FEBRUARY 2015 VOL. 15 NO. 10

2 February 2015 Cooperative ConneCtions

PAY ONLINE @ WWW.BYELECTRIC.COOP

Basin Electric Power Cooperative is again offering college scholarships to more than 160 students in the eight-state region served by its members. The scholarships are for the 2015-2016 school year.

Each of the 127 member cooperatives of Basin Electric, including Bon Homme Yankton Electric, will award scholarships to dependents of consumers. In addition, 20 scholarships will be awarded to dependents of member-system employees and 20 will go to dependents of employees of Basin Electric and its subsidiaries. Bon Homme Yankton Electric will be giving out two $500 scholarships to dependents of Bon Homme Yankton Electric members.

The scholarship program recognizes and encourages the academic achievements of students in its region. It also serves as an investment in the

economic future of rural areas.Applicants for the scholarships must

be US citizens and the dependents of member-system employees or consumers, or of active, full-time employees of Basin Electric or its subsidiaries. Applicants also must be students enrolled or planning to enroll in a full-time undergraduate or graduate course of study at an accredited, two-year or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school.

Scholarship recipients will be chosen based on a combination of SAT/ACT scores and overall grade-point average, work experience, participation in school and community activities, a personal statement of career goals and a written recommendation by a third party.

Applications for the 2015-2016 school year will be accepted until February 13, 2015 and winners will be announced by April 1. Each member

cooperative will select the scholarship winners from its consumers children applicant pool. A Basin Electric selection committee will decide the 40 scholarship winners from the member system employee group and the Basin Electric and subsidiary employee group.

For more information and for a scholarship application form, contact Bon Homme Yankton Electric, your schools guidance counselor or visit our website: www.byelectric.coop. Applications must be returned to Bon Homme Yankton Electric, PO Box 158, Tabor, SD 57063 by 4:30pm, February 13, 2015.

Scholarships Available for Dependants of Members

Co-op news

(USPS No. 018-973)

Bon Homme Yankton Electric Assn, Inc.PO Box 158134 S LidiceTabor, SD 57063

Office Hours:Monday through Friday

7:30am to 4:30pm

To Report an Outage or For Internet Tech Support, Call:

Local From Tabor, Tyndall and Yankton

605-463-2507or

Toll Free in South Dakota1-800-925-2929

NOTICE:Electric bills must be paid by 10:00am on the 20th of each

month to avoid a $10 late fee.

Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections is published monthly by Bon Homme Yankton Electric Association, Inc., PO Box 158, 134 S. Lidice St., Tabor, SD 57063-0158 for its members. Families subscribe to Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections as part of their electric cooperative membership. Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections purpose is to provide reliable, helpful information to electric cooperative members on matters pertaining to rural electrification and better rural living. Subscription information: Electric cooperative members devote $6.00 from their electric payments annually for a subscription. Nonmember subscriptions are available for $12 annually. Periodicals Postage Paid at Tabor, SD 57063 and at additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Bon Homme Yankton Electric Cooperative Connections, Bon Homme Yankton Electric, PO Box 158, Tabor, S.D. 57063 TELEPHONE (605)463-2507: FAX (605) 463-2419.

Design assistance by TDG Communications, Deadwood, S.D.

Cooperative ConneCtions February 2015 3

Board report

The 2015 operating budget was approved as presented at the previous board meeting.

The board approved the write-off of a short list of uncollectable accounts. The amount written off is the lowest in recent years. The board commended the collection employees on the work they have done to keep the uncollectable amounts under control.

After hearing a report on the number, types of jobs and the time spent on each wiring or store job, the board moved to change the hourly rate to $70 per hour with a one hour minimum.

2015 Budget Approved

LestervilleWiener, Anthony

Mission HillHauger, Robert

ScotlandHerrboldt, Jack

SpringfieldKeith, RachelMaggs, Mark & Blair

TaborPechous, KyleWilking, Darrell & Karen

TrippIES Commercial Inc

TyndallScieszinski Cattle Inc

UticaPatton, David M

YanktonAtem, Abraham DengBlumke, AdamCaskey, Kevin & NormaDonner, MichelleHagemann, DustinKittelson, Charlene JeanKrajewski, MichaelLesher, ChristineMueller, SteveShape, Mary JaneSnodgrass, Edward & AngelaSolis-Lopez, IsauraVanmatre, DanZimmerer, Doug

Welcome new Members

The planning session agenda was discussed. The planning session is scheduled as a special meeting on January 21. Teri Wallace from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Finance Corporation will be on hand to present the Key Ratio Trends Analysis and to preside over the planning session.

The board approved the City of Tyndall 2015 contract. The cooperative agrees to perform work for the City of Tyndall on an as needed basis.

Policy 50-20 Station Service Power was revised in regards to the rate per kwh to be charged.

4-H Thank You Notes

Thank you for your support of our program.

Stockton Walter

Thank you for sponsoring the Top Record Book award and the Visual Arts award.

Kaycee D Walter

Thank you for sponsoring the Senior Swine Showmanship. I greatly appreciate it.

Kade Hellmann

Thank you for sponsoring my Junior Swine Showmanship award.

Riley Hellmann

Thank YouLincoln Thury

National Burn Awareness Week is Feb. 1-7

SafetyTips

4 February 2015 COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS

Emily Ohlrogge, 10 years old Emily is the daughter of Keith and Leslie Ohlrogge, Woonsocket, S.D. They are members of Central Electric Cooperative, Mitchell, S.D.

Kids, send your drawing with an electrical safety tip to your local electric cooperative (address found on Page 3). If your poster is published, youll receive a prize. All entries must include your name, age, mailing address and the names of your parents. Colored drawings are encouraged.

Dont put a rug over extension cords.

Kids Corner Safety Poster

The smell of cookies baking in the oven or tasty sauces simmering on the stovetop is hard to resist for adults and children alike. However, before you dip your finger into the pot to taste that delicious soup, know that scalds from cooking liquids, grease and food, as well as tap water and steam were responsible for 46 percent of all burns in 2012. Of these, 53 percent of the victims were children under five and most of these burns occurred in the home usually in the kitchen or bathroom.

While thousands of scald burns occur annually, increased awareness of the dangers can prevent injuries. Following a few simple precautions will help keep you and your little chef safe from potential burns:

Cool a burn under cold running water for 10-15 minutes and call 9-1-1 for serious burns.

Always supervise children in the kitchen and dining areas. Create a No Child Zone while preparing and serving hot foods

and beverages. Dont carry or hold a child while cooking on the stove. Instead, place

the child into a high chair or other safe area while cooking. Children love to reach, so to prevent hot food or liquid spills, simply

use the back burner of your stove and turn pot handles away from its edge; also, keep hot foods away from the edge of your counters.

Keep clothing from coming in contact with flames or heating elements.

A small adjustment to your water heater can give you one less thing to worry about. To prevent accidental scalding, set your water heater to 120 degrees Fahrenheit or the manufacturers recommended setting.

Make a habit of placing matches, gasoline and lighters in a safe place out of childrens reach and avoid novelty lighters as they may look like toys in a childs eyes.

When filling the bathtub, turn on cold water first then mix in warmer water carefully.

Source: mass.gov

Stay Informed, Stay InvolvedAs state lawmakers across the region head back to their respective capitols, its important for citizens to stay involved in the political process.

Lawmakers often say they want to hear from their constituents on issues that matter at home. With that in mind, here are ways to contact your elected officials:

MinnesotaAccording to the Minnesota State Legislature

website, you can call, email or write a letter to your legislators office in St. Paul. Email is most effective if it is not a blanket mailing to all members. When sending an email, remember to include your name, postal ad-dress and phone number.

To find specific contact information for your senator, go to http://www.senate.leg.state.mn.us/members/index.php?ls=#header. To find contact information for your representative, go to http://www.house.leg.state.mn.us/members/hmem.asp.

NebraskaContacting members of Nebraskas unicameral

legislature in Lincoln is most easily achieved via the Leg-islatures website at http://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/. From there, access the Contact page(http://www.nebraskalegislature.gov/senators/sena-tor_list.php) to find the Nebraska senator representing your area.

South Dakota

South Dakotans can contact their senators and rep-resentatives in Pierre through the Legislative Research Council by visiting http://legis.sd.gov

Contact information for specific legislators can be found at http://legis.sd.gov/Legislators/Who_Are_My_Legislators/default.aspx

Phone messages can be left for senators at 605-773-3821 while messages for representatives can be left at 605-773-3851.

Good To KnowIf youre calling about a specific piece of legislation,

it is best to find out the House or Senate file number (bill number) and status before you contact your legisla-tor. Legislators consider hundreds of pieces of legislation each session.

COOPERATIVE CONNECTIONS February 2015 5

Bountiful Brunch

RecipesReader

Combine milk, oatmeal, brown sugar and cinnamon in saucepan; bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir often to prevent boiling over. Cook until thickened. Divide between two serving bowls and top with strawberries, cherries and almonds. Serve immediately. Makes: 2 servings

Nutritional information per serving: 510 calories; 8 g fat; 0 g saturated fat; 10 mg cholesterol; 25 g protein; 87 g carbohydrates; 8 g fiber; 0 mg sodium; 600 mg calcium (60% of daily value). Nutrition figures based on using fat free milk.Pictured, Cooperative Connections

Hearty Oatmeal1-3/4 cup lowfat or fat free milk1 cup old fashioned or quick cooking oats (not instant)1 tsp. brown sugar

1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon1/4 cup sliced strawberries1/4 cup dried cherries3 T. toasted sliced almonds (3/4 oz.)

White Tail Ridge Orange French Toast

1 pint sour cream2 lb. bag hash browns, thawedChopped onion1 can cream of chicken soup

2 cups shredded cheese2 cups corn flakes1/2 cup melted butter

Combine sour cream, hash browns, chopped onion and soup. Place in 9x13-inch pan. Add shredded cheese. Sprinkle corn flakes on top and drizzle melted butter over corn flakes. Bake, uncovered, at 350F. for 1 hour. Darlene Price, Prairie City

Please send your favorite seafood, appetizers, beverages and casserole recipes to your local electric cooperative (address found on page 3). Each recipe printed will be entered into a drawing for a prize in June 2015. All entries must include your name, mailing address, telephone number and cooperative name.

1 lb. day-old bread, unsliced3 eggs3 egg whites1/4 cup sugar1/4 tsp. saltGrated zest of 1 orange1 tsp. almond extract

1-1/2 cups orange juice1/4 cup sliced almonds, toasted1 cup water1 cup light brown sugar6 oz. frozen orange juice concentrate

Cut bread in 16 slices about 1/2-inch thick. In a shallow dish, whisk eggs, whites, sugar, salt, zest and almond extract. Stir in orange juice. Dip bread slices into juice mixture until thoroughly soaked. Transfer slices to a baking sheet as you work. Drizzle any remaining liquid over slices. Cook slices on a large, hot griddle until golden. Transfer to a clean baking sheet. Place in oven and bake at 375F. for 10 minutes. While toast is baking, make syrup. Mix water and brown sugar in a small saucepan; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 1 minute. Add orange juice concentrate; cook until hot, about 1 minute, while stirring. Sprinkle toast with almonds and serve with syrup.

Darcy Bracken-Marxen, Hermosa

Hash Brown, Sausage & Bacon Frittata1/2 pkg. of shredded hash browns1/2 cup melted butter2 cups shredded Mexican cheese2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese

6 sausage links, diced8 slices bacon, diced1 cup milk9 eggsSalt and pepper to taste

Place hash browns into lightly sprayed 9x11-inch pan, press down evenly to form a crust. Drizzle butter evenly over crust and bake at 425F. for 25 minutes. Place cheeses, sausage and bacon over hash brown crust. Blend milk and eggs together; pour over all. Reduce heat to 350F. and bake an additional 30 minutes.

Mary Metz-Carda, Hurley

Bacon Cheese Puff5 green onions, chopped tops and all3/4 cup chopped red, green or yellow peppers8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled or Canadian bacon, cut into pieces

12 slices white bread, quartered8 oz. Swiss cheese, shredded8 eggs4 cups milk1-1/2 tsp. salt1/4 tsp. pepper

Cook onions and peppers until soft in bacon grease, if available. Arrange 1/2 bread slices in single layer in bottom of greased 9x13-inc pan. Sprinkle with 1/2 bacon, onions, peppers and cheese. Repeat layers again with bread, onion, peppers, bacon and cheese. Pour beaten eggs, milk, salt and pepper over top layer in pan. Refrigerate overnight. Bake at 350F. 50 minutes or until eggs are set and top is puffed and golden.

Caroline Bochman, Tyndall

Daisy Baked Hash Browns

Green Chile Egg Bake

Combine all ingredients and pour into a 9x13-inch pan (glass works best.) Bake, uncovered, at 350F. until set. Serve with salsa and sour cream.

Nancy Stenson, Fort Pierre

12 eggs, beaten until fluffy8 oz. Monterey Jack cheese, shredded8 oz. Pepper Jack cheese, shredded1/2 tsp. salt

2 (4 oz.) cans diced green chiles, undrained1 cup cottage cheese4 oz. (1 stick) butter, melted1 T. baking powder1/8 tsp. pepper

6 February 2015 Cooperative ConneCtions

Co-op news

New Software Brings A Few Changes To BillingThe first thing to note is that while the office has been in training and testing for months, the new computer software will still take a little getting used to. We appreciate your patience as we get more comfortable on the new system and are able to find your information more quickly as time goes on.new Format

Your next bill will be somewhat different and will include a window envelope if you are not signed up for automatic payments. When you send your payment, please make sure the coupon is placed correctly in the window for prompt delivery to our office."How to read Your Bill" insert

A bill stuffer included in the first new bill will help explain the information included on the new format.Multiple accounts

If you have more than one account, there will be a summary page with the totals for all your accounts added together. You may use this summary page's coupon to send in your payment. If there are accounts that you do not want to be grouped together, please let us know.Check Bills Carefully

Please contact us immediately if you see any issues or errors in your bill. It is of utmost importance to make sure the new programs and data are working correctly.smartHub new online app

SmartHub is the name of the program replacing the eBiz website. You will need to sign up for the new site as a new user. In addition to accessing your account with a computer, you can download the SmartHub app to your Droid or i Device. When setting up the app, make sure and choose Bon Homme Yankton Electric as your electric

provider.automatic payments

If you are already signed up for automatic payments from checking account, savings account or credit/debit card, your billing will not change. You will, however, be able to sign up for paperless billing in SmartHub with the option of receiving a text or email when your new bill has been calculated.

If you are not signed up for automatic payments, you can sign up in the SmartHub app or fill out the form on

the reverse side of the payment coupon at the bottom of the bill. We still give a one time $5 credit for anyone signing up for ACH for the first time.Bill pay

Many members use their bank or another entity to pay their bills online. We call this

service Bill Pay. Typically, those banks would mail us a check to process. With the new system we have signed up as a vendor so that you can select Bon Homme Yankton Electric when paying using a Bill Pay service. These payments would then be automatically posted to your account on the date chosen by you. If you use Bill Pay, please update your online accounts with our name and the account number shown on your new invoice.new account numbers

Account numbers have been shortened. The account numbers that started with 10000 were too long so we have removed one of the zeros.internet Combined

If you are an electric and Internet customer, you will receive only one bill for both services.As always, if you have any questions regarding your bill or energy use, please contact our office. Our Energy Experts are here to help!

Cooperative ConneCtions February 2015 7

News Briefs

Efficient Indoor Lighting for Your Home Thune Urges EPA to Withdraw Proprosed Power Plant RegulationsU.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) has sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy calling on the EPA to withdraw its proposed regulations on existing power plants, citing the significant financial burdens it will impose on South Dakota consumers, as well as technical infeasibilities that will drive up energy costs and threaten grid reliability.

The Obama administrations proposed power plant regulation is yet another example of presidential executive action that Americans clearly rejected in November as it will hurt jobs and increase costs, said Thune. The presidents proposed regulation is a national, backdoor energy tax that will slam South Dakota rate payers especially low-income families and seniors living on fixed incomes. Affordable and reliable energy provides essential comforts for families across the country this winter and powers American industries to build a stronger economy. Yet the EPAs proposal will make electricity rates skyrocket and stifle economic growth. I continue to urge Administrator McCarthy to reconsider.

On June 2, 2014, the EPA proposed the Carbon Pollution Emission Guidelines for Existing Stationary Sources: Electric Utility Generating Units, or Clean Power Plan, requiring a 30 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions from existing power plants by 2030. Under the proposed rule, South Dakota power plants must reduce carbon dioxide emission rates 35 percent by 2030 based on emission levels from 2012. This reduction mandate is more stringent than the national average for the EPAs proposed reductions. According to testimony provided to the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission in July of 2014, South Dakota consumers could see their electricity bills in-crease by as much as 90 percent on account of this regulation, a release by Thune said.

South Dakota PUC: EPAs Proposed Clean Power Plan Wrong for South DakotaThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys proposed plan to regulate carbon emissions from existing power plants will have harmful results on the reliability and affordability of electricity in South Dakota if implemented as it is currently written, warned the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission. The PUC responded to the EPAs call for comments to its Clean Power Plan by thoroughly analyzing the proposal, discussing effects with South Dakota stakeholders and submitting extensive written comments to the federal agency this month. Those comments can be read on the PUCs website at www.PUC.SD.gov/energy/111dcomments.aspx

In mid-June of last year, the EPA rolled out its proposed rule to regulate carbon emissions from existing power plants under the Clean Air Act 111(d). The agency initially opened a comment period until mid-October for the myriad parties that would be affected by the complex rule to share their concerns. The EPA extended the comment period to Dec. 1, after receiving feedback from numerous parties about the compressed timeline. The EPA expects to finalize the rule by June 1, 2015. States will be required to submit their plans on how to comply with the rule by June 30, 2016. The South Dakota Department of Envi-ronment and Natural Resources will be responsible for compiling and filing the state plan with the EPA.

In its proposed rule, the EPA speci-fies carbon reduction goals for the state that are based on national or regional averages with no consideration for the production and dispatch of energy in South Dakota that crosses state boundar-ies. The existing power plants in South Dakota targeted by the EPAs proposal are the Big Stone Plant, a coal-fired plant near Milbank jointly operated by Otter Tail Power Co., NorthWestern Energy and Montana-Dakota Utilities Co.;

and Deer Creek Station, a natural gas combined-cycle plant near Elkton owned by Basin Electric Power Cooperative. The EPAs proposal does not give credit for carbon-free electricity generated by hydropower plants located along the Missouri River in South Dakota.

Among the concerns of PUC com-missioners Gary Hanson, Chris Nelson and Kristie Fiegen are the proposals use of flawed assumptions and suggestions of carbon emission reductions that are not technically feasible, resulting in dramatic increases in the cost of electricity to consumers and a reckless disregard for electric reliability.

The PUCs written comments focus on four primary elements: educating the EPA about the states electric industry; identifying concerns with EPAs short compliance timeline; identifying techni-cal issues with the building blocks EPA has specified for states to use to comply with the Clean Power Plan; and provid-ing economic impacts forecasted for South Dakota.

The EPAs proposal will be destruc-tive to our economy, said PUC Chair-man Hanson. Environmental prudence should be part of national energy policy. I also firmly believe that energy must be affordable and reliable. I am frustrated that the EPAs plan obviously bypasses essential facts about South Dakotas reality. If the plan is unchanged, our states consumers will pay dearly, he concluded.

This plan concerns me to the core and the PUC will continue to do all that we can to moderate its impact to South Dakota consumers, farmers and businesspeople, said PUC Vice Chairman Nelson.

It is important that South Dakota energy consumers know that the PUC will continue to dig our heels in and advocate for rational and reasonable solutions on their behalf, said Commis-sioner Fiegen.

8 February 2015 Cooperative ConneCtions

Be the change you want to see in your community.That take on Mahatma Ghandis famous quote

about changing the world is a driving force for the communities and individuals engaged in the various programs of Dakota Resources.

One of the things we learned early on is that capital is not the only resource needed for successful economic and community development or develop-ment of a successful organization, said Beth Davis, president of Dakota Resources Economic and Leader-ship Development headquartered in Renner, S.D.

We have been able to accomplish what we have through connecting the dots, with resource organi-zations and the communities and entrepreneurs we serve, Davis said.

Since 2008, communities across South Dakota have worked with Dakota Resources to assess, energize and facilitate community change. Dakota Resources is a state-wide nonprofit focusing on helping rural communities realize their community and economic goals.

While the efforts vary depending on each com-munitys specific needs, the one of the elements that makes change possible is effective and engaged com-munity coaching.

In 2014, Southern Charles Mix Dakota Rising was added as a new Community Site for the entre-preneur development program, Dakota Rising.

As a Dakota Rising Community Site, Southern Charles Mix Dakota Rising will participate in a

By Brenda Kle in jan

Dakota Rising Helps Communities

Connect the Dots

Lewiston, ME: Winter is right around the corner, and the Farmers

winter last year, just released its 2015 edition and official winter weather outlook.

Its not for the faint of heart.

of the nation, with the most frigid areas occurring in and around the Northern Plains into the Great Lakes. The new edition, which hits the

prolonged spells of above-normal temperatures.

Not good news for the winter-weary. The Almanac, which has been predicting the weather for nearly 200 years, suggests that there will be a

on tap for the winter ahead.

Dakota Rising Helps Communities

Connect the Dotsstatewide learning community working together to share best practices around entrepreneurship devel-opment and retention and expansion strategies.

Other communities participating in the program include Southern Hills on the Rise (Fall River and Custer counties), Dakota Rising Aberdeen (Brown County), Faulkton Area Dakota Rising (Faulk County) and Dakota Rising Lawrence County.

What this program has allowed us to do is bring together all the different energies in our community together under one roof, said Joel Price, Faulkton Area Development Corporation, in a video about the communitys involvement with Dakota Rising.

The Dakota Rising Community Sites often work in conjunction with Dakota Resources other programs Home Address and the Capital Invest-ment Fund.

Dakota Rising is a three-year Dakota Resources program that helps rural entrepreneurs discover new ways to grow their business. Dakota Rising mentors entrepreneurs who have passion, drive and a will to take their companies to the next level. The pro-grams goal is to help businesses all over rural South Dakota become more successful, put more people in their community to work and help entrepreneurs better manage their businesses. Dakota Rising strategically partners with local communities to help entrepreneurs and business people grow their businesses.

Dakota Rising is not just about making your business itself better, its about making your busi-ness better for your community, said Kelly Melius, Common Sense Mfg. in Faulkton.

The Dakota Rising program was launched in 2008 by Dakota Resources and a Design Team made up of a variety of stakeholders in rural devel-opment. Since then, dozens of entrepreneurs have accelerated their business growth and have taken ad-vantage of the insight, ideas and experience of other Fellows. The Dakota Rising community meets three

times a year for three-day conferences in addition to online meetings. The sharing among Fellows grows companies and grows a Fellows business confidence. Becoming a Fellow adds a level of ac-countability that encourages action. Fel-lows receive assistance from their closest Dakota Rising community site, as well as from Dakota Resources. The South Dakota economy relies on the growth of rural businesses and Dakota Rising can help those small business entrepreneurs accelerate that growth.

Sometimes it just gives you the confi-dence to keep following your dream and

work through the problem, said Chad Homan of Homan Welding in Faulkton.

A Dakota Rising Fellow is a person who has taken a startup business to a viable, profit-earning stage and is poised for the next level of growth. After successfully completing the application process and being chosen, Fellows are connected to a community of statewide resources, mentors and financial experts. Personal and business growth strategies are developed while working in a small cohort where Fellows help one another despite vastly different industries and experiences. After one year in the program, each Fellow is awarded a $10,000 grant to support professional growth and business expansion.

Participants in the programs agree that the Dakota Rising programs help improve their com-munities.

If they can employ two or three or more people, thats more pay checks in town, said Dwight Hos-sell of Dacotah Bank. If even 50 percent of those pay checks are spent in town on rent or groceries or recreation, that just helps impact everybody so everybodys life is a little better.

Melius sums up the experience with this: Its about making our town better.

Cooperative ConneCtions February 2015 9

classroom and community. This program was founded on the four pillars of Touchstone Energy: Integrity, Accountability, Innovation and a Commitment to Community.

What does it take to be a Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week? Its not just about grades or athletic ability. It takes a well-rounded individual that excels in the classroom and the community.

Devin received $100 from Bon Homme Yankton Electric in recognition of his many accomplishments.

10 February 2015 Cooperative ConneCtions

ClassifiedsMarch Issue Deadline: February 1, 2015. Email your classified ad to: by@byelectric.com.Members can post one free ad per year. Repeats or longer ads are $1/column inch.

FOR RENT: 1 bedroom apartment. Tabor Manor. Contact John at 605-463-2478 or Gary at 605-463-2209.r

FOR RENT: Tabor HRC, 2-bedroom townhome w/ single attached car garage, 1100 plus square feet, handicap Facility/Accessible, washer and dryer hookups, dishwasher, lawn/snow maintenance provided. All one level living convenience. Please contact Jen Carda 605-463-2575.r

Thinking about building a home? Dont pick a floor plan or a builder until youve talked with the areas ONLY Certified Aging-in-Place specialist, Certified Green Professional Builder and ENERGY STAR Partner Builder. Call 4 Life Homes today. 605-661-4488.r

Beseda Hall, Tabor, SD for rent for any special occasion such as weddings, anniversaries, graduation or birthdays! For more information contact Linda Bares at 605-661-6220 or snlbares@gmail.com.

FOR RENT: Outdoor parking available for boats, campers and vehicles at CS Storage in Tabor, SD Call 605-661-2568.3

Co-op news Operations Center Progresses

Jim Karolevitz Retires

Touchstone Energy Cooperative Bon Homme Yankton Electric along with KSFY are pleased to announce that Devin Tolsma of Avon was selected as a Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week. Devin's segment aired on KSFY the week of December 14-20.

Devin, son of Julie and Mark Tolsma, has a 3.975 grade point average and is involved in many different activities including: football, basketball, Student Body President, science fair, church youth group and A-Club.

Devin was nominated by Avon High School Principal Matt Yost. Yost stated, Devin is a natural leader and utilizes those qualities to better those around him. Academically, Devin models an intrinsic motivation to challenge himself to be successful by putting forth maximum effort. He has chosen a challenging course of study during his high school experience in order to better prepare him for his post-secondary education. Devin will graduate with academic honors.

Touchstone Energy Cooperatives along with KSFY Television have joined together to recognize the achievements of high school seniors throughout the region. Touchstone Energy Scholar of the Week has been celebrating the achievements of high school seniors since 2002. Recipients are highly motivated high school seniors who excel in the

Local Scholar

L-R: AHS Principal Matt Yost, Devin Tolsma, Bon Homme Yankton Electric General Manager MJ Goehring.

Jim Karolevitz began his long career at Bon Homme Yankton Electric in 1977 when he was hired on as summer help. He worked part-time until May 1978, then was hired as a full-time apprentice lineman in June of 1979. He achieved journeyman status in 1982 and has been a crew foreman for several years.

Jim plans on keeping busy with hunting, fishing and helping his brother farm. He is looking forward to being able to stay inside when the weather turns cold.

Jim and his wife, Lori, reside in Tabor.

Congratulations to Jim on his retirement! The cooperative will miss his experience and work ethic.

GT RepaiR & auTobodyGlenn Tycz

Tyndall, SD 57066

605-589-3018

We Repairand Install Windshields

bohemian FaRmeRs muTualR. Martin Koch, SecretaryPO Box 206Tabor, SD 57063

605-463-2558 1-800-868-1756If only the future was predictable. Farming is always a gamble. You never know when bad weather or other problems will strike. The only

thing you can be sure ofyou need quality insurance protection. Call our office today for a

competitive quote.

opsahl-KosTelFuneRal home

Yankton, Tabor,Tyndall, Menno

605-665-9679Preplanning will give you

peace of mind andmay save money

KoRanda Well Company llCTabor, SD 57063605-463-2244

Well drilling, repairing and cleaningWater Systems Artesian Wells

Sales and Installation

Earth-Coupled Heat Pump

Emergency Service Free Estimates

CameRon insuRanCeBrad Cameron

Tyndall, SD 57066605-589-4176

sandeRs heaTinG & CoolinG300 W 17th

Tyndall, SD 57066605-589-3228

1-800-894-3228

Furnaces, Heat Pumpsand Air Conditioners

Free Estimates

haase heaTinG & CoolinG

Dan HaaseHeating, Cooling, Heat Pumps

We sell the best and service the rest

Scotland, SD 57059605-583-4490

don Wynias shopDixon ZTR Mowers - Kohler Tecumseh

Briggs & StrattonMajor Overhaul Repair - All Makes of Mowers

Small Engine - Skid Loader - Snow BlowerWelding & Pick Up Service

Call Don, 2 miles south of Tyndall41566 306th StTyndall, SD 57066

605-589-3713or 605-661-1960

heaTinG & CoolinG

Handicap and Accessible Home Modifications

RampsGrab BarsStair LiftsWalk-in ShowersKitchen and Bathroom Remodels

605-463-2786

920 BroadwayYankton, SD 57078

605-665-9461800-491-9461Warm Air, Air to Air,

Geothermal Heat Pumps

www.4lifehomes.net

ConsTRuCTionand painTinG

New ConstructionRemodel - Roofing

Flooring

Jason FinckTabor, SD 57063

605-660-3204

Art & Antique GAlleryCustom Matting & FramingOriginal Art/Gifts/Cards

Handmade Glass Beads & Jewelry 1610 Main St Tyndall, SD

605-589-4050Open Wednesday through Saturday

Cooperative ConneCtions February 2015 11

FREE HOME DAMAGE ASSESSMENTfollowing a storm

INSURANCE CLAIM SPECIALISTGENERAL CONTRACTOR

HOME REPAIR HOTLINE605-661-4488

WE DO EMERGENCY HOME REPAIRS

RoofingSidingWindows

GuttersPaintingDoors

Wellmark Has You Covered, No Matter What Your Stage of Life.CALL TODAY to learn more.

An AuthorizedIndependent

Agent For

Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of South Dakota is an Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. 2012 Wellmark, Inc. SD-20-P-12

Did you know that 90 percent of the energy used to operate a washing machine comes from using hot water? A simple switch from hot to cold can save a great deal of energy! Also, consider air drying or even line drying to save even more household energy. Source: U.S. Department of Energy

Among the environmental Protection agencysbuilding blocks that comprise the agencys proposed greenhouse gas rule for existing power plants under section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act is the block call-ing for increased renewable and nuclear power.

The block would reduce carbon dioxide emis-sions by closing or curtailing coal plants and sub-stituting that generation with power from existing and new zero-CO2-emitting nuclear and renewable power sources.

The block would allow existing nuclear power plants that are at risk of shutting down to remain open and additional renewable power generation sources could be added nearly nationwide.

Many including the nations electric coopera-tive association and the governor, public utilities commission and attorney general of South Dakota claim that the building block exceeds the EPAs legal authority under 111(d).

But, beyond that basic, fundamental objection, other concerns emerge.

In his comments to the EPA about the proposed

By Brenda Kle in jan

Building Block No. 3

Renewable and Nuclear Power

rule, South Dakota Gov. Dennis Daugaard pointed out that approximately 74 percent of South Dakotas electric production in the 2012 base year was renew-able energy. Further, he pointed out that only three states emitted less carbon than South Dakota.

Among the concerns about Building Block 3 expressed by the governor was how the states renew-able energy goal was calculated and how hydropow-er which accounted for nearly half of the states megawatt-hour generation in 2012 was calculated.

In its filing on the rule, the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission writes, the proposed rule does not allow existing hydropower to count toward complying with a states goal...Annual production, however, is dependent on river management rather than demand for electricity. Therefore, a large portion of the states generation is outside anyones control.

Yet because hydropower is used in calculating the required amount of renewables, the state is effec-tively penalized as a result of its carbon free source of power, the PUC comments continued.

They are Expensive programs to run; typically would need a broader base to be cost-effective to run

types of installations weve already made.

12 February 2015 Cooperative ConneCtions

While hydroelectricity accounted for more than 50 percent of South Dakotas electric generation in 2012, the way the renew-able power source was and wasnt calculated in the EPAs proposed building block caused concern for many.

Cooperative ConneCtions February 2015 13

The PUC also expressed concerns with how the EPA calculated the re-newable goal. Beyond the issues with how hydropower is or is not includ-ed in the goal, there is an issue with how wind power and other renewables are counted.

The PUC noted that in calculating the states renewable goal, it includ-ed all generation used in the state. However, the EPA noted that comply-ing with the goal will involve the ownership of renewable energy certifi-cates (RECs). [RECs were developed to facilitate the tracking of renewable energy, allowing purchasers of renewable energy to claim attributes and benefits of that specific renewable resource.]

The PUC noted that wind generation was approximately 24 percent of generation produced in South Dakota in 2012 (the EPAs baseline year). However, a majority of the RECs associated with that wind generation was contracted to out-of-state utilities for compliance within their own states.

In his comments, Gov. Daugaard pointed out that five of nine states in the region that EPA included South Dakota in cannot meet their respec-tive renewable standards without using renewable energy that is produced in another state.

The PUC noted that if the EPAs final rules call for the RECs to follow purchase contracts, then the majority of South Dakota-generated RECs would flow out of the state. This would require that additional wind gen-eration be built in the state to meet the renewables goal established by the building block. The PUC calculated that this would cost South Dakota consumers more than $870 million. Costs for wind integration and major transmission and intermediate generation investments would also be needed and would greatly add to the costs.

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association notes that electric cooperatives have worked diligently to diversify their energy resource port-folio. In fact, in 2012, South Dakota had 784 megawatts of installed wind generation; more than 300 megawatts of that generation were electric cooperative projects.

NRECA also notes that co-ops have doubled their renewable energy capacity since 2009.

NRECA maintains that the proposed EPA rules are complex with unin-tended consequences and that the EPA is overreaching its legal authority.

For co-op members, the additional costs hit member-owners hardest. The not-for-profit co-op business model forces any costs from upgrades or shuttered power plants to be borne directly by co-op members.

According to the American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity, the EPAs proposed rule encompassing its four building blocks could force the retirement of 30,000 megawatts to 80,000 megawatts of coal-based generation and could cause more than 200,000 jobs to be lost in 2020.

The projected global climate benefits are a less than 1 percent reduc-tion in CO2 concentrations, a reduction in global average temperature of 0.016 degree and a reduction in sea level rise of 1/100th of an inch.

The public comment period on the EPAs proposed rule closed on Dec. 1. The EPA intends to issue a final rule in June of 2015 and states will then have one year to develop implementation plans or if they collaborate on multi-state or regional plans, they are allowed two years to develop their plan. Case by case, states can seek a one-year extension from the EPA. Therefore, in some states it may take until June of 2018 to fully understand what compliance with this proposal will mean.

For more on the comments filed by South Dakota go to http://www.puc.sd.gov/energy/111dcomments.aspx

=

Coal Plant EffiCiEnCyMake physical and operational changes at existing

coal-based power plants to improve heat-rate efficiency by 6 percent, which reduces the amount

of coal needed per MWh of generation, thereby reducing CO emissions.

natural GasExisting natural gas combined-cycle plants are used

more or less frequently, depending upon a variety of factors. EPAs CO reduction goals are based on

dispatching those natural gas plants more frequently (up to 70 percent capacity factor) while closing or curtailing existing coal-based generation sources.

REnEwablE and nuClEar PowErNuclear power and renewable resources like hydro,

wind and solar power do not have direct CO emissions. EPAs goals are based on keeping some existing nuclear

power plants (that are at risk of closing) operating, ensuring that new nuclear plants under construction get finalized, and that more sources of renewable

energy are developed.

ConsumEr EnErGy EffiCiEnCyImproving energy efficiency by consumers reduces the need for power generation. EPAs CO reduction

goals envision all states increasing energy efficiency programs to result in the avoidance of 1.5 percent of

energy demand per year.

statE Carbon intEnsity Goal

Editors Note: This is the fifth of a five-part series that explored each of the EPAs Building Blocks. The four building blocks are: (1) making coal plants more efficient; (2) displacing existing coal with existing natural gas plants; (3) increasing the use of nuclear and renewable energy; and (4) decreasing electricity consumption by increasing end-user energy efficiency.

State2012

Emissions Rate (lbs/

MWh)

Final Goal

(2030 & After)

Final Reduction

Final Percent

Reduction

Iowa 1,552 1,301 -251 -16.2%

Minnesota 1,470 873 -597 -40.6%

Montana 2,246 1,771 -475 -21.1%

Nebraska 2,009 1,479 -530 -26.4%

N. Dakota 1,994 1,783 -211 -10.6%

S. Dakota 1,135 741 -394 -34.7%

Wyoming 2,115 1,714 -401 -19.0%

+

+

+

EPAs Building Blocks

14 February 2015 Cooperative ConneCtions

By Brenda Kle in jan

north Dakotas oil boom in the bakken has undoubtedly impacted that states economy.

Revenues have soared, communities have seen growth that has strained resources as populations have exploded.

In South Dakota, highways appear busier with large loads trekking northward. But, what may surprise many is some of those loads are originating in South Dakota as they bring goods and services to northwestern North Dakotas Bakken region.

The South Dakota Governors Office of Eco-nomic Development touts the state as a prime location for companies in the oil and gas industry.

It notes that the oil-rich Bakken Shale is less than

Bridgeway to the Bakken

100 miles away. The Williston Basin extends into the northwestern portion of South Dakota, making it an easy drive from the states major cities.

The states economic leaders have been working to promote South Dakotas productive agricultural and manufacturing bases provide solid ground for ancillary oil businesses.

With a number of suppliers transporting goods to the Bakken daily, South Dakota has proven to be a great location for businesses in the oil and gas industry, the GOED says.

Check out the listing on Page 15 of South Dakota businesses affiliated with the oil and gas industry.

Bakken Oil Boom Benefits Neighbor to the South

Cooperative ConneCtions February 2015 15

Bridgeway to the BakkenBakken Oil Boom Benefits Neighbor to the South

Company Location Description Adams ISC Rapid City Pipe and vessel, build and repair,

hydraulics and large pump repairsAmerican Engineering Geotechnical, environmental, Testing, Inc. Rapid City materials and forensics consulting and testing servicesBentonite Performance Belle Materials, LLC Fourche Bentonite productsBlack Hills Grid Sturgis Powder coatings, sandblasting,

fabrication, designBlack Hills Manufacturing Sturgis Design for manufacturing, Services, Inc. prototyping, job shop, process consulting, cold spray repair,

controls design, consultingBroadwind Energy Howard Gearbox, motor and transmission

repairBuilders Choice Vermillion Modular building/housingCaber Engineering, Inc. Rapid City Multi-disciplinary engineering firm

providing comprehensive engineer- ing, project management, & field

servicesChenega Logistics Sioux Falls Custom innovations in IT Enter-

prise, cyber engineering, software development, intelligence

and integrated solutionsCustom Touch Homes Madison Manufactured housingD.T.S. Tea Custom steel and aluminum

enclosures, sub-base tanks and trailers for the commercial genera-

tor marketDakota Bodies Watertown Custom truck bedsDakota Kustom Coatings Sturgis Custom design, fabrication, &

assembly of aluminum extruded structures, racks, workbenches, and machine safety guards

Dakota Security Systems Sioux Falls, Safety, security, and Rapid City communication systemsDakota Trailer Yankton Heavy trailer manufacturingDeadwood Biofuels Rapid City Wood pellet manufacturing used

in hydraulic fracturing and drilling for solids control

Design Tanks Sioux Falls Fiberglass tanksFurgro Horizons Rapid City Remote sensing, mapping and GIS services; aerial acquisition servicesGCC-Rapid City Rapid City Cement manufacturingGen-Pro Power Systems, Inc. Rapid City Solar-powered water pumping,

LED lighting, water purification systems, solar thermal heating systems, solar modules, grid tie and off-grid systems

Global Polymer Brookings Plastic composite sleeve for rig drilling

High Performance Sioux Falls Product design, injection molded Engineering parts or machined prototypes

for manufacturing; contract mfg, assembly

Company Location Description Horizontal Machining and Huron Fabrication, machining, measuring, Manufacturing welding, and fixturing servicesIntegra Plastics Madison Fabrication and conversion of polyethylene and polypropyleneIron Outfitter Piedmont Metal fabrication and manufactur-

ingLarson Manufacturing Co. Brookings Storm doorsM&M Manufacturing Co., Inc. Viborg Hot water pressure washersMalloy Electric Sioux Falls Power transmission parts, electri-

cal supplies, motor repair and machine shop services

Mammoth Homes Hot Springs Manufactured housingMarks Welding Elk Point Metal skid platesMolded Fiber Glass Aberdeen Fiberglass brine tanksMorris, Inc. Pierre Metal jig fabricationPermian Tank & Belle Steel tank manufacturing offering Manufacturing, Inc. Fourche custom engineered and design tanksPipeline Plastics Belle High density Fourche polyethylene pipe (HDPE)Ranchers Welding Gregory Oil tanksRosebud Cabinetry Madison Custom cabinetry solutionsShamrock Energy Rapid City Back office payroll, accounting Management and other business activities; business consultingSioux Corporation Beresford Custom pressure washing systems;

electric and fossil fuel water heaters

Sioux Steel Sioux Falls Fluid storageSouth Bakken Steel Belle Welding, pipe badger, other and Fabrication Fourche well equipmentSpecialized Machine, Inc. Sioux Falls CNC machining and

prototyping and designSuperior Homes Watertown Manufactured housingTerex Utilities Huron Overhead and utility equipment

including auger trucks and bitsTrail King Industries Mitchell Truck trailers for construction,

commercial & specialized marketsTru-Catch Traps/Manufact- Belle Machining clamps and other uring Systems, Inc. Fourche metal fabrication needsTrueNorth Steel Rapid City, Steel tanks, corrugated Huron pipe, and industrial plate workTwin City Fan& Blower Brookings Industrial and commercial fan and

blower manufacturingW.L. Plastics Rapid City High-density polyethylene pipe for

mining, industrial, oil, gas, irrigation, potable water and sewer systems

Western Mine Service, Inc. Hermosa Custom welding, machining, and mechanical fabrication on

large equipment; fabricated large custom containers

Wheeler Tanks Sioux Falls Tanks, pressure vessels, and fabricated metal products

Woodland Cabinetry Sisseton Custom cabinetry solutions

South Dakota Oil and Gas Companiesas listed at http://sdreadytowork.com/Key-Industries/Oil-Gas.aspx

PHO

TO C

OU

RTES

Y O

F SH

ARO

N H

ELBI

GRegional Dateline

March 6 Clint Black, Deadwood, SD

605-559-0386

March 7-8 Big Boy Toy Show

Watertown, SD, 605-884-3548

March 7-8 Home Builders 14th Annual

Home Show, Aberdeen, SD 605-225-2055 www.aberdeenhba.com

March 13-14 Advantage RV Spring Camper Show, Watertown, SD

605-753-5022

March 14-15 2015 Gun Show

American Legion Hall Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. MST Philip, SD, 605-859-2635 605-859-2280, 605-859-2892 or 605-859-2219

January 31 Living History Fair

Watertown, SD, 605-881-1758

February 3 Touchstone Energy Safety

Events, 8:30 and 10 a.m. Barnett Arena, Rushmore

Plaza Civic Center Rapid City, SD, 605-224-8823

February 7-8 Dakota Territory Gun

Collectors Association Show Aberdeen, SD, 701-851-0129

February 10-14 Farm Show, Watertown, SD

605-886-5814 February 14-15 Winter Big Boy Toy Show

Aberdeen, SD, 605-229-3632 www.hubcityradio.com

February 15 Its Your Party Bridal Show

Watertown, SD, 605-886-4127

January 21 36th Annual Ranchers Workshop

9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. CT Community Events Center White River, SD 605-259-3252 ext.3

January 23-24 Winter Show, Sisseton, SD 605-698-7261

January 24 Winter Games Winter Fest

Finale, Watertown, SD 605-882-6269

January 24 Glacial Lakes Beer Fest

Watertown, SD, 605-886-6127 watertowneventcenter.com

January 25 Public Opinion Prom &

Bridal Show, Watertown, SD 605-886-6901

January 25 Foreign Film Festival

Spearfish, SD, 605-642-7973 www.matthewsopera.com

January 30-31 ISOC SnoCross Shootout

Deadwood, SD, 605-578-1876 www.deadwood.org

January 30-31 Day County Farm, Home and

Sport Show, Webster, SD 605-345-4668 www.webstersd.com January 30-February 8 Black Hills Stock Show and

Rodeo Rapid City, SD 605-355-3861

February 16 Farm and Home Show

Wessington Springs, SD 605-539-1929

February 21 and March 21 James Valley Model Railroad

Open House, Aberdeen, SD 605-226-2139

February 22 Hub City Radios Bridal Showcase, Aberdeen, SD 605-229-3632 February 24-26 Ag Expo, Aberdeen, SD 605-725-5551 www.aberdeenagexpo.com

February 28-March 1 Home Builders Show

Watertown, SD, 605-886-5814 watertownhomebuilders.com

March 3 Nickelback, Sioux Falls, SD 605-367-7288

Events of Special Note

To have your event listed on this page, send complete information, including date, event, place and contact to your local electric cooperative. Include your name, address and daytime telephone number. Information must be submitted at least eight weeks prior to your event. Please call ahead to confirm date, time and location of event.

February 7 Eagles and Bagels Walk in the Park, Fort Pierre, SD 605-223-7722, www.gfp.sd.gov

March 21 South Dakota Taxidermy Competition Watertown, SD, 605-886-6127