News Electric Cooperative November/December 2015

Cover Story: Fields of pheasant - pages 6-7 2016 contractor workshops set - page 9 Unclaimed capital credits - pages 10-11 Tips for weathering A couple of items to close out 2015 WINTER STORMS nonoperating reserves well in excess have plans for an active retirement. Winter storms can cause hazardous road conditions, of the loss but cannot continue to post For the past 35 years he has been downed power lines and extended power outages. an operating loss. Internally, we have Mr. Reliable at your cooperative. Safe Electricity shares tips on preparing for and cut more than 15 percent from the The times were few when you called safely weathering winter storms. Before a storm and he wasn’t available to help even Charles Riesen operating budget, fixed costs continue ever begins, tune into your local weather service for when he wasn’t scheduled. I recall a Manager to increase but at a slower pace, 4.2 the weather forecast. It is important to know the recent storm when we called in extra PKM Electric percent this year. differences among various watches and warnings. Cooperative One of the benefits of having help and Bob, because of familiarity a strong balance sheet is we can with the system, would take a visiting have a couple (2) items to talk weather the storm. We can work on crew and work a section of line. Winter Storm Watches Winter Storm Warnings Blizzard Warnings about as we pull the covers on internal cuts, slow the pace of new Afterwards, linemen 20-30 years his another year and neither one construction and replacements, but junior would come up to me and Signify that stormy conditions, Call for stormy conditions Advise those in the affected areas brings me any pleasure. when new revenue is needed, it can say, “$%#&* that guy can work.” Bob including heavy snow, freezing to begin within the next 24 to seek refuge immediately due I will lead off with the item only come from the member-owners. I always did what was asked of him rain or sleet, are likely within the hours. Those in the range of the to high levels of snow, strong Ithat will affect all member-owners of and then he did more. A company next few days. You should be alert, warning should be mindful of winds and resulting near-zero believe we have been responsible with the impending conditions and visibility to those traveling on the PKM. Beginning Feb. 1, your electric your electric utility. Of course, I fully couldn’t ask more of an employee. as this means adverse conditions rates will increase 7.6 percent. The could begin within the next 12 to consider canceling plans to travel road. appreciate that not everyone will share Though a bit younger, I’ve been energy rate will go from $0.116/ 48 hours. outside of the home. that opinion. However, another benefit with Bob throughout his days at kWh to $0.126/kWh. You may recall of being a member-owner is you don’t PKM. When he was clearing out his 2014 was a record year for margins accumulation of 35 years he found have to go through a voice answering If the power goes out, notify PKM at the bottom of doors. To protect your cautious driving, and keep an emergency when we posted $1.1 million in system or find yourself on terminal pictures of a tall and slim fellow with Electric of the outage. Have an emergency circuits and appliances when power is kit in your vehicle. Its supplies should operating margins and more than hold to talk to the boss. I’ve been boundless energy and a penchant for kit prepared to help you and your family restored, switch off lights and unplug include a windshield scraper, a first aid $300,000 in nonoperating margins. listening to all opinions for more than doing things fast. Over the years he weather the storm and the outage safely appliances. Leave one light switched on kit, a cell phone charging adaptor, booster There was considerable discussion 30 years, that’s another thing we do. discovered working smarter would and comfortably. Some of the items this as a quick reminder that the power is cables, a blanket and a flashlight with concerning a deferral of revenue, serve us all better. Now he leaves kit should include are bottled water, restored. extra batteries. however, the PKM board of directors Bob Kliner retirement PKM still tall, more mature and with nonperishable food, flashlights, a weather Only venture outside if absolutely Never drive over a downed line is a democracy and that motion The other thing I want to do, a gate that belies 35 years working radio and extra batteries. necessary. Downed power lines could be because that could pull down the pole st failed. The 1 quarter of 2015 was and it is with mixed emotion, is to on the line. He can be proud of his If you are using an alternative heating submerged in snow and ice, making them and other equipment, causing additional proceeding at a good pace. In April say a few words about a co-worker, accomplishment, and it has been my source during an outage, know how to difficult to see. If you must go outside, use hazards. If you see a downed line, do 2015 we had a 5 percent increase in dedicated cooperative employee and good fortune to have known a man use it safely and have all supplies for it caution and treat all downed and hanging not get out of your car. The safest place wholesale power costs and energy friend Bob Kliner. I am happy for many of us would do well to emulate. gathered. To help you and your family lines as if they are energized. Stay away, is inside the vehicle. Contact the utility sales nose dived. We accumulated Bob and Viki that he has his health (a As Bob himself would say, “To stay warm during an outage, dress warn others to stay away and immediately immediately. For more information on operating losses from April until full head of hair, now grey) and they everything there is a season.” warmly, cover windows at night, close off contact your cooperative. electrical safety and weathering winter this November. Our operating unneeded rooms and place draft blocks If travel is necessary, be especially storms, visit SafeElectricity.org. deficit stands at more than $600,000 November/December 2015 through November. Beginning in The PKM News (USPS 417060) Vol. 69, No. 6 is published six times a year, February, April, June, August, PKM Electric Cooperative Political Leaders April 2016 we will have another October and December by PKM Electric Cooperative, Inc., 406 N. , Warren, MN 56762. 3.35 percent increase in wholesale Periodicals postage paid at Warren, MN. Subscription 25¢/year for members $2.50/year for non-members. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to PKM Electric 202-224-5641 www.collinpeterson.house.gov Senator LeRoy Stumpf 888-727-0979 power costs. Our summer demand Cooperative, Inc.,P.O. Box 108, Warren, MN 56762-0108. Federal legislators Fax: 202-224-0044 202-225-2165 75 Rev. Dr. Martin [email protected] will increase by 4,000 kWh (an President Barack Obama Fax: 202-225-1593 Luther King Jr. Blvd. Officers and Directors Representative Deb Kiel additional cost of more than The White House Senator Capitol Building, Room 122 President...... Ronald Reitmeier 337 State Office Building 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW 302 Hart Senate Office Building State of Minnesota St. Paul, MN 55155-1606 $350,000). Your cooperative has Vice President...... Tom Woinarowicz 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Washington, D.C. 20500 Washington, D.C. 20510 651-296-8660 Secretary-Treasurer...... Gordon Bernstrom legislators Luther King Jr. Blvd. www.whitehouse.gov www.klobuchar.senate.gov Email: Use mail form Directors...... Michael Beaudry, Jeffrey Folland, Steve Goodwin, Governor Mark Dayton St. Paul, MN 55155 [email protected] 202-224-3244 Jerod Hanson, Wayne Malm and Blake Owens 75 Rev. Dr. Martin Representative Dan Fabian 651-296-5091 Manager...... Charles Riesen 202-456-1111 1-888-224-9043 (Minnesota office) On the cover Fax: 202-228-2186 Luther King Jr. Blvd. 307 State Office Building 800-339-9041 Editors...... Deb Copp, Jeff Rustad, Chelsy Davey Capitol Building, Room 130 [email protected] Troy Vagle, co-owner of Two River Senator 100 Rev. Dr. Martin Office hours: 320 Hart Senate Office Building Congressman St. Paul, MN 55155-1606 Luther King Jr. Blvd. Game Preserve near Lancaster, Minn., Electrical after-hours emergencies 800-657-3717 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday Washington, D.C. 20510 2109 Rayburn House Office Building St. Paul, MN 55155 218-745-4711 or 800-552-7366 stands inside his on-site pen holding a 218-745-4711 or 800-552-7366 www.alfranken.com Washington, D.C. 20515 [email protected] 651-296-9635 pheasant. Story on pages 6-7. e-mail: [email protected] Next Board Meeting: Tuesday, December 29, 2015 website: www.pkmcoop.com

2 PKM News • November/December 2015 PKM News • November/December 2015 3 Safety tips for portable, standby generators t’s critical that proper safety precautions be taken to prevent accidents Average number that could affect you, a family member, neighbor or utility line worker. I However, only a small percentage are hooked up or used correctly. SafeElectricity.org urges consumers to understand proper generator safety steps. Generators can be temporarily or permanently installed. A permanent of load control hours generator is wired into a house by a qualified electrician using a transfer switch. This protects you, your neighbors and repair crews from electricity backfeeding onto power lines. This can seriously injure anyone near those lines, especially co-op crews working to restore power. A temporary expected this winter generator fired by gasoline or diesel fuel should not be attached to a circuit breaker, fuse or outlet. ue to mild temperatures, periods protects consumers from the management system over the past 37 The improper use of a standby generator can lead to injury or death. When using a generator, SafeElectricity.org urges you to follow these tips dual-heat load control hours volatility of the market and prevents years. through Jan. 1 have been lower the need to build new power plants to keep you and your family safe: D Electric rebates available than projected at the beginning of just to serve peak loads,” Sailer said. • Read and follow all manufacturer operating instructions to properly Great incentives are available for ground the generator. Be sure you understand them before starting it up. the winter season. Minnkota Power An off-peak system consists of an • Standby generators should have a transfer safety switch installed by Cooperative, your cooperative’s electric heating source as its primary the installation of qualifying electric a professional. Portable generators should never be plugged directly wholesale energy provider, estimated component. A supplemental heating heating equipment. Cooperative into a home outlet or electrical system – use an extension cord to plug 250 hours of winter load control, source must operate several hundred members will receive $20 per kilowatt appliances into an outlet on the generator. which compares to the 10-year average hours or more during the winter (kW) installed with a maximum rebate • Never operate a generator in a confined area, such as a garage. of 240 hours and last year’s total of 63 season. Sailer said members with of $600 through at least the end of Generators produce gases, including deadly carbon monoxide. They hours. a well-maintained backup heating 2015. The system must be the primary require proper ventilation. Last year’s low number was a system should not notice a difference heating source in the building and on • Remember, when venturing outside after a severe storm, stay away cannot form puddles or drain under it. Always ensure that your hands are result of mild weather, Minnkota in comfort level when their off-peak the off-peak program with a qualified from downed power lines and be alert to the possibility that tree limbs or dry before touching the generator. increasing its purchase of energy from heating system is controlled. backup heating source. The system debris may hide an electrical hazard. Assume that any dangling wires you • When you refuel the generator, make sure the engine is cool to prevent a must be hard-wired; plug-in systems encounter are electrical, and treat all downed or hanging power lines as the Milton R. Young Station Unit 2 by “The ability to manage costs and fire, should the tank overflow. are not eligible. if they are energized. Warn others to stay away and contact the electric about 127.5 megawatts capacity and plan for the heating season is one • There should be nothing plugged into the generator when you turn it on. Some restrictions apply. Please utility. This prevents a surge from damaging your generator and appliances. low-cost power available from the of the many benefits of the off-peak • Generators pose electrical risks, especially when operated in wet • Be sure to keep children and pets away from the generator, which could wholesale market. As part of a long- electric heating program,” Sailer said. contact PKM Electric Cooperative’s conditions. Use a generator only when necessary when the weather burn them. term transaction, the additional Young Millions of dollars have been saved energy services department for more creates wet or moist conditions. Protect the generator by operating For more safety information on the use of portable and standby 2 energy from the coal-based plant is due to the success of Minnkota’s load information. it under an open, canopy-like structure on a dry surface where water generators and safety after a storm, go to SafeElectricity.org. helping to meet peak winter demands and future load growth projections. During outages and periods of peak electric demand, Minnkota’s first option is to purchase power from the Time is running out for PKM’s electric heating rebate program! power market. If affordable power is not available, off-peak loads are PKM Electric Cooperative’s electric heating rebate program will expire MAY 31, 2016. temporarily controlled. The savings are passed on to retail consumers through All equipment must be installed before that date. the lower off-peak heating rate. Receive $20/kW rebate for the installation of a qualifying electric Maximum incentive per off-peak meter is $600. “Our projections show that heating system that is on off-peak. affordable power will be available for purchase throughout most of the Air-source heat pump incentive is $100/ton – heating mode must winter to meet our members’ needs,” be controlled on off-peak. Homeowners adding said Todd Sailer, Minnkota senior manager of energy supply. Ground-source heat pump incentive is $200/ton – heating mode new off-peak heating systems qualify for these rebates. Sailer said when there is a must be controlled on off-peak. combination of low wind generation, Equipment must be new and off-peak systems must have a unseasonal weather conditions and qualified backup. generator outages in the region, Contact our Energy Services Department Minnkota will see higher energy Homeowner will receive a rebate check after a visit from a PKM for details at market prices and will need to control. Electric technician. “Controlling load during these 4 PKM News • November/December 2015 218-745-4711 or 800-552-7366 PKM News • November/December 2015 5 no limit on the number of birds you can take. While farmers in the region spend the fall season rushing to get their crops out of the field, Vagle is out capturing and planting birds all around his land. Originally he raised the pheasants himself, but now he purchases mature birds from a grower in Pelican Rapids, Minn. At least 1,000 pheasants are released onto the land each season. Both roosters and hens are held in a large enclosed pen bordered with retired utility poles from PKM Electric Cooperative, which provides electricity to the site. Fields of pheasant Vagle charges $20 per bird to hunt on the preserve, a price A pheasant is picked up inside its pen at the game preserve. that includes the use of his dogs Hunters thrive at Two River Game Preserve and cleaning the birds. If a group the use of his dogs, but keeps a tip does not get all of the birds they jar for them. ll is quiet and peaceful on Troy Vagle’s land purchased, other hunters, who “When people see our dogs near Lancaster, Minn., until you hear a call beforehand, are allowed to work they say, ‘I’ve got to have furious flapping of wings. come in and “scratch hunt” for one of those,’” Vagle said. “So now Suddenly a brown figure hurtles toward $10 per each remaining bird. we’re seeing people come out with Athe sky, gaining speed before darting toward a Despite being an avid hunter, their dogs to train.” patch of prairie grass within its spacious pen. 2015 was the first year Vagle For Vagle, who works as utility Vagle’s dog, Hawkeye, anxiously scans back pulled the trigger on one of manager for the City of Hallock, and forth, yet he doesn’t budge from the point his own birds. Most days, he’s the preserve is less about money position. content just watching the dogs and more about his love of the This is the scene before a big pheasant hunt zigzag through an open field. outdoors. And it’s hard to beat the at Two River Game Preserve. Troy Vagle and “The dogs are a big reason camaraderie each group brings to co-owner Mike Vagle run the business, which why I do this,” Vagle said. “It is so the field. specializes in private hunts, from a cabin and much fun watching them work. “We have yet to have someone 350 acres of land about 10 miles from the U.S.- It’s like they can talk to each come out and be in a bad mood,” Canadian border. ot h e r.” Vagle said. Troy Vagle started the preserve in 2013 as an Vagle has three German To learn more about Two River alternative to the long trips out to , shorthair pointers. In addition to Game Preserve, visit their website, a popular spot for pheasant hunting. Hawkeye, who has been with the www.tworivergamepreserve. “I went out there (South Dakota) with a preserve since its start, he also webs.com, or Facebook couple guys and had a good time,” Vagle said. “I’d added pups Ammo and Hunter page, www.facebook.com/ always think, ‘Why can’t someone in our area do in 2014. Vagle does not charge for tworivergamepreserve. something like this? There has to be more people who want to do this other than me.’” Troy Vagle and his dog, Vagle was right. Individual hunters and large Hawkeye, take a break in groups of all different skill levels have found their “I’d always think, ‘Why can’t someone in our area do front of the pheasant pen. way out to the site, often on single-day trips. Because it is a state-certified game preserve, something like this? There has to be more people who Troy Vagle stands near the entrance of Two River Game want to do this other than me.’” Preserve located near Lancaster, Minn. there is no need for hunting licenses and there is

6 PKM News • November/December 2015 PKM News • November/December 2015 7 AUTHORIZATION FOR ACH (AUTOMATED DIRECT PAYMENT) 4 WAYS TO PAY

IN PERSON SmartHub Located in Warren, MN at Convenient account access 406 North Minnesota St. or utilize where you can manage our drop-box outside the building payments, check your usage and during non-business hours. receive emails from PKM when your bill has been calculated.

BY MAIL ACH (automated clearing house) Send the payment in the A monthly bank draft envelope provided with your directly from your checking or monthly statement to PKM savings account taken on the th Electric, Inc. P.O. Box 108, 10 of every month. Warren, MN 56762. STAPLE VOIDED CHECK HERE STAPLE

2016 Electrical Sign up for either ACH or SmartHub CE Workshops by Friday, February 5, 2016 to qualify for a $100 Energy Credit to be applied to your electric bill. 2016 contractor Monday, Jan. 18 Wednesday, Jan. 27 Cambria Hotel & Suites Alerus Center There will be 2 winners total. 825 East Beaton Drive 1200 42nd Street South PKMPKM Electric Electric Cooperative Cooperative launched launched West Fargo, ND 58078 Grand Forks, ND 58201 workshopsSmartHubSmartHub set to to our our members members in in MarchMarch of of 2015. 2015.PKM This This Electric new new featureCooperative feature is is launchedTuesday, Jan. 19 Wednesday, Feb. 3 available on your mobile device by Cambria Hotel & Suites Eagles Club available on yourSmartHub mobile deviceto our membersby 825 East in Beaton Drive 1270 Neilson Avenue SE Minnkota Power Cooperative anddownloadingdownloading the associated systemsthe Marchthe FREE FREE will of sponsor 2015.app app continuingor or Thisvisiting visiting new feature is th West Fargo, ND 58078 Bemidji, MN 56601 education classes for area electricianspkmcoop.smarthub.cooppkmcoop.smarthub.coop and builders inavailable 2016. This onmarks online. online.your the 28 mobile We We device by year of the successful program, whichareare is aimedexcited excited atdownloading providing to to offer offer area this thistrade the service serviceallies FREE with app orTuesday, visiting Jan. 26 Thursday, Feb. 4 the latest information in building and electricaltoto practices ourpkmcoop.smarthub.coop our members. members. and an opportunity to online.Alerus Center We Bigwood Event Center obtain code credits for license renewal. are excited to offer this service1200 42nd Street South 925 Western Avenue The electrical workshops will be held Jan. 18 and Jan. 19 at theto Cambriaour members. Grand Forks, ND 58201 Fergus Falls, MN 56537 Hotel & Suites in West Fargo, N.D. The training then moves to the Alerus Center in Grand Forks Jan. 26 and Jan. 27. The workshops continue with classes Feb. 3 PKM Electric Cooperative launched at the Eagles Club in Bemidji, Minn., and Feb. 4 at the BigwoodPleasePlease Eventcontact contact Center us us in at at 218.745.4711 218.745.4711 with with any any questions. questions. SmartHub to our members in 2016 Residential Builder March of 2015. This new feature is Fergus Falls, Minn. CE Workshops available on your mobile device by The residential builder workshops are Jan. 27 at the Alerus Center in PleaseGrand contact us at 218.745.4711 with any questions. downloading the FREE app or visiting Forks, Feb. 3 at Hampton Inn & Suites in Bemidji, Feb. 4 at the Bigwood Event pkmcoop.smarthub.coop online. We Wednesday, Jan. 27 Thursday, Feb. 4 Center in Fergus Falls and Feb. 5 at Cass County Electric Cooperative in Fargo, Alerus Center Bigwood Event Center are excited to offer this service N.D. to our members. 1200 42nd Street South 925 Western Avenue Registration fee is $75 for eight code credits. Taking the class on multiple Grand Forks, ND 58201 Fergus Falls, MN 56537 days will not qualify for 16 code credits. Online registration is preferred through www.minnkota.com. Registration Wednesday, Feb. 3 Friday, Feb. 5 should be completed by Jan. 13. Hampton Inn & Suites Cass County Electric 1019 Paul Bunyan Dr. S. Cooperative Please contact us at 218.745.4711 with any questions. For more information about the program, contact Sue Black, Minnkota Bemidji, MN 56601 3312 42nd St. S. communications/member services specialist, at (701) 795-4292 or email Fargo, ND 58104 questions to [email protected]. 8 PKM News • November/December 2015 PKM News • November/December 2015 9 Johnson, Rick L., East Grand Forks, Minn. Pulkrabek, Harvey, Angus, Minn. Johnson, Ronald L., Kennedy, Minn. Pyle, Jere M., Bethel, Alaska Unclaimed capital credits K & G Farms Inc., Donaldson, Minn. Quade, Ervin F., Hallock, Minn. KAMAR, Hallock, Minn. Qualley, Darrel, Pequot Lakes, Minn. This is a listing of members or former members who have Kasprowicz, Jeanette, Greenbush, Minn. Ranstrom, Fraye, Green Valley, Ariz. unclaimed capital credit checks. If you know their current mailing address, Kjallgren, Mattie, Lancaster, Minn. Rasmussen, Alfred, Long Beach, Calif. please contact us at [email protected], or by calling toll-free Kostrzewski, Gary, Stephen, Minn. Red River Farms, Queen Creek, Ariz. Kozel, Tom, East Grand Forks, Minn. Richards, Greg, Crookston, Minn. 800.552.7366 or 218.745.4711. Kujava, Christopher, Cold Spring, Minn. Rodriguez, Nick, Adams, N.D. Adair, Jacqueline, Moorhead, Minn. Deitz, Duane, Grand Forks, N.D. Lambert, Ralph, Emily, Minn. Roelofs, Kyle, Glyndon, Minn. AEF&G Partnership, Stillwater, Minn. Docken, Harriet, Hallock, Minn. Larson, Mark C., Stephen, Minn. Rosette, Dale, Hodgenville, Ky. AETNA Insurance, Hartford, Conn. Dreher, Lavern, St. Paul, Minn. Larson, Norval L., Panama City Beach, Fla. Rude, Steven, East Grand Forks, Minn. Anderson, Dale A., Sunriver, Ore. Driscoll Inc., Jerry, Mentor, Minn. Lazy J.M. Ranch, Lake Bronson, Minn. Rue, Kenneth H., Fargo, N.D. Anderson, Paul, Grand Forks, N.D. Ege, David, Grand Forks, N.D. Lindstrom, Harold, , Minn. Ryden, David M., Hallock, Minn. Andreen, Greg, Grafton, N.D. Eiteljorge, Mary J., Grand Forks, N.D. Lizakowski, Jay, Mora, Minn. Rynning, Kristi, Kennedy, Minn. Armitage, David, Moorhead, Minn. Ekholm, Alton V., Austin, Minn. Lund, Orval, Lancaster, Minn. Rynning, Lorraine A., Kennedy, Minn. Back, Rose, Arlington, Wash. Elden, Jon, Grand Forks, N.D. Lundberg, Lori, Grand Forks, N.D. Sandberg, Margaret, Kennedy, Minn. Bagaas, Arlene, Kennedy, Minn. Elden, Wayne E., Chandler, Ariz. Magsam, Dennis G., Euclid, Minn. Sanner, Floyd, North Las Vegas, Nev. Barwick, John, Hazen, N.D. Enge, Roger Y., Grand Forks, N.D. Magsam, Duane, Euclid, Minn. Santos, Mark, Alvarado, Minn. Becklund, Mavis, Deer River, Minn. Enoksen, Edmund T., Crossville, Tenn. Manz, Jeffrey, Hallock, Minn. Sather, Mike L., Grand Forks, N.D. Beedy, Marjorie L., Mesa, Ariz. Farrell, John, Hallock, Minn. Martinez, Rosendo, La Grulla, Tex. Sattizahn, Kim, Roseau, Minn. Benke, Darrell, Plano, Tex. Fincher, Robert, Grand Forks, N.D. Masloski, Raymond, Thief River Falls, Minn. Schonmeier, Russell, Grand Forks, N.D. Benson, C. E., Stephen, Minn. Fjeld, Agnes E., Grand Forks, N.D. McLaughlin, Kenneth, Grand Forks, N.D. Scott, David N., Thief River Falls, Minn. Benson, Kent, Karlstad, Minn. Flaagen, Donovan, Grand Forks, N.D. Melin, Gary, Hallock, Minn. Sedlacek, Caroline, Omaha, Nebr. Bilben, Mike, New Effington, S.D. Forslund, Laurie, Warren, Minn. Merdink, Allan, Stephen, Minn. Seeba, Annette, Salisbury, Md. Bogestad & Son Farms, Inc., Donaldson, Minn. Fredrickson, Ann M., Stephen, Minn. Miska, Elmer F., Angus, Minn. Sheehan, John P., Virginia, Ill. Bolek, Wayne, Grand Forks, N.D. Gaber, Adam C., East Grand Forks, Minn. Moe, Laurel P., Argyle, Minn. Sinn Bros., Warren, Minn. Boman, Ardella, Warren, Minn. Gerszewski, William, Argyle, Minn. Monroe, Dennis, Thief River Falls, Minn. Skappel, Gary J., Oberlin, Kans. Borowicz, Dorothy, Stephen, Minn. Glad, Connie, Lancaster, Minn. Morris, Louis, Grand Forks, N.D. Smolak, Lilly, Lancaster, Minn. Brantl, James, St. Thomas, N.D. Gowan, James Jr., Queen Creek, Ariz. Mortenson, Richard, Kennedy, Minn. Sorenson, Larry, Hallock, Minn. Brenner, Ed, Minot, N.D. Grandstrand, Darin, Fargo, N.D. Murray, Randy, Grand Forks, N.D. St. Jos. Town Hall, Lancaster, Minn. Bushaw, Joseph, Townsend, Mont. Gratzek, Theresa, Argyle, Minn. Nelson, Elmer T., Karlstad, Minn. Steer, Henry, Garden Grove, Calif. Cactus Lanes, Warren, Minn. GTE Telephone Operations, Irving, Tex. Nelson, Mike, Thompson, N.D. Steien, Magnor, Lancaster, Minn. Cannon Town Hall, Lancaster, Minn. Hamberg, Nan, Thief River Falls, Minn. Nelson, Scott, Lancaster, Minn. Sugden, Jeffrey R., Hallock, Minn. Carlson, Hazel H., Hallock, Minn. Hanson, Dorothy, Donaldson, Minn. Ness, Michael W., Fargo, N.D. Sundby, Arvin, Karlstad, Minn. Carlson, Viola, Thief River Falls, Minn. Hermann, Thomas, Alvarado, Minn. Nowacki, Isabelle, Stephen, Minn. Sundby, L.J., Grand Forks, N.D. Carlson, Wayne A., Karlstad, Minn. Hess, George, Warren, Minn. Oberg, Cristina, Karlstad, Minn. Sundby, Ricky D., Argyle, Minn. Carlson, Wayne W., Tucson, Ariz. HI 75 Theatre, Fulton, Tex. Ogorek, Kenneth, Lancaster, Minn. Svedin, Lawrence P., Karlstad, Minn. Christianson, Audrey, East Grand Forks, Minn. Hoff, O. H., East Grand Forks, Minn. Olsen, Francis, Lake Bronson, Minn. Swenson, Kenneth, Rowlett, Tex. Christianson, Darlyne, Moorhead, Minn. Holte, Ronnie, East Grand Forks, Minn. Olsen, Paul, Gordon, Wis. Thompson, Ordean H., East Grand Forks, Minn. Clark, Brad, Fargo, N.D. Holy, Donald, East Grand Forks, Minn. Olson, Roy, Lancaster, Minn. Thomson, Jason, Drayton, N.D. Clipperton, Jeff, East Grand Forks, Minn. Homstad, Howard, Hallock, Minn. Orcutt, Wilford E., Macon, Ga. Trotter, Jerry, Fargo, N.D. Coffield, John, Lancaster, Minn. Honstead, Max D., East Grand Forks, Minn. Ostlund Chemical Co., Fargo, N.D. Van Eck, Rick, Bisbee, Ariz. Cole, Scott, Poynette, Wis. Hunt, Allison, Hallock, Minn. Peterson, Beth, Grand Forks, N.D. Wagner, Scott A., Warren, Minn. Commercial Mortgage Co., Omaha, Nebr. Hunter Farms, Neche, N.D. Peterson, Daniel, Grand Forks, N.D. Webb, Jody, Oslo, Minn. Coulter, Jerome, East Grand Forks, Minn. Hvidsten, Howard, Hillsboro, N.D. Petterson, Robert P., Karlstad, Minn. Westerberg, Glenn, Lancaster, Minn. Crummy, Paul, Warren, Minn. J.J. Properties, Mahtomedi, Minn. Pietruszewski, Alan, Stephen, Minn. Wimer, Jerome, Brocket, N.D. Dagen, Dave, White Bear Lake, Minn. Jacobi Farms, Grand Forks, N.D. Pipiles, Diamond, Grand Forks, N.D. Woinarowicz, Elmer, Cavalier, N.D. Dahl, Conrad J., Kansas City, Mo. Jacobson, Herman, East Grand Forks, Minn. Pokrzywinski, Aime, Grafton, N.D. Yonke, Bill, Hallock, Minn. Dahl, Robert N., Kennedy, Minn. Jans, Joyce, Lancaster, Minn. Potrament, Christine, Garretson, S.D. Younggren, John Jr., Sun River, Mont. Davis, Clifford, Halma, Minn. Jerome, Ella, Hallock, Minn. Pready, John, Lancaster, Minn. Zak, Jeffrey, East Grand Forks, Minn. Johnson, Elmer H., Hallock, Minn. Pribbs Steel Mfg., Grand Forks, N.D. Ziegelmann, Chad, Grand Forks, N.D. 10 PKM News • November/December 2015 Johnson, Monica, Kennedy, Minn. Pribula, Ruth, East Grand Forks, Minn. PKM News • November/December 2015 11 Serving Kittson, Lake of the Woods, East Marshall, and Roseau Counties WILD RICE SOUP Bob Kliner DIRECTIONS: Warren, Minn. Rinse wild rice well, & boil in water until tender. May add chicken INGREDIENTS: bouillon if desired. Boil potatoes Let Safety • ¾ C. wild rice and/or carrots in water until tender. Northwest Community Action Inc. • 2 pt. half & half While rice is cooking, fry the bacon • 2 cans Cream of Chicken soup and set aside. Break bacon in small • 4 potatoes and/or 4 carrots (cut up) pieces. Fry the pheasant, coated with Light the Way • ¾ lb. bacon seasoning salt, in light oil and cut • 1½ lb. pheasant (cut into pieces) into pieces. Saute mushrooms and • 4 oz. fresh mushrooms (sliced) onion in butter. Mix half & half and Energy Assistance Program • 1 sm. onion (sliced) soup in large kettle. Bring to boil • Chicken bouillon (opt.) and add all other ingredients. Add • Milk milk to obtain desired consistency. • Salt & pepper to taste Add salt & pepper to taste.

October 1, 2015—May 31, 2016 When it comes to outdoor holiday decorating, some of us create a spec- tacle, others a simple tribute to the To request an application form: INCOME GUIDELINES season. No matter what the size of the project, electrical safety is criti- 3-Month Yearly cal. Protect yourself, your family and Write Family Gross Gross Happy New Year! your home this season by following Northwest Community Action, Inc. Size these outdoor decorating tips: 312 North Main Street Income Income PKM Electric’s Use lights, cords, animated displays and PO Box 67 1 $5,987 $23,949 decorations that are rated for outdoor Badger, MN 56714 office will be closed use, and plug them into circuits pro- 2 $7,829 $31,318 tected by ground fault circuit interrupters Friday, Jan. 1, (GFCIs). Portable outdoor GFCIs can be Call purchased where electrical supplies are 3 $9,671 $38,687 for New Year’s Day. sold. Phone: 218-528-3258 Inspect each set of lights, old or new, Toll- Free: 800-568-5329 4 $11,514 $46,056 for damage. Return or throw out any set with cracked or broken sockets, frayed or 5 $13,356 $53,424 bare wires, or loose connections. Visit our Website PKM Service Anniversaries Do not staple or nail through light strings We had our 57th annual awards banquet on Friday, Dec. 11, 2015. Five people were 6 $15,198 $60,793 or electrical cords. Use plastic or insu- www.northwestcap.org recognized for their years of service and they are pictured from left to right: Mike lated hooks to hang lights, and do not Beaudry, Jeremy Treitline, Rick Bye, Deb Copp and Jeff Folland. attach cords to utility poles.  • HouseholdsHouseholds may may apply apply only only once once duringduring our program yearyear (October(October 1, 1, 2015 2015 –— MayMay 31, 31, 2016). 2016). Never decorate near overhead power lines. Look up before raising a ladder or  • BothBoth homeowners homeowners and and renters renters may may bebe eligible.eligible. other equipment. Stay at least 10 feet  • HomeHome visits visits are are available available for for homebound homebound applicants, applicants, uponupon request.request. away from utility lines. Look up and live.  • HouseholdsHouseholds requesting requesting assistance assistance in in completing completing the application are encouraged toto phone phone our our Avoid decorating outside on windy or wet officeoffice to toset set up up an an appointment. appointment. days. Choose to decorate in favorable weather conditions and during daylight  • HouseholdsHouseholds who who received received assistance assistance under under lastlast year’syear’s program automaticallywill automatically received receive a new a new hours. application form in the mail in September 2015. application form in the mail in September 2015. Always unplug the lights before replacing  • YouYou are are responsible responsible for for your your heating heating and and electric electric bills bills until until your you hear hear from from NWCA. NWCA. bulbs or fuses. Use LED light strings. The bulbs are du- rable and don’t heat up. They use about The Energy Assistance Program is funded by the Minnesota Department 90 percent less energy than incandes- of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. TEN YEAR AWARD TWENTY-FIVE YEAR AWARD THIRTY YEAR AWARD cent bulbs to produce the same amount Mike Beaudry Deb Copp Rick Bye of light. Jeremy Treitline Jeff Folland

12 PKM News • November/December 2015 PKM News • November/December 2015 13 Board meeting September and October Statistical and financial report highlights Hot water Year-to-date: September 2015 A special meeting of the board was held report and answered any questions that the Power Plan, 2) Waters of the United States, Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2015. directors had about finances. 3) Electrify Africa, 4) Power Marketing and savings Last Year This Year Budget Ron Reitmeier, president who presided, The manager of member services Administration and 5) Rail Congestion. The Total income $ 11,597,566 $ 10,619,582 $ 11,050,000 manager stated the spokespeople for these for life! called the meeting to order. Upon calling the reported on a Northern Safety & Security Total expense $ 10,514,630 $ 11,124,641 $ 10,636,500 roll, the secretary reported that all directors, meeting and checking load management issues for the senate delegation were less with the exception of Jerod Hanson, were controls at American Crystal. than inspiring, but given the audience the PKM Electric Net margins $ 1,082,936 $ (505,059 ) $ 413,500 present. The manager reported to the board issues of concern were placed on the table. Cooperative Total kWh sold - 94,244,501 96,800,000 The vice president reported on recent of directors on monthly activities and The big meeting attended by the CEOs of Avg. kWh sold per member - 2,503 MREA activities, reporting that the stray responding to those questions directors had the region’s generation and transmission members can Delivery cost per kWh purchased - 8.02¢ voltage guide is ready to be distributed to concerning his report. cooperatives, the North Dakota senators save on their member cooperatives and again, referenced The board saw a letter from the Chief and representatives, and featuring a fly-in by Avg. sale price per kWh - 11.26¢ the 2016 budget. Financial Operations Branch from RUS the governor of North Dakota, is where the electric bills Percent kWh sales increase - - action took place on the Clean Power Plan. Director Folland reported that the addressing our deficit operation for 2015. when they Members billed 3,712 3,766 Minnkota board of directors held a board The manager referred the directors to The manager of operations presented meeting and a planning session that resulted correspondence back to the Chief and the the monthly safety report, indicating that a purchase an 85- Miles of line in service 2,247 2,261 in a 2016 business plan. Meetings continue manager stated he would try and have a vehicle accident had occurred and described or a 105-gallon 175 watt MV lights 1,489 1,461 between Minnkota and Basin. meeting with him while in Washington for the accident to the directors. There was no Marathon water heater 400 watt MV lights 93 93 The secretary/treasurer reported on legislative business. citation issued to PKM. A lady stopped at recent Square Butte activities, especially 111 The board caucused and directed the an intersection behind one of our trucks and hook it up to the off-peak cycled 100 watt H.P.S. 879 883 (b) and 111 (d) of the Clean Air Act and manager to mark the ballot for CoBank with a pole trailer, her foot slid off the brake water heater program. Not only will you 250 watt H.P.S. 87 87 plant performance. election. and she ran into the pole and damaged her The manager reported on the fall The board was informed of the ALJ headlight and fender. She admitted 100 receive a $150 rebate, but you’ll also save a Outage charged to: 2015 2014 2013 managers’ meeting, which dealt with issues hearing scheduled for Sept. 21-24, and percent fault and the board quizzed the minimum of $132 per year off your electric such as cyber security and the Clean Power again the manager referred the board to the operations manager as to the proper flagging Minnkota operations 3,553.24 3,979.80 2,796.20 and reflecting lights. To which the operations bill with our off-peak cycled program. Plan (CPP). assistant manager’s report. PKM operations 4,413.67 5,814.40 3,415.66 Directors Bernstrom, Folland and the The manager presented to the board manager reported all of our equipment manager reported on their attendance to staff salaries for 2015-2016. was in place and operating properly. He For information and pricing, Total 7,966.91 9,794.20 6,211.86 described for the board a hot line school held the NRECA Region 5 and 6 meeting. The Upon motion duly made and seconded, call PKM Electric Cooperative Minutes per member PKM operations year to date: 70.30 manager stated that it was apparent that the the president recessed the meeting into in Baudette and the attendance of half of regulatory side of NRECA is going after the executive session, and at 1:49 the president the PKM linemen. His report morphed into 218-745-4711 Minutes per member Minnkota operations year to date: 56.60 EPA, including necessary lawsuits against returned the meeting to regular order. a larger discussion on safety, with several the EPA over the Clean Power Plan. The With the RUS loan previously being directors contributing useful approaches for manager heard at the meeting that G&T approved by the board of directors, the safety meetings. service to the member-owners. and the board should come to a decision of labor, equipment and materials in government relations people are thinking chairman signed the formal loan acceptance. The operations manager continued his The manager presented the 2016 on releasing that service to Otter Tail. This emergencies. that a weak area in the Clean Power Plan is report, citing the completion of pole testing operating budget to the board, outlining matter caused an issue among the directors The board authorized management A regular meeting of the board was held the provision that renewables installed prior and the reject rate of approximately 3 percent anticipated expenses and forecasting and a lengthy discussion ensued. to enter into a mutual aid agreement with Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2015. to 2012 do not count for CO reduction. and a small storm that hit the area on Oct. reduced energy sales at existing rates, which The board instructed management to MPC. ² Ron Reitmeier, president who presided, The manager of operations presented 12. New members for the year stand at 3,784 obviously produces a deficit operation. release the service to Otter Tail by way of the The president stated that with a planning called the meeting to order. Upon calling the representing a net increase of 24 over the The board determined that while a budget agreement provided by counsel, and that the meeting scheduled on regular board meeting the monthly safety report, indicating no roll, the secretary reported that all directors, accidents and no lost time. He told of same period as last year. has to be produced in October, it can’t in release is to be site and service specific. day that the November meeting will be a with the exception of Jeff Folland, were The management staff and manager his attendance to a REMA and Energy good conscience be approved, and that the The assistant manager discussed with special meeting to be held Monday, Nov. 23, present. presented their monthly reports and manager should forecast a 5-year average Management Workshop. MREA held a the board the desire of the owner of the 2015, at 8 a.m., at the headquarters of the The vice president reported on recent responded to directors’ questions. of energy sales that includes a retail rate safety meeting on Sept. 9, which dealt with professional building to have his property Cooperative in Warren, Minn. MREA activities, highlighting net metering The assistant manager reviewed with the adjustment for 2016 and present the budget safe driving. There is a driving simulator released since he has made 6½ years of and the progress toward a standardized board of directors the 3rd quarter financials, again at the November meeting. that MREA will have in-house for our timely payments and he would like to policy, a stray voltage guide that has been discussing the fall off in energy sales and The 2016 capital budget was presented operating people to use. Minnesota Safety have the property for new collateral. The mailed to all cooperatives, and the intent additional expenses from extra linemen with the manager stating that the discussion directors instructed the assistant manager to was here on Sept. 10, for RESAP consulting of PKM to make the stray voltage guide and the PUC matter contributing to the on the capital budget will dovetail for the meet with legal counsel to determine if any with employees and a run-through provisions part of a new membership operating loss for the year. The assistant planning meeting since equity, capital Electrical Inspectors inspection. A RESAP inspection was held agreement and awaiting a patent policy from manager stated the decision to increase the additions and member capital revolvement securitization exists on that property. Sept. 16 and we are quite pleased with the MREA to be adopted in the future. fixed charge will bring in needed revenue, are all interconnected and we need to have Upon motion duly made, seconded and Marshall County & Kittson County process. We obviously have some areas that In absence of Director Folland, the but in absence of a general rate increase will this discussion. unanimously carried, the board of directors Scott Stenvik we need to work on, but a full discussion manager reported on recent Minnkota not be sufficient to erase the deficit operation The manager stated that CFC Regional went into executive session at 1:10 p.m. 16409 State Hwy 1 N.W. with the board safety committee and activities, highlighting their policy position for 2015. Vice President Terilynn Wallace will The president returned the meeting to Thief River Falls, MN 56701 employees will be held. Utility Inspection on the EPA Clean Power Plan. The manager reviewed with the directors facilitate our planning meeting for Nov. 24. regular order at 2:16 p.m. 218-689-5406 Service will start pole testing Sept. 18, and The secretary reported on recent Square the 3rd quarter subsidiary financials, Mrs. Copp has made arrangements at the The manager described for the board connected members for Sept. 2015 stands at Butte activities. indicating the strength of Carr’s Tree Service, Hilton Garden Inn for the location of the of directors mutual aid agreement between Polk County 3,777, representing a net gain of 22 from the The manager reported on his attendance the lackluster performance of Karian/ meeting. Minnkota and its distribution cooperatives Bryan Holmes same period last year. to the MREA legislative visit in Washington Peterson and the decision to start Northern The manager stated that the tile for the exchange of service should the need 218-686-1413 In absence of the assistant manager, the and the briefing from NRECA, as well as Safety & Security being a profitable decision company desires to get electric service for arise. The manager stated that mutual aid manager referred the board to his written MREA’s legislative issues being: 1) Clean for the cooperative, as well as providing a the sump located near Donaldson, Minn., agreements are common for the exchange 14 PKM News • November/December 2015 PKM News • November/December 2015 15 Save money and energy in 2016 Sample 2016 Residential Electric Rebates for Members

Equipment Specifications Rebate 40-60W equivalent incandescent. ENERGY LED Screw-In Bulb $4/bulb STAR® recommended. 65W or greater equivalent incandescent. LED Screw-In Bulb $8/bulb ENERGY STAR recommended. Complete fixture or replacement kit. LED Fixture $8/install ENERGY STAR recommended. LED Christmas Lights ENERGY STAR recommended. $3/string of lights LED Outdoor Fixture Wattage of <40 Watts. Dusk to dawn operation required. LED Outdoor Fixture $20/fixture DesignLights™ Consortium or ENERGY STAR recommended. with energy LED Outdoor Fixture Wattage of >40 Watts. Dusk to dawn operation required. LED Outdoor Fixture $40/fixture DesignLights™ Consortium or ENERGY efficiency rebates! STAR recommended. Clothes Washer Must be ENERGY STAR approved. $50/unit Energy-efficient rebates Clothes Dryer Must be ENERGY STAR approved. $50/unit for members remain in effect Refrigerator or Freezer Must be ENERGY STAR approved. $25/unit Minimum 80-gallon total capacity, EF >0.91. for 2016 although some Electric Water Heater Must be controlled under the utility’s load $150/unit management program. changes have been made. Programmable Thermostat $25/unit Please see the chart Engine Block Heater Timer $10/unit Not valid on window AC units. Checklist on Tune-Up for Central AC $25/unit for a sample of form must be completed with application. Tune-Up for Air-Source Heat residential incentives. Checklist on form must be completed with Pump or Mini-Split Ductless $25/unit application. Air-Source Heat Pump All incentives, criteria and Must modulate to allow ENERGY STAR- Supplemental Heating Source rated Air-Source Heat Pump to operate $500/unit guidelines for resident and business Air-Source Heat Pump members can be found at down to 5º F and be on load control. Air-Source Heat Pump 14 SEER, 8.2 HSPF $400/unit www.pkmcoop.com Air-Source Heat Pump 15 SEER, 8.5 HSPF $500/unit Furnace (Air Handler) Furnace with an ECM Blower $100/unit or by calling with ECM Blower Mini-Split/Ductless 15 SEER $500/unit 218-745-4711 Air-Source Heat Pump Ground-Source Heat Pump 16.2 EER/3.6 COP Open Loop <135,000 BTUH $200/ton All criteria are listed Maximum incentive $2,500/home @ 59º F on the rebate form. Ground-Source Heat Pump 14.1 EER/3.3 COP Closed Loop <135,000 BTUH $400/ton Maximum incentive $5,000/home @ 77º F