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SAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE NOVEMBER 2019 Made in Alamo Survivor? Salado’s Stagecoach Inn

Scholarship Applications Available 22 Elected Officials Tour R.C. Thomas Hydroelectric Project 20 Get Ready for Winter 23

SEE PAGE 24 Texas State Railroad heavy-duty flexibility When you need some extra space, a custom steel building from Mueller is the ideal solution. From workshops to garages to storage buildings, we’re ready to create structures that meet your specifi cations and enhance your lifestyle. All of our buildings are designed and manufactured in the USA, featuring commercial grade steel and limited paint warranties up to 30 years. Come see us and fi nd the one that’s right for you.

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November 2019 Since 1944

FAVORITES 5 Letters 6 Currents 20 Co-op News Get the latest information plus energy and safety tips from your cooperative. 33 Texas History Alamo Survivor? By Gene Fowler 34 Recipes 2019 Holiday Recipe Contest Winners 39 Focus on Texas Photo Contest: Up the Creek 40 Around Texas List of Local Events 42 Hit the Road Stopping by Salado’s Stagecoach Inn By Chet Garner

ONLINE TexasCoopPower.com Find these stories online if they don’t appear in your edition of the magazine. J. Alex Ruiz crafts a blade Texas USA that will last a lifetime. Finders Weepers By Clay Coppedge FEATURE Observations My Grandmother and LBJ In the Making Artisans infuse their singular creations By Lee Gaddis 8 with uncommon passion. Story and photos by Julia Robinson NEXT MONTH The Call of the Tamalada Making tamales is a holiday tradition, though eating them never ends. 34 42

33 39 RUIZ: JULIA ROBINSON. TAMALES: LUNAMARINA | SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

ON THE COVER Courtney Perry’s grand prizewinning recipe, Spiced Cookie Cheesecake With Caramel Sauce. Photo by Jody Horton

TEXAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Alan Lesley, Chair, Comanche; Robert Loth III, Vice Chair, Fredericksburg; Gary Raybon, Secretary-Treasurer, El Campo; Mark Boyd, Douglassville; Greg Henley, Tahoka; Billy Jones, Corsicana; David McGinnis, Van Alstyne • PRESIDENT/CEO: Mike Williams, Austin • COMMUNICATIONS & MEMBER SERVICES COMMITTEE: Marty Haught, Burleson; Bill Hetherington, Bandera; Ron Hughes, Sinton; Boyd McCamish, Littlefield; Mark McClain, Roby; John Ed Shinpaugh, Bonham; Robert Walker, Gilmer; Brandon Young, McGregor • MAGAZINE STAFF: Martin Bevins, Vice President, Communications & Member Services; Charles J. Lohrmann, Editor; Tom Widlowski, Associate Editor; Karen Nejtek, Production Manager; Andy Doughty, Creative Manager; Elaine Sproull, Advertising Manager; Chris Burrows, Senior Communications Specialist; Paula Disbrowe, Food Editor; Grace Fultz, Print Production Specialist; Travis Hill, Communications Specialist; Qasim K. Johnson, Administrative Assistant; Jessica Ridge, Communications Specialist; Chris Salazar, Digital Field Editor; Ally Schauer, Intern; Jane Sharpe, Senior Designer; Shannon Oelrich, Proofreader

TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 3 ADVANCEDHEARING AID TECHNOLOGY LIMITED $ 99 TIME For Only 19 9 OFFER! “I was amazed! Sounds I hadn’t heard in years came back to me!” — Don W., Sherman, TX How can a hearing aid that costs only $19999 be every bit as good as one that sells for $2,400 or more? The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in Advanced Hearing Aid Technology, those cost reductions have Can a Hearing Aid Delay or Prevent not been passed on to you. Until now... Alzheimer’s and Dementia? MDHearingAid® uses the same A study by the National Institute on Aging suggests older individuals with hearing loss are kind of Advanced Hearing Aid Technology signifi cantly more likely to develop Alzheimer’s incorporated into hearing aids that cost and dementia over time than those who retain their thousands more at a small fraction hearing. They suggest that an intervention — such of the price. as a hearing aid — could delay or prevent this by improving hearing! Over 350,000 satisfi ed MDHearingAid customers agree: High-quality, TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR FDA-registered hearing aids don’t 45-DAY RISK-FREE TRIAL! have to cost a fortune. The fact is, Hearing is believing and we invite you to try you don’t need to spend thousands this nearly invisible hearing aid with no for a hearing aid. MDHearingAid annoying whistling or background noise for is a medical-grade hearing aid yourself. If you are not completely satisfi ed offering sophistication and high with your MDHearingAid, return it within 45 Nearly Invisible performance, and works right out days for a FULL REFUND. BUY A PAIR of the box with no time-consuming For the Lowest Price Call AND SAVE! “adjustment” appointments. You BATTERIES can contact a licensed hearing INCLUDED! specialist conveniently on-line or 1-800-832-0414 READY TO USE RIGHT by phone — even after your www.GetMDHearingAid199.com OUT OF THE BOX! purchase at no cost. No other company provides such extensive Use Code JT37 support. Now that you know...why pay more? and get FREE Batteries for 1 Year Plus FREE Shipping Proudly assembled in America! DOCTOR DESIGNED | AUDIOLOGIST TESTED | FDA REGISTERED LETTERS

Other Musical Greats Chet Garner began by mention- A Nod and a Wink ing Willie Nelson, Janis Joplin, In 1954, I was a fourth grader in George Strait and Roy Orbison because they were born in Odessa. On Saturday afternoons, my small Texas towns [Wink’s sister and I watched the only show Spectacle, September 2019]. He missed the singer with by on television, several hours of West far the best voice that was Texas talent. Roy Orbison was on born in a small Texas town— Johnny Mathis, from Gilmer. this show—if not every Saturday, close to it. We really didn’t think JOE E. AND SHARON MCINTYRE at that time that he had talent [Wink’s Spectacle, September 2019]. Big Bend Beckons The next thing we knew, he is doing very well for himself. So much The Window Trail is an easy for the opinions of a 7- and 9-year-old. hike that emanates from the Chisos Mountain Lodge and provides a truly wondrous NANCY LEWIS | WIMBERLEY | PEDERNALES EC view of the valley below. And to see Casa Grande Peak lit up at sunrise is a sight one never forgets. Thanks to E. Dan visitors annually, not 4 million. mention that he was one of the from Pearsall had kept as a pet. Klepper [Big Bend’s Golden CATHRYN HOYT | BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK original 300 colonists brought That man was my father, Jack Triangle] and Joe Nick Patoski RIO GRANDE EC by Stephen F. Austin—some- “Hoss” Keith. [Which Big Bend?] in Septem- thing your readers learned The bigger mountain lion in ber for their superb commen- Editor’s note: Our astute from their seventh grade the same museum is Charlie. taries. readers help keep us sharp, teachers but probably have During breeding, Charlie killed TIM O'NEIL | PAIGE for which we are grateful. The forgotten [Gail Borden’s Sally. My father was well known BLUEBONNET EC online version of this story Follies, September 2019]. in the Pearsall area as an avid has been corrected. DONNA ENGLISH | HIGHLAND VILLAGE cat hunter with his dogs. Definitely on my bucket list! COSERV ALLEN KEITH | BOERNE I’ve been to Big Bend twice Point of History BANDERA EC but never Fort Davis! As a Texas history teacher for Bush’s Bailout PATRICIA JANECEK BURT | VIA FACEBOOK more than 30 years, I often use Any military pilot who read Texas Co-op Power articles as your Almanac item in Currents I enjoyed Which Big Bend?, supplementary reading in my [September 2019] probably GET MORE TCP AT but it needed some fact- classroom. I was excited to see could correct the facts surround- TexasCoopPower.com checking. Big Bend National the story about Gail Borden but ing George H.W. Bush’s being Sign up for our e-newsletter for Park gets about 400,000 was disappointed it did not downed by anti-aircraft fire in monthly updates, prize drawings 1944. Ejection seats didn’t exist and more! in 1944, so he actually went over the side (bailed out), We want to hear from you!

hitting his head as he did so. ONLINE: TexasCoopPower.com/share WILLY CARROLL | KERRVILLE EMAIL: [email protected] CENTRAL TEXAS EC MAIL: Editor, Texas Co-op Power, 1122 Colorado St., 24th Floor, Sally the Mountain Lion Austin, TX 78701 Please include your town and electric co-op. Fun in the Past Tense [August Letters may be edited for clarity and length. 2019] mentioned a mountain lion named Sally that a man D FE Texas Co-op Power

TEXAS CO-OP POWER VOLUME 76, NUMBER 5 (USPS 540-560). Texas Co-op Power is published monthly by Texas Electric Cooperatives (TEC). Periodical postage paid at Austin, TX, and at additional offices. TEC is the statewide association representing 75 electric cooperatives. Texas Co-op Power’s website is TexasCoopPower.com. Call (512) 454-0311 or email [email protected]. SUBSCRIPTION PRICE is $4.20 per year for individual members of subscribing cooperatives and is paid from equity accruing to the member. If you are not a member of a subscribing cooperative, you can purchase an annual subscription at the nonmember rate of $7.50. Individual copies and back issues are available for $3 each. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Texas Co-op Power (USPS 540-560), 1122 Colorado St., 24th Floor, Austin, TX 78701. Please enclose label from this copy of Texas Co-op Power showing old address and key numbers. ADVERTISING: Advertisers interested in buying display ad space in Texas Co-op Power and/or in our 30 sister publications in other states, contact Elaine Sproull at (512) 486-6251. Advertisements in Texas Co-op Power are paid solicitations. The publisher neither endorses nor guarantees in any manner any product or company included in this publication. Product sat- isfaction and delivery responsibility lie solely with the advertiser. © Copyright 2019 Texas Electric Cooperatives, Inc. Reproduction of this issue or any portion of it is expressly prohib-

MURAL: COURTESY CHET GARNER. BIGited BEND: E. DAN KLEPPER without written permission. Willie Wiredhand © Copyright 2019 National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 5 CURRENTS

WEB EXTRAS MARK YOUR a Find more CALENDAR happenings online. BUTTING OUT

Only 14% of American adults smoke, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Preven- tion. That’s an all-time low in the U.S.

Trying to kick the habit? November 21 is the Great Amer- ican Smokeout, an annual event since 1977 aimed at encourag- ing Americans to stop smoking. HAPPENINGS McAllen Holiday Parade ALMANAC MCALLEN, the self-declared South Pole of Texas, kicks off the festive 50 YEARS AGO: Richard M. season with its HOLIDAY PARADE, which the city describes as the largest Nixon became the first presi- illuminated holiday and helium balloon parade in Texas. dent to attend a regular-season NFL game while in office. Nixon 1 The 1 /2-mile parade, DECEMBER 7, will feature more than 50 lighted sat in the stands at RFK Memo- floats, more than 30 inflatable character balloons and marching bands. rial Stadium in Washington, D.C., as the Cowboys beat the Washington Redskins INFO a (956) 681-1200, mcallenholidayparade.com 41-28 on November 16, 1969. g LOOKING BACK AT SOCIETY THIS MONTH 1940s 1950s 1960s 1944 Jackie 1955 Using the August 22, 1960 Leonards Department Robinson, 1949, Life magazine cover of Store in Fort Worth becomes the who in 1947 Panhandle rancher Clarence first major retailer in that city or IN THE 75 YEARS since would become Hailey Long as its inspiration, Dallas to take down all segrega- Texas Co-op Power the first black Philip Morris creates the Marl- tionist signs and welcome debuted in July 1944, player in major league baseball, boro Man, an advertising cam- African Americans. folks like Audie Murphy is court-martialed for refusing paign that increased the brand’s and Walter Cronkite to move to the back of a bus cigarette sales by 3,241%. 1962 Walter became household at Fort Hood. Cronkite, raised names, and Leonards 1958 Philanthropist Ima Hogg in Houston, Department Store and 1945 Audie Murphy of Kings- donates the Varner-Hogg helps launch the National Women’s ton receives the Medal of Plantation to the state. the CBS Even- Conference helped Honor. He later becomes the ing News and change society. most decorated U.S. soldier serves as its news anchor until of World War II. his retirement in 1981.

HOLIDAY PARADE: TIM CARROLL. CIGARETTE: RAJA RC | DREAMSTIME.COM. ROBINSON: BETTMANN | GETTY IMAGES. CRONKITE: BETTMANN | GETTY IMAGES

6 Texas Co-op Power November 2019 TexasCoopPower.com POWER OF OUR PEOPLE A Leader of Kind Strangers

IT’S HARD TO KEEP UP WITH ELLEN FULLER. “I’m a serial volunteer,” she says, and her fast-paced conversation and exuberant attitude make it easy to believe she devotes boundless enthusiasm to any cause she might undertake. POWER OF OUR PEOPLE recognizes These days, Fuller focuses her abundant energy on Wreaths Across America, co-op members who improve their a nationwide organization that places holiday wreaths on veterans’ graves. In community’s quality of life. 2018, with Fuller as co-chair of the statewide effort, WAA collaborated with 674 Nominate someone by emailing groups to place 160,000 wreaths on almost one-third of veterans’ graves across [email protected]. Texas, as featured in TCP in November 2018. Fuller now serves as treasurer on WAA’s national board. “My dad passed in 2011,” she says, “and he was buried in Arlington National Cemetery. I visited his grave in December 2011 and wondered what kind stranger had placed a wreath on his grave.” The kind stranger was a volunteer with Wreaths Across America, an effort started in 1992 when Worcester Wreath Company of Harrington, Maine, placed extra holiday wreaths to honor those buried at Arlington. That effort evolved into the Arlington Wreath Project and ultimately into Wreaths Across America. If you’re wondering what a holiday-focused organization does year-round, bear in mind that WAA’s reach in Texas has grown 30%—from 86 cemeteries in 2017 to 112 in 2018 and more for 2019. Because wreath day in 2019 is December 14, Fuller and crew will not stop counting until the very last day. Their motto is, “Any vet. Anywhere.” Besides, as Fuller, a customer of Bryan Texas Utilities, says, “Any day is a good day to thank a veteran.”

INFO a wreathsacrossamerica.org

LOOKING BACK AT ARTS AND FASHION NEXT MONTH a 1970s 1980s 1990s 2000s 1971 The Lyndon Baines John- 1982 Molly Ivins begins writing 1990 Marguerite Ross Barnett son Library and Museum, which columns at The Dallas Times Her- becomes president of the Uni- houses more than 45 million ald. In syndication, her columns versity of Houston and the first pages of historical documents, appeared in black woman to lead a major opens on the campus of the 350 papers American university. University of Texas at Austin. across the U.S. 1992 Gov. Ann Richards buys 1975 Gloria Dean Randle Scott the first Texas Lottery ticket, a of Houston becomes the first 1987 More Lone Star Millions scratch-off, black president of the Girl than 700 at an Austin feed store. 2012 Big Tex, the 52-foot-tall Scouts of America. music fans attend Austin’s inau- mechanical cowboy that towered gural South by Southwest festi- 1993 West Texas A&M Univer- over the State Fair of Texas for 1977 The National Women’s val, which has evolved into a sity in Canyon, which previously 60 years, catches fire and is Conference takes place in major annual tech, music and went under several different destroyed. His replacement Houston. media event. names, adopts its current name. debuted the next year.

FULLER: CHRIS SALAZAR | TEC. WREATH: COURTESY WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA. IVINS: JOHN PIDEDA | GETTY IMAGES. BIG TEX: HEINERLE | DREAMSTIME.COM

TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 7 STORY AND PHOTOS BY JULIA ROBINSON

IN THE Making ARTISANS INFUSE THEIR SINGULAR CREATIONS WITH UNCOMMON PASSION

00

THE MADE IN TEXAS moniker gets applied to so much more than boots, hats and Texas-shaped tchotchkes. I went in search of distinctive makers and found diverse artisans with deep thoughts about the act of creation. Whether fulfilling grand ambitions and pushing the limits of a craft or rendering spiritual communion and psychological healing, these Texans use their minds and hands to transform raw materials into objects of beauty and purpose. This holiday season, let’s remember to invest in our local makers. Here are a few from Co-op Country to get you started.

See more of Julia Robinson’s work at juliarobinsonphoto.com.

8 Texas Co-op Power November 2019 0 THE CHARACTER OF LEATHER 0

ODIN CLACK wandered into a leather store one day in 2012 and exited with $200 worth of goods and a new curiosity. He wondered if he could make a lap- top sleeve from the leather and began tinkering at his dining room table. The graphic designer found a new challenge in leathercraft and was soon mak- ing wallets, belts and bags for family and friends. “The thing I love about leather is that the way it looks to me is different from the way it will look in a year from now. How we use it affects the way it looks and feels,” Clack says. “Every dent and scratch tells a story.” In 2018, Odin Leather Goods moved out of the family’s garage and into a workshop in Coppell, near the Tri-County Electric Cooperative service area. Odin and his wife, Rachelle, work with one shop assistant to fulfill orders for their wide range of products. “When people buy local, they know their dollars are going towards daycare and swim- ming lessons and supporting a local family,” Clack says. “It also trickles down because I buy my mate- rials and hardware from other U.S. companies.”

ODINLEATHERGOODS.COM

November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 9 0 FORGED WITH HEART 0

J. ALEX RUIZ has always loved making things with his hands. He spent his childhood sculpting and crafting historical replicas, which led him to study archaeology in college, where he dis- covered the tools and crafts of long ago. A penchant for colonial-era ironwork brought him into a blacksmith shop, where he made functional ironworking tools like bladesmithing tongs, hammers and knives. As a maker, Ruiz feels a deep kinship to those historic people we learn about through artifacts. “When I go to museums and look at historical weapons or ironwork, I like to see the flaws,” he says. “As someone who actually makes these things, I can spot if something has been broken and fixed.” Ruiz, a member of Karnes Electric Cooper- ative, began teaching and performing demon- strations around Texas and earned a spot on the History Channel’s Forged in Fire competi- tion, where he won $10,000 for a medieval horseman’s battle axe. Volundr Forge is Ruiz’s business that he runs part time from his home in Adkins. It’s not uncommon for his shop to reach 120 degrees, and there is a 16-week back- log for his custom knives. “My market is the everyday guy that wants something handmade that’s going to last a lifetime,” he says.

VOLUNDRFORGE.COM

10 Texas Co-op Power November 2019 TexasCoopPower.com 0 JEWELRY AND TIME HEAL ALL THINGS 0

In 2006, TARA HUTCHINSON was serving her 10th year as a soldier—a military police sergeant on deployment in Iraq—when a truck she was in was hit by an improvised explosive device. Hutchinson lost her right leg above the knee and suffered a traumatic brain injury that left her with muscle tremors and difficulty controlling fine motor skills. “I couldn’t use my hands to do anything after my injury,” Hutchinson says. “I couldn’t write. I couldn’t feed myself. I had no control over my hands at all.” The loss of a career she loved and her independence sent Hutchinson into a deep depression. “I definitely contemplated suicide on multiple occasions because I couldn’t see any kind of a worthwhile future for myself,” she says. A physical therapist suggested she find a new hobby to help her regain muscle strength, and Hutchinson found jewelry making. “Before that, I didn’t even own any jewelry at all,” Hutchinson says. “I was in the Army and playing in the dirt with the guys.” She took a class, and after making jewelry for six months, Hutchinson’s jerky hand movements were smoothed out. Making gave her new purpose and new hope. She spent two years researching jewelry making and became a master goldsmith. Hutchinson runs Tara Hutch Jewelry out of her home studio in . “Now to be able to help women feel beautiful is the most amazing thing ever,” she says. “People can take home something that reminds them that if I can make it through this hard time, anyone can.”

TARAHUTCHJEWELRY.COM

TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 11 0 THE FIBER OF OUR BEING 0

MAURA GRACE AMBROSE studied textile design and fiber arts at the Savannah College of Art and Design in Georgia, where she found a passion for natural dyes and quilting. “The natural dyes were soft and chalky and harmonious, and it played into the poetic, beautiful parts of art,” says Ambrose, a Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative member. “The colors were alive because they came from something that was alive.” Ambrose runs Folk Fibers from her home studio in Bastrop, where she forages and tends an organic garden for plant-based dyes. It takes about 250 hours to make a bed-sized quilt with Ambrose’s process of natural dying and hand stitching. “I can’t compromise on the process because that’s what makes them special and makes them an heirloom,” she says. For Ambrose, making is a creative expression, the revival of an ancient process and a way to connect to a community. “The long-term goal is to teach, spread the word and inspire others,” she says. “In those exchanges and conversations, nothing else matters. The women become so empowered to make quilts themselves.”

FOLKFIBERS.COM

12 Texas Co-op Power November 2019 TexasCoopPower.com 0 WORKING WITH WOOD 0

RYAN DRAPELA grew up selling watermelons near his home in El Campo, southwest of Hous- ton. “I was born with the hustle,” Drapela says. He sold small skateboards in third grade, duct tape wallets in middle school, and candy and jerky in high school. “We grew up super broke,” explains Drapela, a member of Wharton County Electric Coop- erative. “I started buying all my school clothes and supplies myself in the seventh grade.” Drapela walked into his high school woodshop and found a new business opportunity creating cutting boards from wood scraps. His offerings expanded to clipboards, bottle-cap tabletops and custom plaques. The orders from his Etsy store kept growing. In May 2019, Drapela earned his degree and the title of Entrepreneur of the Year from Texas A&M University’s agriculture school. He runs Drapela Woodworks with 15 employees ful- filling 1,000 orders a week for his Man Stands docking stations. “I grew and grew from per- sistence and hard work, not pure talent, not pure intellectual knowledge,” he says. “Just from working harder, longer and more consistently than competitors.” For Drapela, his success is a measure of his ability to create change in the world, whether it’s a new product or jobs for the local economy. “Whatever I’m doing, it’s a way to chase my capacity,” he says.

DRAPELAWOODWORKS.COM

November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 13 0 DIVINE INTERVENTION 0

Tucked into the gentle hills of Christoval, 20 miles south of San Angelo, you’ll find the Mount Carmel Hermitage Monastery, where the HERMITS OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY OF MOUNT CARMEL make breads, jellies, fudge and honey. In 1991, Father Fabian, a priest from San Angelo, founded the hermitage with $2,000. Until 1994, he lived alone in a remote house. “He had the vision, the grace and the leap of faith to give it all up and start from zero,” says Brother Martin, who joined the hermitage in 2001. “Monks have always worked to support themselves by their own hands,” Martin says. “There is a beautiful relation between making food and the idea of communion. We are making something that people are going to put into their bodies for their sustenance and enjoy- ment, and there’s a communion of spirit there.” Today, the eight monks of the Mt. Carmel Hermitage live in silence and solitude. “Our order is a very simple order,” Martin says. “We’re not interested in scholarly work or writing papers or books. We just try to pray and work and maybe we do badly sometimes, but we try. We try hard.” The hermitage has a gift shop and an online store from which they ship all over the world.

CARMELITEHERMITS.ORG

BROTHER AUGUSTINE

14 Texas Co-op Power November 2019 TexasCoopPower.com H H

H holidayH GIFTH GUIDE In the magazine and on TexasCoopPower.com, we make it easy to shop for friends and family.

It’s Time To Bake Pecan Give the Gift of Treats for the Holidays! Authentic Texas BBQ

Berdoll’s has been family-owned No one knows BBQ like the for 40 years. We provide delicious oldest joint in Texas. Surprise the chocolate pecans, honey glazed bbq-lover in your family with any pecans, pecan pies and more! of our savory, hand-made barbeque Let us ship for you or stop by our items, shipped nationwide. retail store for gifts and take your picture with our squirrel, Ms. Pearl.

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Texas Red Grapefruit 2020 Texas and Avocados Sunrise Calendar

Always a gift in good taste! Large 20-by-15 inch calendar Orchard-fresh grapefruit and with 12 watercolors of Texas other Texas products are all sunrises by Texas State Artist hand-selected, carefully packed George Boutwell. $12.50 plus and shipped to be delivered just sales tax and $3.50 shipping. in time for the holidays. Quantity prices on website.

1-800-580-1900 1-800-243-4316 www.crockettfarms.com gboutwell.com

Fresh “New Crop” Prevent Bruises Stop Arm Bruises and Pecans Protect Thin Skin

New crop pecans, chocolate- Soft leather protective sleeves covered nuts, bakers boxes, contour to hands and arms. specialty gift baskets, fudge, Comfortable and very effective pecan pies. Our very own at preventing injuries. Useful in specialty roasted and salted many situations, and provides pecans & gifts galore! adjustable airflow. See website for all the benefits!

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TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 15 No Other Fruitcake Comes Close! COLLIN STREET BAKERY As different from ordinary store-bought as night and day! Since 1896

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FREE! Each cake comes Shipping on orders in its own tin over $55.00

ou haven’t tasted REAL fruitcake until you’ve tasted Collin Street DeLuxe® YFruitcake! It truly puts ordinary fruitcake to shame. is is why people around the world have come back to us year after year, Pineapple ordering our fruitcake as gifts for their Pecan Cake Apricot families, friends - and themselves! We honor Pecan Cake that trust with every single order, using the same time-honored recipe we started with N No. o . 101 Regular Size DeLuxe® (1 lb. 14 oz., serves 16-20).16-20)...... $29.95 in 1896. Every shipment guaranteed fresh, No. 102 Medium Size DeLuxe® (2 lbs. 14 oz., serves 24-30) ...... $42.95 moist and delicious. Our Customers Say – No. 113 Apricot Pecan Cake (1 lb. 14 oz., serves 16-20) ...... $36.95 “…It outstrips all cakes I have ever tasted No. 175 Apricot Pecan Cake (2 lbs. 14 oz., serves 24-30) ...... $49.95 (including my mother’s).” No. 115 Pineapple Pecan Cake (1 lb. 14 oz., serves 16-20) ...... $36.95 “ roughout the offi ce it was unanimous that none of us had ever met a fruitcake we liked. No. 149 Pineapple Pecan Cake (2 lbs. 14 oz., serves 24-30) ...... $49.95 We had one of your FABULOUS DeLuxe® Fruitcakes at work this past week and changed FREE STANDARD U.S. SHIPPING ON ORDERS OVER $55. our tune.” “It is made just the way I like Christmas cakes For orders under $55, please add $6.95 per U.S. shipment, for products above. to be, rich and moist, and totally packed with Not valid on orders previously placed. Not valid with other off ers. fruit and nuts - I am almost ashamed to say that I consumed one whole one myself - in the Off er expires December 10, 2019. space of a week I hasten to add.” Order at www.collinstreet.com or phone 1-800-292-7400

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Co-op News SAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE Elected Officials Tour R.C. Thomas Hydroelectric Project

EAST TEXAS ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE AND THE TRINITY RIVER AUTHORITY HOSTED several elected officials and others on a tour of the R.C. Thomas Hydroelectric Proj- ect at Lake Livingston on August 29. U.S. Rep. Brian Babin, State Reps. James White and Ernest Bailes, Polk County Judge Sydney Murphy and San Jacinto County Judge Fritz Faulkner were led by Ryan Thomas, ETEC general manager; Doug Turk, Sam Houston Electric Coopera- tive CEO/general manager; and several Sam Houston EC directors. Thomas provided an update on construction progress on the 24-megawatt facil- Houston Astros ity, which is a run-of-the-river hydroelectric system. The plant is nearing comple- tion and will not affect water levels at Lake Livingston. The facility will provide Tickets Awarded power for some 12,000 homes in the area. The facility broke ground in 2015 and had an expected completion date in 2018. CONGRATULATIONS TO BARBARA FROM However, several catastrophic floods and Hurricane Harvey pushed the completion Ace, who won tickets to see the Houston date back. The facility is nearly 90% complete and set to begin producing power in Astros as part of Sam Houston Electric March 2020, according to Thomas. Cooperative’s 80th anniversary celebra- tion. She’s pictured with her grandson, Haiden. The contest for the tickets was announced in the September issue of Texas Co-op Power as well as on the Cooperative’s website and Facebook page. This year, Sam Houston EC celebrates 80 years of serving members in East Texas. An electric cooperative bringing light to the rugged Pineywoods of East Texas was not expected to survive, much less flourish. The Cooperative and its employees appreciate our founding mem- bers and our 56,000 consumer-members. Happy Thanksgiving The Co-op will continue to show our We wish you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving. In observance of the holiday, appreciation for our members. Follow our our offices will be closed Thursday, November 28. Facebook page and website for more

PRZEMYSLAW CEGLAREK | ISTOCK.COM opportunities.

20 Texas Co-op Power SAM HOUSTON EC November 2019 samhouston.net SamHoustonEC1911_ 10/11/19 2:43 PM Page 21

AUTOPAY IS SAFE, SECURE AND CONVENIENT

There’s more than one way to pay your Sam Houston Electric Cooperative bill. Make it even easier by setting up your account on autopay. We’ll draft your bank account, or charge your credit card on your due date every month—worry free.

SAMHOU STON.NET 800-458-0381 samhouston.net November 2019 SAM HOUSTON EC Texas Co-op Power 21 SamHoustonEC1911_ 10/11/19 2:43 PM Page 22

SAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE Members Can Use Fidelity Express Stations To Pay Their Co-op Bills

FIDELITY EXPRESS IS JUST ONE OF SEVERAL EASY WAYS SAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC Cooperative consumer-members can pay their bills. “Co-op members can pay with cash at pay stations located in stores and busi- nesses throughout our 10-county service area,” said Chad Simon, communications specialist. Members can access Fidelity Express pay sites at more than 40 locations in our area. A $1.50 fee is charged for each transaction. “Members don’t have to use Fidelity Express sites just in our area to pay their bill,” said Valerie Berry, member service supervisor. “Members can pay their bill at nearly 1,500 locations in Texas and more than 1,100 others across the nation.”

Members can find Fidelity Express sites by visiting the Cooperative’s website, SamHouston.net. Simply hover your cursor over the Account tab at the top of the AVOID THE page, select Payment Options from the drop-down menu and click on the link to Fidelity Express’ website. “BIG GREEN BOX” “Fidelity Express is a convenient option for some members, but there are many other ways to pay your bill,” Simon said. “Sam Houston EC wants to make it easy for our members to do business with us, so there’s a variety of ways to pay. Members can use our website or mobile app, or visit the Payment Options on our website to find what method will work best for their needs.” Pad-mounted transformers are safe and have an important ƫƫ ƫ role in delivering electricity. But

never allow children to play on “the big green box.” Avoid Scholarship Applications Available digging around them. Keep all SAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE SCHOL- sides clear of plants and shrubs arship applications are now available. High school seniors, including public, private and and leave at least 10 feet of

home-school students, whose parents or legal clearance on the front side. guardians are active members of Sam Houston EC may apply. Applications are available online at Sam- Houston.net. Click on the Community tab at the top of the page, then select Scholarships. Applications are also available at any of the Co-op’s offices. Students can also visit their high school counselor for an application. Completed applications must be received

by Sam Houston EC no later than February 3, ALEX_DOUBOVITSKY | ISTOCK.COM to be considered. Scholarships in the amount of $3,000 and $1,500 will be awarded in May. Since its inception in 1992, the Sam Houston EC scholarship program has bene- fited more than 700 local students to the tune of more than $1 million. The program is reserved solely for students whose parents or legal guardians are Sam Houston EC SAMHOUS A M H O U STO N . N ET members. Scholarships are funded by unclaimed capital credits payments returned 800-458-0381 to the Cooperative by the state of Texas.

22 Texas Co-op Power SAM HOUSTON EC November 2019 samhouston.net SamHoustonEC1911_ 10/11/19 2:43 PM Page 23

GET READYSAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE FOR WINTER Take a few basic steps now to prepare your home and your family for winter.

ROOF & GUTTERS

THERMOSTAT Check for loose shingles and flashing. Clean out TREE BRANCHES Make sure you keep your gutters and downspouts. home heated to at least 60 Check tree branches and trim those degrees, even if you’re not at that are too close to your home. If home. Consider installing a trees are encroaching on power lines, programmable thermostat to let your electric cooperative know. regulate temperature.

ƫƫWINDOWS ĒƫDOORS Check weatherstripping, and patch or caulk as needed. Consider thick drapes to help keep heat inside.

FURNACE PIPES OUTDOOR HOSES & FAUCETS

Clean or replace the filter If the temperature drops Disconnect hoses and store inside. every four to six weeks. below 20 degrees, let water Locate the main water shut-o‚ valve Check all fireplaces, trickle from all faucets. and know how to use it. Wrap outdoor chimneys and flues. pipes and spigots with insulation.

SAFETY EMERGENCY KIT

Check smoke and carbon Prepare an emergency kit monoxide detectors, and with flashlight, batteries, a replace batteries as needed. phone list, bottled water, Keep a fire extinguisher nonperishable food, blankets, handy and ensure everyone first-aid supplies, medications, knows how to use it. matches and pet supplies.

samhouston.net November 2019 SAM HOUSTON EC Texas Co-op Power 23 SamHoustonEC1911_ 10/11/19 2:43 PM Page 24

TexasSAM USA HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

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3 4 5 PHOTOS COURTESY TEXAS STATE RAILROAD Railroad Fantasy The century-old Texas State Railroad rides ribbons of steel to rekindle the magic of trains

BY RANDY MALLORY

TRICIA CARVER OF MINEOLA MAY JUST BE THE TEXAS STATE RAIL- ger cars from the 1940s to experience the nostalgia of rail- road’s biggest fan. She’s such a fan of the so-called “Official roading. On the regular run, riders settle into seats beside Railroad of Texas” that each of the past eight years, she and her picture windows for a scenic four-hour round trip between husband, Eric, have booked an entire passenger car for the vin- depots in Rusk and Palestine, 25 miles apart. tage railroad’s biggest event of the year—the annual Polar The clickety-clack journey back in time passes brambly Express train ride. bottomlands, piney uplands and verdant pastures. In spring, The popular holiday event celebrates The Polar Express nature’s colors awaken across the landscape, especially the book and movie, a heartwarming tale of children on a magical white blossoms of dogwoods and purple-pink flowers of red- train headed to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. For the buds. In summer, shades of green hug the line, sometimes in Carver family outing, Tricia and Eric’s nine children and 17 a canopy of pines rising above several dozen species of decid- grandchildren load up on a vintage rail car, along with other uous trees. In autumn, a Technicolor world unfolds before family and friends—more than 60 altogether—for a fanciful riders’ eyes, as rich purple-reds of sweetgums and maples ride through the classic children’s story. compete with blazing yellow-golds of oaks and elms. In win- On the night of the big ride, they join clusters of other fans ter, the sleeping scenery transforms again, resembling an old, at the Texas State Railroad’s Palestine station as the hands of sepia-toned photograph with bare-branched trees silhouetted the depot clock tick toward train time. Restless, passengers against a clear blue sky. look all around the decorated train, ready for saucer-eyed kids The Texas State Railroad’s forested ramble has become a to take their first ride. As the conductor calls “All aboard!” heritage tourism staple since 1976, when the first passengers some old-timers smile knowingly, as if to say, “Yes, I remember boarded as part of the state’s U.S. bicentennial celebration. But the thrill of my first train ride.” the railroad actually began operations in the late 1800s, when All year long, riders of all ages board the restored passen- inmates from the state penitentiary in Rusk laid the first rails.

24 Texas Co-op Power SAM HOUSTON EC November 2019 samhouston.net SamHoustonEC1911_ 10/11/19 2:43 PM Page 25

SAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

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1. Restored locomotives recall the golden age of steam-powered railroading.

2–4. Operating across Canada during the 1950s, the 1,750-horsepower Texas State Railroad diesel engine #125 is fully restored and repainted to honor an early Texas railroad.

5. The Texas State Rail- road’s Palestine depot is decorated for the holidays 8 during the Polar Express runs.

6. On its regular runs, the Texas State Railroad crosses 24 bridges, includ- ing one over the Neches River. Here the train is pulled by engine #125.

7. On some train rides, passengers can pay extra to ride with the engineer in the cab of a historic steam locomotive.

8. The sleek dome car offers grand views of East Texas scenery between Rusk and Palestine.

The line brought in wood and charcoal to fuel the prison’s Rolling Stock smelter. In turn, it shipped out iron products made there, The newest star among the Texas State Railroad’s vintage loco- including columns and the dome used in the state Capitol motives is a classic diesel called the TSR #125. A five-year in Austin. restoration effort culminated in the engine going into service Looking for a profit, the Legislature made the Texas State last year. Built in 1957 for the Canadian National Railway, it Railroad a common carrier and extended it in 1909 to Pales- pulled the Super Continental train line from Montreal to Van- tine, where it connected with long-distance lines. The railroad couver. Several Texas lines, including the Missouri-Kansas- hauled forest and agricultural products as well as passengers. Texas Railroad, used identical engines. Revenues dropped during the 1920s, so the state leased the line Passengers get a special treat when one of the railroad’s to a series of commercial operators for decades. steam locomotives pulls the train. The century-old steam In 1972, the state turned most of the line over to the Texas engine #28 is one of only two surviving Pershing locomotives Parks and Wildlife Department to be converted to a hike and used by the U.S. Army in 1917–18, during World War I. It was bike trail. A campaign by railroad enthusiasts convinced the named after Gen. John Joseph “Black Jack” Pershing, who state to operate a tourist train instead. became famous as the commander of the American Expedi- The state searched the nation for historic locomotives and tionary Force on the war’s Western Front. This Pershing loco- rail cars and once again used state prisoners to rehabilitate motive served stateside at the Camp Polk Army base in the line. The railroad got a new lease on life, offering decades Leesville, Louisiana. of scenic rides under several operators. In 2017, the railroad The railroad also pulls cars with steam locomotive #30, caught a fresh tailwind with a new operator, the Western built in 1917 by Baldwin Locomotive Works. On static display is Group, which upgraded rolling stock and created more spe- Big Boy, the rare Texas & Pacific Engine #610, built in 1927 and cial events. refurbished in 1976 to pull the American Freedom Train on

samhouston.net November 2019 SAM HOUSTON EC Texas Co-op Power 25 SamHoustonEC1911_ 10/14/19 4:26 PM Page 26

SAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

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3 PHOTOS COURTESY TEXAS STATE RAILROAD

tour during the U.S. bicentennial. for the daughter of Texas Gov. Thomas Mitchell, Maydelle Passengers ramble the rails seated in one of several classes boasts a working train turntable where locomotives on the line of vintage rail cars dating from the World War II era. Top of the sometimes turn around on short excursions. line is the presidential-class car #1511, offering tableside Maydelle is also home to a small rail station built for the porter service and a private outdoor viewing platform. The 1982 TV movie The Long Summer of George Adams, one of glass-top dome car features unobstructed bird’s-eye views many Hollywood films, documentaries and commercials from plush leather seats. filmed that used the train. Portions of the movies The Great The art deco-inspired first-class rail car #42 has comfort- Debaters, Rough Riders and O Brother, Where Art Thou? were able couches and chairs, plus porter service. Restaurant-style filmed along the line. Depots at both ends of the line are pic- booth seating enhances socializing in the deluxe coach car, ture-perfect examples of late 19th-century architecture. with a similar ride in the coach-class car but without the tables. The lowest-priced car is the open-air coach, featuring Nonstop Railroading wooden bench seating and no-glass windows for a full outdoor The Texas State Railroad offers special rides throughout the experience. All car classes have access to the train’s concession year. Spring brings the Easter Egg Express in April, including car, stocked with snacks, plus child and adult beverages. an Easter egg hunt and activities at the Palestine depot, plus a Passengers in all classes also hear narration and Texas-style round-trip excursion to the Maydelle turntable. Schoolkids music from the sound system, timed to highlight historical come in May for a group ride from Rusk to Maydelle, where facts and key sights along the way. they observe and learn about the turntable. One such sight is the 1,042-foot-long crossing of the Neches The summertime Romance on the Rails event series fea- River bridge, one of 24 bridges along the line. The 35-foot-high tures adults-only, round-trip excursions departing Palestine, concrete bridge passes near the former site of an early 1800s each with barbecue dinners and beverage samplings. Pints in ferry and later a toll bridge. The regular round trip passes the Pines showcases Texas-brewed beers. Wine in the Pines through Maydelle, the only community on the route. Named offers Texas-made Miranda Lambert Red 55 wines and choco-

26 Texas Co-op Power SAM HOUSTON EC November 2019 samhouston.net SamHoustonEC1911_ 10/11/19 2:44 PM Page 27

SAM HOUSTON ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE

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1. Locomotive #30 steams into the Pales- tine station pulling the Polar Express.

2. Excited kids settle with parents into historic rail cars for the Polar Express ride to the “North Pole.”

3. Once the conductor calls “All aboard!” passengers board Texas State Railroad’s decorated Polar Express.

4. Santa and elves board the Polar Express to hand out “believer bells,” just as in the book and movie.

RIDING THE RAILS The Rusk Depot is at 535 Park Road 76, just off U.S. Highway Some cars are accessible by nonmotorized wheelchairs. No pets 175, west of Rusk. The Palestine Depot is at 789 Park Road 70, (except service animals) or strollers are allowed on the train. near downtown. Many rides sell out, so reservations are advised. The depots in Rusk and Palestine offer exhibits and gift shops. Trips can be booked online at texasstaterailroad.net or by calling The Palestine depot features a concession-style café, and the (855) 632-7729. Riders booking separately may arrange to sit Rusk depot has a café inside a century-old mail car. The Rusk together, when space permits. depot also offers RV and tent camping, picnicking, a playground, Private parties on the train are also available. Check the web- clubhouse, lakeside pavilion, fishing lake and nature trail. The site for scheduling, pricing, and trip or event details. Group dis- Texas State Railroad has a sister railroad called the Verde Canyon counts are available for groups of 20 or more on some rides. Railroad, located in the Sedona-Cottonwood area of Arizona.

lates. In October, the Pumpkin Patch Express features open- motive pulls the train back home. air coach rides between Rusk and Maydelle, where children “We want each child to experience the Polar Express just as pick out pumpkins and enjoy games and hayrides, with Hal- if they were in the movie themselves and rode the train to the loween costumes encouraged. North Pole,” says Daniel Adair, railroad general manager. The railroad sponsors several round-trip brunch runs, high- “That means that each ‘true believer’ receives a silver bell, just lighted by a three-course meal on the train or at a depot, as in the movie.” depending on weather. March starts with the Dogwood Days Tricia Carver, a true believer in the Texas State Railroad, Brunch Train to complement Palestine’s annual Dogwood thinks the Polar Express trip helps rekindle the spirit of riding Days celebration. May brings the Memorial Day Brunch Train, the rails for herself and her large family. She grew up in New along with static displays of notable steam and diesel engines Orleans not far from a train depot and remembers taking the in Palestine, part of the railroad’s Celebration of Steam event. train with her parents on visits to the city’s French Quarter. June offers the Throw Papa on the Brunch Train to celebrate She spent afternoons building trains in her grandfather’s back- Father’s Day. yard. “I’m still just a big kid,” she says. Foremost among the Texas State Railroad’s events, of Her enthusiasm proves contagious. When she started book- course, is the Polar Express train, which runs this year ing a full rail car for the holiday ride, only the kids and some November 15–December 28. The train departs from Pales- mothers wore pajamas, like passengers in the movie did. tine’s Victorian-style depot pulled by the bright red diesel Today, some of the dads join in and wear the family’s matching engine #125. En route, chefs dressed in pouffed white hats pajamas, too. serve hot chocolate and cookies as the voice of Tom Hanks, After eight years of Polar Express, the magic is starting to the star of The Polar Express movie, comes through speakers wear off for some of the older kids, Tricia says. But, she adds, in each car, narrating the story as kids read along in their there’s always a younger group of true believers ready to let the books. The hour-long round trip reaches the “North Pole” (a fantastic ride captivate their imaginations—just as the Texas wye in the rail line), where Santa hops on and a steam loco- State Railroad has done for generations.

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TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 29 Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation (Required by 39 USC 3685)

1. Publication Title 2. Publication Number 3. Filing Date Texas Co-op Power 0540-560 October 1, 2019 4. Issue Frequency 5. Number of Issues Published Annually 6. Annual Subscription Price Monthly Twelve $7.50

7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication (Street, city, county, state, and ZIP+4) 1122 Colorado St., 24th Fl, Austin, Travis, Texas 78701-2167 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher 1122 Colorado St., 24th Fl, Austin, Travis, Texas 78701-2167 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor Publisher Texas Electric Cooperatives, 1122 Colorado St., 24th Fl,

Austin, Texas 78701-2167 Editor Charles Lohrmann, 1122 Colorado St., 24th Fl, Austin, TX 78701 Managing Editor Karen Nejtek, 1122 Colorado St., 24th Fl, Austin, TX 78701 10. Owner Full Name Complete Mailing Address Texas ECs, Inc.,is a nonprofit association of rural electric cooperatives organized as a cooperative membership corporation under Article 1528b, Texas Civil Statutes. Its members are: Bailey County EC Association, Muleshoe; Bandera EC, Bandera; Bartlett EC, Bartlett; Big Country EC, TCP E-newsletter Roby; Bluebonnet EC, Giddings; Bowie-Cass EC, Douglassville; Brazos EC,

IN Waco; Bryan Texas Utilities, Bryan; Central Texas EC, Fredericksburg; E-NEWS Get our best content Cherokee County EC Association, Rusk; Coleman County EC, Coleman; Comanche County EC Association, Comanche; Concho Valley EC, San YOUR INBOX delivered to your Angelo; Cooke County EC Association, Muenster; CoServ EC, Corinth; inbox every month! Deaf Smith EC, Hereford; Deep East Texas EC, San Augustine; East Texas EC, Nacogdoches; Fannin County EC, Bonham; Farmers EC, SIGN UP TODAY Greenville; Fayette EC, LaGrange; Fort Belknap EC, Olney; Golden Spread Feature stories, EC, Amarillo; Grayson-Collin EC, Van Alstyne; Greenbelt EC, Wellington; recipe and photo Guadalupe Valley EC, Gonzales; Hamilton County EC Association, Hamilton; Harmon Electric Association, Hollis, Oklahoma; Heart of Texas contest winners EC, McGregor; HILCO EC, Itasca; Houston County EC, Crockett; J-A-C EC, SIGN UP TODAY AT and more—get it Bluegrove; Jackson EC, Edna; Jasper-Newton EC, Kirbyville; Karnes EC, Karnes City; Lamar County EC Association, Paris; Lamb County EC, TexasCoopPower.com all in the e-newsletter! Littlefield; Lea County EC, Lovington, New Mexico; Lighthouse EC, Floydada; Lower Colorado River Authority, Austin; Lyntegar EC, Tahoka; Magic Valley EC, Mercedes; Medina EC, Hondo; Mid-South Synergy, Navasota; Navarro County EC, Corsicana; Navasota Valley EC, Franklin; North Plains EC, Perryton; Northeast Texas EC, Longview; Nueces EC, Robstown; Panola-Harrison EC, Marshall; Pedernales EC, Johnson City; Rayburn Country EC, Rockwall; Rita Blanca EC, Dalhart; Rusk County EC, DONNA STOTTLEMYER Henderson; Sam Houston EC, Livingston; Sam Rayburn Dam G&T EC, Nacogdoches; San Bernard EC, Bellville; San Miguel EC, Jourdanton; San LOVE ON A LEASH (Eldorado chapter) Patricio EC, Sinton; South Plains EC, Lubbock; South Texas EC, Victoria; provides free pet therapy services. Southwest Rural Electric Association, Tipton, Oklahoma; Southwest Texas POWER OF OUR PEOPLE | JULY 2019 EC, Eldorado; Swisher EC, Tulia; Taylor EC, Merkel; Tex-La EC of Texas, Nacogdoches; Tri-County EC, Azle; Trinity Valley EC, Kaufman; United ௘  Cooperative Services, Cleburne; Upshur-Rural EC, Gilmer; Victoria EC

Company, Victoria; Wharton County EC, El Campo; Wise EC, Decatur; Wood County EC, Quitman. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders None 12. Tax Status Has Not Changed During Preceding 12 Months 13. Publication Title 14. Issue Date for Circulation Data Below Texas Co-op Power October 1, 2019 15. Average No. Copies Each Issue Actual No. Copies of Single Issue Extent and Nature of Circulation During Preceding 12 Months Published Nearest to Filing Date a. Total Number of Copies 1,609,196 1,632,636 b. Paid and/or (1) Mailed Outside-County 1,597,829 1,621,220 POWER Paid Subscriptions Requested (2-4) In County, Sales Through Circulation Dealers and Carriers, Other mailed none none c. Total Paid and/or Requested 1,597,829 1,621,220 d. Free Distribution (1) Free Outside-County Mailed Copies 5,121 5,099 OF OUR (2-3) Free In-County/Other none none (4) Free Distributed Outside the Mail 5,589 5,649 e. Total Free Distribution 10,709 10,748 f. Total Distribution 1,608,538 1,631,968 g. Copies not Distributed 658 668 PEOPLE h. Total 1,609,196 1,632,636 i. Percent Paid and/or Requested 99.33% 99.34% 16. Average No. Copies Each Issue Actual No. Copies of Single Issue $100 Extent and Nature of Circulation During Preceding 12 Months Published Nearest to Filing Date WINNER Nominate someone today! a. Paid Electronic Copies none none b. Total Paid Print Copies 1,597,829 1,621,220 c. Total Print Distribution 1,608,538 1,631,968 d. Percent Paid 99.33% 99.34% 17. Publication of Statement of Ownership Tell us about somebody who improves the quality of life in your community. Email your nom- Publication required. Will be printed in the November ination to [email protected]. Include the person’s name, co-op aliation and a short description 2019 issue of this publication.

of his or her work in the community. Featured nominees will receive a $100 donation for their cause. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner Date

, Managing Editor October 1, 2019

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TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 33

Recipes

THIS YEAR, we not only celebrate Texas Co-op Power’s 75th anniversary but also the 15th year of our Holiday Recipe Contest. It all began when Anna Ginsberg won with her White Chocolate Ribbon Pumpkin Cake With Maple Glaze in 2005. Our contest was just starting out, but when Ginsberg won the Pillsbury Bake-Off just a few months later, we figured we knew how to pick a winner. The winning recipes this year are no exception. The cookie sheets with parchment. Form grand prizewinning cheesecake is extra special because home- chilled cookie dough into approximately made cookies make up the crust. The Best Sweet winner is an 1-inch balls. Bake 17–20 minutes or until ice cream—yes, ice cream is holiday food in Texas—that tastes edges are golden. Remove cookies from so much like Texas Sheet Cake you’ll do a double take. In the oven and let cool on a wire rack. 4. CRuST: Line an 8-inch springform pan Best Savory category, tangy seafood enchiladas stole the with parchment. show. And don’t miss the honorable mentions: bread 5. In a bowl, combine crumbled spiced pudding with a twist and a breakfast stunner to cookies, brown sugar and salt. Stir in spice up a holiday morning. Let these recipes melted butter until crumbs are coated. inspire you to create your own new hol- Move crust mixture to springform pan and iday favorite! —SHANNON OELRICH press into bottom and up sides. Set aside. 6. FILLING: Preheat or lower oven to 325 degrees. In a stand mixer, beat egg whites on high until stiff peaks form. Set aside. $1,000 GRAND PRIZE CRUST 7. In a separate bowl, beat cream cheese Spiced Cookie Spiced Cookies, crumbled and brown sugar. Add egg yolks one at a Cheesecake With ¼ cup brown sugar time. Beat on high until fully incorpo- Caramel Sauce ¼ teaspoon salt rated. Lower speed of mixer and add COURTNEY PERRY | TRI-COUNTY EC ¼ cup (½ stick) unsalted butter, melted vanilla, salt, sour cream and flour. Mix “I only delved into cheesecake making until just incorporated. Fold beaten egg a few years ago but quickly became obsessed,” FILLING whites into batter. Add batter to spring- Perry says. “The spice cookies provide the 2 eggs, separated form pan. Wrap bottom of the pan and crumby texture you get with a traditional graham 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream up the sides with aluminum foil. crust but have all the flavor and essence of the cheese, softened 8. Create a water bath by putting the holidays. I wanted to create a filling that would ¾ cup brown sugar springform pan into a roasting pan and keep people coming back for more, which meant 1¼ teaspoons vanilla extract adding about 1 inch of hot water to the not too much one way or another. Velvety, but ¼ teaspoon salt outer pan. Bake 75 minutes or until cen- not too dense. Sweet, but not overpowering. This ¼ cup sour cream ter is slightly jiggly. Turn off oven and competition definitely has given me more confi- 1½ tablespoons flour leave oven door open about 30 minutes dence in my baking knowing that people outside to allow cheesecake to cool slowly. of my inner circle enjoyed it as much as I did.” CARAMEL SAUCE Remove from oven. ½ cup sugar 9. Once the cheesecake is fully cooled, SPICED COOKIES 3 tablespoons butter, cubed cover springform pan with aluminum ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened ¼ cup heavy whipping cream foil and allow cheesecake to chill in ¼ cup sugar refrigerator overnight. ¼ cup brown sugar 1. SPICED COOKIES: Using a stand mixer, 10. CARAMEL SAuCE: Add sugar to a ¼ teaspoon salt beat butter and sugars until fully incorpo- saucepan over medium heat. Whisk until ¼ teaspoon ground ginger rated. Add salt and all spices. Add egg and sugar is fully melted. Remove from heat ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon vanilla. Beat until ingredients are fully and add butter. Whisk until incorpo- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice mixed together. Add flour ¼ cup at a time rated. Slowly add heavy whipping cream ⅛ teaspoon ground clove until dough forms. Be sure not to overmix. until fully incorporated. Let cool. ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg 2. Wrap dough in plastic wrap and allow 11. Remove cheesecake from spring- 1 egg to chill about 3 hours or until dough is form pan. Drizzle cooled caramel sauce 1½ teaspoons vanilla extract no longer tacky. over top of cheesecake and serve. a FOOD PHOTOS: JODY HORTON. HEADSHOT COURTESY1¼ PERRY cups flour 3. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line Serves 12.

November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 35 $500 BEST SWEET 2 cups heavy whipping cream $500 BEST SAVORY Whipped Sheet ¼ cup sugar Layered Redfish Cake Ice Cream 1 cup sweetened condensed milk Enchiladas MARLON HAYGOOD | PEDERNALES EC ¾ cup cocoa powder DENISE CRANE | VICTORIA EC “This is my take on the classic ¾ cup chopped pecans or walnuts “My husband and I do not eat Texas sheet cake,” Haygood says. 2 teaspoons vanilla extract meat (other than fish),” Crane writes. “Starting with a whipped cream ice cream that “However, this dish has been enjoyed by many I’ve been making for years off the advice of a 1. In a large bowl, use a mixer on high of our meat-loving friends, and literally everyone good friend, I developed this decadent recipe. speed to whip cream until stiff peaks who has tried it has requested the recipe.” What I love most is that the recipe is so easy form. Add sugar a small amount at a to adapt. I’ve added in dulce de leche, crushed time to aid in peak formation. 2 large redfish fillets (1–1½ pounds) candy bars, even ice cream cone pieces. It has 2. In a separate bowl, mix condensed 1 teaspoon salt, divided use a deliciously smooth taste that will please even milk, cocoa powder, chopped nuts 3 tablespoons olive oil the most die-hard ice cream lovers.” and vanilla. ½ teaspoon ground black pepper 3. Fold the whipped cream into the 2 cloves garlic, minced condensed milk mixture and transfer 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, to a freezer-safe covered container. softened Freeze until firm, at least 24 hours. 2 small cans (4 ounces each) mild diced

a Serves 8–10. green chiles, drained FOOD PHOTOS: JODY HORTON. HEADSHOTS COURTESY HAYGOOD AND CRANE

36 Texas Co-op Power November 2019 TexasCoopPower.com ½ cup canned black beans, drained 1. Sprinkle redfish fillets with ¼ tea- Preheat oven to 375 degrees. and rinsed spoon salt each and let sit at room 5. To assemble enchiladas, spoon about ½ cup canned corn, drained temperature 20 minutes, then lightly 1 cup of the sauce into the bottom of a 1 pepper from can of chipotle peppers pat dry. 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Distribute in adobo sauce, chopped (or ¾ tea- 2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over 4 of the quartered tortillas across the spoon ground chipotle pepper) medium heat, then add fish, black pep- bottom of the dish. Spoon half of the 2 tablespoons lime juice per and garlic. Cook about 3 minutes on redfish filling onto tortillas. Top with 1 teaspoon ground cumin each side, or until cooked through. ¾ cup shredded cheese, 4 more tor- ½ teaspoon chili powder 3. Reduce heat to low, and add cream tillas and half of the remaining sauce. ½ cup packed fresh cilantro, finely cheese, green chiles, beans, corn, chipo- Top with all remaining filling and half chopped tle, lime juice, cumin, chili powder, of the remaining cheese. Add last 4 tor- 1 cup sour cream cilantro and remaining ½ teaspoon of tillas and all of the remaining sauce. 1 jar (16 ounces) salsa verde salt. With a spatula or spoon, fold 6. Cover pan tightly with aluminum 12 corn tortillas, quartered ingredients together in the pan while foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil, 2 cups shredded colby jack cheese, breaking apart the fillets. When all add remaining cheese and bake 10–15 divided use ingredients are thoroughly combined, minutes more, until cheese is melted Optional toppings: diced red onion, turn off heat. and bubbly. Top as desired with diced chopped cilantro, cotija cheese, 4. In a bowl, mix together the sour red onion, chopped cilantro, cotija avocado slices cream and salsa verde to make the sauce. cheese and avocado slices. a Serves 10–12.

TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 37 1. Line a large rimmed baking sheet MAPLE SAUCE with aluminum foil, shiny side down. 3 tablespoons salted butter $250 HONORABLE MENTION Cut the jalapeños in half lengthwise 1 cup sugar Breakfast and scoop out the seeds and ribs with ¾ cup lightly packed light brown sugar Campeones a grapefruit spoon. Lay the peppers on 2 tablespoons cornstarch VALERIE DOTY | COSERV the foil, open side up. 1½ cups heavy whipping cream “I grew up in the Midwest and 2. Fry bacon and remove to drain on ½ cup pure maple syrup had never had much Mexican food,” paper towels. Remove most of the grease 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Doty says. “I had never even heard of sausage from the pan, then scramble the eggs in gravy or Frito pie. When I first moved to the the same pan, adding salt to taste. PECANS Dallas area, I only ate Mexican food in Mexican 3. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In a 3 tablespoons salted butter restaurants. Slowly but surely, I’ve tried to add mixing bowl, crumble the bacon and ⅓ cup pure maple syrup some Mexican flair to some of my dishes, and add scambled eggs, green onions, ⅓ cup bourbon even gotten a little spicier each year. We all liked shredded cheese, cilantro, cumin and 3½ tablespoons brown sugar this breakfast so much ... I started calling it oregano. Stir until everything is evenly 1 cup roughly chopped pecans Breakfast Campeones—breakfast of champions.” distributed. 4. Spoon a little of the mixture into 1. PuDDING: Preheat oven to 350 12 large jalapeño peppers each pepper half. Cut slices of cheese in degrees. Grease a 9-by-13-inch pan. 8–10 slices bacon, fried and crumbled half (making 24). Lay a half slice of 2. In a large bowl, whisk eggs and sugars 1 dozen eggs cheese across the top of each stuffed until thoroughly combined. Add milk, ½–1 teaspoon salt, to taste pepper. Bake the peppers for 20–30 cream, butter, vanilla and cinnamon, 4 green onions, chopped minutes, until the cheese starts to and mix well. Add bread pieces into the 1 cup shredded cheddar jack cheese brown. Cool 5 minutes before serving. mixture until the liquid has been 1½ teaspoons dried cilantro a Serves 12. absorbed. Pour into pan. 1½ teaspoons ground cumin 3. Bake approximately 55 minutes or 1 teaspoon dried oregano until pudding is firm. 12 slices colby jack cheese $250 HONORABLE MENTION 4. MAPLE SAuCE: Melt butter in a Maple Bread saucepan on low heat. In a bowl, mix Pudding together sugars and cornstarch. Pour With Toasted into the melted butter and continue to Bourbon Pecans cook on low heat, stirring constantly KITTIELE POTTS | BOWIE-CASS EC until sugars are dissolved. Add in cream, “There seems to be three things you can always maple syrup and vanilla; mix thoroughly. find in our home: pecans, maple syrup and Texas Set aside. bourbon,” Potts says. “I just started combining 5. PECANS: In a skillet on low heat, melt everything until I came up with something that butter. Slowly add maple syrup and worked. The consensus was this was fantastic, bourbon and mix well, then stir in

IF YOUR RECIPE IS FEATURED, and everyone asked for more.” brown sugar until sugar is dissolved. YOU’LL WIN A TCP APRON! Stirring slowly, add pecans. Cook on low $100 Recipe Contest PUDDING heat, stirring constantly, 5 minutes or 4 eggs until thick. Mixture can burn quickly, so April’s recipe contest topic is Farmers 1¼ cups sugar do not leave unattended. Market. Send your favorite veggie-driven 1 cup lightly packed light brown sugar 6. To serve, cut warm bread pudding recipe made with Texas produce. The 2 cups whole milk into portions and pour warm sauce over deadline is November 10. 2 cups heavy whipping cream each. Top with bourbon-toasted pecans. a ENTER ONLINE at TexasCoopPower.com/contests; MAIL to 1122 ½ cup (1 stick) salted butter, melted Serves 12–14. Colorado St., 24th Floor, Austin, TX 78701; FAX to (512) 763-3401. 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Include your name, address and phone number, plus your co-op a and the name of the contest you are entering. 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon WEB EXTRAS Read these recipes on our 1 loaf French bread, torn into 1-inch website and check out the winners from all

pieces 15 years of the Holiday Recipe Contest. EUCALYPTUS: JODY HORTON. HEADSHOTS COURTESY DOTY AND POTTS. BACKGROUND: PHATTHANIT | SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

38 Texas Co-op Power November 2019 TexasCoopPower.com Focus on Texas Up the Creek

R5245@A ;295 ?C8B5 2 A>:2A7 this month with creeks from around Texas. Y’all sent in enough photos to make our heads swim! GRACE FULTZ

WEB EXTRAS a See Focus on Texas on our website for more photos from readers.

gANGIE BIRMINGHAM, Nueces EC: Emily and Bailey the dog enjoy cool water on a hot summer day.

o TOMMIE CALFEE, Pedernales EC: Morning light on Onion Creek.

d AMANDA STAFFORD, Nueces EC: “Colt Stafford play- ing in the Frio River at his family ranch in Leakey.”

o TIFFANY ROGERS, Mid-South Synergy: “A hike into d TERESA BECKHAM, Navasota Pedernales Falls State Park in the fall gave a unique Valley EC: A creek outside of angle of the falls and the streams coming together.” Ingram.

UPCOMING CONTESTS

MARCH FIRST RIDE DUE NOVEMBER 10

APRIL SUNSETS DUE DECEMBER 10

MAY FAIRS AND CARNIVALS DUE JANUARY 10

Enter online at TexasCoopPower.com/Contests.

TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 39 Around Texas Event Calendar November 8–10 Kerrville Kid ’N Ewe and Llamas Too Fiber Arts Festival Pick of the Month November The Wall That Heals Stephenville November 7–10 7 (254) 552-1222, visitstephenville.com Houston Piano Concert: Great Women in Music, (713) 528-2060, czechcenter.org The mobile three-quarter-scale replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., will be on display at Stephenville City Park. 8 It contains more than 58,000 names, listed Dallas National Philanthropy Day Awards chronologically by day of casualty. Since its Luncheon, (972) 233-9107, afpdallas.org dedication in 1996, the Wall That Heals has Levelland [8–9] Home for the Holidays, been displayed in nearly 600 communities (806) 894-4161, malleteventcenter.com throughout the nation. Winnsboro [8–9] Art & Wine Festival, 1-888-559-4333, winnsboroonlineguide.com Kerrville [8–10] Kid ’N Ewe and Llamas Too Fiber Arts Festival, (830) 792-3535, kidnewe.com Mason Mason County Wild Game Dinner, 9 (325) 347-5758, masontxcoc.com Bryan Brazos Valley Worldfest, McKinney St. Gabriel Holiday Boutique, (979) 845-8008, brazosvalleyworldfest.org (972) 542-7170, stgabriel.org Kyle Pie Run 5K/1K, (512) 376-8089, San Marcos Commemorative Air Force ftlogpierun.com Veterans Day Hangar Dance, (512) 396-1943, Marshall Gary P. Nunn, (903) 934-7992, centraltexaswing.org memorialcityhall.com Kingsland [9–10] Christmas Market, (325) 388-6159, kingslandcrafts.com

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40 Texas Co-op Power November 2019 TexasCoopPower.com La Vernia [9–Dec. 29] Country Christmas La Grange Schmeckenfest, (979) 968-3017, Ranch, (830) 534-4103, facebook.com/ visitlagrangetx.com 6 countrychristmasranch Goliad [6–7] Christmas in Goliad, Sinton Old Fashion Christmas Market and (361) 645-8767, historicalgoliad.com Parade, (361) 364-2307, sintonchamber.org Pleasanton [6–7] Vintage in Verdi, 16 (830) 570-4552, facebook.com/vintageinverdi Rosanky Rosanky Baptist Church Craft Fair, (512) 360-3968, rosankybaptistchurch.com Waxahachie [6–7] Christmas Market & Gift Show, (469) 309-4040, waxahachiecvb.com Stonewall Historic Williams Creek (Albert) December 5 School Open House, (830) 685-3321, Sinton historicschools.org Old Fashion Christmas Market and Parade 7 Fredericksburg Christmas Home Tour 23 & Market, (830) 990-8441, pioneermuseum.net Rockdale Whistle Stop Wine Tour and Lockney Country Christmas Ball, Christmas Tree Lighting Festival, (806) 983-6228 (512) 446-2030, rockdalechamber.com Marble Falls Market Day on Main, (830) 693-2815, marblefalls.org 30 Onalaska Christmas in Our Town, Comfort Christmas in Comfort, (936) 646-5000, cityofonalaska.us (830) 995-3131, comfortchamber.com Pittsburg Home for the Holidays, Honey Grove Christmas Parade, (903) 856-3621, pittsburgtexas.com (903) 378-7211, honeygrovechamber.org Wylie Arts Festival, (972) 516-6016, wylietexas.gov December Submit Your Event! 5 We pick events for the magazine directly from Columbus Ladies Night Out, (979) 732-8385, TexasCoopPower.com. Submit your event online columbustexas.org for January by November 10, and it just might be featured in this calendar.

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TexasCoopPower.com November 2019 Texas Co-op Power 41 Hit the Road With Chet Garner Stopping by the Stagecoach Historic Salado landmark rides again

T75 G52@ 8A 1861. A B2::, A8:D5@-728@54 man with a grizzled face stands on the bal- cony of the Shady Villa Hotel in Salado. He delivers a fiery warning to fellow Tex- ans about the perils of secession and the danger posed by the looming Civil War. After his speech, Sam Houston steps inside the two-story building, eats his sup- per, then heads to bed. We don’t know all of the details exactly, but the fact of Hous- ton’s speech is gospel in Salado. And here I sit in 2019, in the room where Houston supposedly slept, sipping Chet imagines a entree of the day and its huge fireplace, the expansive bar looked on a bourbon Old-Fashioned and munch- coach ride into a strawberry kiss for like a West Texas hunting lodge. ing on a strawberry and arugula salad, as Salado. dessert. I settled in for dinner, and the food I wait for my steak and jalapeño creamed The Stagecoach hit all the right spots. I had no choice but corn. Times have changed, but some gained national recognition, helped along to order the signature strawberry kiss things have stayed the same at the Stage- by features in Life magazine in 1957 and dessert—because if something has been coach Inn. in Time in 1966. However, by the early on the menu for almost 75 years, it has to Erected just before Houston’s speech, 2000s, postponed maintenance and end- be good. It arrived with a base of baked the building is the oldest in town. It was a less construction on Interstate 35 dealt a meringue topped with a scoop of vanilla stop for cowboys on the Chisholm Trail serious blow to the inn and restaurant. ice cream and covered in glazed fresh and for stagecoaches. Legend holds that In 2016, a group purchased the failing strawberries. After the first bite, I closed guests included Gen. George A. Custer and property, shuttering the Stagecoach for my eyes and felt my blood sugar spike to Charles Goodnight. Even Sam Bass and the first time before pouring resources delicious heights. Jesse James reportedly stayed the night. into renovating the property. They re- As I savored the last bite, one of the In Texas, only San Antonio’s Menger Hotel opened in 2018. new owners came out, and we chatted has been accommodating travelers longer. One summer night, I arrived close to about the Stagecoach’s transformation. And the Menger doesn’t have the legend dinnertime, eager to experience the hotel’s He described the details of the restoration, that a nearby cave holds Spanish gold. new chapter. The appearance of the his- and I asked him if he found the Spanish In 1943, Dion and Ruth Van Bibber pur- toric two-story building offered a com- gold buried in that cave. He cracked a chased the property and renamed it the forting assurance that the new owners smile and said with a Texas-sized wink, Stagecoach Inn, using delicious food and respect the hotel’s past. After I checked “How do you think we paid for all of this?” Southern hospitality to attract travelers. into my room, which was appointed in a Chet Garner shares his Texplorations as the Ruth Van Bibber added the restaurant’s midcentury modern style, I walked past host of The Daytripper on PBS. prix fixe menu consisting of dishes pre- the pool crowded with sunbathers and pared fresh and recited by the waitstaff; headed for the restaurant. The updated . WEB EXTRAS a Read this story on our there was no written menu. Tomato aspic dining room had a historic chic vibe and website to see Chet’s video of his visit

(think tangy Jell-O), hush puppies, an included classic and modern rooms. With to Salado’s Stagecoach Inn. COURTESY CHET GARNER

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