with mailing label to Penn Lines, 212 Locust Street, P.O. Box 1266, 19 Harrisburg, PA 17108-1266. 19 power plants Advertising: Display ad deadline is six weeks prior to How a finger can save plants month of issue. Ad rates upon request. Acceptance of advertising by Penn Lines does not imply endorse- ment of the product or services by the publisher or 20 Classifieds any electric cooperative. If you encounter a problem with any product or service advertised in Penn Lines, please contact: Advertising, Penn Lines, P.O. Box 22 Punch Lines 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108. Penn Lines reserves ‘Operation Peaches’ the right to refuse any advertising. 23 Rural Reflections Fun in the sun 23

ON THE COVER Board officers and staff, Pennsylvania Rural Electric Nancy Baker, Sugar Run, Pa., Association: Chairman, Leroy Walls; Vice Chair­man, Tim Burkett; Secretary, Barbara Miller; Treasurer,­ is one of approximately 500 Rick Shope; President & CEO, Frank M. Betley active volunteers with the Pennsylvania Forest Stewards © 2021 Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part Program. One of her goals without written permission is prohibited. is to encourage landowners to care for their woods in a Visit with us at Penn Lines Online, responsible, sustainable way. located at: www.prea.com/penn-lines- Photo by Jeff Fetzer magazine. Penn Lines Online provides an email link to Penn Lines editorial staff, information on advertising rates, and an archive of past issues.

| AUGUST 2021 3 keepingcurrent

News from across the Commonwealth

Reports of sick songbirds Schuylkill, Cameron/Elk/McKean/ state. It feeds on the sap of at least 70 confuse authorities Potter, Erie/Crawford/Warren, and plant species, which stresses the plant Wildlife health experts from several Philadelphia counties. and can eventually destroy it. states and universities are investigating The program will provide exten- reports of numerous songbirds that are sive coursework in water and natural CWD-positive deer found in sick or dying due to an unknown con- resources with ongoing volunteer and Warren County dition. Reports of the mysterious con- educational opportunities that allow The discovery of a captive deer in dition have come in from several states, participants to make a difference in Warren County that tested positive for including 27 counties in Pennsylvania. their communities. The training will be chronic wast- The most common symptoms being a combination of virtual/online sessions ing disease reported include discharge and/or crust- on Thursday evenings, and in-person (CWD) has ing around the eyes, eye lesions, and/or field trips, and will run between late led to the es- neurologic signs, such as falling over or August and early November. In ex- tablishment of head tremors. Affected birds have been change for approximately a new Disease tested for toxins, parasites, bacterial 40 hours of instruction, candidates Management diseases and viral infections, but to date, must agree to contribute 50 hours of Area (DMA-5) test results have been inconclusive. volunteer service their first year, fol- in an attempt Experts say this is an emerging lowed by 20 hours per year thereafter. to reduce the wildlife health event, and are advising To learn more about the program, risk of the dis- the public to follow these precautionary visit extension.psu.edu and search for ease spread- measures until more is known: “watershed stewards.” ing. The new DMA lies entirely within k Cease feeding birds and providing Warren County. water in bird baths until this wildlife ‘Lucky’ trained to detect CWD affects members of the deer, or mortality event has concluded to pre- spotted lanternfly eggs cervid, family, and the disease always vent potential spread between birds A German shepherd trained to detect is fatal to the deer and elk it infects. and to other wildlife. spotted lanternfly eggs is working When a new CWD-positive is detected k Clean feeders and bird baths with a with state and in either a wild or captive cervid in 10% bleach solution. local officials in an Pennsylvania, a DMA is established. k Avoid handling dead or injured wild effort to locate and This reduces the risk of the human-as- birds. Wear disposable gloves if it’s eradicate the pest. sisted spread of CWD. necessary to handle a bird. “Lucky” is the first Within DMAs, it is unlawful to: k Keep pets away from sick or dead dog known to have been trained specif- remove or export any cervid high-risk birds as a standard precaution. ically to locate the eggs of the spotted parts, use or possess cervid urine-based k Place dead birds in a sealable plastic lanternfly. attractants, directly or indirectly feed bag and discard them with house- The spotted lanternfly is harmless to wild, free-ranging deer (it is already hold trash. This will prevent disease people, but it can destroy vineyards and illegal to feed elk regardless of DMA lo- transmission to other birds and other farm crops. According to a Penn cation), or rehabilitate wild, free-rang- wildlife. State Extension report, the pest has ing cervids. already caused millions in damage and While CWD never has been doc- Do you care about could eventually cause major damage umented in humans, the Centers watersheds and want to across the state’s $132.5 billion agricul- for Disease Control and Prevention make a difference? ture industry. recommends never eating the meat of a The Penn State Master Watershed The spotted lanternfly was first iden- CWD-positive deer. Stewards Program is accepting ap- tified in Pennsylvania in Berks County More information on CWD is avail- plications for fall trainings in Berks/ in 2014, but has since spread across the able at pgc.pa.gov/CWD. l

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Managing rights-of-way from top to bottom By Derrill Holly

here’s more than one way to rights-of-way to support and sustain look at vegetation management. wildlife or provide forage and habitat ive rat The work electric cooperatives for migratory species. T oope and their contractors do to help keep Pennsylvania’s electric coopera- ic C

electric lines and other equipment sep- tr tives regularly share information and

arated from plant overgrowth plays a lec updates on local vegetation manage-

major role in service reliability. on E ment efforts to keep the public safe

ust and communicate how tree and plant From mowing and brush work at o growth trimming increases service reli- ground level to tree trimming near ability. ey, S a m H ey, or above power lines, Pennsylvania’s r “Communication is indispensable electric cooperatives regularly to successful vegetation management chel F inspect and manage the landscape a programs,” Miller says. “Stakeholders R in and around their equipment. This RIGHT-OF-WAY CLEARING: From mowing need to understand how vegetation maintenance is effective in preventing and brush work at ground level to tree trimming management will benefit them, and outages, minimizing the threat of fire above power lines, your local electric cooper- that includes education on how a ative regularly inspects and manages the land- damage, and maintaining access and scape near electrical equipment. vegetation management program min- serviceability. imizes the risk of tree-caused power Utility providers, including electric relentlessly,” says Randall H. Miller, outages.” cooperatives, have worked with local, a vegetation management consultant According to industry research, state, and federal foresters to develop based in Des Moines, Iowa. about 20% to 30% of all power outages integrated vegetation management While weather conditions can affect are vegetation related. Removal of tall practices aimed at reducing the need seasonal activities related to right-of- trees and limbs near power lines also for chemicals, costly manual and way work and vegetation management, reduces the risks of injuries caused mechanical control measures, and con- electric co-ops and other utilities regu- by accidental contacts with energized trolled burning. larly conduct maintenance to mitigate power lines. These techniques establish low-grow- risks. “It should include the concept of ing vegetation that out-competes “Vegetation management that is ‘right tree, right place’ and that there is taller-growing species, according to deferred one year has to be done in no room for tall trees to develop under experts at the U.S. Environmental the future, and the cost accrues much power lines,” Miller says. Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA faster than inflation,” says Miller, who “Planting them there means those worked with utility industry associ- serves on the Right-of-Way Steward- trees cannot be allowed to reach their ations and other federal agencies to ship Council. “As biomass develops full potential and will have to be either develop Integrated Vegetation Manage- due to growth and trees encroach removed or, if retained, continually ment (IVM) practices. on, or even engulf, power lines, they pruned to keep them clear of the con- An IVM approach can help cre- become increasingly more difficult and ductors,” Miller says. l ate sustainable ecosystems such as a less safe to work.” Derrill Holly writes on consumer and meadow transition habitat. The tech- While some of the work might be cooperative affairs for the National Rural niques, used for both roadside and done with brush hogs, mowers, and Electric Cooperative Association, the cross-country rights-of-way, encourage chainsaws, electric cooperatives also national trade association representing the growth of native plant species and rely heavily on planning, seeding, and more than 900 local electric cooperatives. increase plant diversity. They also strategic plantings, often supported by From growing suburbs to remote farming create or restore habitat for local and their consumer-members and other communities, electric cooperatives serve migrating wildlife, including insects, stakeholders. Youth and community as engines of economic development for birds, and mammals. groups regularly work with cooper- 42 million Americans across 56% of the “Trees and other vegetation grow atives on plans to enhance or adapt nation’s landscape.

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ost rural Pennsylvanians live By Kathy Hackleman recreational opportunities are, where within walking distance — Senior Editor/Writer climate change is mitigated,” Muth Mif not within sight of — a notes. “By virtue of coming through forested piece of property. They can nus a few) private consulting foresters, the training program, volunteers gain see the beauty and mystery of what state foresters, extension foresters, and access to multiple resources and they the forest holds, but what many don’t industry foresters to discuss how to find a cadre of like-minded individuals understand is the delicate balance that develop or maintain a healthy forest. who care about their woods, are excit- is required to keep a forest healthy. ed to learn more, and are passionate Volunteer program about owning land.” Dr. Allyson Muth, assistant research That’s where the volunteer Pennsyl- The forest stewardship program has professor in private forest management vania Forest Stewards Program comes trained more than 750 landowners. in the Department of Ecosystem Sci- in. Initiated as part of the 1991 Farm More than 500 remain active, spread- ence and Management and the director Bill, it now is funded by the Pennsyl- ing their knowledge throughout the of the Center for Private Forests at vania Department of Conservation and Commonwealth. A recent survey Penn State University, says that of the Natural Resources, Bureau of Forestry, revealed volunteers reached approxi- total 29 million acres in Pennsylvania, and the U.S. Department of Agricul- mately 330,000 people during a one- about 16.6 million acres are wooded or ture Forest Service, and administered year period. partially wooded. A study is underway through the Center for Private Forests Nancy Baker, a Claverack Rural to determine how many people own in cooperation with other agencies. Electric Cooperative (REC) member an acre or more of wooded property in The focus of the program is to train who lives near Sugar Run, Pa., has Pennsylvania, but the last completed volunteers who make a commitment been one of the most active volunteers. survey (done in 2010) revealed almost to share what they learn about healthy A member of the “Class of 2000,” Bak- 750,000. forests. er owns 165 acres held by her family With numbers like that, it’s difficult “The forested areas are where our since 1861. Because it belonged to her for many landowners to gain access to drinking water comes from, where our grandparents, she spent a lot of time the Commonwealth’s 400 (plus or mi- air pollution is cleared up, where our there as a child.

8 | AUGUST 2021 “My dad loved the woods, even planting and tending,” Baker explains. “The stewardship program was though it was not his family’s land; it “There is now a new forest coming life-changing, and it gave us import- was my mother’s family’s land,” Baker back. I won’t see it grow to maturity ant, knowledgeable contacts,” she explains. “I was an only child and I in my lifetime, but someone else will says. “It’s not a one-and-done pro- followed him around the woods all the have a new forest.” gram. Every year, we go to workshops, time.” Baker constantly works to encour- do training, stay connected through Baker, now retired, was asked as a age others to care for their woods in a emails and the newsletter. We are not sixth-grader to consider her future responsible, sustainable way. out here on our own trying to figure occupation. After telling the guidance “People often think the forest is out what we should be doing. People counselor she dreamed of growing up green, so it’s OK, but you have to get often contact us, and we give them to be a forester, the guidance coun- down into the technical weeds to tours of what we have done. We’re selor threw cold water on her plan, understand what’s going on in a forest always trying to spread the word about proclaiming, “Girls can’t be foresters.” and how you can help it along,” she sustainable forestry and what resourc- Baker’s response to this news she says. “An individual can change peo- es are out there for landowners.” calls “devastating” was to tell her dad. ple’s attitudes through sharing their Not all forest landowners live on Ever the supportive father, he told knowledge and time. It’s important to their land. Baker she could do anything she set look at what happened in the forest Harry Holt, a professor at West her mind to do (he also visited the in the past, and as you look toward Chester University, has a camp in Indi- rt i guidance counselor who never again the future, to develop your objectives ana County, where he gets his electric- told Baker she couldn’t be a forest- for your forest, and a plan of how you ity from REA Energy Cooperative. He owns about 30 acres of forest, and he

Laura K er). Baker went on to earn multiple intend to meet those objectives.” degrees in ecology and forest ecology, calls participation in the stewardship often as the only female in her classes. Learning sustainability program “a complete gamechanger.” She worked in various countries, fi- Across the state in Bedford County, He adds, “In that class, I really nally retiring along with her biologist/ Mike and Laura Jackson also have gained in my ability to understand college professor husband back on her been working with the Pennsyl- family’s land in the 1990s. vania Forest Stewards Program “When I inherited the land, I thought, for more than two decades. ‘This is the time to do my thing on this Both retired science/biology/ land, and I had better make sure I am environmental education teach- doing it right,’” she says. ers, they own 114 acres. This led her to research how to care The property, originally for a forest, which eventually pointed owned by Laura Jackson’s her toward the Pennsylvania Forest family, was logged in the 1980s Stewards Program. to provide funds for her parents “Pennsylvania forests are challenged to build a new house. The Jack- at the moment, maybe more so now sons, members of Bedford REC, than they have been in our lifetimes,” moved there soon after and she says. “Most of the people alive pledged they would never again today missed the death of the chest- log the property. nut, and many people don’t remember “That continued to be my when we lost the elms, so they think mindset until we had the forest of forests as being fairly resilient. stewardship training in 2000,” But now we have the wooly adelgid she says. “What I learned was destroying our hemlocks, the emerald that if we wanted a sustainable ash borer destroying our ash trees, and forest, the best way to get it even climate change.” would be to do some logging. Baker has found herself facing I had a lot of trepidation, but those challenges head on. She has one I knew we had a big problem on south-facing slope where a large stand with invasive plants.”

of white ash once stood. Thanks to the Eventually, the Jacksons had J a ck s emerald ash borer invasion, her ash 27 acres treated for invasive spe- trees are gone. Laura cies and logged, leaving the best, PROTECTING THE FOREST: Volunteer Laura Jackson “I wanted to maintain a forest healthy trees for seed. They also takes tree measurements. Many forest landowners don’t system there, so I have done a lot of installed an 8-foot deer fence. realize a small tree like this could be quite old.

| AUGUST 2021 9 ze r t Fe Je ff

NEIGHBORS: Nancy Baker and Brian Zeidner, big influence with his appreciation and manelli says. “Loggers will sometimes who own adjoining forest land near Sugar Run, the passion he had for the forest and come in and say, ‘We want to cut your Pa., rest on a 17-foot-long bluestone bench on the trees and nature.” timber.’ The landowner will agree for Baker’s property with Miles, Zeidner’s 4-year- old border collie. Baker calls the bench that Today, Holt plays a similar role financial reasons, and then the logger overlooks a waterfall on Crane Creek a “forever with his nieces and nephews. But he comes in and ruins the forest, opening bench” since it took several transport trucks, expands on his role as an educator, it up for invasive species to take over. two forklifts and several men to put it into place. spreading the word about the impor- I have been able to educate people tance of appropriate forest manage- and make sure they know timber is a education and grants that are avail- ment at booths set up at Ag Progress resource, and it needs to be managed able. Every year, I am applying what Days and the Pennsylvania Farm Show. no differently than cows or crops.” I learned in the training. I go to as “Even folks who have 1, 2 or 3 acres Circling back to the role education many workshops and conferences as and are trying to care for their small plays in the Pennsylvania Forest Stew- I can and participate in Penn State lot, the stuff I have learned in this pro- ards Program, Brian Zeidner, both an Extension webinars. … It’s a lifelong gram is very helpful, and I enjoy being employee and a member of Claverack process. I am just one guy trying to do able to talk to people and share the REC, credits Baker with getting him my best, trying to improve the habitat, knowledge I have gained,” he says. involved in the stewardship training in trying to improve the timber value.” Jim Tomanelli says that while the 2020. Baker, a neighboring landowner, Like Baker, Holt spent much of his training has been helpful in managing promoted the training so often and so childhood in the woods learning about his 150-acre wooded plot in Clinton thoroughly that Zeidner decided to trees and wildlife. His teacher was his County and a 25-acre partially wooded check it out. Although the training was uncle, the late Ephe Olliver, who took lot at his home in Robesonia, the end online due to COVID-19, Zeidner says Holt and his siblings on nature walks goal of the forest stewardship program it was beneficial for him personally in the Monongahela National Forest is to widely disseminate the informa- with his 42-acre property and also pro- where he was the forest supervisor. tion. fessionally in his role dealing with co- “We would be on a walk, and he Tomanelli, a member of Tri-Coun- operative members who have concerns would show us different trees and tell ty REC, says he “knew enough to be about tree trimming in rights-of-way. us their names and what they were dangerous,” before participating in used for,” Holt recalls. “He would the forest stewardship program, but it Giving back show us how to get chewing gum from has helped him to understand how to “The program asks you to become the sap of trees, what trees should be responsibly manage his own forest. It involved with volunteer activities cut, what trees deer like, what wildlife has also helped him in his professional in support of the program,” Zeidner a tree supported, what birds benefitted role as an agricultural lender with a says. “They provide the program, the from that particular tree. I was in ele- Lebanon County bank. instruction, and the materials free of mentary school, but it has stuck with “I get out into a lot of small farms charge. They only ask that you give me my entire life. He was definitely a where they have some woodlots,” To- back a similar contribution to what

10 | AUGUST 2021 you have been given — your time and “I was also shocked by how import- his wife have owned for more than your effort. Part of my skill package ant a role forests play in water quality, 20 years is their own “little slice of is being a good communicator, so I water storage and water filtration,” heaven.” identified what I would be willing to Zeidner says. “I am not anti-develop- “Over the years, I have considered give back — to talk to people, talk to ment by any means, but as a Bradford harvesting some timber from the prop- groups and write articles.” County Conservation District director, erty, but I was always a little reluctant Zeidner says he enjoyed the training and given my involvement in farmland because I knew there was a lot I didn’t and didn’t want it to end. preservation, I was really struck by know,” he says. “I did, however, under- “I was totally floored by the quality how conserving natural resources and stand that once I cut a hardwood tree, and breadth of the training,” he says. preserving land and the rural way of that would have a lasting implication “I grew up in the woods, hunting, fish- life really dovetails with good forestry for my lifetime. I am so glad I didn’t do ing and farming, but I never realized management and best management anything before I took the class because how much I didn’t know until I took practices.” my timber management decisions will this class.” Zeidner said he also learned the be much more responsible. Anything I Among the things he learned — and importance of developing a forest decide to harvest in the years to come now shares with others — is the art management plan. will both accommodate my own goals and science of managing a forest. This “This should include how I want to and sustain my woodlot.” includes identifying the impacts of use the property now, how I want to Just as Baker’s education outreach invasive trees, plants, and insects, and use it in the future, and what I want as a volunteer with the Pennsylvania the extensive damage done by deer, it to be when I am dead and gone,” Forest Stewards Program influenced and proactively working to mitigate he says. “It’s important to think about Zeidner, his hope is to carry on that those impacts. those things and talk about them with influence through educating others. your heirs or individuals who will be Readers who are interested in EVALUATION FIRST: In 2019, Rob Christopher, involved in the future management of learning more about the Pennsylvania left, and Joe Anczarski evaluate a proposed timber harvest to determine if it will lead to a the resources.” Forest Stewards Program may email sustainable outcome. Zeidner says the property he and Muth at [email protected]. l rs B arb Selle

| AUGUST 2021 11 timelines Your Newsmagazine Through the Years

2011

2001 Northeastern Pennsylvania’s lush forests and mountains provide breathtaking vistas, dramatic overlooks — and spectacular waterfalls.

1991 The nation throws huge homecoming parties for troops returning from Desert Storm, many of whom were from small-town America.

2011 marked 10 years since the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil. Religious extremists hijacked four planes on Sept. 11, 2001, and used them as weapons to kill nearly 3,000 innocent 1981 Americans. One of the airliners, Flight 93, slammed into a field Life is a series of in rural Somerset County, which became the final resting place delicate ecological for 40 American heroes. Many say the war on terror began in balances and trade-offs, a chain the skies over Pennsylvania, where the men and women fought of events that the hijackers for control of the plane with makeshift weapons, eventually affects including pots of hot coffee and kitchen utensils. everyone and The tragedy turned the tiny community of Shanksville, popu- everything. lation 250, into a household name. On the 10th observance of the attacks in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania, the National Park Service dedicated the first phase of the Flight 93 National Memorial, a 2,200-acre landscape tribute built at the crash site. 1971 Flight 93 was the only hijacked airliner on Sept. 11, 2001, U.S. Sen. Richard that didn’t reach its intended target, which was believed to be Schweiker (R-Pa.) the U.S. Capitol Building. Two others destroyed the World Trade joins students Center, and another was flown into the Pentagon. representing Today, the completed memorial features the 93-foot-high Pennsylvania cooperatives during “Tower of Voices” with 40 wind chimes (one for each victim), the annual Rural the Wall of Names with 40 inscribed white marble panels, an Electric Youth Tour overlook, and a visitor center. in Washington, D.C.

12 | AUGUST 2021 cooperativeconnection REA Energy Guest Column Cooperative, Inc.

REA ENERGY Annual meeting update By Stacy Hilliard, CCC, CKAE One of 14 electric cooperatives Communications & Marketing Manager serving Pennsylvania and New Jersey

REA Energy Cooperative, Inc. REA Energy’s annual meeting is Thank you! 75 Airport Road • P.O. Box 70 scheduled for Thursday, Sept. 16, 2021. Your board of directors, manage- Indiana, PA 15701-0070 724-349-4800 • 800-211-5667 Due to ongoing concerns regard- ment and employees want to extend Ebensburg District Office ing COVID-19 and to protect the our sincerest thank you to our mem- 127 Municipal Road health and safety of our members and bers for your patience and understand- Ebensburg, PA 15931 employees, the decision was made to ing throughout this unprecedented 814-472-8570 Website: www.reaenergy.com conduct the meeting online only again time. As we move forward, we look Email: [email protected] this year. forward to continuing to serve you Staff Information for logging on to the with the same excellent service as we Barry Baker virtual platform will be included on have over the past 84 years. l Indiana Operations Manager the Annual Meeting Notice. Erin Bauer ACRE Coordinator To register for the annual meeting, Shane Cribbs go to reaenergy.com and click on IMPORTANT Network & Systems Manager the button that says Annual Meeting Dave Daugherty Safety & Right of Way Manager Registration prior to 3 p.m. on Sept. 16, NOTICE! Jeff Dishong 2021. This will admit you to the Virtual Beginning July 27, REA Ebensburg Operations Supervisor Annual Meeting and entitles the named Lisa Gardill Energy’s Ebensburg Accounting & Finance Manager member(s) a chance to win a door Stacy Hilliard, CCC, CKAE prize. District Office will be Communications & Marketing Manager REA Energy will once again be hold- Local Pages Editor closed on Tuesdays and Chris Masterson ing a Member Appreciation Month in Reliability Supervisor October. Members who are not able to Thursdays through Patrick McAndrew participate in the online meeting can Sept. 17. The office will Manager of Engineering Bryon Roland present their Annual Meeting Member operate at the normal hours Purchasing & Facilities Manager Card (bottom portion of their Annual Brendan Short Meeting Notice) to receive a gift pack- on Mondays, Wednesdays, Right-of-Way/Forestry Supervisor Renee Spalla et. This will be given on a first-come, and Fridays, closing Supervisor of Consumer Services first-served basis. Only one gift packet 11 a.m. -11:30 a.m. daily Chris Weller per membership will be given, while Load Management Supervisor quantities last. *If you participated in for lunch. Members can Outages & Emergencies 1-800-332-7273 and received the $10 bill credit for the utilize the night drop box 724-463-7273 online meeting, you will not be eligible if the office is closed. Office Hours to get a gift packet. Indiana Office: 7 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. In the event that the COVID-19 Payments put there will be Ebensburg Office: situation in our area requires that our 7 - 11 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. processed daily, Monday - Monday - Friday lobbies be closed, members will be Friday, excluding holidays. able to receive their gift packet at the Indiana drive-thru window. At our The office will reopen to Ebensburg office, members will need five days a week starting to come to the front entrance and an Monday, Sept. 20. employee will set the packet outside.

| AUGUST 2021 12a rea energy cooperative, inc

Communicating cooperative news

At REA Energy, our top priority is de- 92.5 or WLCY-FM 106.3. Members REA Energy Cooperative, Inc. and livering reliable, efficient electricity to closer to Punxsutawney can get news “Like” the page. our members at the best price possible. on WPXZ-FM 104.1, WECZ-AM 1540 Website — Members can visit Another priority is keeping members or WKQL-FM 103.3. In the Cambria reaenergy.com to get updates on out- aware of what is going on at your County area, listen to WFGI-FM 95.5, age restoration, learn more about the cooperative by communicating through WKYE-FM 96.5 and WJHT-FM 92.1. cooperative, get information on the various types of media. Newspaper — The cooperative various products and services offered, The past year has shown us how submits press releases to newspapers and keep abreast of news and informa- important that communication with in the area for outage restoration news, tion. From the website, members can our membership is, especially when it planned outages and general infor- also access the great local and national involves sharing up-to-date changes to mation about the cooperative. This savings deals available through the the way we operate. information is sent to: The Indiana Co-op Connections Card Program. l Picture this — it is a cold, stormy Gazette, Tribune Review, Punxsut- night. Freezing rain is falling steadily awney Spirit, Tribune-Democrat throughout the area, gathering on and Altoona Mirror. branches and power lines. While your Facebook — With the pop- lights may have blinked a few times, ularity of social media growing power has remained on. Then some- exponentially over the last several where down the road, a branch gives years, REA Energy developed a way and falls onto the electric line, company page on Facebook to causing the power to go out. After provide members with news about reporting your outage, you are curious the cooperative, up-to-the-minute when power may be restored and outage restoration news and other how the cooperative is affected by the general cooperative news. With the outages. growing use of smartphones, mem- To keep our members up-to-date in bers can quickly get information the event of extended outages and to from sites such provide general information about the as Facebook, cooperative, REA Energy has many where infor- options regarding how to deliver news. mation heard These include: on the radio Radio — REA sends outage infor- or read in the mation to local radio stations when newspaper may there are large power outages, as well not be the most as when emergency work is needed current news on short notice. If you live in the available. Visit Indiana area, tune into: WDAD-AM facebook.com, 1450, WCCS-AM 1160, WQMU-FM search for

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) decided to cancel the 2021 Rural Electric Youth Tour. The Youth Tour gives students who are entering their senior year of high school the opportunity to see the sights of Washington, D.C., and to learn about our nation’s government and the role of rural elec- tric cooperatives. In 2021, REA Energy gave students who would have been eligible to apply for the Youth Tour the chance to compete for a one-time scholarship. Students were required to submit an application and write an essay on: “What role do you see cooperatives taking in the future as trends continue toward offering more renewable energy sources of electricity?” We are pleased to announce we had several wonderful essays and will be awarding a one-time scholarship to the following students: Nevada Armstrong, Andrew Bertolino, Katelyn Beyer, Elizabeth Bruner, Lilly Ryer, Allison Semetoskey and Joseph Vaglia. Congratulations to all!

12b | AUGUST 2021 rea energy cooperative, inc

Recent storms in our service terri- tory have resulted in trees falling on our power lines, creating a potentially dangerous situation. If you come across downed power lines, DO NOT attempt to move them or the object that brought the lines down. There is no way to tell if the line is energized and by attempting to move it, you could be seriously injured or killed. Our line personnel have the specialized training and the required safety equipment to remove objects on our power lines. If you come across downed power lines on a roadway, again, DO NOT attempt to move them yourself. First, call 911 to report the situation, and then call the local electric utility (in our area, that is REA Energy Cooper- ative at 800-332-7273 or Penelec at 888-544-4877). Theft of electric service is a serious crime It is illegal and very dangerous to tamper with electric meters or any other electric utility equipment. Attempting to bypass, reconnect, or otherwise tamper with electric meters can cause electrocution, resulting in severe burns or even death. Tampering could also cause fires resulting in further personal injury and loss of property. In an effort to discourage tampering, REA Energy Cooperative will use every legal means to discourage this dangerous practice. This includes prosecuting offenders for theft of electric service. All cases of theft of electric service or any other tampering with utility equipment will be referred to the police for prosecu- tion, which could result in fines and a criminal record. The amount of money or electricity involved makes no difference. Safety is the issue. After all, no amount of money can replace a human life.

| AUGUST 2021 | AUGUST 2021 12c rea energy cooperative, inc

Right-of-way management/facility construction news REA Energy contractors will be completing IMPORTANT tree-trimming work in the following areas for the month of August: k Contractor crews from Penn Line Tree Service NOTICE! will be trimming the rights-of-way of the Ams- REA Energy offices will bry, Belsano, Reese, Smithport and Wilmore Substation areas, in addition to emergency be closed maintenance areas. Monday, Sept. 6, in Notification of work will be made to members in the areas affected. Contractors will perform observance of all right-of-way work per REA Energy specifica- Labor Day and will also tions. All contractor employees will carry em- ployee identification cards and their vehicles will be closed Thursday, display their company name. If you have any questions, call 724-349-4800, Sept. 9, 2021. Please call or view the specifications at reaenergy.com. 724-463-7273 or REA Energy Cooperative, Inc. 800-332-7273 to report Annual Meeting any power outages. Sept. 16, 2021 6:30 p.m. • Call to Order and Statement of a Quorum Payments can be placed • Reading of Notices • Action on 2020 Minutes in the drop box at both • Election Results locations, or via • Chairman’s Report • President and CEO’s Report our online • Unfinished Business • New Business Member Portal at • Questions & Answers • Adjournment reaenergy.com. • Awarding of Prizes Your Board of Directors

Michael J. Bertolino Wayne Farabaugh Robert P. Neese Sandra Dill Tom Beresnyak Anthony Enciso Thomas Aurandt John R. Learn J.R. “Rick” Shope Chairman Vice Chairman Secretary/Treasurer District 9 District 1 District 7 District 4 District 6 District 2 District 3 District 8 District 5 REA Energy is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

12d | AUGUST 2021 When it comes to severe weather... hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.

You can begin your preparation by ____ Drinking water & food assembling an emergency preparedness ____ Blankets, pillows, & clothing kit, which includes items to help keep your ____ Basic first-aid supplies ____ Medications family safe and comfortable during a power ____ Basic toiletries outage. Your kit should include items such ____ Flashlights as water, non-perishable food, flashlight, ____ Battery-operated radio batteries, blankets, and a first aid kit. ____ Extra supply of batteries ____ Cell phone with chargers ____ Cash and credit cards ____ Basic tools (duct tape, wrench, etc.) ____ Important documents & numbers ____ Toys, books, & games ____ Baby supplies ____ Pet supplies ADVERTISEMENT SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE Seniors born before 1956 get big boost SLEEK NEW MEDICAL ALERT DEVICE IS FLYING OUT THE DOOR COMES WITH NO CONTRACTS, NO DEPOSITS AND NO MONTHLY BILLS

Seniors get new medical alert device that instantly connects to free unlimited nationwide help with just the push of a button Seniors born Instantly connects Comes with new All seniors born Nothing to hook Sleek new mod- you to free unlimit- cellular embedded before 1956 are get- up. You don’t need ern design makes before 1956 get ed nationwide help technology that ting an instant $150 a land line or cell you look impor- new medical with no contracts, works at home or rebate making this phone. It’s ready tant not old no deposits and no anywhere you go so deal just too good to use right out of alert device monthly bills ever you are never alone to pass up the box

Special Report: cell service is avail- Demand for new Medical able whether you’re Doctor urges seniors to get new medical alert device Alert Device soars out watering the The phone lines garden, driving in a Seniors snap up new ited nationwide are ringing off the car, at church or even medical alert device help everywhere hook. hundreds of miles that comes with no cell service is That’s because for away on a tour or at a monthly bills seniors born before casino. You are never available with 1956, it’s a deal too alone. With just a sin- People don’t no contracts, good to pass up. gle push of the One- always do what no deposits and Starting at pre- Touch E Button you their doctor says, no monthly bills cisely 8:30 am this instantly get con- morning the Pre- nected to free unlim- but when sea- ever. Store Release ited help nationwide soned veteran “This slick new begins for the sleek with no monthly bills emergency room little device is de- new medical alert ever,” said Jack Law- physician, Dr. signed to look device that comes rence, Executive with the exclusive Director of Product Philip B. Howren like the pagers FastHelp™ One- Development for says every senior doctors wear Touch E 911 Button U.S. based Universal should have a every day. Se- that instantly con- Physicians. medical alert de- niors love them, nects you to unlim- “We’ve never vice, you better because it actu- ited nationwide help seen anything like everywhere cell it. Consumers abso- listen up. ally makes them service is available lutely love the sleek “Seniors are look important, with no contracts, new modern design just one fall away are snapping up a sleek new medi- not old,” Dr. no deposits and no and most of all, the from being put in cal alert device that comes with no Howren said. monthly bills ever. instant rebate that “It’s not like old practically pays for it a nursing home,” monthly bills ever,” he said. FastHelp is style monitored and no monthly bills Dr. Howren said. Many seniors refuse to wear old expected to hit help buttons that ever,” Lawrence said. “With a medi- style help buttons because they make store shelves lat- make you talk to a FastHelp is the cal alert device, them look old. But even worse, those er this year. But call center, only work sleek new medical seniors are never medical alert systems come with special newspa- when you’re at home alert device with and come with hefty the best of combina- alone. So it keeps monthly bills. per promotional bills every month. tions: a quality, high- them living inde- To solve these problems Universal giveaways are FastHelp comes with tech engineered pendently in Physicians, a U.S. company, went slated for se- state-of-the-art cel- device that’s also their own home. to work to develop a new, modern, niors in select lular embedded tech- an extremely great nology. That means value because there That’s why state-of-the-art medical alert de- areas that call it works at home or are no monthly bills seniors and their vice. It’s called “FastHelp™” and it 1-800-275-0444 anywhere, anytime ever. I family members instantly connects you to free unlim- Ext. HELP3220. I (Continued on next page) ADVERTISEMENT SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE (Continued from previous page) Five Star WE LOVE THE No contracts, no deposits The only device that makes PRODUCT and no monthly bills ever you look important, not old Customer “We bought it outright Reviews with no bills ever.” - Rosemary, NY FastHelp is the sleek new medical The problem get to STAY living See what actual only Medical Alert alert device with no with medical alert in their own home customers are saying Safe anywhere device that won’t monthly bills. devices is, nobody independently. about FastHelp break the bank. The medical alert wants to wear them Yet millions of “This little FastHelp That’s because it device slugfest was because it makes seniors are still VERY IMPRESSED device is my guardian angel. I’m so glad my comes with no con- dominated by two them look old. Well, risking their “When I pressed tracts, no depos- main combatants that’s not the case safety by not hav- daughter-in-law got it the alert button, I for me.” its and no monthly who both offer old with FastHelp. ing a medical alert got straight through bills ever – which style monitored That’s because device. That’s to help and they - Pete, FL makes FastHelp help buttons that it’s the first state because seniors answered me a great choice for come with a hefty of the art medi- just can’t afford immediately. I live Everyone should seniors, students bill every month. cal alert device to pay the monthly out in the country have it and professionals But now Universal designed to make bills that come with and my cell phone “I’ve been telling because it connects Physicians, the U.S. you look impor- old style medical doesn’t always get everyone to get one. to one of the larg- based heavyweight, tant, not old. Old alert devices. reception... that was Thanks to the folks est nationwide net- just delivered a style monitored That’s why not a problem with at FastHelp for taking works everywhere knockout blow send- help buttons you seniors born before my FastHelp device.” good care of people cell service is avail- ing the top rated wear around your 1956 are rushing to when they need it.” able for free. contenders to the neck, or require cash in the whop- - Walter, TN And here’s the mat with the unveil- expensive base ping $150 instant - Mark, IA best part. All those ing of FastHelp. 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Help Unsolicited consumer feedback from satisfied device was too com- land line and you diate help are much deadline ends. If RESPONDED quickly customers as reported plicated or expen- don’t need a cell more likely to avoid lines are busy keep and came in a few to Universal Physicians. minutes.” Universal Physicians sive, you’ll want to phone. Everything getting sent to a trying, all calls will rated these customer get FastHelp, the is done for you. ■ nursing home and be answered. ■ - Irving, PA reviews 5 stars

PROS: It’s the CONS: Con- HOW TO GET IT sleek new medi- sumers can’t REBATE COUPON cal alert device that get FastHelp BORN BEFORE 1956: BOTTOM LINE: comes with the in stores until You don’t need exclusive FastHelp later this year. Use the rebate coupon to shop around. One-Touch E That’s why it’s We’ve done all 911 Button that so important to the right and call the leg work, instantly connects for seniors born VALID FOR USE this Toll-Free Hotline: this deal is too you to free unlim- before 1956 to good to pass ited nationwide call the National 1-800-275-0444 up. FastHelp help everywhere Rebate Center with the instant cell service is avail- Hotline within 7 DAYS ONLY EXT. HELP3220 rebate is a real able with no con- the next 7 days. steal at just tracts or deposits. For those who $149 and ship- It connects you to miss that dead- BORN AFTER 1956: ping and there the vast available line, the sleek Amount of Rebate (AOR) are no monthly network of cellular little medical 1P You cannot use the rebate bills ever. towers for free and alert device saves seniors a ton will set you $ coupon to the right and of money because back over $300 150.00 OFF must pay $299 Call: there are no bucks. monthly bills ever 1-800-281-0344 making this deal irresistible. Plus it’s 1 OF 1 EXT. HELP3220 the only medical RE: HELP3220 alert device that 2Y DLVY: ML2077R-1 makes seniors look important, not old.

FASTHELP IS COVERED BY A 30-DAY MONEY BACK GUARANTEE LESS SHIPPING AND A 1 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY. FASTHELP IS A 4G CELLULAR DEVICE. FASTHELP WILL NOT BE ABLE TO MAKE 911 CALLS WHEN CELLULAR SERVICE IS NOT AVAILABLE SUCH AS IN REMOTE AREAS. FASTHELP USES GPS TRIANGULATIONS TO APPROXIMATE YOUR LOCATION WHEN YOUR DEVICE IS TURNED ON. DR. HOWREN IS A COMPENSATED MEDICAL ADVISOR. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. UNIVERSAL PHYSICIANS 7747 SUPREME AVE, NORTH CANTON, OH 44720. P7328 OF22286R-1 countrykitchen

Connect with local farmers By Anne M. Kirchner

ummer is coming to an end. I hope you are taking advantage of the local farm- ers market, a place where you can reconnect with the earth and support family Trained in public relations, Anne M. Kirchner focuses her writing Sfarmers. Many fruits and vegetables are at their peak of freshness during Au- on human connections, travel gust. A stroll through market booths will lift your spirits. You’ll see colorful organic and culinary arts. She enjoys produce and meet the people who grow your food. researching food origins, exploring cooking techniques Regular trips to the farmers market open opportunities for discovering many and creating new recipes. products. Look for heirloom tomatoes, melons, sweet corn, mushrooms, raw honey and more. Often the farmers market setting also offers mouth-watering breads and pastries, the perfect Saturday morning treat. Looking for a pick-me-up gift? Consider purchasing fresh-cut flowers or seasonal arrangements offered at the market. When you shop at the farmers market, you will learn more about how and where your food is produced. Vendors are often pas- sionate cooks. They know their products, and they know how to prepare the produce they are selling. So be sure to take advantage of the free advice they have to offer. This month’s recipes are dedicated to the family farmer — those who provide sustainable agri- culture to our communities. Summer Squash & Corn Soup Heat oil in stock pot and add green onions, garlic, yel- low squash, zucchini, and Italian herbs; cook until veg- 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 1/2 cups chicken etables soften. Add chicken stock; simmer 10 minutes. 6 green onions, chopped stock Transfer mixture to food processor and puree to desired 2 cloves garlic, minced 6 ears corn, grilled consistency. Return mixture to stock pot. Cut corn off 2 medium yellow 1 tablespoon lemon the cobs and add kernels to soup pot. Simmer over squash, diced juice medium heat until the corn is heated. Remove from 2 medium zucchini, Salt and pepper heat; add lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper and diced Feta cheese serve in soup bowls garnished with feta cheese. Makes 1 tablespoon Italian 8 to 10 servings. herbs

Spicy Cucumber Melon Salad Place honeydew melon, watermelon, cucumbers and red onion in a serving bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk 1/2 honeydew melon, 1/4 cup lime juice together sugar, lime juice, cilantro, red pepper flakes, diced 2 tablespoons cilantro, salt and pepper. Pour dressing over salad ingredients 1/4 small watermelon, chopped and toss gently to combine. Refrigerate 1 to 2 hours; diced 3/4 teaspoon crushed drain salad if needed before serving. Makes 20 to 25 1 1/2 cucumbers, red pepper flakes servings. peeled and diced 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 red onion, diced 1/2 teaspoon black 1/4 cup sugar pepper

Garden Breakfast Bread Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat a 9x5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray; set aside. Blend the flour, whole 1 1/2 cups flour 2 eggs wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt in a 1/2 cup whole wheat 6 tablespoons canola oil medium bowl. Whisk the sugar and eggs together in flour 1/2 cup Greek yogurt a separate bowl; add oil and yogurt and whisk again. 1 teaspoon baking 3/4 cup zucchini, Add the liquids to the flour mixture and stir until just powder shredded combined. Add the shredded zucchini, squash and 1/2 teaspoon baking 3/4 cup yellow squash, carrots; stir to blend. Pour batter into loaf pan and bake soda shredded for 60 to 70 minutes or until a tester inserted in the 1/2 teaspoon kosher 1/2 cup carrots, center comes out clean. Cool the bread for 20 minutes; salt shredded 1/2 cup sugar then remove from the pan onto a wire rack. Cool com- pletely before slicing. Makes 6 to 8 servings.

16 | AUGUST 2021 | AUGUST 2021 countrykitchen techtrends Energy efficiency keeps improving, even through a pandemic By Paul Wesslund

mericans keep getting more Built-in efficiency efficient in their use of energy, That forecast for the next 30 years Aa trend that’s even powered its comes from a new EIA report, Annual way through the pandemic. Energy Outlook 2021. The overall mes- sage is that energy efficiency improve- Experts are starting to publish energy ments are baked into our everyday statistics gathered from 2020, a year lives. While the report projects energy that seemed to upend every part of our use will not return to 2019 levels until lives, and energy was no exception. 2025, it does not project long-term Last year saw a 7% drop in energy dol changes in electricity demand from the use in the U.S., the largest annual pandemic.

decrease since those figures first started n Os tt Va And if the pandemic hasn’t perma-

being collected in 1949, according to Sco nently changed the long-term structure the Department of Energy’s Energy LED USE INCREASES: Use of highly efficient of the energy industry, the report says Information Administration (EIA). EIA LED lightbulbs has grown from a 20% market it also won’t affect the march toward share in 2015 to 60% in 2019. attributes much of that decrease to the greater efficiency. economy’s reaction to the coronavirus. energy efficiency will likely continue. Here’s a partial list of why the EIA Several well-established, long-term says the U.S. will keep getting more Sleeping later energy use trends include: energy efficient: “Currently established Energy consumption didn’t just drop k Residential energy use per household increases in efficiency standards, build- –– it shifted as well. Commercial energy fell 16% from 2001 to 2018, accord- ing codes, and incentives lead to energy use fell dramatically as people stayed ing to a coalition of energy efficiency efficiency improvements, especially home from the office. Residential use groups; those attributed to energy management rose because, of course, people stayed k Automobiles continued a 20-year controls and sensors associated with home from the office. People even slept trend that has increased average fuel space heating, … changing technology, later — some areas reported peak morn- economy more than 30%, from 19.6 behavior, and policy that affects energy ing electricity use moving from around miles per gallon in 2011 to 25.7, efficiency in vehicles, end-use equip- 6 a.m. when people would normally according to preliminary 2020 fig- ment, and lighting.” shower and make breakfast before leav- ures from the U.S. Environmental EIA says these factors extend beyond ing the house to go to work. Instead, Protection Agency; the uncertainty resulting from the energy use peaked at times later in the k Use of highly efficient LED light- COVID-19 pandemic. day as people simply walked from their bulbs has grown from a 20% market So, as you and the rest of the world kitchen to their home office. share in 2015 to 60% in 2019 –– and sort out how many meetings will be Will people decide they prefer that that trend won’t be reversed since forever replaced by Zoom calls, we can kind of commute in their socks even LEDs last well over 10 years; count on continued improvements in after the coronavirus concerns return to k One measure of efficiency is “energy motor vehicle fuel economy, lighting, normal? Or will they be even hungrier intensity,” which calculates how building codes, and other energy-saving for in-person meetings? much energy is consumed per dollar measures that will keep going long into The 2020 statistics don’t offer a lot of of the nation’s gross domestic prod- a post-pandemic world. l guidance on that kind of speculation. uct. In 2020, that number was about Paul Wesslund writes on consumer But the specialists studying those fig- half of what it was 30 years ago, and and cooperative affairs for the National ures do draw some conclusions: New, it’s projected to fall further in the Rural Electric Cooperative Association, more energy-efficient uses of technol- next 30 years. The U.S. economy the national trade association represent- ogy may change some of our energy is expected to become steadily less ing more than 900 local electric cooper- use patterns, and the overall trend to energy-intensive through 2050. atives.

| AUGUST 2021 | AUGUST 2021 17 smartcircuits

When to DIY and when to hire a pro By Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen

ear Pat and Brad: I’d like to make my home more efficient, Dbut I’m not sure where to start. When does it make sense to take on efficiency projects myself? —Chari

Dear Chari: When it comes to home do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, I recently asked myself, “Why hire someone to do a mediocre job when I can do a mediocre job myself?” That may sound odd, but I recently hired a contractor to remodel my kitchen. Needless to say, I was not happy with the quality of the work. Unfortunately, hiring a contractor based on positive reviews and references doesn’t guarantee qual- ity work. One reason to DIY instead of hiring a contractor is if you’re convinced you can do a better job. Naturally, this depends moving insulation in our attic and Star® website (energystar.gov). Also, if on the scope of the project and how accidentally stepped onto the sheet- you have a good energy auditor in your knowledgeable you are about the work. rock ceiling and fell through. area, they can be another great source And there are additional reasons to k Expertise is required beyond the of information. An energy auditor can tackle a home efficiency project yourself: homeowner capability, like tuning a provide specifics about the materials k You’re unable to find an available, furnace or repairing holes in a sheet- you’ll need, as well as information reasonably priced contractor. rock wall to match the wall around it. about local contractors and suppliers. k You need the work completed in a k Tackling the project yourself will Our advice: Don’t tackle energy effi- tight time frame or odd hours. save little or no money. I discovered ciency projects yourself unless you’ve k You can save a lot of money. years ago that some contractors thoroughly researched them. Another k The job is one you’d really enjoy. could install insulation cheaper than benefit of doing the research is that it I could buy it. will help you even if you decide to hire On the flipside, there are also several a contractor. You’ll be able to identify a good reasons to hire a contractor: When you search for information like knowledgeable contractor and hire one k Specialized equipment is required. “how to insulate an attic” or “how to that knows you recognize a quality job. For example, the best wall insulators air seal a home,” you’ll find fact sheets Good luck! l use a fill tube, which results in a and video tutorials from contractors, Pat Keegan and Brad Thiessen of Col- higher R-value performance. Some home improvement shows, big box laborative Efficiency write on energy effi- contractors use an infrared camera to suppliers and material manufacturers. ciency topics for the National Rural Elec- review wall framing and air leaks. YouTube videos often show experts tric Cooperative Association, the national k Specialized materials are needed. making the installation of anything trade association representing more than Attics need proper ventilation, and seem simple, but beware, some of these 900 local electric cooperatives. For addi- contractors might have easier access videos are aimed at other experts. tional energy tips and information on to insulation baffles or roof vents. To ensure you’re getting technically Collaborative Efficiency visit: www.col- k There’s a safety issue. I was once sound information, visit the Energy laborativeefficiency.com/energytips.

18 | AUGUST 2021 | AUGUST 2021 powerplants How a finger can save plants By George Weigel

ne of gardening’s many ironies three to four days. is that you can kill a plant by As the pot or rootball Ogiving it too much water as size increases, add more well as not enough. water but cut back on the frequency. Although that’s harder to do in a For example, if the pot/ hot, dry summer than April, it’s possi- rootball size is 10 to 16 ble to drown plants even in an August inches wide, water with heat wave ... like the fellow who rotted four to six gallons of water his new Hinoki cypress after his land- every four to five days, and scaper told him to “dig a moat around g el if the size is bigger than 24 the plant and fill it three times a day.” inches, water with 12 to 16 However, I’ve also seen plants die wei e rg gallons every five to seven from lack of water even when the g eo days. gardener swears he/she watered them BEST TOOL FOR THE JOB: The index finger is a valuable If you have shale or plant-saving watering aid. most every day. fast-draining soil instead of How can that be? If you water often And you can’t go by how green your clay, water a day sooner in each case, but sparingly, you dampen mulch and grass is either. Snavely’s recommends. maybe the soil surface while the roots Those 10-minute summer down- For new annual and perennial flow- shrivel in the dust below. pours might be enough to keep shal- ers and groundcovers, the recommen- The bottom line is that watering low-rooted grass from going brown dations are to water every two to three isn’t as simple as it seems. It’s as much and crunchy, but they’re not delivering days, applying enough so that the soil art as it is science. water deeper where your trees, shrubs, is thoroughly wet to a depth of 3 to 4 What counts more than anything is and evergreens need it. inches. After two weeks, add a day to how moist the soil is all around and to Once your finger alerts you it’s the interval as the roots expand. After just below the root ball. And the best time to water, how do you know how four weeks, add another day. way to determine that is with a “handy” much? For all new plants, Snavely’s advises tool known as the index finger. General tips, such as “1 inch of using the shorter intervals when tem- You could buy a fancy wireless water water per week” or “run the sprinkler peratures are steadily over 85 degrees. monitor, but sticking your finger down for 20 minutes,” are either vague or Rain has to total at least a half-inch alongside a plant works just fine. not accurate. over a 24-hour period to get you off If your finger detects moisture, One of the best guides for watering the watering hook. you’re off the hook. But if the root new plants (the ones most at risk) is If you’re not sure how you’re doing, zone isn’t damp, it’s time to make it so. one developed by Snavely’s Garden wait 15 to 30 minutes after you’re Relying on other cues can get you in Corner (Snavely’s) in Chambers- done watering an area, then re-mea- trouble. burg. It takes into account soil types, sure with that handy-dandy, plant-sav- Watching for wilting leaves isn’t a weather and varying plant sizes. ing finger. l good idea because by then, the plant Snavely’s recommends the same is already undergoing drought stress. plant moat (actually a “basin”) as the George Weigel is a Pennsyl- Wilting means you should’ve watered aforementioned landscaper-of-death, vania Certified Horticulturist, yesterday. but it goes by gallons of water. author of two books geared to gardening in Pennsylvania, and It’s also easy to get faked out by sum- For new trees and shrubs, Snavely’s garden columnist for The Patri- mer storms, which often deliver less recommends watering small ones (pot ot-News/Pennlive.com in Har- water than you think or drop so much or rootball of 6 to 8 inches wide) with risburg. His website is http:// georgeweigel.net. rain so fast that most of it runs off. two to three gallons of water every

| AUGUST 2021 19 ClassifiedClassified Advertisements Advertisements Classified Advertisements

ISSUE MONTH AD DEADLINE Penn Lines classified advertisements reach nearly 166,000 rural Pennsylvania households! Please note October 2021 August 16 ads must be received by the due date to be included in the requested issue month. Ads received beyond the due date will run in the next available issue. Written notice of changes and cancellations must be re- November 2021 September 16 ceived 30 days prior to the issue month. Classified ads will not be accepted by phone, fax or email. For December 2021 october 15 more information please contact Michelle M. Smith at 717-233-5704. Please submit a clearly written or typed CLASSIFIED AD SUBMISSION/RATES sheet with the following required information: Electric co-op members: o Cooperative members should please submit the mailing $20 per month for 30 words or less, plus 50¢ for each additional word. label from Penn Lines as proof of membership. Non-members: o Non-members should submit name, address, phone number, $70 per month for 30 words or less, plus $1.50 for each additional word. and email address, if applicable. Ad in all CAPITAL letters: o Month(s) in which the ad is to run. Add 20 percent to total cost. o Ad copy as it is to appear in the publication. SPECIAL Headings: o $5 for co-op members, $10 for non-members. Fee applies to any heading not Heading ad should appear under, or name of special heading listed under “FREE Headings”, even if the heading is already appearing in Penn (additional fee). See below for FREE heading options. Lines. For ads running a special heading in consecutive months, the fee is a one- FREE Headings: • Motor Vehicles & Boats time fee of either $5 or $10 for all consecutive insertions. • Around the House • Nursery & Garden PAYMENT: • Business Opportunities • Real Estate Please make CHECK/MONEY ORDER payable to: PREA/Penn Lines. • Employment Opportunities • Recipes & Food Insertion of classified ad serves as proof of publication; no proofs supplied. • Gift & Craft Ideas • Tools & Equipment • Livestock & Pets • Vacations & Campsites SEND COMPLETED AD COPY AND PAYMENT TO: • Miscellaneous • Wanted to Buy Penn Lines Classifieds • P.O. Box 1266 • Harrisburg, PA 17108

“AA” ROOFING COINS & BULLION HUNTING LEASES EXPERTS IN HARD-TO-FIND LEAKS! Roof KEYSTONE COIN & BULLION is buying and WANTED HUNTING LAND. There is a current repairs – all types. House-barn roofs painted. selling gold, silver, U.S. coins and currency. Large demand for hunting leases. Call for evaluation Slate work – chimney repairs. Southwestern inventory for sale. We pay in CASH. Call Matt at of your property. Professionally managed. PA for over 40 years. Speedy service! 814-445- 814-931-4810. www.keystonecoinbullion.com. Generate yearly income. $1,000,000 liability 4400. insurance. Know who is on your property. www. CONSULTING FORESTRY SERVICES nollsforestryservices.com. Call Ron, 724-422- ANTIQUE FARM MACHINERY 5525. NOLL’S FORESTRY SERVICES. Timber Sales, Appraisals, Forest Management Plans, Forest 1954 NH 66 BALER, $1,500. JD 30 Combine MEATS motor-driven, $3,000. Both machines shed kept Improvement Work, Wildlife Habitat Management. and in running order. Call 814-754-8271. FREE Timber Land Recommendations. 30 years DIXON BUTCHERY. 3RD GENERATION. experience. Visit www.nollsforestryservices.com. Saltsburg, Pa. Custom slaughtering – the AROUND THE HOUSE Call Ron, 724-422-5525. connection between farm and table. Whole, half and quarter beef. Whole pig, half pig. Retail sales CLOCK REPAIR: If you have an antique CENTRE FOREST RESOURCES. Forest Management Services, Wildlife Habitat accompanied by The Meat Cooler, Inc. Fill your grandfather clock, mantel clock or old pocket freezer. Call 724-726-5137. watch that needs restored, we can fix any Management, Timber Sales, Appraisals. College- timepiece. Macks Clock Repair: 814-421-7992. educated, professional, ethical foresters working MCMULLEN PREMIUM BLACK ANGUS for you. FREE Timber Consultation. 814-571- FREEZER BEEF, Ashville, Pa. Grass-fed and SPECIAL OFFER – BOTH COOKBOOKS FOR 7130. grain-finished with rich marbling. No growth- $12. “Country Cooking” – $5, including postage. RAYSTOWN FORESTRY CONSULTING. promoting hormones or antibiotics. Quarter, “Recipes Remembered” – $7, including postage. half and whole. $2.50/lb. hanging weight + Both of these cookbooks are a collection of Timber sales, appraisals, wildlife habitat management. Dedicated to sustainable harvests processing. www.mcmullenbeef.com. 814-674- recipes from men and women of the electric 2332. co-ops of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Payable for present and future generations to enjoy. 45 years experience. 814-448-0040 or 814-448- to: Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, MEDICARE/MEDICAID MADE EASY P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108. Write 2405. Attention: Cookbooks. LICENSED MEDICARE CONSULTANT. Free GIFT & CRAFT IDEAS service – regardless if you’re about to turn 65 BUILDING SUPPLIES SPECIAL OFFER – BOTH COOKBOOKS FOR or if you already have Medicare, I will help you navigate the Medicare minefield. Wayne Martin. FACTORY SECONDS of insulation, 4 x 8 $12. “Country Cooking” – $5, including postage. [email protected]. 570-575-4845. sheets, foil back. R-Value 6.5 per inch. Great for “Recipes Remembered” – $7, including postage. pole buildings, garages, etc. Many thicknesses Both of these cookbooks are a collection of available. Also blue board insulation sheets. 814- recipes from men and women of the electric MISCELLANEOUS 442-6032. co-ops of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Payable FOR SALE: Buckets, forks, thumbs, grapple to: Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, buckets and pallet forks for skid loaders, STEEL ROOFING AND SIDING. Over 25 years P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108. Write backhoes and excavators. Tires for backhoes, in business. Several profiles cut to length. 29- Attention: Cookbooks. rubber tire loaders and excavators also. Call 814- and 26-gauge best quality residential roofing – 329-0118. 40-year warranty. Also, seconds, heavy gauges, HEALTH INSURANCE accessories, etc. Installation available. Located SERVICE STATION AIR METER on stand with northwestern Pennsylvania. 814-398-4052. DO YOU HAVE THE BLUES regarding your hose and gauges. $475, in working condition. health insurance? We cater to rural America’s 814-550-4375. health insurance needs. For more information, call 800-628-7804. Call us regarding Medicare supplements, too.

20 | AUGUST 2021 ClassifiedClassified Advertisements Advertisements Get the

NURSERY & GARDEN SHAKLEE Muck MAXIM’S BERRY FARM – U-PICK FREE SAMPLE Shaklee’s Energy Tea. BLUEBERRIES. Open Saturday & Sunday, 7 a.m. Combination red, green and white teas that are – 5 p.m. Mid-July through August. 624 Haines natural, delicious, refreshing, safe. For sample Ridge Road, Reynoldsville, Pa. Off Route 322 – or more information on tea or other Shaklee follow signs. 412-580-6103. Nutrition/Weight Loss Products: 800-403-3381 GREENHOUSE FOR SALE. 30’ x 96’ Storm or www.pws.shaklee.com/sbarton. OUT!TM King complete with heating system and heated Marble size AquaClear Pellets beds. Buyer must dismantle, remove and TRACTOR PARTS – REPAIR/RESTORATION clear your lake or pond bottom. transport, $25,000. Also, four 14’ x 48’ high ARTHURS TRACTORS. Specializing in tunnels, $150 each. 814-754-8271. vintage Ford tractors, 30 years experience, Beneficial microorganisms. Restore online parts catalog/prices, Indiana, PA 15701. balance in natural and man made PLUMBING & HEATING Contact us at 877-254-FORD (3673) or surface waters. Increase water clarity. JD PLUMBING & HEATING. Your friendly www.arthurstractors.com. Improve water quality. Eliminate neighborhood plumber. New installation, service black organic muck. TREE SERVICE calls. Furnaces, boilers, central air, hot water A 10 lb. bag treats 0.5 to 1.0 acres tanks, water lines, sewage pipes, leaky faucets, TRIMMING, SHAPING, removal & stump $102.00 clogged drains, new appliance installs and the removal. Find us on Facebook. Fully insured and A 50 lb. bag tr1ats 2.5 to 5.0 acres list goes on. No job too big or too small. Just call member of Chamber of Commerce. Punxsy Tree Justin at 724-541-0393. $374.00 Service. 814-938-6768. Apply weekly for 4 weeks, then monthly POWDER COATING VACATIONS & CAMPSITES to maintain. No water use restrictions! FREE SHIPPING! ALMOST ANYTHING METAL can be powder NEW SMYRNA BEACH, Florida oceanfront coated: auto parts, lawn furniture, wheels, etc. condo rental. Two bedroom, two bath, deck Restores, protects, preserves. 1,200-degree overlooking beach and pool. $875/week. manifold coating. Arthurs Powder Coating, 263 $3,000/month. No pets. Not available Jan. - Mar. 800-328-9350 Sexton Road, Indiana, PA 15701. 724-349- Call 814-635-4332 or 814-979-8058. 3770. PATTON, PA: FULLY FURNISHED 3-bedroom www.Aquacide.com Order online today, or request free information. REAL ESTATE home for rent located 2 miles from Rock Run Recreation and Prince Gallitzin State Park. Rates Our AQUACIDE CO.. VIRGINIA’S EASTERN SHORE. Fishermen and starting at $65 a night. 814-674-8037 or 814- 66th year PO Box 10748, DEPT 843X beach lover’s paradise. Access Chesapeake 656-2945. White Bear Lake, MN 55110-0748 Bay or Atlantic Ocean within minutes. Waterside Village 3/4-acre homesites near marina from WANTED – OLD BARNS $18,000 with fenced and locked RV/camper storage available. Beach access nearby. WE BUY QUALIFIED OLD BARNS. We Waterfront sites available on bayside and seaside. also dismantle old sheds, warehouses and Many free boat ramps within minutes. Low, low outbuildings. No Sunday calls. Call 814-766- taxes. Kirkwoodontheshore.com. 757-678-7631. 9925. MOVE LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL? Timberland Realty specializes in land, sporting properties, WANTED TO BUY camps, cabins, farms, waterfront, exquisite ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC American and foreign OVER PA! second homes and timberland since 1987. Call cars, motorcycles, trucks, Broncos, Blazers our office at 716-962-9935 or agents by region and Scouts. Any condition. Will buy entire car – Western PA: Craig Wozniak, 412-559-4198; collections. [email protected]. 717-577- Ron Westover, 724-422-5525. Central PA: 8206. John Tallman, 717-921-2476. Brian Bullard, Managing Broker, 716-499-5608. Website: ANTIQUE AND CLASSIC motorcycles wanted. www.timberlandrealty.net. All makes and sizes. BSA, Norton, Triumph, Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki, Kawasaki, etc. SHADE TOWNSHIP, SOMERSET COUNTY. [email protected]. 717-577-8206. 2-bedroom cabin, living room, kitchen, bathroom. All drywall, fully carpeted. Septic and well. Two VINTAGE WOMEN’S and children’s clothing from the 1930s, 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. lots. Vinyl siding, metal roof, vinyl windows. Price Men’s work wear/farm wear/denim, 1900s to negotiable. 412-289-0930. 1950s (any condition). Call or text to 814-386- 5763. RECIPES & FOOD Drivers in Pennsylvania BUY VINTAGE HONDA motorcycles, mini bikes, SPECIAL OFFER – BOTH COOKBOOKS FOR dirt bikes, 1960 - 1980. XR-75, CT70, ST90, are required to move $12. “Country Cooking” – $5, including postage. SL70, Z50, S90. All types big and small. Parts “Recipes Remembered” – $7, including postage. collections, parts bikes, non-running, rough, all Both of these cookbooks are a collection of considered. 724-972-8701. over or slow down for recipes from men and women of the electric co-ops of Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Payable TOYOTA SKID STEER LOADERS, models stopped emergency to: Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association, 7-8 or 10. Built late 1980s - early 1990s. Any P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108. Write condition or parts of engine - pumps worn out, and utility crews. Attention: Cookbooks. wrecked or burned. 330-696-1399.

MvOv 1/6.indd 1 8/7/20 8:57 AM

| AUGUST 2021 21 punchlines ‘Operation Peaches’ By John Kasun

was reading the morning newspa- peach parts from bowls filled with per recently with one eye on the Fruit-Fresh into bowls of sugar and ITV news when I heard my wife, finally into freezer containers. Sandy, ask me something. I clearly After hours of peeling, my back remember saying, “Whatever you and shoulders ached, but the pile of decide is OK with me.” I apparently peaches continued to shrink until failed to understand the seriousness of finally I held the last peach in my the question and the importance of my hand. As I gleefully sent that peach to response. its final resting place, I sat back in my chair to relax. Suddenly I was aware of It seems her sister, Linda, and her a slight dampness in my lap. Glancing husband, Lester, were planning their at the table, I could clearly see the yearly ritual of putting up peaches, layers of newspapers were completely and she was asking if we should join soaked, and a large reservoir of thick them. By saying “OK,” I learned that I peach juice had been dripping on my had taken the first step down a long, apron and pants for some time. Sens- slippery and — I was soon to learn — ing impending disaster, I slowly and sticky slope. carefully attempted to roll the newspa- The next day “Operation Peaches” pers back from the edge of the table to was in full swing. My wife was on the contain the wall of juice. The soaked phone with various suppliers discuss- bags of newspapers and rolls of paper newspapers had made a valiant effort ing bushels, pecks, prices and delivery. towels. They set about spreading plastic and done all they could, but they It was all over my head, but finally our cloths on the tables, which were then could do no more. The “dam” broke, order was placed and a pickup date covered with newspapers to absorb and a flood of peach juice soaked me scheduled. I quickly learned the tim- what they explained could be some from the waist down, including my ing of a peach pickup and processing extra juice that could show up when shoes and socks. of the peaches is critical. Process them we were peeling the peaches. Everyone Amid the laughter, Linda assured me too quickly, and they are hard and donned aprons, and my wife and her that even though it seemed like a lot of tart. Wait too long, and they get soft sister tucked their hair under shower trouble, I will be happy to open a con- and turn to mush. caps. We were ready to start. Glancing tainer of sweet fresh peaches on a cold Finally, “peach pickup day” arrived, around the room, I was sure we could winter evening. She might be right, but and we were advised by the person murder someone, wrap them up and as I stood there soaked in peach juice loading them into our truck they dispose of the body without leaving a with my feet stuck to the floor, I was would be ready for processing in trace of evidence for CSI to find. thinking I could have flown to Flor- exactly 48 hours, not 46 hours, and We attacked the pile of peaches, a ida, bought a case of peach brandy, sat certainly not 50 hours. In 47 and pile that I swear came up to my arm- on the beach, and saved myself some 3/4 hours, our basement had been pits, like a pack of hungry wolves. As money and a lot of trouble. l scrubbed, tables sanitized and knives peach peels fell all around me, it was sharpened. Pots and bowls of every not long before I had peach juice drip- A writer with more than size and description were at the ready, ping off of my elbows. A new layer of 30 years of experience, John along with enough new freezer con- newspapers was quickly laid on top of Kasun, a lifelong Pennsylva- tainers to hold what seemed like an nian, looks for the humor in the table to keep the ever-expanding everyday life and then tells a entire orchard of peaches. pond of peach juice under control. story from that perspective. With just seconds to spare, Linda As Lester and I peeled and sliced at He is a member of Valley and Lester appeared at the door with record speeds, the women moved Rural Electric Cooperative.

22 | AUGUST 2021 ruralreflections

Fun in the sun t won’t be long before fall sneaks up on us, so enjoy what’s left of the summer, and be sure to snap some photos of Iyour fun in the sun. Amateur photographers are encouraged to send photos to Penn Lines Photos, P.O. Box 1266, Harrisburg, PA 17108-1266. Include your name, address, phone number and the name of your electric cooperative. 2021 winners in each of five catego- ries — artistic, landscape, human, animal, and editor’s choice — will receive $75 and runners-up will receive $25. (Please note — the color on photos printed at home often rubs off be- fore it arrives in our office, so beautiful photos are unusable — professionally printed photos typically arrive in good shape.) We work ahead, so please send your winter photos by mid-September. 2021 photos will be returned in early 2022 if you include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. l

Lacey McClane Adams EC

Amy Proper EC Northwestern R

Showandah Terrill Vickie McNany Northwestern R United EC EC

| AUGUST 2021 23