Agralite APRIL 2013.indd

Agralite News
V l
Volume
LXXIII•
LXXIII APRIL 2013
Agralite Electric Cooperative • Benson,
Benson MN 56215 • 843-4150
843 4150 or 1-800-950-8375
Inside:
Page 2
• Minutes
• Kory Johnson, Manager
Winter Storm related
outages on April 14, 15
Page 3
• Safety by Lidia Dilley
- Power
• Annual Meeting Notice
Agralite experienced a number of storm related outages
on April 14 and 15 due to the winter storm that swept
through the area. The outages were scattered across
Agralite’s service area.
Most of the outages were due to ice on the lines. Under
certain conditions as freezing rain falls it can accumulate
on power lines. With a wind driving the rain it can cause
the ice to form in a shape like the cross section of a wing.
As the wind blows across that line it can cause it to lift
and to gallop.
When the lines gallop they can slap against other lines
in the span and cause a blink or an outage.
Agralite also experienced a few outages from tree limbs
that fell onto the lines.
Most of the damage to Agralite lines was from broken
conductors. There was little damage to poles or other
structures.
Agralite outages started Sunday night and early Monday.
Most of the outages were restored by Monday night.
Agralite sent two crews to southern Minnesota to
help with restoration of power from storms that hit last
Thursday. Agralite had little damage from that storm;
cooperatives in southern Minnesota suffered extensive
damage from the ice storm. Agralite crews will likely
spend about a week helping those cooperatives restore
power.
Page 4
• Recipes by Lois
• Basin Electric
Page 5
• LeRoy Cluever
- Heading Into Warm
Weather Storms
Page 6
• Tom Hoffman:
- Line Crew Update
• More Capital Credits
Page 15
• Classifieds
• Coal Country Tour Info.
• CFL Coupon
Page 16
• Smart Hub Diagram
Mark your calendar for
our annual meeting
June 3!
Featured Co-op
Connection Business:
Benson Bakery &
Coffee Shop
- Buy one dozen cookies
and get a half dozen free.
For all
OUTAGES:
Day or Night
1-888-884-3887
Do not call the
office for outages
MARCH Energy
Payment
IS DUE APRIL 20th
Most of the damage to Agralite lines
was from broken conductors. There
was little damage to poles or other
structures.
“When Mother Nature decides we have had enough,
the crews will begin construction again. We have a busy
year planned for Work Plan projects in various parts of the
system including the Hancock area and south of Benson,”
said Tom Hoffman, Manager of Engineering.
Jacobson to run for District 4 seat,
Candidate needed in District 3
Agralite district meetings were held
in District 3 and District 4 on April
11.
Although the weather was not
ideal, District 4 met at 1:30 p.m. at
the Chippewa Falls Lutheran Church.
Harold Jacobson was nominated and
will run as a candidate to represent
District 4 on the Agralite Board.
District 3 met in the Hancock
Community Center at 7:00 p.m..
A quorum was not present as the
meeting was called to order. In
addition, no one was actively seeking
to run as a candidate to represent
District 3 on the board. District 3
will meet again on April 24 at the
Hancock Community Center at 7:00
p.m.to select a candidate.
Following the April 11 meeting,
all members of District 3 received
a letter from Manager Johnson. He
announced the April 24 meeting and
urged anyone who was interested to
run for the board. Since then several
people have called to inquire about
the responsibilities of a director.
The Agralite board meets once a
month, usually on the last Thursday
of the month. The meeting usually
starts at 8:30 or 9:00 a.m. and goes
to the middle of the afternoon. The
board receives reports from staff and
from Agralite power suppliers. They
set policy for the cooperative but are
not involved in day to day decisions.
In addition board members are
expected to attend some state
and national meetings to become
informed on cooperatives, the
electric industry and responsibility of
directors.
If you are interested in running for
the Board of Directors for District 3,
please come to the April 24 meeting
and bring a member to nominate you.
You may also want to bring members
to support you in the vote to select
candidates.
Two candidates can be selected
at the district meeting. If more than
two members are nominated, those in
attendance vote until two candidates
receive a majority of the votes cast.
Directors may also be nominated
by a petition process from the floor of
the annual meeting.
The election will be held on June 3
at the Annual Meeting.
A free iPad will be given to a lucky SmartHub user. Sign up for SmartHub by the
annual meeting June 3 to qualify for the
drawing.
Online payments
made easy with
SmartHub
The new user-friendly SmartHub
online billing software is now available.
In addition to being able to make a
payment quicker, members will find
it easy to view monthly and daily
electric usage, either on a computer or
smartphone at any time.
Members who sign up for Smarthub
billing before the annual meeting will
SmartHub, cont. page 5
PAGE 2
APRIL 2013
AGRALITE NEWS
A Report to Patrons From the Board Room
Minutes of Meeting • Board of Directors • MARCH 2013
MINUTES OF MEETING
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MARCH, 2013
B
oard Chairman Eldon Knutson
called a meeting of the Board
of Directors of Agralite Electric
Cooperative to order at 8:30 a.m.,
March 28, 2013. All members of the
board were present. The agenda,
minutes of the last meeting, the
monthly disbursements, and payment
of capital credits of deceased
members were approved.
LeRoy Cluever, Member Services
Director, discussed demand response
(load control) with Great River Energy
and East River Electric. LeRoy
stated he sent a letter to all generator
operators to op-in or op-out of the
generator control program. All that
have responded have opted-in. A
contractor’s meeting is scheduled for
tonight with lighting as the main topic
with 25 signed up to come. District 3
and 4 meetings are scheduled for April
11th. The Pork Producers will serve at
the Annual Meeting. April 8th will be
the next Operation Round Up meeting.
Denise Runge, Manager of Office
Services, discussed Agralite’s margins.
The 2012 RUS Form 7 is completed.
The Audit is complete and was given
to the board for review. SmartHub is
now available to all members to view
their statement, sign up for paperless
billing and to make payments on their
account. There are 40 customers
signed up so far. Denise stated that
we will be running a large front page
article in the Agralite News in April to
announce all the features and that
there will be a drawing for an iPad at
the Annual Meeting for those signing
up from March 1 through the Annual
Meeting. The Cold Weather Rule will
end April 15th.
Tom Hoffman, Manager of
Engineering & Operations, reported
on his department’s activities: line
patrol, pole change outs and new
construction. We now have 30 new
Manager Kory Johnson
Annual Meeting is June 3
This past month the Board of Directors
of Agralite Electric Cooperative
approved the disbursement of capital
credits for the years of 1979 and 1980.
In addition to retiring 100% of the
balance of these years, the Board also
approved retiring 15% of capital credits
from 2009. With these retirements,
Agralite Electric Cooperative will be
distributing just over $500,000 in capital
credits. For current members with a
capital credit balance under $10, a credit
will be issued on your electric bill. For
current members with a balance over
$10 or past members with capital credits
payable for these years, a check will
be issued and available at the annual
meeting. The annual meeting will be
held June 3rd, 2013 at the Benson High
School. Plan to attend this year’s
meeting to hear an update on your
electric cooperative and also, see if you
have a capital credit check waiting for
you!
Make sure to check next month’s
Agralite News for more details on the
annual meeting!
In last month’s column I touched on
legislation proposed in the Minnesota
legislature. The bills I touched on in
last month’s column have been rolled
into an Omnibus energy bill, HF 956 on
the House side and on the Senate side
Omnibus energy bill SF 901. These
pieces of legislation continue to be of
concern to electric cooperatives and
should be of concern to most people in
the state. The concern I have with these
pieces of legislation is based on the cost
increases in electricity that would result
from these bills.
This MN House of Representatives
bill calls for a 1.33% tax on electric
revenues. These dollars would be used
to subsidize solar installations in the
state. My concern with this is most of
irrigation systems signed up for this
spring to be put in – that would make
over 500 irrigators on our system.
Tom discussed RESAP (Rural Electric
Safety Accreditation Program). Our
on-site observation is scheduled for
April 23rd and is done every three
years.
Information on Policy 519 – Person
Protective Equipment (PPE) was
reviewed by Tom and approved by the
board.
Lidia Dilley’s, Safety Coordinator
for STAR Services, written report was
noted and reviewed by Tom.
At 9:30 a.m. Darrick Larson from
Eide Bailley presented Agralite’s 2012
auditor’s report with a power point
presentation. After a favorable report,
the board approved the 2012 audit
report as presented.
was shown.
Kory Johnson, General Manager,
discussed meetings he had attended
and shared information with the board
– the MREA Annual Meeting and
meeting with our elected officials in St.
Paul. He also discussed the energy
bill HF 956 and how it would affect
cooperatives. He also discussed other
issues concerning Agralite.
The financial report was given by
Kory with a presentation on the iPad.
After lunch, Senator Lyle Koenen
entered the board room to discuss
electric cooperative issues such as
rates and renewable energy.
The meeting was adjourned.
The East River video was shown.
The GRE (Great River Energy) video
these dollars would end up subsidizing
solar installations on large chain stores
or on million dollar homes on Gull Lake
or Lake Minnetonka. This 1.33% tax
for members of Agralite would increase
our costs by approximately $266,000 per
year.
These proposals also call for a
mandate of 4% solar energy for utilities.
In addition to the 4% it would require
utilities to pay a premium price for
this energy, several times more than
our current cost of wholesale power.
Thereby providing profitability for the
solar people and offering no protection
for rate payers.
Great River Energy has
some analysis of this, and has
estimated that each percent of
solar energy would increase
the retail electric rate by
3.6%. This 4% solar mandate
would potentially increase the
cost to members of Agralite
Electric Cooperative by nearly
$3,000,000 per year. I fail to see
the benefits this legislation would
provide to members of Agralite.
The legislation also calls to increase
the size limit for the required payment
of retail rate for excess generation from
40 kilowatts to 105 kilowatts. This will
cause more cost shifting to members who
do not have the financial resources to
install these systems.
There are several other portions of
these proposals that are very harmful to
your member-owned cooperative.
Some people have called the increase
in the cost of energy as a result of these
mandates “Unintended Consequences.”
I would beg to differ with them. I
believe these are the exact results that
proponents of these measures hope for.
Their desire is to drive the cost of our
electricity, derived from our abundant
coal resources, our renewable hydro
resources, our clean burning natural gas
resources, and the renewable resources
we currently have under contract, up to
a level that will guarantee a profitable
margin for the select people who have
dollars to invest in these projects.
Agralite Electric Cooperative is
not opposed to renewable energy.
We currently have about 14 small
renewable generators interconnected
into our distribution system. Agralite
Electric Cooperative has worked with
members to interconnect approximately
2 megawatts of bio-digesters into
our distribution system. Our power
suppliers are on target to meet the 25%
Manager, Cont., page 3
www.agralite.coop
*****
ALSO ON FACEBOOK
& TWITTER
Agralite Electric Cooperative
Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday
320-843-4150 or 1-800-950-8375
The Agralite News is circulated every third Friday of each month
by Agralite Electric Cooperative.
Editor - LeRoy Cluever
Publisher - Swift County Monitor News
Postmaster send address changes to:
Agralite Electric Cooperative, P.O. Box 228, Benson, MN 56215
Second class postage, paid at 320 East Highway 12, Benson, MN 56215 (USPS 543-040)
AGRALITE NEWS
APRIL 2013
SAFETY
Lidia Dilley, Safety Coordinator
STAR Energy Services
PAGE 3
Standing Water from
Flooding
Wet, but hopefuly
not wild
As of late March, the National
Weather Service is warning residents
in parts of Minnesota to get ready for
some major flooding as all the snow
begins to melt this spring. The risk
for flooding has jumped
15 percent in the last two weeks
bringing the risk to greater than 95
percent. The Fargo-Moorhead area
in particular is expected to get hit
hard and should prepare for one of
the top five worst floods they’ve
seen yet. Why? We have had above
average snowpack that now sits on
top of frozen soil. And so here we go
again. If you, or a friend, experience
this unfortunate disaster, keep the
following questions and answers in
mind.
Question 1 - My home wasn’t
flooded, but some electrical
appliances have gotten wet. Can I
still use them?
Do not use electrical appliances
that have been wet until they have
been examined by a qualified service
repair dealer. Water can damage the
motors in electrical appliances; e.g.,
furnaces, freezers, refrigerators,
washing machines, and dryers.
Electrical equipment exposed to
water can be extremely dangerous
if reenergized without proper
reconditioning or replacement.
To learn more about handling
water damaged electrical equipment,
the National Electrical Manufacturers
Association (NEMA®) has produced
a brochure, “Guidelines for
Handling Water Damaged Electrical
Equipment,” for use by installers,
inspectors, and users of electrical
products. The NEMA brochure may
be downloaded free of charge at:
http://www.nema.org.
Question 2 - My basement has
flooded and there is standing water.
Is it safe to go down there?
Use extreme care when stepping
into flooded areas. Submerged outlets
or electrical cords can energize water,
posing a lethal trap.
Question 3 - Does a flood affect
my home’s electrical system or just
the appliances?
Water and silt inside electrical
items such as circuit breakers, fuses,
ground fault circuit interrupters
(GFCIs), receptacles, plugs,
and switches can cause them to
malfunction. Discard if they have
been submerged. Have a licensed,
qualified professional replace them.
Question 4 - Does it make a
difference if the flood was caused
by storm water or by a leaky water
pipe?
Salt water can be particularly
damaging to electrical equipment
due to the corrosive and conductive
nature of the salt water residue.
Damage to electrical equipment can
also result from exposure to flood
waters contaminated with chemicals,
sewage, oil and other debris. No
matter what caused the flood, the
same rules apply–when it’s wet, it’s
wet.
Question 5 - Can flooded areas
outside be dangerous too?
Yes, downed power lines or
submerged outlets from adjacent
homes could energize the water. Use
extreme caution when entering any
flooded area.
Manager’s Report,
renewable mandate that is currently the
law in the state of Minnesota. Agralite
Electric Cooperative currently receives
approximately 20% of our wholesale
power from the Western Area Power
Administration in the form of hydro
power. With our existing resources and
increases in the current state regulations,
Agralite Electric Cooperative will reach
approximately 45% renewable energy in
the near future.
East River Electric Power Cooperative,
one of our wholesale providers, was
awarded the US Department of Energy
Downed power lines or submerged outlets from adjacent homes could energize
the water. Use extreme caution when entering any flooded area.
Notice of the Annual Meeting of
Agralite Electric Cooperative
Monday, June 3, 2013 • 7:00 p.m.
- Benson Senior High School -
Dinner 5:30-6:45
Registration 6:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
The purpose of this meeting shall be to act upon the following:
1. Receive reports of officers and directors
2. Elect two directors for a term of three years each
3. Such other business as may properly come before the
meeting
- Dee Dee Stelzig
Secretary- Treasurer
Cont. from p. 2
2012 “Wind Cooperative of the Year”
award. Basin Electric, of which Agralite
is a member through East River, has over
700 megawatts of wind resources in their
portfolio with over 280 megawatts of this
owned by Basin Electric.
So, no, Agralite Electric Cooperative
is not opposed to renewables, but we are
opposed to self-serving legislation that
will force the cost of electricity to our
members to increase, we are opposed to
legislation that would require us to buy
solar energy at an artificially inflated
price, a price that guarantees the solar
industry a profit with no protection
for the rate payer. Rather, allow our
power suppliers to secure our renewable
resources from the most cost competitive
sources available.
Have you talked with your elected
officials about these bills? Please take
time to contact them and ask if they
oppose these bills. If they oppose these
bills, please thank them for standing up
for rural Minnesota. If they support these
proposals ask them why they support
taking hundreds of thousands of your
dollars each year.
Reminder:
If you have access to the
internet you can follow us
on Twitter to know when
we are controlling load
management.
AGRALITE NEWS
PAGE 4
Delicious Recipes
By Lois Brandt
Almond-Tres Leches Muffins
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
2/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon almond extract
2 eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/3 cup (from 14-oz can) sweetened condensed milk
1/3 cup whipping cream
1/3 cup milk
3/4 cup sliced almonds
Additional sweetened condensed milk (1/4 cup)
Heat oven to 400°F. Grease 12 regular-size muffin cups with shortening or line with paper baking cups.
In large bowl, beat butter and sugar with electric mixer on medium speed until smooth. Beat in
almond extract and eggs. With spoon, stir in flour, baking powder, 1/3 cup condensed milk, the
whipping cream, milk and 1/2 cup of the almonds just until moistened. Divide batter evenly among
muffin cups (3/4 full). Sprinkle remaining 1/4 cup almonds evenly over batter in cups.
Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until light golden brown. Remove muffins from pan to cooling rack. Cool
10 minutes. Drizzle 1 teaspoon additional sweetened condensed milk over top of each muffin. Serve
warm.
Makes 12 muffins
http://lwww.bettycrocker.com
Bacon and Macaroni Salad
1 pound sliced bacon
1 (16 ounce) package elbow macaroni
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup sour cream
2 tablespoons prepared yellow mustard
1/4 cup white sugar
1/4 cup cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
3 tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 large cucumber, peeled and chopped
4 hard-cooked eggs, chopped
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup sliced green olives
Place bacon in a large, deep skillet. Cook over medium high heat until evenly brown, drain and
crumble, then set aside. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add the macaroni pasta,
and cook until al dente, 8 to 10 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water.
Whisk the mayonnaise, sour cream, mustard, sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper in large bowl until
the sugar has dissolved. Add the bacon, pasta, tomato, cumber egg and celery. Gently fold until the
salad is evenly covered with the dressing. Sprinkle with the sliced olives to serve.
http://allrecipes.com
APRIL 2013
Basin Electric among
leading utility green power
programs
The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) National Renewable Energy
Laboratory (NREL) has released its annual ranking of leading utility green power
programs. Basin Electric ranked among the “Top 10” in two categories: total
sales of renewable energy to program participants and green power sales as a
percentage of total retail electricity sales.
Using information provided by utilities, NREL develops “Top 10” rankings of
utility programs in a total of five categories. The others include: total number of
customer participants, customer participation rate, and the lowest price premium
charged for a green power program using new renewable resources.
Ranked by renewable energy sales, the green power program of Austin (Texas)
Energy is first in the nation, followed by Portland General Electric, PacifiCorp,
Florida Power & Light, and Xcel Energy. Basin Electric ranked eighth with its
wind resources.
“The market for green tags is rising rapidly, and increasing the value of
these assets. The revenue from these sales provides significant support for the
development of our green resources,” said Ron Rebenitsch, Basin Electric’s
manager of alternative technologies.
In the category of green power sales as a percentage of total retail electricity
sales, Basin Electric ranked seventh with the cooperative’s PrairieWinds program.
The top three utilities in that category include: Edmund Electric with its program,
Pure & Simple; Austin Energy with GreenChoice and the City of Palo Alto
Utilities with PaloAltoGreen.
NREL is funded by DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
and is the DOE’s primary national laboratory for renewable energy and energy
efficiency research and development. It performs analyses of green power market
trends.
Visit NREL online at www.nrel.gov. View all category rankings at http://www.
eere.energy.gov/greenpower/resources/tables/topten.shtml.
PrairieWinds
Chili Dog
1 cup beef broth
1/2 pound bacon, cut into small pieces
1 large onion, chopped
2 Tablespoons molasses or honey
2 pounds ground beef
2 Tablespoons sweet paprika
4 chopped garlic cloves
1 Tablespoon ground cumin
16 ounce can of tomato sauce
1 Tablespoon chili powder
As many hot dogs as you have people to serve
1 teaspoon cayenne (optional)
Buns for the hot dogs
Salt
Chopped red onion, for garnish
Shredded cheddar (or jack) cheese, for garnish
Make the chili first. Fry the bacon over medium heat until it begins to get crispy, then add the
chopped onions and fry over high heat, stirring often, until they begin to brown. Add in the ground
beef and stir in well. When the beef is about halfway browned, toss in the chopped garlic and mix
well. Add the tomato sauce, molasses and beef broth. Add all the spices except the cayenne and
stir well. Bring to a simmer and taste. Add salt or the cayenne if it needs it.
Let the chili cook on a gentle simmer for at least 30 minutes before you start grilling the hot dogs.
Grill your hot dogs over medium heat until they get a light char.
Dog goes in bun, chili goes on top, sprinkle on chopped red onion and shredded cheese, and have
at it!
Simply Recipes http://www.simplyrecipes.com
Maple Walnut Bars
1 package classic yellow cake mix
1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted
4 Large eggs
1 1/3 cups of your favorite maple syrup
1/3 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 Teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup chopped walnuts
Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease 13 x 9-inch pan.
Reserve 2/3 cup cake mix; set aside.
Combine remaining cake mix, melted butter and 1 egg in large bowl. Stir until thoroughly blended.
(Mixture will be crumbly.) Press into prepared pan. Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until light golden brown.
Combine reserved cake mix, maple syrup, remaining 3 eggs, sugar and vanilla extract in large
mixing bowl. Beat at low speed with electric mixer for 3 minutes. Pour over crust. Sprinkle with
walnuts.
Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until filling is set. Cool completely in pan. Cut into bars. Store in
refrigerator.
http://www.duncanhines.cotnl.
Crow Lake Wind, a $363-million wind project just east of Chamberlain, S.D., was commissioned
Feb. 27, 2011. Built by Basin Electric’s subsidiary PrairieWinds SD 1, Inc., it is the largest wind
project owned solely by a cooperative.
Thinking About a Ground Source Heat Pump?
Talk to Agralite first.**
An energy audit will help you get only
the equipment you need.
An energy audit is required to qualify for the $400/ton rebate.
A ground source heat pump is your most
efficient heat, but Talk to Agralite First!
**If you are planning any change in electrical use, Talk to Agralite first.
AGRALITE NEWS
APRIL 2013
Notes from LeRoy
LeRoy Cluever,
Member Services Director
PAGE 5
www.agralite.coop
ALSO ON FACEBOOK &
TWITTER
Powering Safely During an Outage
Agralite has been fortunate the past few years in that we
have not had a major storm that took down a lot of power
lines. Southern Minnesota just had one that may take a
week to restore power to everyone. Agralite had a taste of
damage this past week with numerous wire breaks on our
lines.
We have become spoiled in that we expect electricity to
always be there. One of the great things about the modern
American electric grid is that power almost always flows
when we need it. It almost always flows – but sometime
nature has a different idea and we have an outage. Given
our dependence on electricity, it’s understandable why
portable generators are popular when the power goes out
and stays out for a while.
But generators can cause more harm than good if not used
properly. In honor of Electrical Safety Month, recognized
each May, I want to give you a few safety tips to protect
yourself and our linemen who are working to restore your
power.
First, never, ever plug a portable generator directly into
one of your home’s outlets—unless you have had a licensed
electrician install a “transfer switch” in your home. If
you don’t have a transfer switch, power provided by the
generator can “backfeed” along power lines, which can
electrocute a lineman working on those lines.
In addition, portable generators create carbon monoxide,
the odorless, colorless gas that can quickly become deadly if
the generator isn’t exhausted outside. Attached garages with
an open door don’t count—the carbon monoxide can still
seep indoors and poison inhabitants. Generators must go
outside in a dry area, which might mean you’ll need to rig
a canopy to protect it from precipitation at a safe distance
from your home’s windows, doors, and vents. How far is a
safe distance? Even 15 feet can be too close. Other things
to keep in mind: Plug appliances directly into the generator
using heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords, but don’t
overload it. If you are shopping for a generator, shop for
the cords at the same time. Follow the manufacturer’s
instructions for maximum load.
Shut off the generator before refueling, or a fire could
start—and it’s a good idea to have a fully charged fire
extinguisher nearby, just in case.
Safety is a top priority at Agralite Electric Cooperative
for our employees and consumer-members alike. Contact us
at 1-800-950-8375 if you’d like to learn more about how to
properly install and use a portable generator.
For more tips on how to stay safe during a power outage,
visit safety at home.com
...Portable generators create
carbon monoxide, the odorless,
colorless gas that can quickly
become deadly if the generator
isn’t exhausted outside.
Operation Round Up
Distributes grants
Agralite’s Operation Round Up board met on April 8
to consider the applications that had been received
prior to the meeting.
After careful consideration the board approved the
following grants.
Ortonville ECI
$100.00
Stevens County Relay For Life
$200.00
Swift County Relay for Life
$200.00
American Diabetes Assn.
$200.00
Ann Kobbermann
$350.00
Shirley Evans
$150.00
The next meeting of the Round Up board will be in
July. Please consider submitting an application for a
group you support.
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SmartHub,
Cont. from p. 1
be placed in a drawing to win
an iPad. The drawing will take
place at the annual meeting.
When signing into Smarthub,
users can choose to receive
email or text alerts when a
billing statement is generated.
Then, you’ll know before your
bill arrives what your monthly
energy statement amount will be.
The free phone app can be
downloaded from iTunes or the
Android app store.
After you sign up for
Smarthub you will be taken to
the Smarthub home page. It will
look like the picture on page
16 (without the green bar and
arrows).
The quick links give easy
access to pay your bill, view
your billing history, or get help.
There are two other places on
the home screen that lets you
pay your bill.
The “My Profile” tab allows
you to change your personal
information such as your
password. This is also where
you sign up for paperless billing.
With paperless billing you will
not get a printed bill in the mail.
The “Notifications” tab
lets you set various levels of
notification by email or text
when your bill is available or
when your payment has been
received.
The “Contact Us” tab gives
you easy access to ask a question
or get help on a task.
The billing summary area
shows the amount that is due,
lets you view your bill and
gives some of your account
information.
As you sign up for Smarthub,
it will ask you for a passphrase.
This can be any word or
phrase that you want, just
chose something that you will
remember. This passphrase is
needed if you wish to make a
payment on line. It is another
level of security so that others
cannot see your account
information.
Sign up for Smarthub before
Agralite’s annual meeting on
June 3 to be eligible for the
drawing for the iPad.
See page 16 for detailed
diagram...
PAGE 6
AGRALITE NEWS
Line Crew Update
Tom Hoffman,
Manager of Engineering
In January, I updated you on what Agralite’s line crews
had been working on and what they would be doing in the
coming months. I also mentioned that I would try and do
this at the beginning of each quarter. Well it is April and the
second quarter of 2013 is upon us.
The first quarter of 2013 was not conducive for line work.
In January, the crews were able to change out poles and
rebuild a section of line south of Benson. The snow and
drifting that came with February made access to the poles
more difficult. Much of February and March, the crews
worked on line patrol and maintenance items that they
could get to. As we are all familiar with, drifting and ice
on the roads makes travel difficult. As it starts to warm up,
travelling the system doesn’t get any easier due to mud and
soft roads. Our crews are cautious where they travel and
we do our best to stay out of farm yards this time of year.
The second quarter of 2013 isn’t starting out that
great either. It is the middle of April (15th to be exact),
4 o’clock in the morning, and I’m writing this article in
between dispatching crews to the ice related outages that
are affecting the area. Crews are reporting mostly wire
breaks and a few trees down on the lines, but in the middle
of the night it is more difficult to find the problem. Once
daylight comes, I expect things to be restored to normal
fairly quickly.
When Mother Nature decides we have had enough, the
crews will begin construction again. We have a busy year
planned for Work Plan projects in various parts of the
system including the Hancock area and south of Benson.
But, our first priority this spring will be to install facilities
for the new irrigation requests we have acquired over the
Ice Related Outages
winter. At last count, we have 37 new services to install,
and a dozen more inquiries that could develop.
Other projects this year include OCR Testing in the
Clinton, Alberta, and Donnelly substation areas; meter
change-outs in the Clinton and Shible substation areas;
underground facilities inspection; and repair of the
maintenance items found during inspections
As always, if you have any questions please contact
Agralite. If you are planning a new service, whether it
be for a new house or irrigation, or upgrading an existing
service, call and speak with someone in the engineering
department so we can plan accordingly for materials. Be
Safe this Spring.
Agralite conducts
contractor
training
More Capital Credits
DEAN HINMAN
VIRGIL HINNENKAMP
NORMAN HIRST DEC
CHARLES HOCKERT
CLARENCE E HOFF
DELBERT HOFFMAN
DON C HOFFMAN
ROBERT HOILAND
JAMES HOLMES
ROBERT HOLT
TOM HOUSEN
HELEN HOVDE
TOM HUHNERKOCH
LAWRENCE INMAN
IRION GRACE (MRS. EARL)
ALEXANDRIA
ALEXANDRIA
BENSON
MORRIS
MURDOCK
FRANKFORT
BENSON
BENSON
MORRIS
ALEXANDRIA
BENSON
GLENWOOD
CLINTON
EXCELSIOR
HANCOCK
SD
STEVEN ISTA
LESLIE IVERSON DEC
EMIL JACOBSEN
DONALD JACOBSON
LLOYD JACOBSON
RICHARD JERPBAK
JOE JESSEPH
E G JOHANSON
ALVIN F JOHNSON
DENNIS L JOHNSON
GOTFORD JOHNSON
HARRY JOHNSON
JEFF JOHNSON
JERRY JOHNSON
LEIGHTON JOHNSON
LLOYD J JOHNSON
MERLIN E JOHNSON
VERNON A JOHNSON
HARRIET JUSTICE
RONALD J KALLESTAD
ELMOND KANNE
JACK KASNEY
KAY FARMS
CHARLES KEIZER
MARK KELLENBERGER
DIANE KELLER
BRUCE KELLY
SIGNE KELLY
PATRICK KENNEDY
WENDT KENNETH
LAVERN KERKEIDE
ARNOLD L KILLEN
If you are planning a
new service, for your
home or irrigation
system, call and
speak with someone
in our engineering
department.
Photo by Minnesota Public Radio
APRIL
Each year Agralite allocates net
margins for the year to each member’s
Capital Credit account. The amount
allocated depends on the margins
for the year and the patronage of the
individual member. When funds are
available, and when the board decides
to issue capital credit checks, the
Capital Credits for a certain number of
years are paid.
The following people have a capital
credit check waiting for them. We
have attempted to contact each one,
but have been unable to do so. If you
know someone who may have contact
information for these individuals,
please call the Agralite office at 320843-4150 or 1-800-950-8375.
APRIL 2013
CHARLOTTESVILLE
BROOTEN
ROCK VALLEY
MISSOULA
MORRIS
HEDRICK
EDINA
OMAHA
BROOTEN
STARBUCK
COLTON
MORRIS
SUNBURG
RAYMOND
CRESCO
MURDOCK
ATWATER
BENSON
CANADA
APPLETON
BREWSTER
BENSON
MINNEAPOLIS
RANDOLPH
HANCOCK
CORRELL
MURDOCK
MINNEAPOLIS
CHOKIO
BROOTEN
ALEXANDRIA
MADISON
VA
IA
MT
IA
NE
SD
IA
NB
NE
Agralite conducted training for area
electricians on March 28. The main
topic of the training was the latest
developments in light emitting diode
(LED) lighting.
Agralite has promoted efficient
lighting for several years. Lighting is a
big energy user that is often on for many
hours per day. LED lighting is the newest
development in efficient lighting. It is
starting to become more affordable in the
marketplace.
The incandescent light bulb, not
much different than the one invented
by Edison, has been the most common
form of lighting up until recent history.
The bulbs were inexpensive to purchase,
but only about 10% of the energy they
consumed was used in producing light.
Various alternative light sources, such
as fluorescent, halogen or induction
lights, have been available for industrial
applications for a number of years.
Residential lights has been primarily
incandescent or fluorescent.
Fluorescent lighting, such as the coiled
compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs
or tube lights, use about 25% of the
energy of an incandescent to produce
the same amount of light. The primary
disadvantage of all kinds of fluorescent
lights is that they contain mercury and
must be recycled.
When CFL bulbs first came out, they
were expensive. The cost of the bulb
could not be justified by the energy
savings. As new forms of the bulbs
were developed and they became more
popular, the cost of the bulbs fell.
The same thing is happening with
Dave Evermann from Border States
conducted the contractor training at
Agralite March 28. The main topic of the
training was the latest development in
light emitting diode (LED) lighting.
LED lights. They are about as efficient
as fluorescent lights, but the initial
cost is expensive. LED lights do not
contain mercury and do not need special
disposal.
As the technology is developed further,
the cost of the bulbs will likely drop and
the efficiency will improve.
One advantage of LED lights is that
they are available in a variety of color
temperatures. Some give off light similar
to an incandescent bulb while others
give off a more bluish light like sunlight.
LEDs can reflect a truer color of an
object.
Two speakers discussed the fixtures
that are available and the best application
for those fixtures.
Agralite has rebates available to
encourage the installation of all kinds of
efficient lights.
PAGE 7
AGRALITE NEWS
APRIL 2013
Custom farming agreements as leasing alternative
An alternative to leasing farmland is
a “Custom Farming Agreement”. In a
typical Custom Farming Agreement, the
custom operator agrees to perform all
the machine operations on the owner’s
land in exchange for a set fee or rate. The
landowner pays for all seed, fertilizer,
chemicals, crop insurance, and other input
costs; receives the all grain produced and
all eligible farm program payments on
the land; and is responsible to store and
market the grain.
Following are the average Custom
Farming for 2013, based on the “Iowa
Farm Custom Rate Survey” (Includes
tillage, planting and harvesting costs) :
Danielson Excavating
Clip & Save!
“Serving the Area
Since 1974”
Danielson
Paul
•Septic
Systems
• Backhoe Work
• Roto-Rooter
• Septic Tank
Pumping
(320)239-4339
Corn
$126.65
per
acre
(Range = $85 - $175)
Soybeans
$112.40
per
acre
(Range = $68 - $165)
Small Grain $83.25 per acre (Range
= $50 - $100)
One obvious advantage to the custom
operator is that a Custom Farming
Agreement provides some extra farm
income, with little or no additional
operating capital or farm machinery
investment. Fuel, lubrication, and repairs
are usually the only added costs. In
addition, custom farming offers a fixed
return per acre to the custom operator,
and although there is some possibility of
higher repair bills, this is minor compared
with the price and yield risks typically
faced by a farm operator in a normal
cash rental contract. Of course, in a good
year, profits from a Custom Farming
Agreement will be lower than under most
cash rental leases; however, in this era
of much higher land rental rates there is
much more risk to the farm operator with
a cash lease as compared to a custom
agreement with a landowner.
Landowners
also
find
several
advantages to a Custom Farming
Agreement. Landowners with small
acreages can make most of the crop
production and grain marketing decisions
without the investment into a full-line of
farm machinery. The landowner does not
have to negotiate land rental rates or worry
about collecting lease payments, since the
owner receives all of the crop proceeds.
The landowner does have to pay the farm
operator an agreed upon per acre fee for
the custom farming services by specified
dates. The landowner is considered to be
the material participant for income tax
purposes, and the landowner is typically
entitled to all government farm program
payments.
Key Issues With Custom Farming
Agreements :
Custom agreements, cont. page 12
A
COLLECTIBLE FARM EQUIPMENT, VEHICLES, HOUSEHOLD, TOOLS, MISC.
uction
OPEN HOUSE
Wednesday, April 24, 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
& 1 Hour Prior to Auction
Saturday, May 4, 2013 - 9:30 am
Auctioneer Notes: The family of Maynard Lundebrek will sell at auction the real estate and personal property from their parents estate. Zielsdorf
Auction team is excited to have been selected to sell the excellent parcels of real estate as well as the farm antiques, collectibles, shop tools, and lawn
DQGJDUGHQLWHPV$GGWZRJUHDWYHKLFOHVDQGLWPDNHVIRUDIXQÀOOHGGD\IRUDQ\DXFWLRQHQWKXVLDVW(YHU\WKLQJLQFOXGLQJWKHKRXVHKROGDQGDQWLTXHVDUH
very clean. So mark this day on your calendar and join the Zielsdorf Auction team at the Lundebrek Farm. Thank you, Zielsdorf Aucion Team.
Directions: %HQVRQ01PLOHV1RUWKRQ+LJKZD\WR&RXQW\5RDGWKHQ0LOH:HVWRQ6RXWKVLGHRIWKHURDG)URP6WDUEXFN01PLOHV
Fuel Trailers
Over 250 Trailers
in Stock Including:
Flatbed, Stock (Alum. or
Steel, G.N. or Bumper)
Horse, Dump & Cargo
We Also Carry Boots
& Western Wear
Check Out Our Prices
Before You Buy!
DAHLBERG BOOT
& TRAILER SALES
Willmar, MN
320-235-4180
WEST ACRES
WATER SYSTEMS
Sales-Service-Rentals
For all your water
conditioning needs &
water purification.
ALL SYSTEMS
MADE IN THE USA
Phone: (320) 843-2830
Cell: 320-760-5280
“For the water we took for
granted 100 years ago.”
James Offerdahl
Water Conditioning Contractor
Benson, MN 56215
MN Dept. of Labor & Ind.
License # 03-2221WC
6RXWKRQ+LJKZD\WR&RXQW\5RDG,PLOH:HVWRQ6RXWKVLGHRIWKHURDG)URP+DQFRFN01(DVWRQ&RXQW\5RDGZKLFKWXUQVLQWR&RXQW\
Road 2, total of 11 Miles (stay on tar) ‡:DWFKIRU=LHOVGRUI$XFWLRQVLJQV
Tractors
Lawn & Garden
JD X320 lawnmower, 200 hours,
48” deck w/bagger, new blade,
very nice
Pull behind lawn sweeper
Three lawn trailers
1XPHURXV/*KDQGWRROV
Pole tree pruner
Push lawn sweeper
*DUGHQHGJLQJDQGIHQFH
5 hp Lawn King tiller
5 hp Ariens rear tiller
Murray 22” lawn mower
Lawnboy mower
6WLKO)6:HHG\
Stihl MS 230 chainsaw
400 Case tractor with cab and
loader, 3pt, PTO, 2 hyd
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*5
1947 Case VAC, narrow front,
electric start, restored
1951 Case DC, narrow front,
electric start, 14.9x38, restored
1952 Case DC, narrow front,
electric start, 13.6x38, restored
1948 John Deere A
Household
Dining room table with 3 leafs and
6 seats, high back chairs
1HDUO\QHZ/*/&'µ79
2 couches
2 recliners
1 rocking chair
2 bookcases
VCR player
DVD player
Analog to digital converter
1 queen size bed
TV trays
2 single size beds
Lamps
)ROGLQJEHG
(QGWDEOHV
Misc tables
Luggage
Knickknacks and decorating items
Space heater Dirt Devil hand vac
GUDZHUÀOLQJFDELQHW
)DQV
:RRGFORWKHVGU\LQJUDFN
Misc. sewing items, fabric, patterns
and material
Older Singer cabinet sewing
machine
Many short extension cords
3O\ZRRGTXLOWFKHVW
*XQUDFN
Lots of Misc glassware, cups, plates,
Tupperware, pots and pans, etc.
Old cookbooks
Telephones
Misc coolers, different sizes
Misc crock pots, coffee and
sandwich makers, meat slicer,
*HRUJH)RUPDQJULOOHWF
Bird feeders and houses
Futon
Basement refrigerator
Quilt rack
Deep freeze
Old clothes dryer
Antique Farm
Equipment
2 pull type mowers
Belle City Threshing machine
Horse drawn 1 bottom plow
Horse drawn mower
Hay buck
Horse drawn 2 row corn planter
Horse drawn disk
Horse drawn dump scrapers
:RRGZKHHOHGZDJRQZZRRG
ÁDUHER[
Poly auger hopper, old steel
weights
Music Instruments & Accessories
(OHFWULFRUJDQ
*XLWDU
2 older accordions (Hohner)
Table top radios
2 analog TV’s
Cassette recorder
(5) Harmonicas, 3- Hohner,
(FKR%HOO0HWDO5HHGҋV
harmonica made by Hohner in
*HUPDQ\LQRULJLQDOER[0Drine Band Harmonica by Hohner
in original box
Collectibles
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:RRGVWDYHEDUUHO
2 old metal lawn chairs
Oil cans
Stone shoulder crock
Chest
Stone beehive crock Metal seats
Older records, 45 and LPS
Many books, both hard cover and
SDSHUEDFN::1RUZD\
7UDYHOÀFWLRQHWF
ER[HDFKRI::)DUP
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magazines
1941 Pope County Plat Book
1972 Pope County Plat Book
1998 Pope County Plat Book
3UHPLHU:RUOG$WODV
Hinman Milkers, J.C. Marlow Co.,
Mankato, crock w/cover (cracked)
Manual Royal portable typewriter
&KDPEHUSRW
*LUOVELNH
Small water tanks
Milk stool
Small wood stove
Old Minnekota platform scale
&KLFNHQIHHGHUV
*RSKHUWUDSV
Floating water heater
Live trap
Old tire and voltage testers
Horse harnesses Corner shelves
3’x4’ 2 sided Diamond gasoline
motor oil sign
1DWLRQDO)O\HUZDJRQ
%XFNVDZV
7 Case toy tractors
Deer antlers
Catepiller toys
2 mirrors
2SKDXJDGYSLHFHV
:RRGVNLV
Coca Cola serving tray
Old tins
+XQWLQJNQLYHV (OHFWULFW\SHZULWHU
Old Picture calendars
Old tractor books, CAT and Case
Old manuals
Krum Kake iron
Coal pail
Old liscense plates
Small arms Federal Cartridge wood
ammo box
Several old belt buckles
6 watch Fobs, Cat, Ziegler Cat, etc.
Old lighters
Old shaving equip.
Cowboy straw hats and adv. caps
0DQ\RWKHUFROOHFWRUDQWLTXHLWHPV
Vehicles
2010 Buick Lucerne CXL, 43,000
miles, heated seats and steering
wheel, full power, leather, new
tires, Very clean
2002 Chevrolet Silverado LS 4x4,
95,000 miles, extended cab,
cloth bucket seats, topper, 4
door, Very clean
1969 Chevrolet 4x4 pickup, three
speed on the column
Antiques
Shop
Metal chair on casters
*ODVVODQWHUQ
&LVWHUQSXPS
Old repairable rocking chair
3 drawer dresser with tilting mirror
&DELQHW$06:$LUOLQHUDGLRDQG
record player
:LQGXSFORFNV
7DEOHWRSUDGLR
Lincoln 225 amp AC arc welder
Almost new 20 gal. air compressor
*9&&KRUHPDVWHU36,
pressure washer
Oxyacetylene torch (no tanks)
Old 4’ level
2 ladder jacks
:UHQFKHV
EHQFKJULQGHUV
2 drill presses
Hydraulic jack
10 amp to 200 amp battery charger
on wheels
2 smaller battery chargers
Floor jack
2 shopvacs
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Many mechanic and carpentry tools
VPDOOWDEOHVDZV :KHHOEDUURZ
Misc. Farm
Equip.
7’ two-stage Allied snow blower, 2
auger
4”x16’ grain auger 12’ grain sweep
5 section drag
2 tractor mowers
0HWDOÁDUHER[RQWUDLOHU ҋGLVN
37ÀHOGVSUD\HU
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Farmhand loader, trip bucket and
snow bucket
Batch grain dryer, electric motor
*UDLQDHUDWRU
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Old cement mixer
Dump rake
2 fuel barrels on stands Stoneboat
Pile of metal
Rear wheel tractor weights (Case)
Various machinery for metal
Fishing
12’ aluminum boat and trailer
Fishing rods and tackle
Spears
Fish house stoves
2 life vests
3 old boat motors Oars and anchor
Hand ice auger
Like new Jiffy 8” gas auger
Miscellaneous
Many ladders
Hyd. cylinders
Metal shelving units
2’x4’ table
55”x55”x14” deep pigeon hole
storage units
:URXJKWLURQUDLOLQJ
6DZKRUVHV
Rubbermaid 30 gal garbage can
w/cover
8’x10’ wood storage building
0LVFIHQGHUV
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Misc water tanks
Bicycles
(OHFWULFIHQFHUZLUHDQGSRVWV
Folding lawn chairs
BBQ grill
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Small gas barbeque grill
Metal garbage can w/cover
Treadmill
Hand posthole digger
Mechanics creeper
Many belts
Many ext. cords and work lights
Log chains, cables, tow strap, and
tire chains
4- wall scaffold
Barn broom
2 paper barrels 2 large wire spools
(19) 2x6-12 used lumber
(18) 2x4-12 used lumber
Misc storm windows and sashes
2 drawer metal cabinet
Real Estate (to be sold at 12 Noon)
Land Details: 80 +/- Acres (70 +/- tillable acres). Possession following 2013 crop
KDUYHVW3D\PHQWVWD[HVZLOOEHSURUDWHG
Shotguns
:LQFKHVWHUPRGHOJDSXPS
shotgun
Sears J.C. Higgins model 583
12ga bolt action shotgun
Building Site Details: 8 +/- Acres. 3 bedroom, 1¾ bath farm house w/newer
IRUFHGDLU/3IXUQDFHFHQWUDODLUDPSVHUYLFHEUHDNHUVLQWKHKRXVHZ
in the shed outside. Many outbuildings including a 24’x28’ double detached
garage, heated shop, 48’x34’steel shed, a barn, grainery, and more!
MAYNARD LUNDEBREK ESTATE
,9,%,5.$%"2%+02[
320-843-3003
AUCTIONEERS & CLERK:
Zielsdorf Auction & Real Estate Service,
119 3rd Street North, Benson, MN 56215
Your Farm Equipment & Real Estate Specialist
2IÀFH
TERMS: Cash or check. Nothing removed before settlement.
Statements made sale day take precedence over all advertising.
www.zielsdorfauctions.com
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AGRALITE NEWS
PAGE 8
APRIL 2013
Farmers celebrate
Soybean Month
Swift County Corn & Soybean Growers Donate Soyfoods to Local Food
Pantry
The Swift County Food Pantry in Benson received a $500 donation from
from the Swift County Corn & Soybean Growers to buy foods containing soy
products.
“As farmers, we feel it’s very important to connect with our community in
a personal way,” says Swift County Corn & Soybean Growers Board Chair
Tony Hughes, who farms near Benson. “We are the people
who grow the product and are proud to represent it. We want
to promote soy consumption because of its many nutritional
benefits and protein content.”
Soyfoods contain all nine essential amino acids in the
ratios needed for human growth and health and are readily
digestible. Because of its protein content, soy is also used
as a primary ingredient in most livestock rations. Soybean
meal is fed to 98 percent of the livestock in the U.S.
The group donated funds to the food shelf to be used
towards soy products. “We want to give the food shelf the option to buy items
they are in most need of – as long as it contains soy,” said board director,
Byron Olson.
“Many of our food items contain soy - peanut butter, infant formula and
pasta sauce to name a few. We won’t have any trouble stocking our shelves,”
said Swift County Outreach Director Angela Nissen, who was grateful for
the generous donation. “We have wonderful support from the community.
We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without the generosity of our local
organizations. They keep us going.”
Put Your Future into Focus
Life insurance: it’s about your
family’s future. And yours, too.
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Aspire. Achieve.
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Open 1-4 Wednesdays
or call for an appointment.
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Sandra Keenan/87&)
Financial Advisor
Securities and advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance and advisory services offered through Focus Financial
1HWZRUN,QFDUHJLVWHUHGLQYHVWPHQWDGYLVRUQRWDI¿OLDWHGZLWK5R\DO$OOLDQFH
A
MULTIPLE SEMI TRAILERS, DUNE BUGGY, HARLEY, SHOP EQUIP, TOOLS & MISC.
GRAVEL PRODUCTS/EXCAVATION
Thursday, May 16, 2013 - 3:00 pm
• CRUSHED ROAD GRAVEL
• PIT RUN FILL
• ROCK OF VARIOUS SIZES
Auctioneer Notes: It gives The Zielsdorf Auction Team great pleasure to help Dave phase out of the trucking business and allow him more
free time. Dave has sold his shop, several trucks, and trailers but still has a large selection of shop tool, extra trailers, truck parts, as well as
a beautiful selection of personal property. This is a great opportunity to buy yourself a much needed toy to play with as summer is coming
soon. So mark May 16th on your calendar and join us in Hancock for Dave Miller Business reduction auction. It will be a fun afternoon.
Thank you, Zielsdorf Auction Team.
Delivered to your site!
Call
ROBERT ANDERSON
for all your
excavation needs
uction
Directions: Hancock, MN- 535 Jefferson Street • Watch for Zielsdorf Auction signs.
• GENERAL
EXCAVATING
Including: Site Prep.,
Ditching & Demolition
• Toll Free: 888-955-9885
• Cell 320-808-9885
• Evenings
320-843-3989
Tractor/Misc. Equipment
Challenger fork lift, (old
fertilizer loader) forks
and bucket, front wheel
drive, chains, Ford 4 cyl
gas motor, rear weights
1953 Ford Jubilee, newer
rubber, 3 pt, 540 pto
3 pt blade
3 pt field cultivator
King Kutter brush cutter
Recreation
or call: Burton Amundson 320-843-4068
1994 Harley Davidson 883
Sportster, 8385 miles,
windshield, custom
exhaust, original paint
Honda Odyssey Dune
Buggy, 1 cyl motorcycle
engine, 2 wheel belt
drive, ribbed tires, 1
person, runs and drives
Electric Scoot-N-Go
scooter
Craftsman 22” self
propelled push mower
John Deere 57 mower, 8
hp Briggs and Stratton
1998 Arctic Cat ZR500
Lightweight Case Reed
Twin, 2082 miles, hand
warmers, very nice
condition
1998 Arctic Cat Jag 440,
1425 miles, very nice
condition
Misc. Trucking
Equipment
Tools & Shop
1996 Honda Foretrax 300,
shaft drive, 4x4, w/winch
and cab, original tires,
low miles, very clean
Snapper 400 cc lawn
mower, (needs work)
Yard Man 4 hp Snow Bird
snow blower, chains
Alum atv folding ramps
Craftsman ATV jack
Snowmobile dolly
5th wheel plate
ATV 25 gal sprayer
Hitch bike stand
MTD gas weed whip
Rattler 6hp Go Cart
Firearms
Glenfield Model 25, .22 cal
bolt action
Glenfield Model 60, .22
automatic w/scope
Polarms Full Arms, made
in Italy, 12 ga single shot
Ithaca Model 37
Featherlite 12 gauge
pump
Winchester Model 1300
XTR 12 gauge pump
Ruger Mini 14, .223, new
in box
The Curtis compressor,
60 gal air compressor,
electric motor w/1cyl
pump, belt drive
Craftsman 3 section tool
box, on wheels
Many misc cabinets and
shelves, some metal,
some plastic
Acetylene torch, tanks,
hose, and cart
P+H TR-181 single phase
stick welder
Craftsman table saw
Tool Shop miter Saw
300 gal oil tank
Step and extension
ladders
(2) Craftsman lights on
stands
Rough cut cedar, 2x6x10
(21 pieces)
Oil pump
1hp Balder air compressor
Craftsman 16 gal shop vac
Clamps
Cummins Pro 16 speed
floor drill, like new
5 shelf plastic shelving
Trailers
1990 Trail Mobile 48’x102”,
single zone, air ride,
Carrier refer
1986 Timpte trailer,
45’x96”, spring ride,
SMW 30 refer
1984 ThermoKing, spring
ride, SNW 30 refer
1978 Utility flat bed,
42’x96”, spring ride, Dbl
axle, stakes
Storage trailer, 45’x96”,
spring ride
20’ Gooseneck flatbed
trailer, tri axle
Portable Lincoln Arc
welder/generator, diesel
engine, model SA-250
TMD 2.7
Central Machinery S-987
table top drill press
Black and Decker saw
Wayne Pressure washer w/
heat and soap, 30 amp,
Model #PB/TB14
(2) 20 ton hyd jacks
Metal chop saw
6” bench grinder
7 gallon air tank
5 gallon shop vac
Air tank tire beader
Engine lift
Battery charger
Misc. oil, lube, grease
(2) Peterbilt mufflers,
stacks, and guards
(complete units)
Binders
Tire chains
Many misc chains
(4) Bridgestone 205/65R15
used tires
(4) BF Goodrich Mud
Terrain 16/118-15 used
tires, 1/3 tread
Tie down straps
(2) semi mufflers
(2) Peterbilt mud flaps
(2) Alum headache racks
(8) Alum semi rims
(2) load blocks
Whole set of lumber tarps
Roadside emergency kit
Sleeper trim w/lights
Air cleaner trim w/lights
Vehicles
1983 Chevrolet S10, 4x4,
4 spd, V-6, 152,000 mi,
ext cab, runs good
1945 Dodge pickup, ½ ton,
motor is stuck
1992 Dodge Rampage, 4
cyl, A/C
1987 Chevrolet Caprice,
200,000 miles
Miscellaneous
Boat/Fishing
1991 Larson S-type deck
boat, 21’, V-8 inboard
motor, (Motor was
replaced, new motor
has approx 20 hours on
it), tandem axle EZ load
trailer
(2) Portable fish houses,
8’x8’ and 2 man pull
over
Jiffy Ice auger, Model #31,
like new
Homemade electric ice
auger, made from Model
T steering sector
1963 Iekhaefer Mercury
Merc200 22hp boat
motor w/tank
Butcher block
Mac lap top (2 years old)
All in one printer
Hoover sweeper
Ping pong table, (no legs)
(2) metal bunk bed frames
(3) strobe lights
Small microwave
Remote control air plane
(never flown), boat, and
monster truck
350 engine headers
Children’s electric dune
buggy, (needs new
batteries)
Chain link fence (4) 8’
pieces, (1) 12’ piece
Antiques
Phonograph (not working)
Antique office chair
DAVE MILLER TRUCKING
HANCOCK, MN • 320-760-2815
AUCTIONEERS & CLERK:
Zielsdorf Auction & Real Estate Service,
119 3rd Street North, Benson, MN 56215
Your Farm Equipment & Real Estate Specialist
Office: 320-843-3003
320-843-3003
TERMS: Cash or check. Nothing removed before settlement.
Statements made sale day take precedence over all advertising.
www.zielsdorfauctions.com
Robert Zielsdorf, MN76-22, 320-760-2006
Jacob Fragodt, 320-760-3652
Lefty Norling, MN34-35, 320-382-6566
John Carlson, 763-238-6049
AGRALITE NEWS
APRIL 2013
Bids
On-Line!
H&H
Veterinary
Service...
SEE OUR LEGALS
www.swiftcountymonitor.com
CLINICS
PLANNED
FOR APRIL,
MAY...
CELEBRATING
EARTH MONTH
Horses: vaccinations and Coggins testing clinics.
at Windy Hill Auto Parts.
STARTING IMMEDIATELY.
At POPE COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, Glenwood
...from 9 a.m. to Noon
800-398-0566
NEW Land Listing
FOR SALE
Irrigated Crop Land
Ready for 2013
Growing Season!
‡$FUHV+DQFRFN01
Call Jesse Hughes
Today!
www.HughesRealEstate.net
‡%URNHU$XFWLRQHHU
Danvers, MN
‡
MA3-20-4-24
BRING this ad in for 5¢ more
per pound on aluminum cans.
Saturday, April 20
Dogs & Cats: vaccinations, heartworm
JUNK CARS, TRUCKS, FARM MACHINERY, SCRAP IRON, COPPER, BRASS, ALUMINUM CANS & MORE!
-HVVH+XJKHV
PAGE 9
testing & feline leukemia testing available.
Thursday, April 25
At H & H VETERINARY, Benson...from 4-8 p.m.
Friday, May 3
Saturday, May 4
CHOKIO FIRE HALL...from 9a.m. to 12 Noon
Saturday, May 18
At H & H VETERINARY, Benson
... from 9 a.m. to Noon
H & H Veterinary Service
+Z\6:‡%HQVRQ01
320-842-5960
www.hhvetservice.com
‡.DWKOHHQ-RVW'90‡-DFO\Q&DUOVRQ'90
‡0LFKDHO+HLQ'90
Cycles, Trikes, Mowers & More
30%
State-of-the-art seed treatment system.
We will also treat other soybean brand names.
We have top performing
Gold Country Seed products
available, including corn,
soybeans & alfalfa.
10%
2II
6WLKO
7216
2II
'XQORS
7LUHV
New bulk soybean system.
(4 bulk varieties w/Genuity®
Roundup Ready 2 Yield®)
Special Pricing
& Product rebates
available.
HANCOCK FIRE HALL...from 4-8 p.m.
‡LQIR#KXJKHVUHDOHVWDWHQHW
Norby Seed Offers You...
NO
APPOINTMENTS
NECESSARY!
2I
,Q+RXVH
6SHFLDOV
S
)ULGD\$SULOWK
6DW$SULOWK
DW(ULF¶V0RWRU6SRUWV
Stop in for our 7 year anniversary!
25%
Installed
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New Finish Line trailers in stock.
“Your Mower
Store & Sooo Much
More!”
Financing Available on Mowers
& Most Cycles.
We have an on-site
warehouse or we
will deliver
to your farm!
NORBY SEED
6I\M6WZJaΠ,][\a?QTTQIU[WVΠ!
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We do service, maintenance or warranty repairs.
ERIC’S MOTOR SPORTS
0LQQHVRWD$YH:+Z\‡%HQVRQ01
320-842-4853
+RXUV0)‡6DW
AGRALITE NEWS
PAGE 10
Farm Rescue founder
launches separate foundation
to help farmers
The founder of Farm Rescue has launched a separate foundation to further his
cause of helping farmers stricken by major illnesses, ailments or disasters.
Farm Rescue helps farmers in the Dakotas, Minnesota, Iowa and eastern
Montana with planting and harvesting. Founder and CEO Bill Gross says the new
Farm Rescue Foundation will help farmers in the recovery process with specialized
equipment, or with some farm tasks they’re unable to do.
Langdon farmer Brett Kakela is recovering from a stroke. The foundation helped
him get equipment that will enable him to unload grain without having to climb out
of his truck. He says he appreciates the help.
The foundation aims to help about 20 farmers in North Dakota this spring and
expand to the other four states this fall.
APRIL 2013
Farm Rescue
helped its 200th
family last fall. Dan
Dotzenrod had broken
bones in his neck
after slipping off his
semi -trailer. Farm
Rescue finished his
soybean harvest.
E&M Electric,
E&M
Electric,
Whether it be
LLP
LLP Big or Small...
• Farm & Residential • Commercial Wiring
• Controllable Electric Heat
If you’re building or remodeling this fall...
call the professionals at E&M Electric
Need Gravel?
909 13th St. North • Benson • 842-5291
RAGODT AUCTION
F+RPHV‡/DQG‡3URSHUW\
&DOODERXW\RXUDXFWLRQWRGD\
I have 30+ years experience in the auction business
and I’m proud to introduce my son Nathan, to
the company. We look forward to your call!
Check our web site for daily updates,
photos & complete auction information.
Internet Bidding Available.
320-808-8731
Randy Fragodt, MN76-12
www.fragodtauction.com
www.fragodtauction.com
7DNHDORRNDWWKHRSSRUWXQLW\WRPL[XS\RXUFXUUHQWFKHPLFDOSURJUDPE\
SODQWLQJFRQYHQWLRQDOVR\EHDQVIRUWKHH[SRUWPDUNHW
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AUCTIONEERS & CLERK:
Fragodt Auction Company,
3154 Hwy. 40, Appleton,
MN 56208
Randy Fragodt, Nathan
)UDJRGW‡
APRIL 2013
AGRALITE NEWS
SEED FOR SALE: CERTIFIED VANTAGE,
SY Soren, Granite and Mayville wheat.
Certified Sheyenne conventional soybeans.
Seed since 1979, [email protected]
www.habererfoods.com. Haberer Seed Farm 320-795-2468.
PAGE 11
PAGE 12
Custom agreements...
Although the concept of a Custom
Farming Agreement is simple, close
communication between the custom
operator and the landowner is essential. A
written contract for the Custom Farming
Agreement should definitely be prepared
that specifies the amount of payment by
the landowner to the custom operator,
and all other pertinent details. Following
are some points to consider for Custom
Farming Agreement:
The Custom Farming Agreement
should specify the payment amount
per acre that the landowner will pay
the custom operator, and should list the
payment dates.
There needs to be an accurate count on
the number of acres that will be under the
Custom Farming Agreement for payment
purposes, and so that the farm operator
can accurately plan tillage, planting, and
harvesting schedules.
The normal field practices to be
included under the Custom Farming
Agreement should be listed (tillage,
planting, weed control, harvesting, etc.).
Typically, these agreed upon practices
are part of the per acre custom farming
payment for the year that is negotiated
between the custom operator and the
landowner.
Additional tillage trips or replanting
due to weather conditions, or added
spraying applications of pesticides to
control weeds, insects or diseases, which
are provided by the custom operator,
are usually charged to the landowner at
a custom rate per acre that is over and
above the base custom farming rate.
(Refer to the “2013 Farm Custom Rates”
sheet for rates.)
Timing of planting and harvesting
operations should be discussed and
negotiated between the custom operator
and the landowner prior to the growing
season. This can become a tenuous issue,
especially in years with challenging
weather conditions.
The custom operator may be asked for
advice by landowner regarding the seed
corn hybrid or soybean variety to plant,
fertilizer rates, chemical applications,
levels of crop insurance coverage, or
grain marketing decisions. However, the
final decisions on these items lie with the
Prescriptions?
Questioning Your
Prescription Costs?
CALL US at
842-4221
It’s
CONVENIENT!
Try Our ReÀll
Telemanager:
After hours leave your
prescription number on our
automated phone system and your
prescription will be ¿lled the
following day when our store opens.
BREEN’S
1207 Paci¿c Avenue
• Benson, MN
(320) 842-4221
M•T•TH 8:30-8:00
• W•F 8:30-7:00
• Sat. 8:30-5:00
APRIL 2013
AGRALITE NEWS
..from 6
landowner, and the custom operator needs
to be careful not to take responsibility for
the final authority on those decisions.
Typically, the harvested grain of the
landowner is delivered by the custom
operator to a farm storage facility owned
or rented by the landowner, or to an
agreed upon area grain elevator, as part
of the Custom Farming Agreement. Any
grain deliveries beyond the local area
usually result in the landowner paying
an extra custom rate charge for grain
hauling. Also, if the landowner uses
the custom operators grain drying and
handling facilities, there is typically an
added charge for these services.
For more details on Custom Farming
Agreements, the “2013 Farm Custom
Rates”, and other farm machinery
information, please refer to the Iowa
State University “Ag Decision Maker”
Web Site :
http://www.extension.iastate.edu/
agdm/
“We Sell Farms”
Auctions - Conventional Listings - 1031 Tax Deferred Exchanges
Details and photos on the web
The Harrison Company
www.theharrisonco.com
Bill Harrison, Broker, 320-842-7303
Kay Harrison, Broker/Agent, 320-842-7303
#!! !%
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Glacial Plains Cooperative
(320) 842-5311
320-842-5311
195-30th Ave. NE
Benson, MN
56215
APRIL 2013
AGRALITE NEWS
ALL SYSTEMS
APPLIANCES
MADE IN THE USA
1-800-933-1224
“Serving the Agralite
COMMUNICATIONS
•Clip &FURNACES
•
Save!
Area Since
1974”
“Taking FIREPLACES
Communications
into the Future”
• GAS
•
Phone:
(320) 843-2830
Danielson
This could be
USINESS
&
your
adS space.
B
PAGE 13
AUTO SUPPLY
• Septic
• 24 Hour Answering
and Dispatch
Services
• General
Electric
• LG
Appliances
Cell:
320-760-5280
• Promotional Calling Services
•
Hotpoint
Systems
“For the water we took for
• Directory Assistance
Fireplaces
••
Services
•Operator
Backhoe
Work
granted 100 years ago.”
•PO
Holland
Grills
information, give Nancy or
•For
Roto-Rooter
Boxmore
6
Paul
SERVICE DIRECTORY
CRAIG’S
James Offerdahl
Chokio,
MN 56221
Factory Authorized Dealer
• Septic Tank
320-324-7530
– 100%
satisfaction
Water
Conditioning
Contractor
1-800-933-1224
guarantee. NATE Certified.
Pumping
Benson,
MN
56215
www.onvoy.com
• HEATING • AIR CONDITIONING • PLUMBING • REFRIGERATION
MN Dept. of Labor & Ind.
• APPLIANCES
• GAS FIREPLACES
1-800-933-1224
Barb a call at
320-843-4111 or 1-800-750-0166.
(320)Swift
239-4339
County
Monitor-News
License # MN
03-2221WC
2015 Minnesota Ave. • W. Hwy 12 • Benson,
56215
(320) 843-4385 • Emergency 314-2665
DRAINAGE/TILING
EQUIPMENT REPAIR
“Lenarz Farm & Auto”
Auto & Farm Equipment Repair
Located Hwy. 9 N.
Auto Repair Engine & Electrical
New or Used Vehicle Repair
Auto, Farm & Trucks Air Conditioning
- 2 WD Tractors - ASE CertiÀed
- Skidsteers & Other Farm Machinery
DRAINAGE/TILING
320-264-3211
or 320-979-1522
Still in business
after 40+ years!
Van Heuveln - The ORIGINAL
Farm Drainage Company
• Call for an estimate.
• Locally done, guaranteed work.
• Ken 320-264-3211 • Kevin 320-979-1522
Kerkhoven, MN 56252
320-264-3211
320-843-4699
Serving the Region.
You can depend on us for a functional drainage system to remove
excess ¿eld water and get you in the ¿eld as soon as possible.
320-979-1522
HEATING - COOLING
ELECTRICAL
“For bright ideas
in electrical
contracting”
Since 1950
(320)
843-4636
2110 Hall Ave.
Benson, MN 56215
Commercial • Industrial
• Farm • Residential
DESIGN • BUILD
www.loenelectric.com
INSURANCE - PRE PLANNING
Final Expense
‡)LQDO([SHQVH,QVXUDQFH
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Benson Agency
3DFL¿F$YH%HQVRQ
6XH+DXHU/LFHQVHG$JHQW
Email: SUHQHHGBSODQQHU#OLYHFRP
FHOO‡RI¿FH
)DPLOLHVDSSUHFLDWH\RXUHIIRUWVWRSUHSODQD¿QDOVHUYLFHDORQJZLWK
DOOLWVGHWDLOV,KDYHVHHQWKLVRYHUWKH\HDUVZRUNLQJDWDIXQHUDO
KRPH&DOOPHDQG,¶OODQVZHUDQ\RI\RXUTXHVWLRQV7KDQN\RX
See me for
all your
investment &
insurance needs.
TRAVEL
This
be
This could
could be
your
space.
your ad
ad space.
Vollmer
Travel
Vollmer Travel
ForFor
more
information,
give
Nancy
more
information, give
Nancy
or or
Barb
callat
at
Barb a call
Nancy
Vollmer
Nancy
Vollmer
320-843-4111
1-800-750-0166.
320-843-4111 or
or 1-800-750-0166.
Benson,
MN
Benson, MN
Swift
County Monitor-News
Swift
County
Monitor-News
320-314-8400
320-314-8400
E-Mail:
[email protected]
E-Mail:
[email protected]
101
12th
St S.
S •• Benson,
Benson Mn
56215
101
12th
St.
Mn
56215
Michael Berreau, FIC
Financial Associate
218 1/2 14th Street South
Benson, MN 56215
320-843-2981
Toll-Free 800-211-3406
Registered Representatives for securities and investment advisory services offered through Thrivent Investment
Management Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC.
27193 N10-11
SMALL ENGINE REPAIR
Eric’s Motor Sports • 320-842-4853
Your local dealer for Engines, Mowers, ATV’s, Sleds,
Motor Cycles & Power Equipment
Your Mower Store & Sooo Much More...
Adly Moto ATV & Scooter Dealer
2 Year Scooter Warranty - LOW Prices!!!
Dealer for • Simplicity • Snapper • Hustler • Kohler
Grass Hopper • Briggs & Stratton • Full Line Stihl
Honda & Kawasaki Engines • Tillers, Throwers & Walk Behinds
ericmotorsports.com • www.ericsoutdoor.com
VETERINARY SERVICES
H & H Veterinary
Service, LLP
170 Hwy. 9 NW,
Benson, MN
56215
(Located in the former
Cloverleaf Supper Club bldg.)
CVT • Technician
For all your
veterinary &
grooming
needs!
EMAIL: [email protected]
320-842-5960 • 320-842-5990 (Fax)
AGRALITE NEWS
PAGE 14
ELECTRIC
FEATURING:
• Dayton
Weg Motors
Motors • Winco Generators
M
O
T
O
R
S
• Teel Shallow Well Pumps • Browning Pulleys
• Corn Dryer Motors and Parts
• Complete Rewind Service to 250 h.p.
KENT ELECTRIC MOTOR REPAIR
th Side
o uSHOP
SBODY
& GLASS, INC.
APRIL 2013
ZZZDEQHUVDOHVFRP
Order your parts catalog on-line!
TOWING & STORAGE
225 Hwy. 29 SE • Benson • 320-843-2775
Ray & Cindy Staton, Owners
• Towing
• Expert Refinishing
• Dent removal • Collision Repair
• Glass Installation
“Over 25 Years of Experience”
S. Hwy. 29, Benson • 843-2775
Clontarf, Mn • 320-843-2418
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Mick and Andy Abner
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Your Headquarters For....
www.HughesRealEstate.net
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West Central Minnesota’s Full-Service Real Estate
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NEW LISTINGS
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ORFDWLRQWREHGHWHUPLQHG
Sunderman Estate Owners.
Call Today
to Schedule
Your
Auction!
1HZ/DQG/LVWLQJ
‡$FUHV7LOODEOH)DUPODQG,UULJDWHG
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SPRING POSSESSION, Call Jesse today!
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ALSO
FOR SALE
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ISCleanup
TRASHorARemodeling?
PROBLEM?
Earn a 30% Tax Credit
30% TAX CREDIT
Earn a 30% Federal Tax Credit when you install a qualifying Bryant heating
and cooling system. Not only will you save money this year with the tax
credit, you’ll continue to save money down the road with extra
high-efficiency comfort.
RECEIVE A FREE WHOLE HOUSE HUMIDIFIER WHEN
YOU INSTALL A NEW GEOTHERMAL HEATING SYSTEM!
Offer limited to first 20 callers. Offer Code: 0001
SERVICES
• Garbage Pickup • Demolition & Construction Pickup
• Farm Cleanup (groves, burn piles, buildings, etc.) • Recycling Pickup
CONTAINERS AVAILABLE
Call Freetly Electric today for more details!
877-613-3121
320-264-3121
ROLL OFF BOX
To handle the changing needs of our customers
Electrical, Heating, & Cooling Contractor
100% Right or 100% Free
www.freetlyelectric.com
MATTHEISEN DISPOSAL, INC
843-2120 • BENSON
A Full Service Company SERVING SWIFT & portions of BIG STONE & POPE COUNTIES
APRIL 2013
PAGE 15
AGRALITE NEWS
Classified Advertising
FOR SALE
Kimball Console piano, walnut, very good
condition. $750.00 320-842-9423
---------------------------------------------------------Craftsman 48” mower – 46” blower. $600.
320-760-4066.
---------------------------------------------------------12 ft. boat $175, 1960’s 5hp Johnson long
shaft $250 or $400 for both – no trailer. 320760-4066.
---------------------------------------------------------John Deer 494 corn planter on rubber tires,
has fertilizer attachment with hoppers, plates &
disc assortment $300. 320-273-2114.
---------------------------------------------------------22 MH tractor; 3 pt., pto., hydr.; 44 MH tractor
– other MH to rebuild. 320-760-2820.
---------------------------------------------------------Restorables – 1950 International truck 1 ton
w/hoist; 1956 Ford ½ ton pickup; 1950 Chevrolet ¾ ton pickup. 320-760-2820.
---------------------------------------------------------1984 Honda 1200 cc Goldwing Aspencae,
full dress motorcycle. Low miles, ready to go.
320-273-2181.
---------------------------------------------------------Used grain trailer tarp 10’x40’x42’ – fair condition. 320-808-8334.
---------------------------------------------------------15” western saddle & bridle – like new, made
by Texas Saddlery $300 o.bo. 320-304-5291.
---------------------------------------------------------Entertainment center, oak wood – 5 W, 6’ H,
depth 16”, many shelves. Round oak Queen
Ann table w/6 oak chairs 320-278-3518.
---------------------------------------------------------Solid oak hutch – 4 ½ ft. wide, 5 ft. high, 4
glass shelves w/ dark stain. $210. 320-8433537.
----------------------------------------------------------
Embroidered dish towel sets $22; queen quilt
– complete $110; queen quilt – colorful top $70;
embroidered pillow cases w/crocheted edges
$22.50. 320-843-3157.
---------------------------------------------------------Embroidered dresser scarves/w crocheted
edges $19.50 3 pairs of white queen pillow cases $15/ea. 320-843-3157.
---------------------------------------------------------Baldwin electric organ and bench cabaret
with fun machine, walnut finish, like new, one
owner. Clara City. $200.00 OBO. 320-847-3478
---------------------------------------------------------J.D. 336 baler with thrower, has always been
shedded. 320-843-4621
WANTED
Playground toys & equipment for daycare
– reasonable also 6’ or 8’ folding poly tables.
320-304-5291.
---------------------------------------------------------John Deere model 845 or 85 16 row – 30
inch row crop cultivator. Cal Byron Koehl at
320-760-2088.
---------------------------------------------------------Scrap iron, all kinds of scrap metal, machinery, cars, batteries and misc. 320-760-7288
HELP WANTED
Someone to mow 3 ½ acre yard once a week
through the summer. Mower and fuel furnished.
Must know how to run/service a riding mower.
320-843-3385.
----------------------------------------------------------
Get Involved - Get Informed
on the Coal Country Tour
This is a chance to see more of how your power is produced. Agralite
receives a part of our power from East River Electric. East River gets their
power from Basin Electric Power Cooperative. Basin operates the Synfuels
plant and Antelope Valley Station. We also get a part of our power from
Great River Energy. We will drive past a couple of their power plants as
well.
On the way back to Bismarck we will stop for supper at Riverdale and
then return to the Ramkota for the evening.
On Thursday we will return home after a quick stop at the historical
center.
This year, as was true last
year, we are sharing the Tour
with Meeker Cooperative so
space is limited.
Sign up early to reserve your
place.
$180.00 per person for the hotel,
transportation and most of the meals.
Checks will not be cashed until two
weeks before we leave.
Agralite Electric Cooperative, P.O.
Box 228, Benson, MN 56215
Classified ads are limited to 20 words per ad.
Two ad limit per member; no gun or real estate ads.
Join us on the 2013 Coal
Country Tour August 13, 14, 15
A note from Kenneth Bergquist,
Dassel; Leslie and William Bergquist,
Granite Falls; and Theodore Sjurseth,
Clarkfield received after the 2012 tour
stated “The tour was a very enjoyable
and educational experience for all
participants.”
The note continued, “I would
encourage all cooperative members
to take advantage of this opportunity
in future years.
The 2012 trip
provided a
chance to see
many energy
generating
facilities.
The schedule
included a tour of
the Garrison Dam
hydroelectric
generation
facility, which is
the fifth largest
hydroelectric
generating
facility in the
United States;
the cooperative
owned Basin
Power Antelope
Valley Station,
which generates much of the electrical
power sent to various distribution
cooperatives; the Dakota Gasification
Company — Great Plains Synfuel
Plant, the only one of its kind in North
America, which converts lignite coal
into natural gas and other related byproducts, and of special interest was
the tour of The Coteau Properties
Company — Freedom Mine which
mines the lignite coal, the energy
source which is converted to useful
electrical and natural gas energies.”
The 2013 Coal Country Tour
promises to be very much the same as
last year, a fun and informative time
for all participants. This tour is three
days of travel and activities that will
let you see how your electricity is
produced.
The group will travel by charter bus
to Bismarck, North Dakota on the first
day. We will have dinner together and
then stay at the Ramkota Inn for the
night.
After breakfast, on your own, the
bus departs for Garrison Dam. A part
of Agralite’s power comes from the
dams on the Missouri. Garrison is one
of those dams so you will get a chance
to see how the Western Area Power
Administration
generates power
from falling
water.
We will then
travel to the
Great Plains
Synfuels Plant
in central
western North
Dakota. After
lunch, we will
tour a model of
the plant that
converts coal
into natural
gas. The model
gives you a
close-up look
at how the
plant operates.
We will then
drive through the plant on the way to
Antelope Valley Station.
The nearby Antelope Valley Station
power plant tour is preceded by an
in-depth discussion of the process of
generating power while looking at a
million dollar model of the plant. That
is followed by a walking tour of the
power plant.
The Antelope Valley Station
Freedom mine tour takes us down into
the mine. Last year it started to rain
so the tour ended early. This year the
weather will be beautiful so you will
get a close-up look at the equipment
used in the mining process.
Live alone
without being alone
Free Classified Ad form for all Agralite Electric Cooperative Members
Ads must be received in our office by the 5th of the month to ensure being printed in the next issue of the Agralite News.
No guns, no business or real estate ads please. Ads will be printed one time. Please print clearly or type your ad of 20 words
or less on this form. We reserve the right to edit ad copy. Limit 2 ads per member.
For Sale
Wanted
Give Away
Community Event
Medical alert response with the touch
of a button -If you need assistance just press a
button worn on your wrist or around
your neck. The response center will
send someone you trust to help you.
Phone Number
Account Number
24 hours a day, 7 days a week
A service of
Name
Clip and mail to Agralite Electric Cooperative, PO Box 228, Benson, MN 56215 or fax to 320-843-3738, or email your ad to
[email protected].
Agralite Electric
Cooperative
1-800-950-8375
PAGE 16
APRIL 2013
AGRALITE NEWS
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SmartHub, from p. 5
The new user-friendly SmartHub
online billing software is now
available. In addition to being
able to make a payment quicker,
members will find it easy to view
monthly and daily electric usage,
either on a computer or smartphone
at any time.
Members who sign up for
Smarthub billing before the annual
meeting will be placed in a drawing
to win an iPad.
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Keep Indoor
Air Healthy
by James Dully
Indoor air quality is becoming a
greater issue for families as homes
become more airtight for energy
efficiency. And with all the synthetic
products used in homes today, indoor
air is often more polluted and hazardous
to your health than outdoor air.
Installing a high-quality central
air cleaner or filter in the furnace/
air conditioner duct system does not
technically improve the efficiency of
your heating and cooling system. What
it will do is keep the units running
at their highest original efficiency
levels. Most air cleaners use little or no
electricity to operate.
With a lower-quality air cleaner, such
as the standard one-inch-thick fiberglass
filter, dust and dirt can build up on
the heat exchanger and cooling coil
surfaces. This dust creates a layer of
insulation so that heat is not transferred
as effectively as it should be. This
reduces the overall energy efficiency.
If you don’t change the filter often
enough, dirt can clog the many pores
in the filter medium and reduce air
flow through it. This further reduces
efficiency because the heating and
cooling coils and heat exchangers are
designed for a specific air flow rate.
Within the past several years,
manufacturers have begun producing
new, super-efficient central air cleaners.
They use a combination of electronic air
charging and filter media to trap almost
all of the tiniest particles in the air. They
can even catch flu viruses and bacteria
as they pass through the duct system.
Standard electronic air cleaners use
wires to give air particles a negative
charge. A collection cell has plates
with a positive charge so the negatively
charged particles stick to it. When the
collection cell is dirty, you can wash it
in the dishwasher or bathtub and slip it
back into the unit.
For many people, this standard type
of electronic air cleaner is adequate. I
use one in the heat pump in my own
home. For people with allergies to some
of the smallest particles in indoor air,
the new electronic air cleaners with
the charged filter media may be more
effective. The electricity cost to operate
much resistance
either type of electronic air cleaner is
quality and price. The cleaning
for the furnace
not significant.
effectiveness of various models
blower to force
It’s important to regularly clean
can be compared by their MERV
adequate air flow
the collection cell of the standard
(minimum efficiency reporting
through it. The
electronic air cleaner to keep it
value) rating.
bypass design has
operating at maximum cleaning
If you don’t want to have the
its own blower
performance and reduce the amount of
ducts modified to install a new air
so the air flow
ozone generated. When the cell gets
cleaner, consider a self-charging
through the coils
dirty, the charge can
electrostatic model.
or heat exchanger
arch from the wires to
This slips into the
This pleated media central
the collection plate. This
existing furnace filter air cleaner has its own remote is not impeded.
With any
may produce excessive
slot and is many times control that mounts near the
central air
concentrations of ozone
more effective than a furnace wall thermostat.
cleaner, it cleans
gas, to which some
fiberglass filter. Just the
only when a furnace/air conditioner
people are sensitive. I set
air flowing over the resin
blower is running. To get around this,
mine to a lower charging
filter material creates a
Aprilaire offers a new controller which
voltage to reduce ozone.
charge that tends to trap
mounts next to the wall thermostat. It
Another option is a
more dirt particles.
This electronic air cleaner Another option is a bypass allows you to automatically run the
pleated media air cleaner.
charges air particles and uses
blower for any length of time when no
This type of unit is less
HEPA (high efficiency
72 square feet of filtering
heating or cooling is needed. Whole
expensive and relies on
particle air) cleaner that
media to trap them.
house cleaners are offered by many
has its own air circulation
many square feet of folded
motor. A HEPA is a very
well-known manufacturers.
filter material to catch
dense media filter, which makes it
Source: Aprilaire
particles as the air passes through
very effective, but it may create too
it. There are various levels of media
BETTER BULBS MAKE
all the difference.
CFLs have brought quality, energy-efficient
lighting to a new level. And now you can save
on your next purchase of CFL bulbs.
$
3
$
2
Enter for a chance to win
a $500 energy credit
Off GE energy smart® CFLs with a
coupon from Agralite Electric Cooperative
April 1–August 31, 2013
Off GE energy smart®
CFLs
at select Walmart stores
Due to the presence of mercury, CFLs must be recycled.
In Minnesota, it is illegal to place them directly in the
garbage.