The Full Issue - North Itasca Electric Co-op

VOL. 18 NO. 9
PUBLISHED FOR THE MEMBERS OF NORTH ITASCA ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Ortman Substation dedicated
by Sally Sedgwick
“It’s only in a co-op that you can
do this,” said Sandra Ortman, wife
of former North Itasca Electric
CEO Jeff Ortman.
She was speaking at the
dedication of the new Ortman
Substation and transmission line
on August 20. The 22 mile line,
now energized, provides North
Itasca Electric a loop feed and
second power source.
It was a $10 million project,
too much for a small business
to develop, but in a cooperative
setting like Great River Energy
a small member receives equal
attention. Even though the project
did not result in electricity sales,
pointed out CEO Jared Echternach,
the members of GRE supported
the project expense for its benefits
to North Itasca Electric.
With a single feed from a 69
kV line traveling north from Deer
River, the entire service area
of North Itasca Electric was at
risk for an extended outage with
damage to that single line. Now
there is a second source that can
provide power.
Although the installation of the
line seemed seamless, it wasn’t
an easy project to construct,
pointed out Great River Energy
CEO David Saggau. That it was
Dedication to p. 9>
Coal Creek Station Tour 2015
by Jerry Loney
On August 17, 32 members
struck out for Bismarck, North
Dakota to tour one of the most
efficient power plants in the nation.
26 members from Bigfork and 6
from Northome arrived in Bismarck
at 4:15 p.m. We were met by the
hotel manager who had our room
keys ready along with refreshments
(as if we really needed more food).
Symbolic splicing of cable at the new Ortman Substation dedication: (from left) Directors
Roy Bain, Jim White, Wes Waller, Bruce Leino and Larry Salmela; Great River Energy
CEO David Saggau; Sandra Ortman; North Itasca Electric CEO Jared Echternach and
Staff Assistant Joel Karels; GRE Project Manager Chuck Lukkarila, PE; Director Walt
Breeze; GRE Transmission Construction Supervisor Paul Orndorff; North Itasca Electric
Line Superintendent Daryl Pederson.
RoundUp® applications due Friday, Oct. 2
Friday, October 2 is the
deadline for community organizations to apply for fall
RoundUp® grants. RoundUp is a program that rounds
up participating member
bills to the next dollar, providing an opportunity for
community organizations
to apply for funding for
worthwhile projects. About
$10,000 is distributed by
The bus was stocked with a variety
of juices, apples, oranges, bananas,
health bars (and not so heathy nuts
and candy) along with coffee, water
and pop.
We departed Bigfork at 7 a.m.
sharp, and after picking up a few
fellow cooperative members at
the senior center in Northome, we
were on the road again by 7:55
Tour to p. 8>
the community trust board
twice a year.
Applications are due in
the headquarters office by
Friday, October 2 at 4:30
p.m.
Application
forms
along with instructions can
be obtained by calling the
office at (218) 743-3131 or
toll free 1(800) 762-4048,
by e-mail to joelk@nieci.
page 3
September events
pages 10, 13
com or online at www.
NorthItascaElectric.com.
When completing the
grant application, please
read and follow the directions closely. If you have
any questions on completing the application, please
contact Joel at North Itasca
Electric or one of the Trust
Board members.
DIST #
TRUST BOARD MEMBER & AREA REPRESENTED
1
Linda Dreher; Northome, Mizpah, Gemmel
218-897-5086
2
Robyn Heinle; Wirt, Dora Lake
218-743-6020
3
Thomas Boland; Effie, Deer Lake
218-743-6732
4
Greg Anselmo; Bigfork, Scenic
218-244-4648
5
Bonnie Korte; Talmoon, Marcell
218-832-3669
6
Norma Martin; Island Lake, Funkley, Alvwood
218-897-5963
7
Jack Kallroos; Squaw Lake, Inger
612-574-1866
8
Eric Elhardt; Scenic, Marcell
218-832-3051
9
Vicki Smith; Deer River
218-246-3136
• inside • inside • inside • inside • inside • inside • inside • inside •
Community solar
SEPTEMBER 2015
Winter heating options
page 54
Winter Hours
begin Tuesday,
Sept 8
8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
September 2015
page 2
1
1
3
~September Calendar~
First day of school, Blackduck School
Annual meeting of Northern Itasca Hospital District, 11 a.m. at Bigfork Valley
Opening of The Long Journey: paintings by Georgi Tsenov at the Edge Center in
Bigfork. Meet the artist at the opening reception on Sept. 4, 5-7 p.m. Gallery open 10
a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday-Saturday. Exhibit continues through Sept. 26. Free admission.
3 Bigfork School Open House for student families, 4-6 p.m. Elementary backpack
distribution while supplies last.
3 Storytelling, Marcell Town Hall, 6:30 p.m. Everyone welcome, treats and coffee served.
7 Labor Day - North Itasca Electric headquarters CLOSED.
8 First day of school, Bigfork, Deer River, Northome schools
8 ISD 317 (Deer River) $10.59 million general obligation bond issue referendum. In North
Itasca Electric service area polling places at King Elementary, Jesse Lake Lutheran
Church and Inger Community Center. Polls open noon - 8 p.m. Absentee ballots
available at the school.
8 ISD 318 School Board meets in board room, Admin. Bldg., 7 p.m. (6:30 p.m. public
forum). Attend via elepresence at Bigfork School.
8 Stop and Stitch at Marcell Family Center, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Bring $1, project to work on
and a sack lunch. Come and go. Contact Rhonda 259-9220 or Judy at 832-3237
9 Bigfork Lions Club meets second Wednesday, 6 p.m. at Golf on the Edge.
9 South Koochiching-Rainy River School Board meets at 7 p.m. in the Northome and Indus
ITV Studios.
10 Evergreen Friendship Club meets at Sand Lake Community Center, 5 p.m. For more
info, call 659-2683.
10 Classic Movie at the Edge Center in Bigfork, 6:30 p.m. The Shootist (1976) with John
Wayne. Free.
11 Pre race spaghetti feed at Bigfork Valley Commons, 5-6:30 p.m. ($5) followed by a
screening of Arrowhead 135 at the Edge Center, a movie about one of the toughest
winter ultra-races in the country.
12 Bigfork Valley Challenge half marathon and 10k timed races, and 5k walk/run starting
at 8 a.m. More at BigforkValley.com, click on Health Resources>Calendar.
13 Bigfork Huskies Volleyball Team will be your waitresses at the Pizza Parlor from 11
a.m. – 6 p.m. as a fundraiser for new jerseys.
13 Deer Lake Jug Band Boogie at Deer Lake Charlie’s on Highway 1 between Effie and
Togo, 3 p.m. Free admission, potluck supper.
14 Women of the Woods meet at 10 a.m. at Sand Lake Community Center. Call Pat
Sievertson at 659-2157 or Marlys Maki at 659-2901.
14 Bigfork Valley Hospital Auxiliary will hold an informational meeting for new and
current members, 10 a.m. at the hospital. If you would like to do something meaningful,
consider volunteering with the auxiliary. Men and women welcome.
14 VFW meets in Bigfork second Monday at 7 p.m.
14 Blackduck ISD 32 School Board meets, 7 p.m., Media Center.
14 Deer River ISD 317 School Board meets, DRHS Media Center, 6 p.m.
19 Wheelin' Weekend at Loon's Landing for ATV trail riding. www.loonslanding.com
20 Suomi Lutheran Church annual Harvest Dinner, noon-2:30 p.m. Takeouts available. Free
will offering. On County Rd. #48.
19-20 Bargains Are Great on Highway 38: 47 mile long garage sale from Grand Rapids to
Effie. Starts 7:30 a.m. More information at 832-3161.
more>>
WATTS NEWS
WATTS NEWS is published monthly by:
North Itasca Electric Cooperative, Inc.
301 Main Avenue
P.O. Box 227
Bigfork, MN 56628
Subscriptions for Members are included
as part of the annual membership dues.
$8.00 per year or partial year for nonmembers, billed and payable in January
for the following year.
Second class postage paid at Bigfork, MN
56680. USPS 016-849 POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to WATTS NEWS,
North Itasca Electric Cooperative, Inc.,
P.O. Box 227, Bigfork, MN 56628-0227
Office Hours: 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Monday-Friday
Telephone: (218) 743-3131
After hours (to report power outages):
(218) 743-3131 or (800) 762-4048
Web site: www.NorthItascaElectric.com
Chief Executive Officer: Jared Echternach
WATTS NEWS Editor: Sally Sedgwick
Send all calendar items, recipes, advertisements and other correspondence for
WATTS NEWS to the Editor at: P.O. Box
243, Bigfork, MN 56628
Board Meeting Highlights
The Regular Meeting of the Board was held at the Cooperative’s
Office on July 23, 2015 at 3:00 p.m.
Directors Present: Schmitz, Salmela, White, Breeze, Leino,
Kongsjord, Waller, Bain and Cox.
Absent: none
Also Present: CEO Echternach, Staff Assistant Karels, Line
Supt. Pederson, EMS Loney and Teri Wallis – CFC Regional VP.
Line Supt. Pederson presented the Line Department, Safety and
Outage Reports. Pederson also reported on where the crews are
working, a scheduled maintenance outage at the Wirt and Evenson
Substations on August 12. Pederson also reported on Right-of-Way
Clearing.
EMS Loney presented his Load Management Report which
included June Load Management Statistics. Loney also reported
that there are new energy efficiency displays in the showroom.
Teri Wallis CFC Regional VP presented the 2014 CFC Key
Ratio Trend Analysis (KRTA).
CEO Echternach presented the June 2015 Operating Report.
CEO Echternach presented his CEO’s Report, which included
recaps of the June sales and operating statistics, state and federal
legislative issues. Echternach also reported on the Community
Solar Project and Northland Connect Broadband LLC.
Round table discussions were held.
Directors attending the MREA Regional Meeting discussed the
meeting.
Waller presented the MREA Update.
Leino reported on the GRE Board Meeting.
CEO Echternach reported on the GRE MMG Meeting.
A list of upcoming meetings was reviewed.
Action Items:
-Approved Consent Agenda.
-Confirmed the next meeting date as: Thursday August 27, 2015.
-Accepted the June 2015 Operating Report.
-Approved to pass the GRE’s PCA of -$3,542.43 onto the
members.
Meeting Adjourned.
>>more calendar
22 North Woods Quilters, Marcell Town Hall, 9 a.m. Bring a
smile, coffee cup and Show and Tell. Lesson, "Re-purposeRe-fashion" by Debbie Poenix. Mystery Quilt. 26 Northwoods Saddle Club fun/game show at North Star
Ranch north of Effie. Start time TBD. More at www.
northwoodssaddleclubinc.com
26 Bigfork Valley Community Foundation Gala Fundraiser "An
Evening in the Northwoods." Dinner, music with Charmin
Michelle and Sam Miltich and Friends, silent auction. Marcell
Family Center, 5:30 p.m. More info: (218) 743-4116.
28 Women of the Woods meet at 10 a.m. at Sand Lake
Community Center. Call Pat Sievertson at 659-2157 or
Marlys Maki at 659-2901. North Itasca Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Board of Directors
Chairman: Terry Schmitz, District 8
Vice-Chairman: Wes Waller, District 2
Secretary: Larry Salmela, District 3
Treasurer: Roy Bain, District 9
Rep. to GRE Board: Bruce Leino, District 7
James White, District 1 Walter Breeze, District 6
James Cox, District 4
Lloyd Kongsjord, District 5
September 2015
page 3
Ortman Substation energized
The new Ortman substation
and transmission line is now
energized
and
providing
electric service to our Bigfork
substation. The transmission
substation
and
20-mile
transmission
line
owned
by Great River Energy was
completed on budget and several
months ahead of schedule.
The
substation
and
transmission line will provide
a valuable loop feed to our
distribution system. We are
the last of the 28 Great River
Energy member cooperatives to
achieve a loop feed.
We’d like to thank Great
River Energy for making the
commitment to improving
service reliability in our
area. We’d also like to thank
the many regional and local
contractors who worked on this
project. Not only did this project
improve service reliability, it
provided some local jobs during
construction, helping our local
economy. Finally, I’d like to
thank our board of directors
and former CEO Jeff Ortman
who worked many years on this
project. It’s truly a testament
to their dedication to serve
North Itasca Electric’s memberowners.
Community Solar update
I’m pleased to report that
interest in our community solar
project has been greater than
we anticipated and members
have subscribed to 15 of the
20 available panels. The panels
have now been installed and
once the electrical work is
complete and inspected we will
energize the array.
What’s great about this
project is that it offers members
an opportunity to purchase the
output of a solar panel without
having to construct something
on their house or in their yard.
This voluntary program will be
completely self-sufficient and
funded by those who choose to
participate. If you are interested
in participating, you might want
to act soon before the panels
are fully subscribed. Please see
the detailed information in this
issue of WATTS NEWS on how
you can participate.
Clean Power Plan
On
August
3,
the
Environmental
Protection
Agency (EPA) issued its final
Clean Power Plan. While the
1,500-page document will
require months of stakeholder
review, the initial synopsis
in relation to North Dakota
operations is that the final plan
increased North Dakota’s CO2
intensity reduction requirement
from 11 percent to 45 percent.
Individual
states
are
required to develop a State
Implementation Plan to comply
with the regulation. Since our
wholesale power supplier’s
FAQs on the Community Solar Program
Q. What is the purpose of a
Community Solar program?
To provide interested members an
option to purchase renewable, locallyproduced, solar energy.
month @ 8% interest for 36 months.
Total payment = $1,894.32 (or based
on current production unit sale price as
outlined in Exhibit A and terms above).
Option 3: (output from one-half panel)
One-time payment of $877 (or current
Q. Do I have to be a North Itasca
production unit sale price as outlined in
Electric Cooperative member to
Exhibit A).
participate?
Yes. You must be a North Itasca Electric Option 4: EASY-PAY (output from
member in good standing with an active one-half panel) $0 down, $26.31 per
month @ 8% interest for 36 months.
electric account.
Total payment = $947.16 (or based on
Q. How much energy will a solar
current production unit sale price as
panel produce?
outlined in Exhibit A and terms above).
Energy production will vary from month
to month and year to year based on total Q. How do I receive payment for
sunshine. Average annual production participating in the program?
per panel is estimated at 443 kWh. The total energy produced by the
This is less than the original estimate of entire solar array each month will be
600 kWh due to panel design and the divided by the number of panels. Each
estimated capacity factor for our region. participating member’s bill is reduced
by the number of kWh’s their panel(s)
Q. How much does it cost?
produce - priced at the current retail rate.
There are four pricing options available As rates change over time, the value of
for the kWh output of the panel(s):
the bill credits will change accordingly.
Option 1: (output from one full panel) Q. Can members with seasonal
One-time payment of $1,754 (or current homes participate in the Community
production unit sale price as outlined in Solar program?
Exhibit A).
Yes, the program works well for
Option 2: EASY-PAY (output from seasonal accounts. Energy produced by
one full panel) $0 down, $52.62 per the panel during months when there is
generation assets are located
in North Dakota, we will fall
under North Dakota’s plan.
Under the Clean Power Plan,
if states fail to develop a State
Implementation Plan or their
plan is considered too weak,
the Federal Government can
implement its own plan.
Great River Energy has
taken measures over the last
few years in anticipation of
this rule. GRE has accelerated
depreciation of its generation
assets in North Dakota. They
have also taken a leadership role
in developing a regional based
approach to CO2 reduction
under the premise that working
together through a regional
market approach will help share
the risk and associated costs
with CO2 regulation rather
than going it alone. Both of
these are prudent approaches to
mitigating costs.
Make no mistake; this
no electric use in the home is carried
forward to months with electric use. If
there are twelve consecutive months
with no kilowatt-hour use, the credits
will be forfeited. Production Credits
cannot be used to offset the monthly
facility charge.
Q. Will anything be installed at my
home?
No. All equipment will be installed
at the Bigfork Substation site. North
Itasca Electric will be responsible for
operating, maintaining and insuring the
array for the 20-year life of the program.
Jared Echternach, CEO
regulation will place upward
pressure on rates. To what
extent we do not know and it’s
far too early to tell. There will
be a litany of legal battles that
will likely last several years.
I assure you we will continue
to engage in the discussion
and work to minimize the
impact of the Clean Power
Plan on member rates.
to another individual or entity within
North Itasca Electric Cooperative’s
service territory.
Q. How many panels do I need?
Members can purchase the output
from as little as one-half panel or as
many panels up to their average annual
electric use.
Q. Will I save money by
participating in the Community
Solar program?
No. Based on our projections,
participants will actually pay more
for the electricity they use, as energy
produced by the solar array is more
Q. What if I move?
If you move your electric service to a expensive than traditional energy
different location within North Itasca sources.
Electric’s service territory, you can Q. If I can’t save money by
transfer the credit to your new location. participating in the Community
If you leave the area and are no longer Solar program, why would anyone
a member of North Itasca Electric participate?
Cooperative, you may elect to transfer Many people who participate in
or assign future panel production credits community solar projects do so for
to another individual or entity within reasons other than financial, such as
North Itasca Electric Cooperative’s environmental responsibility, locally
produced energy, new technologies,
service territory.
etc. If you are seeking a financial gain,
Q. If I cease to be a member will I
you would be better off investing your
receive a refund?
No. However, you may elect to transfer money elsewhere and use the proceeds
or assign future panel production credits to pay your electric bill.
page 4
September 2015
The heating season is fast approaching
by Jerry Loney, temperature swings start too late then shut down after
Energy Management it gets too warm, making your home uncomfortable.
Specialist The human body can sense temperature changes as
It is September already! little as 1.5 degrees. With thermostat swings of 3-4
The month leaves start degrees and systems not keeping up, it can make for
to change and the warm an uncomfortable home.
But is it entirely your heating system that’s
summer nights are taken
causing
your discomfort? The home's comfort is also
over by cool chilly breezes.
important.
The system can be secondary when it comes
This is nature’s gentle way
to
the
home's
efficiency. If your home is not retaining
of telling us winter is approaching, and we should start
think about getting ready for it. If you’re like me, you the heat the system places in it, one cannot blame the
don’t want to think about preparing for the cold, but heating system. Even with a top of the line system, if
rather continue enjoying summer as if winter was still the home cannot hold the heat within its walls and it
far off. But we‘ve lived in the northland long enough leaks out, that new efficient system will still need to
to know better, and know that the seasons do not wait run more to replace the escaping heated air. Not only
does energy costs increase, but your level of comfort
for anyone.
Those many outdoor projects needing completion suffers as well. Blower fans run more, increasing
are important, but the comfort of your home will be as energy use, and moisture levels drop causing those
well two months from now. Those fossil fuel furnaces discomforts of dry air, etc.
In past articles, I’ve written about the importance
will rumble with life again after a six-month slumber,
of
keeping your home tight. The tightness of your
ramping up for the winter's two coldest months,
home
depends upon its construction, how well holes
December and January. It is not only important to
keep our home heated, but also comfortable. The were sealed in exterior walls, ceilings, foundation, rim
heating system may be running and warm air delivered joist or wherever penetrations occur.
This article is not saying that one shouldn’t
to each room, but are you comfortable? Oversized
replace
a heating system, but first consider the
heating systems will deliver heat too fast; undersized
systems will run continuously not reaching the desired health of the structure itself. By tightening it up, you
temperature you would like. Thermostats with large will be preventing warm air from escaping, reduce
the number of hours the system runs and increase
building efficiency. When replacing your system,
WILLIAMS SEPTIC & ELECTRIC, INC.
Licensed & Bonded
Contact:
● Septic
Brian Williams at
Installation
(218) 659-4216
Inspection
Design
● Hauling & Excavating
● Residential & Commercial Wiring
Where skill meets compassion.
Chiropractic clinic
8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Mike Olson, D.C.
No referrals necessary
For appointments calls (218) 743-4340
you may even find the sizing requirement is reduced,
decreasing installation costs while still large enough
to satisfy any requirement.
My building is tight!
Great! Now we can look at the most efficient
ways to heat it. The first step is to have a heat loss
calculation done. Better yet, a blower door test can
be done which will measure the actual amount of heat
you’re losing. From this you will know the number
of Btus required for your home and what size system
you’ll need to work properly. Next you would select
the type of system best for you by comparing fuel
costs and energy rates.
North Itasca Electric has reduced electric rates for
off-peak and Dual Fuel heating programs. What is offpeak and Dual Fuel heating, you ask?
Off-Peak:
Off-peak is where a medium is heated during
nighttime hours when energy prices are low. The
medium will hold that heat during a 16 hour period,
disbursing it throughout the day until the following
night where it is recharged again for the following day.
Dual Fuel:
Dual fuel is where electric heat is used as a primary
heat source until the energy market rate climbs to a
price where Great River Energy will control your
electric heat, turning it off for a specific amount of
time. The dual part of the program is the backup heat
source in your home that maintains temperatures until
electric prices drop again and you start heating with
electricity again.
By being able to control these two programs, North
Itasca Electric is able to offer its members the low rate
of 4.7 cents per kWh for those on the Storage Space
Heat program also known as (off-peak) and 5.65 cent
per kWh for Dual Fuel heating.
The chart below shows how these rates compare to
fossil fuels.
P.O. Box 633 / 52034 Silk Rd. Squaw Lake, MN 56681
Program rebates:
To encourage storage space heating and use of
lower cost energy during the nighttime hours, we
are offering a $50 per kW rebate to those installing a
storage heating system.
There are no rebates for the Dual Fuel program,
but there is one for those installing air source heat
pumps which can be controlled. The system must
be installed by a qualified HVAC contractor who has
passed a test required by Great River Energy ensuring
that you’re getting a good quality installation.
If you’re interested to learn more about these
programs or others, give us a call. We are always here
to help you.
September 2015
page 5
Touchstone Energy Community Award
Edge Center hosts Piano Bar
Recent Sally Award winner, the
Edge Center for the Performing
Arts in Bigfork, hosted its seventh
annual Piano Bar fundraiser
on Saturday, Aug. 8. Over 170
energetic, enthusiastic people
listened and danced to the music
of the Northern Lights Trio &
Friends. the local, very dynamic
and versatile group performed
a variety of genres of music
including light jazz, Mexican, old
time, ballads, Gospel and 50s/60s
rock 'n roll. Over $1,500 was
raised for the Edge.
(submitted)
Safety tips
Tip 1: Bulb wattage matters! Light bulbs with wattages
that are too high for the light fixture can overheat the
fixture, causing a fire hazard.
Tip 2: Smoke detectors in your home should be tested
every month to ensure they are properly working.
Tip 3: How well do you know your home’s electrical
system? Make a map showing which fuse or circuit
breaker controls each switch, light or outlet.
Tip 4: Smoke detectors should be installed in every
bedroom, outside of each sleeping area and on every
level of your home.
Tip 5: Recurring tripped circuit breakers or multiple
blown fuses? This can signify a serious and dangerous
electrical problem! Contact a licensed electrician
immediately.
Tip 6: Do you have a wobbling ceiling fan? This can
wear out the fan’s motor over time. Turn off the fan
and tighten the screws to correct the problem.
Tip 7: Remember: Power strips and surge suppressors
do not provide more power to a location, only more
access to the same limited capacity of the circuit into
which it is connected.
Do you know an organization that has made outstanding contributions to the local community? North Itasca
Electric is seeking applications for the Touchstone Energy Community Award, which
recognizes businesses, nonprofit and community groups
that have shown a strong
commitment to the community. Any organization that
has helped in servicing North
Itasca Electric’s service territory making it a better place
to live and work is eligible for
a $500 cash award.
Community
members
may nominate an organization, association or business
by completing an application
form, available at North Itasca Electric, 301 Main Avenue
Bigfork MN 56628 or online
Keep us up-to-date Please keep
your contact information current
with our office. Please notify North
Itasca of any changes in property
ownership, mailing addresses,
phone numbers and email
addresses.
Correction:
In the Plum Tree Antiques article
in the August issue, Skip Drake sells maple syrup
only, not honey and the Flea Market dates are
July 4 and the Saturday of the Bargains Are Great
September weekend. We apologize!
at www.NorthItascaElectric.
com. Questions may be directed to Jerry Loney at (218)
743-3131. The application
will require a description of
the program or event and the
positive impact it brought
to the community. Completed applications must be
received at North Itasca Electric’s office by October 31.
-Beautiful flowers for all
occasions
(delivery in Bigfork &
surrounding areas)
-Unique gifts
218-743-6315
202 Main Ave.
Bigfork, MN
-Local handcrafted items
-Craft supplies
-Tanning bed
(full line of tanning products)
Open Mon. through Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
743-3607
Hours:
Sun-Thurs: 6 a.m.-7 p.m.
Fri and Sat: 6 a.m.-9 p.m.
!
za
Piz
Friendly, small town atmosphere
Ice cream ... the dipping kind!
Pie
!
Wireless Internet available
Every Monday evening: 1/4 lb. hamburger & fries
Every Friday evening: fish or fantail shrimp
Every Tuesday 11am-2 pm: hot beef sandwiches
Every Thursday 11am-2 pm: hot pork sandwiches
Major source: Electrical Safety Foundation International
Electrical Inspections
Except for minor repair work, all electrical work
you do at your home, cabin, or property is required to
be inspected by a State Electrical Inspector. A roughin inspection must be made before any wiring is covered. A final inspection is also required. Please visit
www.electricity.state.mn.us for more information.
The inspectors can be reached weekday mornings between 7:00 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.
▪ Itasca County - Steve Bartlett (218) 591-1616
▪ Koochiching County - Curt Collier (218) 9665070
▪ Beltrami, Clearwater counties - Davis Smid (507)
227-2772
www.robpowellexcavating.com
▪ Septic installation
September 2015
page 6
Edge Gallery
Edge Center Gallery in September
The Long Journey: paintings by Georgi
Tsenov
by Lynn Nachbar
Major life changes often influence artists
and their art. In the case of artist Georgi Tsenov,
sweeping changes took place over time and
distance. The paintings in The Long Journey
reflect these changes. The exhibit is at the Edge
Center Gallery in Bigfork from September 3 to
26.
Tsenov’s relationship with America has had
three stages. The first was his youth in Bulgaria
under Soviet Union oppression where only
rare glimpses of American culture gave people
a hope of freedom. In 1989 the fall of the
Berlin Wall signified the demise of the Soviet
Union, and end of the Cold War. In the second
stage, there was new freedom during the years
he studied at the National School of Fine Arts
and Sofia University in Bulgaria. As Tsenov
explains, “Democracy brought us the possibility
to explore and discover the art, literature and
culture of the western world. The movement
of abstract expressionism was for us a great
triumph of the spirit, and the liveliest opposition
to the stiff artistic patterns of totalitarianism.”
His painting style developed as a mixture of
realistic and abstract representation.
In 2009, Tsenov and his family moved to
Houghton on the Keweenaw Peninsula of
Northern Michigan. He describes the impact
of this third major life change, “As an artist,
the move from the Sofia, a city of more than
a million people, to the quiet, town of 13,000
was extremely difficult. My new setting was
interspersed with tall solemn trees reflected
in the crystalline waters of Lake Superior. In
the beginning, the nostalgia for my homeland
and the bustle of the city took hold of my
demeanor. Slowly, in harmony with the beauty
of the surrounding area, I began to let go of my
attachment to the traditional European styles,
and to explore the art of this new home.”
Tsenov generally starts his oil paintings
outdoors and transforms them in the studio.
There is a sense of movement, maybe wind,
in many of them. His style is colorful, and
expressive. You can identify most of the scenes,
Arts on the Edge
by Paul Kraska
The Inside Scoop On The Edge’s
“Sally Award”
You get a phone call from an assistant to the president of the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts in St. Paul.
Patricia Mitchell’s administrative assistant says that Patricia would like a tour
of the Edge Center while she was in the
area to court an Ordway donor.
Artistic Director for the Edge Center, Patricia Feld, agreed to the unusual
request that came last May and arranged
for a lunch at the Timberwolf Inn before
the tour. (Special donor indeed…in our
back yard…who was it, anyway)? But
an Edge Center visit seemed like a good
tie into such a long drive. When the Ordway CEO arrived late to lunch. Feld
asked her if there would still be time to
eat before Mitchell’s “donor” meeting.
She was told there was no donor. The
purpose of the visit was to tell her that
the Edge was being given a 2014 Sally
Award! The reason for the ruse was to
make sure that award was kept secret,
Edge Events
which is standard procedure for the
Ordway.
See
www.the-edge-center.org
This could be a good opening for added upcoming events and
for a mystery story. But that is how more information.. See http://
for
the events started that culminated edgecenterarts.blogspot.com/
descriptions of selected events.
in the Edge Center for the Arts receiving the annual Sally Award for • Sept.10 - The Shootist, starring
John Wayne (1976)
Arts Access on June 22.
•
Sept.
11 - Arrowhead 135 movieX,
“I would never turn down a
X
and
X p.m.
chance to show off the Edge anyway, but specially not to some- • Oct. 2 – Delinia White: Native
Traditional Skirts, 7 p.m.
one coming up from the Cities to
•
Nov.
8 – Itasca Symphony
see a ‘special’ donor in our area.
Orchestra
I expected an interesting visit,”
says Patricia Feld. “The Ordway
is a very special organization and
the Sally Awards are held in very a personal donation and “challenged”
high regard…particularly in the her community to help. On January
arts community. When I heard we 1, 1985, the Ordway opened at a cost
won a Sally award for our almost of $46 million. Sally contributed $7.5
totally volunteer-run organization, million and her family matched that.
“The Ordway is such a prestigious
lunch did not taste the same. I was
Twin
Cities arts organization,” conthrilled and very happy. The award
tinues
Patricia. “I’m not yet sure
we won is the 2014 Arts Access
what
the
award may mean for the
Award, and it is given to people
and organizations that, as they say, Edge, but the prospects are promis‘…provide the arts to rural areas in ing! That it’s an award for the work
accordance with the intent of the of the Edge and volunteers who do 95
Edge Gallery Calendar
Minnesota Legacy Amendment.’ percent of that work, it certainly is a
Sept. 3- 26:
source of pride for the community!
The Long Journey: Georgi Tsenov paintings What a wonderful achievement for
the years of hard work our volun- Also, during the reception after the
Opening Reception
teers put in for the enrichment of ceremony, several Twin Cities artFriday, September 4, 5-7 p.m.
the whole Edge of the Wilderness ists approached me to find out how
October 1-31:
they could go about performing at the
area.”
Circle of Anishinaabe:
Woodland Women Artists
The Sally Awards have hon- Edge. That means it will put us on the
Artists’ Reception
ored individuals and institutions map for a larger set of performers and
Friday, October 2, 5-7 p.m.
that strengthen and enrich our state visual artists than we’ve been able to
Program: Delina White’s show
with their commitment to the arts reach.
of Native traditional skirts
"Lakeland Public Television is
and arts education since 1992. St.
Friday, October 2, 7 p.m.
planning
on doing a TV Focus as part
Paul resident Sally Ordway Irvine
of
their
series,
and the Grand Rapids
had a dream of creating a perforbut the paintings are more emotional mance venue for the arts. She start- Herald Review did an article about
than realistic. Tsenov has participated in ed her Ordway project in 1980 with the award. All this points to a bright
Edge to p.7>
over 70 juried exhibitions and biennales
in Bulgaria, the European Union and the
United States.
“My life in this nation has been the
by Jack Nachbar The Shootist will be shown at the
culmination of a lifelong journey, and
For those of you who love Edge Center Theater in Bigfork on
the fulfillment of my youthful dreams.” Americana, Westerns, John Wayne Thursday, September 10 at 6:30
This is reflected in The Long Journey: or just great movies, the first movie p.m. All Classic Movies in the
paintings by Georgi Tsenov.
Meet of the 2015-16 Classic Movie series are FREE.
Tsenov and see the paintings at the free Series has your name on it. The
October Classic Movie: A
Opening Reception on September 4. Shootist (1976) was John Wayne's hilarious comedy to put you in
The exhibit continues until September last film, and many critics say it the Halloween mood: I Married a
26. Edge Center Gallery is next to the is one of his best performances. Witch (1942) stars Veronica Lake
Bigfork School and is open from 10 a.m. As aging gunfighter J.B. Books, and Frederic March. Thursday,
to 4 p.m. on Thursdays, Fridays, and Wayne gives the role of a dying October 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Edge.
Saturdays. For more information and man fighting to preserve his
updates, see www.the-edge-center.org.
integrity both depth and sympathy.
CLASSIC MOVIE SERIES
September 2015
page 7
A year later: What GRE has learned from its headquarters solar project
For a state where its residents
often say there are only two seasons
– “winter and road construction” – it’s
understandable why some would be
skeptical about Minnesota’s future in
generating solar energy.
Instead of chalking it up as a
renewable source that would be too
difficult to tap into, Great River
Energy (GRE) decided to develop
solar projects in collaboration with its
all-requirements member cooperatives
to learn just how well solar performs
across its service territory. The
inaugural 250 kilowatt (kW) project
was constructed at its Maple Grove
headquarters in May 2014, and
includes a mix of technologies to
help determine how solar energy
installations can be integrated into our
system.
September at the Edge
> from p. 6
future for the Edge and shows a maturity of the development that ‘WE’ can
all be proud of. I really want to thank
our WATTS NEWS readers and North
Itasca Electric Cooperative, Inc.
which has run this column since 2002.
That printing history has helped with
Access to the Arts too! The WATTS
NEWS is our most direct contact with
our audience, and we appreciate it as
well as our audience’s support.” Then
Patricia added, “I’m betting that that
Timberwolf meal was great, but I
don’t really remember it…”
Native Tribal Fashion Show
There will an on-stage fashion
show with Native Tribal Skirts on Friday, October 2 that will complement
the exhibit in the gallery. Both the
opening of the gallery exhibit and the
fashion show are on the same date.
The opening reception starts at 5
p.m. and then a photo presentation
plus fashion show on stage at 7 p.m..
We are familiar with Delina White’s
bead work from a 2013 event, which
was very impressive. From the website: http://www.iamanishinaabe.com/
“…This show is a collection of traditional skirts including beaded accessories that will be featured in a cultural show of fashion throughout several
venues in Minnesota. The show sets in
motion an era when apparel changed
dramatically for Native people in the
Great Lakes area…”
Smaller, 20-kW arrays were
planned at 19 of its member
cooperatives. Now, a year and 15
more solar arrays installed later, GRE
has compiled performance data so far
from its headquarters demonstration
project.
The Maple Grove project was built
to measure the performance of three
different panel technologies from
companies Suniva, tenKsolar and
Sharp; assess the benefits of a variety
of inverters; and document lessons
learned while designing, permitting
and installing the array.
Based on the year’s measurements,
the array had a combined 13.6 percent
capacity factor – meaning it produced
an average of 13.6 percent of its
potential output if it were possible
to operate at full nameplate capacity
continuously throughout the year.
Some months expectedly produced
less output, namely December, which
had a combined capacity factor of 3.1
percent.
“We knew production would be
less in the winter months, but we
didn’t have a gauge for how much
less,” said Andy Bergrud, GRE senior
engineering project manager. “We’ll
have to see year to year how that
compares to know if it was just a bad
year or if we potentially experienced
equipment issues.”
November, December and January
saw the most “erratic” output days,
versus “ideal” or “partially ideal.”
Ideal days resemble a bell curve, with
the sun coming up, clear skies, a peak
in the middle of the day, and then
sunshine tapering off into a sunset. On
a partially ideal day, the sun comes
up but clouds create erratic output
for a period of time before clearing
out, whereas the clouds either don’t
clear out or cover the sun on and off
throughout an erratic day.
During the year at Maple Grove’s
headquarters array, 10 percent of
the days were considered ideal, 20
percent partially ideal and 70 percent
erratic. The typically sunnier months
of June, July and August yielded no
ideal days, while September through
May saw up to 19 percent of ideal
days. Eighty percent of November
saw erratic output days, 81 percent of
December and 71 percent of January.
The first year of research and
demonstration project analysis is now
wrapping up, with lessons learned
that will help GRE to decide how
best to continue incorporating solar
in its generation mix. Engineers now
have data that shows the significant
seasonal output variance of the array,
as well as the large and rapid power
swings, which brings the topic of
energy storage to light.
“If you’re trying to maintain the Solar array at GRE headquarters.
electrical grid with solar
power and see swings of 99
percent output to 36 percent
output in 12 seconds, there’s
no other resource that can fill
the void in that amount of time
– nothing acts that quickly,”
License #060672-PM
Bergrud said. “That’s where
33204 Shadywood Road • Grand Rapids, MN 55744
you see there’s clearly a need
fax: (218) 327-9283 • [email protected]
for investigating the potential
benefits of energy storage
paired with renewables.”
M-F 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
With this in mind, GRE’s
Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
membership will continue
exploring opportunities to
While visiting Bigfork Valley, visit the Gift Nest!
further its understanding and
Gifts for staff and residents, jewelry, decor, cards,
involvement with distributed
kids’ toys, cookbooks, pot pourri, more!
generation
technologies,
218-743-4438 ◆ online at BigforkValley.org
including battery storage and
We deliver phone orders on campus.
small inverters. A team has
already begun looking at a
Lic. No. BC-667984
battery-storage project that
would tie into the solar arrays
located at the Maple Grove
headquarters with a goal of
testing battery life and the
value of storage in various
applications.
● Free estimates ● Home repairs
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Great River Energy is a participant in Solar Utility Network
Deployment Acceleration – a
program through which electric
cooperatives are working together to accelerate solar photovoltaic adoption across the
United States. The team of 14
cooperatives is developing and
testing standardized designs for
1 megawatt, 500 kilowatt and
250 kilowatt systems, along with
technical guidance and business
models. The team is also crafting
solutions that can be deployed by
any of the nation’s more than 900
cooperatives. As of May 2015,
GRE had the first completed
project of the participating cooperatives. That project was 0.25
megawatts minimum
● Additions
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8 a.m.-8 p.m.
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Located 1 mile off Hwy 38 on Co. Rd. 261
September 2015
page 8
2015 Coal Creek Tour
>from p.1
played informing the tourist of what to expect to see
with expectations of a fun filled trip. Once all were along with information about North Itasca Electric
aboard, introductions were made and the fun began Cooperative and its programs.
with questions, quizzes and prizes. Videos were
After a stop in Park Rapids to stretch our legs,
we were on the road again to arrive at the Snap
Dragon in Moorhead for lunch, where we were
provided with a good variety of Chinese foods
from its buffet. With one last stop in Jamestown
before arriving in Bismarck, road construction
slowed us down, delaying arrival time by 30
minutes and leaving only 30 minutes to check in
and freshen up before loading the bus again to tour
the newly remodeled Heritage Center. We had a
private, 1 ½ hour guided tour of the facility and
the items within displaying the past and present
culture of Bismarck. With a short 10 minute ride,
we were back at the hotel to spend the rest of the
night on our own.
Tuesday morning started out with a 6 a.m. buffet
With tour guide at Coal Creek Station
breakfast giving us 1 hour to be on the bus where Anne
Hanson (our personal
guide from Great River
Energy) led our way
to Falkirk Mine, Coal
Creek Station and Fort
Mandan. At Falkirk,
we loaded the mine’s
own tour bus which
was driven by Roxie
(Falkirk Mine's tour
guide), who drove
us through the mine
and right up to “Chief Fort Mandan
Property Clean-Out Service
Ironside” the mine’s
Say goodbye to clutter today! We do attics,
largest dragline. We were able to watch it shovel out
houses, basements, sheds, barns, estates,
soil down to the coal bed where trucks with tires as
...and much more.
tall as the ceilings in our homes, costing $30,000
each and only lasting 4 months were seen. Then off
to Coal Creek Station where we had yet again another
TAKE IT AWAY LLC
(218) 556-0075
takeitawayllc.com
We’ll take the clutter and stress away
leaving you with a broom clean space.
Garrison Dam intake structure on Lake Sakakawea
Inside Coal Creek Station
tour guide who took us through the plant, explaining
how electricity was produced for our homes and how
excess steam from the plant was used to operate the
adjacent Blue Flint Ethanol plant. After having lunch
at Coal Creek Station, We were off to the Garrison
Dam. Even though the Dam stops giving tours after
August 2, Anne Hanson (our guide), explained the
process in which the dam generated electricity and
its history. Then off to Fort
Mandan to see a building
built from fly ash, which is
a byproduct from burning
coal at Coal Creek Station.
Fly ash is used to replace
60 percent of Portland
cement in the construction
of roads and buildings along
with many other products.
It is lighter in weight and
it is stronger than Portland
cement. When our time was
up, we started a descent back
down to Bismarck via a scenic route suggested by
our tour guide for an evening on our own. Some went
swimming, some shopped at the mall adjacent to the
hotel and some of us went to eat (again).
On Wednesday morning, we were able to get an
extra hour of sleep before loading the bus at 8 a.m. for
our trip home. No different than the trip to Bismarck,
the bus ride home was just as lively. We had more
quizzes to win prizes and even a math question to teach
us how to figure the cost of heating domestic water to
120 degrees. We stopped for lunch in Fargo and had a
great buffet at Marlin’s Family Restaurant where ribs
and chicken were the main entrée. Upon arriving at
our last rest stop in Park Rapids, we began to realize
our trip was coming to an end, and as Bemidji
came into view, more than a few heads were
facing the bus floor in silence. These slumbering
members weren’t sleeping because of boredom,
but contentment for we had another successful
Coal Creek Tour of learning, entertainment and
relaxation.
As the host of the trip, I must say the travelers
made my job easy. I received many comments
from both the hotel and the employees of Coal
Creek Station that this group was one of the
livelier ones they’ve seen, and I thank those on the
trip for the opportunity to be your host.
Until next trip.
September 2015
page 9
Dedication of Ortman
Substation
>from p.1
carried through was a testament to the tenacity and
perseverance of Jeff Ortman, he said, who believed that
everyone deserves reliable electricity no matter where
they live.
Whenever he would meet him, Saggau said, Jeff
would ask two questions as they shook hands. First
Jeff would say, “How are you?” And then he would
ask, “When will you get the substation built?”
Then there would be a third question: Are you on
budget with your projects?
Jeff would be pleased, said Saggau, that this project
was on budget.
The new 69 kV line taps a 230kV line running from
Manitoba to the Shannon Substation in the HibbingKeewatin area – a line owned in partnership by three
utilities and providing an important transmission
source for them. Negotiations were difficult with the
utility partners due to the complexity of the existing
transmission line agreements associated with the 230kV
line, said GRE Project Manager Chuck Lukkarila, and
added time to the project.
The substation site itself was on land that had to
be approved by the state legislature and signed by the
governor due to the state tax forfeited land process, and
even then the soft ground required a significant amount
of fill brought to the site. There was an additional cost
of delivering the fill to the site because of Highway 5
road construction-required alternate routes. Lukkarila
recognized the efforts of the GRE staff in completing
the substation including Paul Orndorff, transmission
construction supervisor, and the construction line crew
of Steve Stinar, Jr. foreman; Greg Shaffer, lead; and
Brett Gaddie and Dave Brouse, linemen.
The 230kV transmission line tap and line switch is
owned by Minnesota Power as the line enters on the
230kV side and goes through large circuit breakers
before a step down transformer. GRE then owns the
69kV circuit breakers as the 69kV transmission line
exits the substation, tying into the existing transmission
line serving the North Itasca Electric system near the
Bigfork Substation. Distribution power to the control
room at the substation is provided by North Itasca
Electric and is backed up by banks of batteries. The
controls themselves can be activated onsite or by GRE
operators in Elk River.
The dedication celebrated the completion of the
substation and contributions of Jeff Ortman followed
by a symbolic splicing of cable by Sandra Ortman.
Blue sky, white clouds and a brisk breeze were the
backdrop to the ceremony. “This is a great day,” said
Saggau.
Energy Efficiency
Tip of the Month
Looking for an easy
efficiency upgrade?
Additional insulation can
make a difference! The
Department of Energy
estimates you can reduce
heating and cooling needs
up to 30 percent by properly
insulating and weatherizing
your home.
Source: energy.gov
(From top left, clockwise) Great
River Energy CEO David
Saggau chats with Joel Karels,
staff assistant and Roy Bain,
director before the ceremony;
Ortman Substation, transformer
is in the center with 230 kV
entering from left, 69 kV
exiting to right; North Itasca
Electric CEO Jared Echternach
with opening remarks; guest of
honor Sandra Ortman.
Edge of the Wilderness Realty
HUGE MOVING SALE
58353 State Hwy 38 - Bigfork, MN
Friday, Sept. 18
| 9-5
Saturday, Sept.19 | 9-5
Sunday, Sept. 20 | 9-2
Antiques, collectibles, furniture, pictures,
household, craft, hand & power tools,
mowers, elk head & mobility scooter.
Office- (218)832-4000
Toll Free- (800)767-4872
48921 State Highway 38 Marcell, MN 56657
“Get the Edge”
Located Next to Frontier Sports
Terry Schmitz
Broker/Owner
(218)244-1165
[email protected]
Top Producing
Real Estate Team
in Northern
Itasca County
Greg Anselmo
Broker/Owner
(218)244-4648
[email protected]
Check out our webcam on North Star Lake
www.EOWRealty.com
èAll You Can Eat Fish Fry
Every Wednesday, 5-7 p.m. ~ $7.95
èBar Bingo Every Thursday at 7 p.m.
èBurger Nite–1/4 Lb. Burgers and Chips
as low as $3 ~ Monday 5-7 p.m.
Squaw Lake
Best Breakfasts and Burgers Anywhere
Follow Fish Tales in Squaw Lake on
Facebook or call 218-659-4488 for
Specials and/or Events.
Second Saturday of Each Month
Steak Fry
8 Oz. Sirloin ~ 5-8 p.m.
Baked Potato, Coleslaw and Texas Toast
$
1095
èBREAKFAST HOURS:
èGRILL HOURS:
Monday-Saturday 7 a.m.-11 a.m.
Sundays 7 a.m.-12 noon.
Monday-Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Happy Hours 4-6 p.m. Monday - Friday
M.A.D. Gutters
seamless gutter installations
This photo shows the Bigfork City Hall as it
looked when it was built in 1936 by the WPA.
This beautiful stone building is on the National
Registry of Historic Places.
We are in need of donations to return this
building to its appearance in 1936.
Please send your donations to Bigfork Improvement Group, Bigfork Restoration Project, P.O. Box
225, Bigfork, MN 56628
Name________________________ Amount ______
HEAVY DUTY Office: 218-743-6448
GUTTER PROTECTION
“where technology meets demand”
Cell: 218-929-7134
www.madgutters.com
Now offering Rain Barrels!
Free Estimates
Address ____________________________________
________________________________________
Phone _____________________________________
September 2015
page 10
Right-of-Way Clearing Notice:
ARDENHURST
GRATTAN POMROY
ALVWOOD
KINGHURST
WIRT
LIBERTY
LIBERTY
LAKE
JESSIE
2015 ROW Clearing Areas
North Itasca Electric Co-op
Construction Services Inc.
“Serving the excavation needs of Itasca County
and beyond since 1968”
Ray V. Kongsjord & Sons
www.rkconstructionservices.com
email: [email protected]
Office: (218) 832-2842
Cell: (218) 244-6201
39335 State Highway 286
Marcell, MN 56657
• Demolition roll off service
• Site preparation • Landscaping
• Basements • Septics • Shoreland
• Gravel • Road construction
Bonded and licensed - MPCA Lic. 1204
Trees and power lines make lousy
neighbors. North Itasca Electric
Cooperative will be removing trees
and brush in the following townships:
Ardenhurst, Gratten, Pomroy, Liberty,
Alvwood Kinghurst, Wirt and Lake
Jessie.
Clearing within the right-of-way
areas began in June and continue
through early 2016. Please see the map
identifying will areas scheduled for
clearing.
The right-of-way required is 40
feet - 20 feet on each side of primary
lines and pole - and 10 feet minimum
on each side of secondary lines. If you
do not have overhead power lines on
your property, no trees and brush will
be removed.
Saturday, Sept. 12
Bigfork Valley Challenge
On Saturday, Sept. 12, fall colors will welcome runners
and walkers from around the area to the Bigfork Valley
Challenge half marathon and 10k races, and 5k walk/run.
It’s an event that was first held in 2005, and since
then has been expanded each year. This year a pre race
“Dinner and a Movie” will be held. A spaghetti feed in
the Commons on Friday evening, Sept. 11 from 5 to 6:30
p.m. ($5) will start the evening off. Then participants will
be able to screen Arrowhead 135 at the Edge Center, a
chronicle of one of the hardest winter ultra-races in the
country – 135 miles by foot, bike or ski and completed
within 60 hours. The community is also invited to the
dinner and movie.
Races on Saturday begin at 8 a.m. Preregister at
BigforkValley.org (click on Health Resources>Calendar),
or register at the event starting at 7 a.m. Routes are
USATF certified and electronically timed. Technical tee
shirts are included while supplies last. Children under 6
are free.
After the race enjoy the traditional ice cream cone and
an award ceremony as well as lunch. Lunch is included
in the registration and is available for spectators for $5.
Bargains Are Great on 38
Love to make that special find? There are lots of places
to look on the third weekend in September when the 47
miles of the Edge of the Wilderness National Scenic
Byway is lined with garage sales. The sales extend along
Highway 38 from Grand Rapids to Effie.
Sale times vary and some businesses rent space for
those located off the highway.
For more information, call (218) 832-3161.
September 2015
DATE OFF
page 11
Outage Report for July 2015
AREA AFFECTED
OH/UG
CAUSE
TIME OFF
# MEMBERS
Outage chart shows what the Line Department
responded to during the month, including cause,
length of outage, whether the fault was overhead
(OH) or underground (UG), and the location.
● Yearly average time a member is out of power is 129.85
minutes
● Yearly average number a member experiences a sustained
interruption: 0.77
● Yearly average time required to restore service is 168.24
minutes.
GUNSTOCK CHECKERING
All types of gunstock checkering
We can create virtually any design or use your own
We can recreate your worn-out checkering like new
We refinish stocks with the hand rubbed English oil method
Custom stocks built here. Boyds and Richards microfit
blanks.
RC Keith GUNSTOCK CHECKERING 218-897-5152
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Call Kevin for a no-obligation quote or policy review
218-743-3545 or www.phafinancial.solutions
401 Main Ave., Bigfork 56628 next to the post office
Offering family medical care,
outpatient lab and prescription pick-up.
Balsam clinic hours: M-Th, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
Provider hours: M-Th, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
41150 Scenic Hwy 7, Bovey, MN 55709
For appointments call (218) 245-2610
Where skill meets compassion.
page 12
AARP Smart
Driver Course
The AARP Smart Driver course teaches drivers age
55+ valuable defensive driving skills and provides a
refresher of the rules of the road. The course costs
$15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members.
Space is limited, so register now by calling the host
phone listed with class dates. There are NO written
or driving tests to pass this course – just be an active
participant. Plus, you will qualify for a 10 percent
automobile insurance discount by completing the
course.
Local classes
Courses at Deer River Community Ed; 101 First
Avenue NE, Deer River. To register, call 246-8241 Ext.
60227
Tues., Oct. 6 Refresher at Deer River Community
Ed; 4-8 p.m.
Mon./Weds, Oct. 12/14 Eight hour course, 5-9 p.m.
Senior meals
Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency offers
senior dining available to 60 plus and their spouse
at Bigfork Over 50 Club (M-F, 11:30 a.m.). Register
by calling (218) 749-2912 or toll free 1 (800) 6625711, Ext. 223. The price for the home cooked meals
is $3.50. Reserve by 9 a.m. at 743-3121.
An Old Fashioned General Store
Spring Lake Store
Groceries, hardware, movies,
gas, gifts, post office, waste
coupons, licenses, housewares
MasterCard and Visa
Hours:
Mon-Sat: 8 a.m.- 6 p.m.
Sun: 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
218-832-3626
On Hwy 4, 1 mile west of Hwy 29
Community Education
Bigfork: Register for classes at 743-3444 or Deer River:
online at www.getlearning.org.
DOG TRACKING
Date: Saturday, 9/5
Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Location: Meet at Edge parking lot
Fee: $50. Adult audit without dog, $25
Dog tracking in the field. Students under 15 must
come with adult (no fee for adult). For dogs with basic
manners on 6 ft. leash, no flexi leashes. Bring training
treats and portable dog crate or harness. Rain or shine.
MONOPRINT PRINTMAKING
Date: Wednesdays; 9/16-9/29
Time: 4-5 p.m.
Location: Bigfork School Art Room
Fee: $30
Make art prints using Jello® and other materials.
BEGINNING YOGA FOR KIDS
Date: Tuesdays; first session 9/22-10/13
Time: 3:15-4 p.m.
Location: Marcell Family Center
Fee: $50. Adult audit without dog, $25
Enhance flexibility, strength, coordination, and body
awarenes
PERMIT TO CARRY - MINNESOTA
Date: Saturday, 9/26
Time: 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Location: Bigfork School Media Center
Fee: $20/4 sessions
Bring handgun and at least 50 rounds of ammunition; or
one will be provided as well as eye and ear protection.
Allows you to carry in 24 additional states.
COFFEE BREAK! Get your morning joe at the
Kootasca Senior Center in beautiful Northome
every Tuesday and Thursday morning 8 to 9:30
a.m. All welcome!
area bookmobile stops
Tuesdays: Sept. 15; Oct. 6, 27
Where skill meets compassion.
Bigfork Valley Fitness Center
Open 24 hours ♦ 7 days a week
Call 743-4133 for membership information
Rental lockers ♦ Showers
September 2015
11:15-11:45 Spring Lake Store
1:15 - 2:00 Bowstring Store
2:15 - 3:00 Talmoon: Hayslip’s Corner
4:00 - 4:30 Effie: Effie Cafe
4:45 - 5:45 Bigfork: Main Street
6:45 - 7:15 Balsam: Comm. Center
Thursdays: Sept. 17; Oct. 8, 29
1:15 - 2:00 Togo: School vicinity
Fridays: Sept. 11; Oct. 2, 13
12:30 -1:00 Gemmel; Comm.Church
1:15 -1:45 Mizpah; Post Office
2:15 - 3:00 Northome; Post Office
3:45 - 4:45 Alvwood; Hoot-n-Holler
5:00 - 6:30 Squaw Lake; Community Ctr
Bookmobile or Mail-a-Book information: call
Arrowhead Library System at (218) 741-3840
Register for classes
online at (218) 246-8241, Ext. 227 or www.
getlearning.org
THE AMAZING CHARLES MAGIC SHOW
Date: Thursday, 9/17
Time: 6-8 p.m.
Location: King Elementary Gym
Fee: Free
Free family event.; show, treats, booths. A Children
First! event.
Blackduck:
Register and call for more
information at (218) 835-5206.
BARN QUILTING
Date: Saturday, 9/19
Time: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Location: Blackduck High School Room 121
Fee: $50, supplies included in fee
Register by 9/17, limited class size. Learn art,
techniques and history of making Barn Quilts, a large
piece of wood painted to look like a quilt pattern. Form
and info at blackduck.k12.mn.us under Community Ed.
Bigfork Valley Fitness
Register for fitness classes at (218) 743-4133.
Classes offered free to Fitness Center members; $2 per
session to non-members. Classes are in Rehab Gym at
Bigfork Valley Hospital.
Tough Tuesdays | Tuesdays, 6:15 a.m.
High intensity circuit training class; must sign up in
advance.
Pilates | Wednesdays, 5 p.m.
Stability Ball Core Class | Fridays, 6:30 a.m.
Saturday Rocks | Saturdays, 8 a.m.
High intensity circuit training class; must sign up in
advance.
Senior Fitness | Saturdays, 10 a.m.
Power Abs, Back and Core | Mondays, 4:30 p.m.
Area Resources
Blackduck
Community
Library: 835-6600
Sun, Mon.: Closed
Tues: 1-6 p.m..
Wed:9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Thurs:1-7 p.m.
Fri: 1-6 p.m.
Sat.: 9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Resource Centers:
Blackduck:
(218) 835-5768
Northome:
(218) 897-5952
Northome Library
Resource Center
897-5952
Mon: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Tues: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Wed: 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Thurs.: 12-3 p.m.,
Fri.: 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
AA meeting:
Old Scenic Community
Church, 25747 County Road
340, Thurs., 7 p.m.
Contact: Richard at (218)
743-3970 or Jim at (218)
245-1804
September 2015
Community News
Bigfork
page 13
Email editor at sedgwick@
paulbunyan.net, put Community
News in the subject line
The Northern Itasca Hospital District annual meeting will be held on Tuesday, Sept.
1 at 11 a.m. on the Bigfork Valley Campus. Guest speaker will be Matt Anderson,
senior vice-president of policy and strategy for the Minnesota Hospital Association.
Light lunch will follow the meeting.
The Bigfork Music Band Association is participating in the Bargains Are Great
sales on Saturday, Sept. 19, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. and will be located in the City Hall.
New and slightly used items plus concessions: coffee, BBQ, hot dogs, chips and
lemonade. Donations welcome until Sept. 17, contact Alycia Johnson for drop
off times and place. Volunteers needed. For more information contact: Alycia
Johnson, 743-3444, Ext 42530, ajohnson@isd318org; Sherry Pearson, 832-2424,
[email protected]; or Susie Ollrich, 289-3300 [email protected] .
Deer Lake (rural Effie)
Have a band? Play an instrument (even if it is a kazoo)? Like to listen to grassroots
music? Come to the Deer Lake Charlie's Jug Band Boogie on Sunday, Sept. 13 starting
at 3 p.m. Deer Lake Charlie's is at mile marker 200 on Highway 1 east of Effie. More
information or to sign up a band call (218) 743-3082 or email jugbandboogie@gmail.
com . Free admission.
Marcell
The Bigfork Valley Community Foundation 8th annual Gala fundraiser "An Evening
in the Northwoods" will be on Saturday, Sept. 26 starting at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are
$35 and include a dinner catered by the Timberwolf Inn, entertainment by Charmin
Michelle and Sam Miltich and Friends, and a silent auction. To reserve tickets or for
more information, call 743-4116. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Marcell
Family Center acoustic improvements in the large event room.
Northome
The North Woods Craft Store of Northome will be closing its doors at 5 p.m. on
Saturday, Sept. 5 for another season. We wish to thank all of you who visited
the store this past summer and hope to see you again next summer. There will be
NO board meeting scheduled for September, but we will have a board meeting on
Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 3 p.m. at the Northome Library.
Marcell Family Center
218-832-3444
49023 State Highway 38 Marcell, MN 56657
Annual Fall '15 Rummage Sale
Saturday, Sept. 19 ◆ 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Food for sale by the Jesse Lake Lutheran Church
Tables and space, $15
Call (218) 832-3444
MFC hours: Fitness Center,
multi-purpose room, public computer room and high speed Internet
wireless hotspot.
Mon: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., 4 p.m.-7 p.m.
Wireless Internet Hotspot:
FREE: Requires registration. Open
during MFC hours above.
MFC Open Gym
Monday-Saturday. Call for hours.
Parents must accompany children
under the age of 16. Register at 218832-3444
Soma Yoga
Beginner yoga practice that will
strengthen your body, deepen your
breath and soothe your mind. This
practice will help to create strength and
flexibility and balance.
Tuesdays: 9:30 a.m.-10:45 a.m.
Instructor: Patti Alt
Tues, Thurs: 6:30-8:30 a.m. (8:30
library), 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m.
Weds: 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. 11 - 2 p.m..
Fri: 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Sat: 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Location: Marcell Family Center
Fee: $10 per individual class/session
Register with Marcell Family Center,
218-832-3444
Fitness Center membership
Eliptical Crosstrainer, Treadmills,
Bike, Strength Training Machines,
Free Weights, more! Fee: Membership (student, adult, family or day
pass)
MFC Fitness walking
Tu, Th 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Register at
getlearning.org.
List of participating businesses, Co-op Connections Card
North Itasca Electric Cooperative 301 Main Ave., Bigfork (218) 743-3131
Buy 1 appliance at regular price, receive 15% off second appliance of equal or lesser
value. Receive an additional 10% off on each appliance if you pick up.
Anchor Inn Resort
55960 Co Rd. 4, Spring Lake (218) 659-2718
10% off gifts, garments, bait and tackle; 15% off basic cabin rental.
Cozy Air Heating and 46461 Alder Rd., Marcell (218) 832-3246
Plumbing Services
$50 off purchase off an Energy Star appliance with $1,000 purchase.
Dun-Rite Cabinets & 50917 E Dixon Lk Rd, Squaw Lake (218) 659-4797
Construction, LLC
Free octagon cedar bird feeder with the purchase of a full set kitchen cabinets.
Effie Café
100 NW State Hwy 1, Effie
(218) 743-3607
25% off purchase of second entree of equal or lesser value. Limit 1 meal per card per visit.
Timber Rose Floral and Gifts 202 Main Ave., Bigfork
10% off any one item in a day's purchases
(218) 743-6315
Kocian’s Family Market
P.O. Box 225, Bigfork
(218) 743-3113
5% off on Tuesdays excluding lottery, tobacco and alcohol products.
Laurel’s All Needlecrafts Supply 40095 Hwy 2 E, Deer River (218) 246-8330
10% off needlecraft supplies with $25 purchase
Little Turtle Lake Store
49926 State Hwy 6, Talmoon (218) 832-3804
Save 3 cents per gallon of gas for cash sales only. (No department store or credit cards.)
My Lake Home B&B
50917 E Dixon Lake Rd, Squaw Lake (218) 659-4797
10% off of lodging of 3 nights or more.
Plum Tree and Co. 39362 State Hwy 38, Marcell (218) 838-2332
10% off total purchase
(218) 743-3616
Polar Insulation 3% insulation upgrade.
(218) 743-6145
Riley’s Fine Food & Drink
$1 off large pizza.
46551 Riley Rd, Deer River
Frontier Sports & Grocery 48919 St Hwy 38, Marcell
10% off 14” pizza.
(218) 832-3901
Sleepy Hollow Resort 10% off lodging.
64264 State Hwy 46, Northome (218) 897-5234
G & G Restoration, Remodeling 49653 S Jesse Lk Rd, Talmoon
and Roofing
5% off on all projects.
(218) 832-6396
Effie Country Service
P.O. Box 14, Effie
12” sub sandwiches, $5; $5 off oil changes
Five Star Mechanical
5% off one service call.
375 SE Hwy 1
51041 State Hwy 46, Squaw Lake
(218) 659-4351
(218) 832-3656
page 14
PLACE AN AD
Contact the editor by
one of the ways in the
coupon at the bottom
of the page or bring
your ad into the office.
DISPLAY ADS
Emaiil your ad in pdf
format or ask us to
create one for you.
Ads run from $12 per
month for the business card size (3.25
inches wide x 1.75
inches high) to $24
per month for a square
3.25 inch ad, which is
our largest commercial ad size.
SERVICES
Services Classifieds
for businesses are $5
per month. Size is
limited. Text only.
CLASSIFIEDS
Free to members,
$5 per insertion to
businesses and non
members (will be in a
box).
-SERVICES-
C&C Sawing/
Wood Products LLP
custom milling,
blade sharpening for
sawmills
Curt & Cindy Snyder, Owners
(218) 743-3413
(218) 244-6265
(218) 360-0994
[email protected]
Two’s Company
218-244-1916
[email protected]
Interior/exterior
painting and staining,
window washing
fully insured, references
Penny’s Keepsake
Quilting
Turn your quilt top
into a keepsake.
Offering quality
machine quilting at
reasonable prices
(218) 832-3684
10% discount with ad.
September 2015
CLASSIFIEDS
-SERVICES-
Landscaping
Services
www.
landscapewithlloyd.
com
Marcell Boat &
Mini Storage
Main Street Marcell
Call (218) 832-3500
Lepinski Painting
interior/exterior Call
for free estimate
15 yrs experience
218-743-6878 or
218-248-0717
M.A.D. Gutters
-SERVICES-
Monuments
and Markers
Gus’s Auto and
Recycling of Bigfork
Also do final dating,
cleaning, foundation
work.
Used auto parts, steel,
tires and bridge beams.
Available in granite
and bronze.
FREE estimates.
Serving your area.
Jerry Pula, sales rep.
Call (218) 743-3711
Bigfork
Mini-Storage
FIRST MONTH FREE
Many sizes available
Guaranteed lowes prices
24 hour personal access
Cheap outdoor storage as well
(218) 743-6566
Gutterglove® gutterguard
Ultimate gutter protection
Seamless gutter installation
(218) 743-6448
Cell: (218) 929-7134
Proudly made in the USA
-SERVICES-
Check your ad.
Contact the editor to
make changes by the
deadline date.
Wanted: Junk.
Cars, trucks and other
property clean up.
A buyer of metals
Snowplowing
Over 20 years experience
(218) 929-7117
Hm: (218) 743-3598
Gus David
-SERVICESTake It Away LLC
Property Clean-Out Service
Say goodbye to clutter
today!
We do attics, houses,
basements, sheds, barns,
estates ...and more.
(218) 556-0075
takeitawayllc.com
We’ll take the clutter and
stress away, leaving you with
a broom clean space.
Life’s Companion
Highland Care:
Home care providers for
elderly, adults, special
needs children. “Our
goal is to maintain dignity
and independence in a
safe home environment.”
Call collect weekdays;
8:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.
(218) 326-1179 or stop
by at 111 NW 11th St.,
Grand Rapids, MN 55744.
We are an EOE employer.
www.madgutters.com
800-252-1166
or 811
Whenever you plan
to dig over 12 inches
deep, 2 days before you
start, call Gopher One
at (800) 252-1166. It’s
required by Minnesota
state law and it is a free
service.
• recipes • recipes • recipes • recipes • recipes • recipes • recipes • recipes • recipes • recipes • recipes •
Green Bean and Chicken Casserole
Thanks to Thomas Stafford for this September recipe!
1 - 10 3/4 oz can cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup milk
1 cup herb seasoned stuffing crumbs
1/4 cup butter or margarine, melted
4 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch wide strips and
cooked thoroughly
1 - 14.5 oz can cut green beans, drained
Blend together well soup and milk. In another bowl, mix stuffing and
melted butter.
Spray a 2 quart glass baking dish (11" x 7") with oil and layer chicken,
green beans, soup mixture and stuffing mixture.
Bake about 45 minutes at 350°. If chicken is raw when assembled,
make sure chicken is done (juice is clear when cut and temperature
reaches 165°). Mixture should be hot and bubbly.
Please share your recipe with us! If your recipe is chosen, you will
receive a $10 credit on your electric bill from North Itasca Electric
Cooperative. Send your recipe to the editor, WATTS NEWS, P.O.
Box 243, Bigfork, MN 56628.
Mexican Wedding Cake
Thanks to Nancy Cummings for this September recipe!
2 cups flour
2 cups white sugar
2 eggs
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 - 20 oz can crushed pineapple (do not drain)
1 cup walnuts
Mix eggs and sugar. Add pineapple, flour, baking soda and
walnuts. Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes. Cool. Spread with
frosting.
Keep cake refrigerated.
Mix well:
Frosting
1/2 cup butter or margarine
8 oz cream cheese
1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
September 2015
-WANTED-
Wa n t e d : Wo o d - s l a t
snow fencing in useable
condition.
Call (218)
10/15
832-3791
-FOR SALE-
For sale: 2 Anderson vinyl clad beige windows.
Like new. 46"W x 77"H
w/insulated glass, storm
combination. $50 each
See also FARM.
obo. Round Lake area
(Scenic). Call (218) 245Wanted: Med size dog. 0123 10/15
Older dog is fine. Must For sale: Border colbe good with kids and up lie puppies $250. Leave
to date on shots. Please message at (218) 743text with price and pics.
10/15
6099
Call Amy (218) 256-6156
9/15 For sale: Honda 22 inch
lawn mower.
Model
-SALESHRS 2162 PDA. Used
Weekend moving SALES only in a mulching setup.
at 24754 Co. Rd 52, BigExc condition. $ 160.
fork. Fridays l p.m.; SatSells new at L&M for
urdays 10 a.m.; Sundays
$389 plus tax. Call (218)
1 p.m. Lots of tools,
10/15
659-2797 fishing, household small
appliances; new things For sale: Frigidaire 5 cu.
added daily. LOTS OF ft. heavy duty commercial chest freezer. Very
STUFF.
good condition. $75.
The Plum Tree & Co.
Near Wirt. Call (218)
(Best little Antique Store
10/15
659-2997
in Northern MN)
Thurs -Sat | 10 – 4
Closing for the season
Saturday; Sept.19.
The Plum Tree will host
its Annual Highway 38
Flea Market again this
year. Come and shop The
Plum Tree’s Final SALE
of the year or set up and
sell your wares. Vendor
space is $20.00. Contact
Brenda (218) 838-2332
For information www.
plumtreeandco.com or
like us on Facebook.
-FOR SALE-
For sale: 40 muskrat
stretchers and 20 mink
drying boards, $1 each.
Deer river area. Call (218)
244-1636 10/15
For sale: 22 cu. ft. Kelvinator commercial chest
freezer. Excellent condition. $525. Bigfork area.
Call (218) 244-1636 10/15
For sale: 15.7 cu. ft.
Montgomery Ward Deluxe Chest Freezer, Excellent condition, Bigfork
area. $225. Call (218)
10/15
244-1636 For sale: Wayne ½ hp
cast iron shallow well jet
pump, like new. $100.
Call (218) 743-3296 10/15
For sale: Pressed board
shelving. Also a couple
of cabinets. Good to fair
For sale: Rem. 30.06 bolt condition. Very useable
action LDL with a Bush- yet. Call for sizes & pricnell banner scope and es (218) 832-3791 10/15
case. $500. "Like new."
Call (218) 659-4432 10/15 For sale: New, never
used Swisher field mowFor sale: 1920s one room er. 14.5 hp, 60" cut. Pull
schoolhouse bell. 14 in behind. $1,000. Call
wide. Exc. condition. Will (218) 832-3475
9/15
consider respectable ofFor
sale:
JD
X310
18
fers. Call (218) 659-2797
hp
44"
2
stage
blower
10/15
w/hydraulic lift, chains,
weights & cab, 42" mower deck, 2014. $550. Call
(218) 832-3250 9/15
For sale: Impulse hunting bow. 26"-28" draw,
50# to 65# pull. 6 hunting arrows and cloth case.
$125. Call (218) 65910/15
4432 page 15
CLASSIFIEDS
-FOR SALE-
For sale: Recurve bow,
$75. One set of 4 retro
Pyrex bowls (primary
colors), $30. 1.5 qt. milk
glass punch bowl and 18
cups, $20. Call (218)
9/15
659-4260 For sale: 1953 "Case"
caterpillar model #320.
Runs good and looks
good. Near Northome.
Call Shaun for info, (612)
366-0435 or (612) 9919/15
7989 For sale: Model 3145
Merritt Singer sewing sachine with a cabinet/chair
and a hexagonal end table.
Call (218) 259-4490
-FOR SALE-
For sale: Diamond willow, about a pickup full.
Mostly bigger. Make an
offer. Call (218) 2449/15
7349
-FISHING-
For sale: 14 ft. Lund
fishing boat: bench seats,
4 hp Johnson motor (1970
like new), Sears trailer.
$450. Call (320) 56410/15
4137 AD DEADLINE
for OCTOBER issue, WEDS, September 16
-FISHING-
For sale: Eklof D-100
dock. 40 ft long x 4 ft.
wide with 4 ft x10 ft “L.”
10 ft bench, 2 bumpers,
pipe jack, driver and float.
Very sturdy. New cost
$6,700. Sell for $3,500
obo. Sand Lake. Call
(651) 308-6999 9/15
For sale: 1976 6 hp
Johnson outboard motor.
$300. Call (218) 6599/15
2933 For sale: 1978 18 ft.
pontoon, 40 hp Johnson,
new battery, 3 fishing
chairs, no trailer. $1,500
obo. Call (763) 537-4777
For sale: VIBO 3600 lbs
vertical boat lift with blue
canopy for large boat.
New $6,000, sell $3,000.
Exc. condition. Jessie
Lake. You must move.
9/15
9/15 Call (763) 571-0750 or
-VEHICLESFor sale: 30 button An- ellie.bernardson@gmail.
For
sale: Truck, O5 –
9/15
glo Concertina (music in- com 2500
Ram with Boss V
strument) Original cost For sale: 1976 6 hp
Plow
$10,000 Call (218)
was $400 and now re- Johnson outboard motor.
9/15
244-7349
duced to $150. Call (218) $300. Call (218) 6599/15
324-1442 For
sale:
Ford
9/15
2933 For sale: Miniature liquor For sale: 2 ice fishing Thunderbird, turbo coupe
bottle collection, mostly spears, (1) 7 tines, (1) 6 1988 Ford. Has brake
and some
full. Over 1,300 bottles in tines. $50 firm for each. problems
birch case, 5 ft wide x 6 ft Call (218) 929-3079 9/15 rust. Runs great. Has
classic plates. Price to
tall x 1 ft deep, 11 shelves
(10 glass, 1 wood). Lock- For sale: Boat trailer, be determined. Call Jim
ing. Sliding glass doors. Spartan Supreme. Will (218) 832-3233
10/15
Bottles from the 1930s take a 17 ft boat. Good For sale: '03 Crown
until present. Crockery shape. $600 cash firm. Victoria LX. Exc. cond,
jugs, beer bottles, liquor. Call (507) 321-0554 9/15 high mileage, no rust.
$3,500 cash. Call (218) For sale: 14 ft Lund boat Call (218) 256-1560 9/15
with 20" transom; 15 hp
832-3863 9/15
Evinrude long shaft 1989 For sale:
"Get that
For sale: Pair of Excel motor. Exc. cond., stored thang outta my yard!"
67 water skis, $40. 48 inside. Lights, battery,
'90 LeBaron convertible;
inch bath vanity complete wood floor with carpet.
excellent except tranny
with sink and faucet, $35. Heavy Hauler trailer.
(won't shift); parts car
Home Depot new 49” $2,399 obo. Call Ron at
included.
Both $600.
x 22” Stone Effect van- (218) 897-5946
9/15
Last chance! Call (218)
ity top with molded sink,
9/15
897-5503 never installed. $48. Call
(218) 832-3357 9/15
-VEHICLES-
For sale: 1990 Suzuki
VX800. Exc, shape great
road bike. 2 owners.
Complete pkg. Call (218)
743-3256, leave message
9/15
-REAL ESTATE-
For sale: Year around
lake home. Lakewood
Bay, Sand Lake. For info,
call (218) 659-2802 9/15
For sale: 13.65 acre lot
and single family home
built in 1976. Call Jim,
(651) 433-5266
9/15
-FARM-
Wanted:
Someone to
work up my field on
Scenic Hwy 7. Approx.
35-40 acres.
Serious
inquiries only. Call (218)
743-3496 or (218) 2597593 for details 10/15
For sale: HAY, small
square bales 1st cutting;
timothy, clover, grass
mix.
Call (218) 2569/15
3829
Emails
will
be
responded to; if you
do not receive a reply,
please resend.
Ads are a service to
our members. North
Itasca Electric and
the WATTS NEWS
do not endorse advertisments Please
use your good judgment.
Place a Classified Ad Today!
If you are an individual member of the cooperative, classified ads are free as a service from your
cooperative. If you are advertising for a business or are a non-member, please remit $5 per ad per
month.
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
Run my ad for one month only.
Your ad will run for two months unless you
check this box. (Business classifieds are $5 per
insertion.)
Please note: We are as careful as possible, but are not
responsible for errors.
Send to:
Editor, WATTS NEWS,
P.O. Box 243
Bigfork, MN 56628
or call:
(218) 659-2779
or email: [email protected]
Put WATTS AD in subject line.
If no response, please resend.
September 2015
page 16
Constant attention keeps plants modern
Although it began operations more than 30 years ago,
Great River Energy’s Coal
Creek Station power plant remains one of the nation’s top
performing plants Many of Great River
Energy’s generation resources
have
served
cooperative
members for decades. In fact,
the electrons flowing from
Stanton Station surely lit up
a lava lamp or two in the late
1960s. And current from Coal
Creek Station almost certainly
powered a few arcades and
roller rinks in the 1980s.
Dakota, Coal Creek Station’s
performance places it among
the top performing plants of
its kind in the nation. In 2013,
the plant ranked No. 9 on
Power Engineering’s list of
U.S. power plants in capacity
factor, a critical measurement
of a power plant’s actual
energy output compared to its
potential output. When it began
operations in 1979, the plant
generated around 1 or 2 million
net megawatt-hours (MWh) of
electricity to meet Great River
Energy’s members’ demand.
Today it consistently produces
approximately 9 million MWh
to meet Great River Energy’s
members’ demand.
The way people consume
electricity
has
changed
dramatically over time. Great
Coal Creek Station took
River Energy’s power plants
have kept pace, consistently a major leap forward in
improving
efficiency
and 2009 when the patented
DryFiningTM system was
environmental performance.
placed into service. Since the
As technology, regulations technology was implemented,
and member values changed, overall plant efficiency has
so has Great River Energy’s risen by 4 percent. DryFining
portfolio of resources. Fuels has also reduced emissions of
like wind, solar and natural sulfur dioxide by 40 percent,
gas play an ever-greater role mercury by 20 percent, nitrogen
in supplying power to greater oxides by 20 percent and carbon
Minnesota, yet traditional dioxide by 4 percent.
power plants remain the
“Ultimately we need fewer
backbone of Great River
tons
of coal, because DryFining
Energy’s generation resources.
increases the amount of energy
Located in central North in every ton,” said Great River
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Energy Senior Principal
Engineer Charlie Bullinger.
In late 2014, DryFining celebrated five years
of operation around the
same time that the 30
millionth ton of lignite
underwent the DryFining
process.
About an hour west
of Coal Creek Station is
Stanton Station. The coalbased power plant has
been a reliable performer
for decades, and it continues
to improve its environmental
performance in step with
emission limits. Research on
mercury control technology
at the facility has led to a
breakthrough solution that will
lead to significant mercury
emission reductions that will
help keep electricity prices
affordable.
The plant known today as
Elk River Energy Recovery
Station has proven remarkably
flexible, accommodating a
variety of fuels in its history.
The facility began commercial
operation in 1950 fueled by
coal and oil. In 1963, it was
converted to a nuclear power
plant, before again being fueled
by coal and oil in 1968. In
1989, the plant was converted
to operate on refuse-derived
fuel (RDF).
Coal Creek Station
This fuel, which results
from processing household
garbage, allows Great River
Energy to make electricity with
an abundant waste product.
Better yet, Great River Energy
extracts steel and aluminum to
be recycled, and virtually no
waste ends up in the landfill.
“We have been good
stewards of what we have,”
added Bullinger. “The goal
has always been to produce
efficient megawatt-hours of
electricity – and we have done
a good job.”
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Advancements in control
systems
Robust
plant
control
systems are critical for sustaining high plant performance. Great River Energy
recognized this fact early on
and developed a long term
strategy to modernize the systems that control power plants.
Beginning in the 1990s,
aging analog controls were
replaced with modern, digital
technology.
Modernization
projects
continue
today
replacing controls as they
become obsolete.
For “Above the Crowd” Service!
Bob Ellies
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218-259-3403
800-982-3403
[email protected]
Residential & Waterfront Specialist
RE/MAX Thousand Lakes, Grand Rapids, MN
David Lick, CIC, LUTC
Bill Sergot, CIC, AAI
Dan Drennen, CIC, LUTC
Sheila Gustafson
Greg Passard
Steven Swentkokske