diamond in the rough 60 - nppd.com · bill johnson, second vice chairman jerry chlopek, secretary...

Current news about Nebraska Public Power District

Second Quarter 2018Volume 11 Issue 2

It’s Finally Here!The 2018 Grad Issue …pg. 14

PLUS, President Pat PopeAnswers Reader’s Questions …pg. 4

CANADAY STATION turns …pg. 10

DIAMONDIN THE ROUGH60

3 Letter from the Editor Distinctive skills and personalities

round out the collective NPPD family, from employee to customer.

4 President’s Message President and CEO Pat Pope answers readers’ most burning questions.

6 Infographic: Powering a Brighter Energy Future

NPPD’s at the forefront of several inspiring and innovative projects.

8 Sitting Down with Courtney Dentlinger

NPPD’s new governmental affairs manager has aspirations to spread public power’s message.

10 Diamond in the Rough Canaday Station has served

a unique purpose in NPPD’s generation mix for 60 years and counting!

12 Woodwork Engrained into Karel’s Life

Hand Columbus Senior Environmental Specialist Keith Karel a scroll saw, and he’ll hand you back a masterpiece.

14 Meet Our Graduates Proudly celebrating NPPD’s 2018

high school and college graduates, as well as post-graduates.

17 Customer News NPPD celebrates Arbor Day in

Dakota City, and Howard Greeley RPPD appoints new General Manager Dirk Dietz.

19 Around the State From Chadron to Auburn, here are worthwhile community projects, team achievements and unique awards making headlines.

23 We Will Remember Fondly remembering family and friends who have recently passed away.

Board of DirectorsGary Thompson, chairman Barry DeKay, first vice chairman Bill Johnson, second vice chairman Jerry Chlopek, secretary Fred ChristensenMelissa Freelend Mary Harding Tom HoffBill Hoyt Ken Kunze Ed Schrock

Corporate Communications and Public Relations Manager Jeanne Schieffer

Managing Editor Cassie Rief, [email protected]

Senior EditorJeanne Schieffer

Contributors Scott Margheim PhotographyGary Pelster

Graphic Design Dan Zastera

ReportersKathy Fadschild, ColumbusBrianna Gentert, Cooper Nuclear StationKathy Nelson, Doniphan Control CenterShelly Reil, Gerald Gentleman StationKristi Singleterry, KearneyCarol Johnson, LincolnHelen Hinz, McCookKelli Koepke, NorfolkKay Nichols, North PlatteConnie Knapp, OgallalaNicole Sedlacek, O’NeillLottie Kellison, Plattsmouth Margie Allen, RushvilleSarah Hessler, ScottsbluffCindy Holsing, Sheldon StationKris Cross, South Sioux CityPam Hoeft, York

Energy Insight is published by the Nebraska Public Power District Corporate Communications Department as a service for employees, customers and friends of NPPD. Its purpose is to communicate NPPD news and information and to recognize achievements of employees, retirees and their families.

About the Cover: This 50s-era, hand-crank wheel is still used at NPPD’s Canaday Station to manually start up the plant’s steam turbine-generator unit. While still reliable and remarkably sound, old technology mixes with new at the plant to make it one of NPPD’s most unique generation resources. Canaday Station celebrated its 60th year of existence on May 31. Learn more about the plant on page 10.

E N E R G Y I N S I G H T • S E C O N D Q U A R T E R 2 0 1 82

Public power’s starring roles

Are you quick with the last word like Iron Man? An altruistic soul like Captain America? Fiery and passionate like Jean Grey? These three Marvel characters join thousands more created since 1939, thanks in part to the ingenuity of comic book writer Stan Lee. With his help (and that of modern-day cinema), the world has come to adore superheroes like Spider-Man, the Wasp and Groot. Part of Marvel’s success lies in its diverse character list in which anyone can find a superhero personality with which to identify. You may have good and bad parts to you like the Hulk or Deadpool. You may be a martial arts expert like Black Widow. Or, you may be tech-savvy like Black Panther. Their success lies as much in the concept of teamwork as diversity. Although characters can adeptly go it alone, oftentimes, working together yields the best outcome. This isn’t anything new to the NPPD team. We each have individual stories that make us stand out – that make us unique. Like Marvel’s characters, we all have our own story to tell. Yet, Marvel’s characters eventually come together to do some really great stuff – you know – like save Earth and its people. As a result, we see tight-knit groups, like the Avengers or Guardians of the Galaxy, begin to form. These characters show the value and virtue behind teamwork and complementing one another’s distinct skills and passions to make a difference. And, that’s what we share in each issue of Energy Insight. You’ll see some stories of people using their individual talents in remarkable ways. You’ll see others join hands to educate, inspire or transcend history.

Finally, you’ll see the celebration of family as we congratulate all our 2018 graduates. The NPPD family is made up of diverse employees, customers and stakeholders who play starring roles in telling NPPD’s story, and that of public power. It is that story we share within these pages, and I hope you see yourself in one or two of them. Cassie RiefManaging Editor

3

Patrick L. Pope

from the PRESIDENT & CEO

1. What is the long-term plan for Cooper Nuclear Station? As most everyone knows, I am pro-nuclear, and I view Cooper as one of our most valuable assets when it comes to providing carbon-free, baseload generation. As with all our plants, I expect excellence in operations, safety, regulatory compliance and finances. While Cooper doesn’t have to be the lowest-cost nuclear resource in the nation, it must place between the first and second quartiles in Electric Utility Cost Group data against similar single reactors when comparing cost, performance and best practices. Assuming Cooper stays competitive in this manner, I am open to exploring a second license

renewal prior to the current expiring in 2034, as well as pursuing technological upgrades the facility may need. 2. What are your thoughts regarding the integrity of the U.S. electric grid? I would agree portions of the U.S. grid are more susceptible and outdated than others. But, I’ve seen a lot of new infrastructure under development with stringent adherence to security-related regulations, and NPPD is no exception.

We are constantly upgrading our assets to align with the strictest, North American

Electric Reliability Corporation Critical Infrastructure Protection standards.

Our people are both our best defense and our greatest threat due to the prevalence of phishing schemes

and ransomware infiltrating email on a daily basis. Despite the fact no

utility will ever be risk-free from security attacks, I’m proud to report the Midwest

Reliability Organization, which monitors NPPD’s operations in the Bulk Electric System, has deemed us ahead of the curve in our actions to protect the grid, our infrastructure, employees and customers.

3. As NPPD hires new and younger individuals, what advice should we give them? My advice is that opportunities abound. NPPD is

In this month’s column, I’ll answer some questions recently posed by employees and customers in an effort to further promote NPPD’s strategy and address top concerns openly and frankly. To those who submitted a question – thank you. I welcome the opportunity to speak with anyone one-on-one if you have additional insights or questions.

PATA chat with


looking for teammates who exemplify time-honored qualities, like taking initiative, leading with integrity and being flexible. Position yourself as the most knowledgeable and skillful, and have a wide view of your career. Often, a lateral move can open the door to new opportunities you may never have expected. I expect all teammates to work hard, but to strike a balance between work and personal life. I highly recommend partnering with a mentor who can teach you NPPD’s inner workings and help guide your future.

4. Has NPPD considered agreements for our own renewable facilities similar to the one Facebook entered into for wind power to supply their Papillion-based data center?

Yes, and I have and will continue to push for more

flexibility on projects like this. Facebook

was looking for a metropolitan hub that allowed quick

access to amenities that our more rural

service territory could not completely accommodate.

But, that doesn’t mean we won’t have an opportunity to recruit or attract a future data center. We are constantly evaluating ways to stay competitive, such as innovative rate options/products, and I do believe we will find a good partnership, if the organization’s requirements for renewables match our available services. 5. We constantly hear how competitive natural gas is due to low prices. Why is NPPD not running our Beatrice plant more often? Quite frankly, the Southwest Power Pool’s Integrated Market isn’t asking for it, and the competitiveness of generation resources within the market depends on

how natural gas plants are dispatched. Even so, I’m glad to have Beatrice Power Station available, and in fact, it’ll allow for more flexibility as the market continues to be overloaded with wind resources.

6. Would Nebraska ever let go of public power? In my new position as chairman of the Large Public Power Council, I regularly engage in discussions about the challenges public power must overcome, which are evident with ongoing announcements of slated nuclear power plant closings and continued discussions comparing regulated versus deregulated electric markets. Public power has many advantages, including that we can borrow into the market at a lower rate; we are not-for-profit; and we represent local control for our customers/stakeholders. If we continue to stay receptive of our customer’s wants and remain competitive in the market, there is no better model out there.

7. Do you own any

bitcoin? No, but I am interested in

how blockchain will impact commerce, especially within

The Energy Authority (TEA), of which NPPD is an equity

member. TEA, as you may know, helps members address volatility in the wholesale energy market. The potential is there for blockchain to be a disruptive technology, and that’s why we will keep open communications within TEA and other industry entities to gain experience and education of just how it could affect business to stay ahead of the curve.

5E N E R G Y I N S I G H T • S E C O N D Q U A R T E R 2 0 1 8

POWERING A BRIGHTER ENERGY FUTURE

UNL Energy Research

Sheldon Station Hydrogen Conversion ProjectCarbon Capture Projects

Electric Vehicle Charging StationsCommunity Solar

Customer-Focused Technology

Stewardship

Advanced Metering InfrastructureEconomic DevelopmentEnergy Education

Energy Efficiency Incentives

Environmental Partnerships

At Nebraska Public Power District, we have a tremendous responsibility to provide power that is safe, reliable, sustainable, and affordable for our customers. As we continue to look for and take advantage of new technologies, we also have a great opportunity to innovate Nebraska’s energy future.

Carbon-Free Resources

Electric Vehicles

This goes hand-in-hand with our commitment to balance environmental, economic and societal needs, now and in the future. Recognizing and adapting to changing customer expectations and positively impacting the communities we serve today helps power Nebraska’s “good life” for generations to come.

Grid Modernization


You’re never too young, or old,

TO BE A SAFETY WARRIOR

Why do you don your work gloves? Your hard hat? Your safety glasses?

For Beatrice Plant Services Coordinator Angie Carroll, the answer is simple (and adorable). She does it to stay safe – and to set a good example for her granddaughter, Evelyn.

“My safety glasses are always in clear view, so when my granddaughter visits me at work, she beelines for them,” said Carroll. “She loves wearing them, and she wants to be just like grandma.”

Carroll’s job requires her to periodically perform safety observations at the plant, meaning her personal protective equipment (PPE) must be readily available.

“There are many hazards associated with a working power plant, so I’ve got to have proper protections in place when I venture out,” said Carroll.

Oftentimes, it’s our little ones – our kids and grandkids – who are so eager to imitate us exactly. But, religiously wearing PPE also sets an example as clear as those safety glass lenses to those who work with you and respect you.

What PPE could you have at the ready the next time you head out on the job,

whether at home or at work? And, what’s your deeper meaning – the

personal significance – behind donning that piece of gear before you begin a task,

no matter how complicated, mundane or repetitious?

“At home, we wear gloves and safety glasses while doing projects or landscaping,” said Carroll. Why? Because she wants to always be there for Evelyn.

“She’s my little buddy,” said Carroll. “I do a lot of projects outside, and she loves to tag along.”

Evelyn even has her own little set of handmade gloves to wear when the two plant flowers.

“It is important we teach our children and grandchildren

about safety, but also to make it a priority among peers,” said Carroll. “You can’t take back an injury once it happens.”

Wearing PPE isn’t just for you, but for your coworkers, your family and all

those who look up to you. Who knows, from time to time, it may

also contribute to a really cute photo opportunity!


What makes you passionate about public power and how it fits into the bigger picture of state legislature?

It is great to be part of a team delivering low-cost, reliable electricity to residents and businesses across the state of Nebraska. Electricity is such a fundamental part of our lives. It’s so ever-present; we don’t think much about it until there is an outage. We’re really powering the good life.

What did you learn your first year?

I quickly learned this industry is incredibly complex. There is a balance between generation; transmission and distribution; load management; incorporation of intermittent renewables into a system that requires

consistency; ensuring everyone’s power needs are satisfied cost-effectively and efficiently; and protecting our infrastructure from physical and cyber threats. There is a highly-choreographed system behind our outlets most people never think about.

What do our policymakers care most about? Senators care about our state, our residents and our competitiveness for agriculture, business and people-recruitment. They want low-cost, safe, reliable power available across the state. They also care about our environment and health, so there is a desire to keep carbon and other emissions within safe and prudent ranges, and to effectively manage our state’s water resources.

Where do opportunities lie to teach senators about public power?

Opportunities abound! NPPD has a great story to tell, and I am excited to serve in this role, and to help policymakers see all the incredible things happening. From our state’s #1 ranking for grid reliability, the research done in partnership with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Energy Science Research Center, the upcoming conversion of Sheldon Station Unit 2 to hydrogen as part of the Monolith project, our five-year streak of no retail rate increases, our new interruptible rate, the ongoing GGS carbon capture project, and so much more – there is a lot to be proud of.

SITTING DOWN WITH

In December of 2017, Courtney Dentlinger became NPPD’s new governmental affairs manager, but don’t let the word “new” throw you. Dentlinger brings years of experience to her position, including the fact she is a Nebraskan native originally from Battle Creek, and a graduate from Wayne State College with a bachelor’s degree in political science, international studies and Spanish. Her love of the state never left her, even as she transitioned to Washington D.C. to earn a juris doctor from George Washington University. Since then, she has worked in the U.S. Senate and lobbied at the federal level before moving back to Nebraska to practice law, be part of Northeast Community College’s administration and work in economic development at both local and state levels. Learn more about Dentlinger’s aspirations and expectations for her newest endeavor below.

Left to right: Dentlinger, Adriana (holding Kiersten), Maddux, Blake and husband, Nick.


What challenges and opportunities lie ahead for NPPD in legislation? Senators and their staffs consider potential laws related to a myriad of topics. Assisting them in understanding complexities of the electric industry and impacts on Nebraska residents and businesses is a continual opportunity, particularly as term limits allow more and more Nebraskans the opportunity to serve as state senators. We’ll continue to have thoughtful discussions with senators about maintaining our competitive rate position, our unmatched grid reliability and our stewardship of Nebraska’s natural resources.

Can you tell us about the interim study proposed by Senator Wayne and how we will prepare for it? There are a number of studies that will be taken up this interim. Three of them are directly related to public power. Of those, Senator Wayne’s is the broadest. He wants to look

L I G H T N I N G R O U N D !Why is Nebraska “home” to you? The people are incredible. So is the vast blue sky. I really feel at peace here.

Best place to go on a summer vacation in the state? There are many beautiful places around the state, from Ponca State Park in the east to Scottsbluff in the west. But my favorite place to spend my summers is right in my backyard, enjoying every second with my kids.

What was your favorite class in college? It was a special interdisciplinary course: International Political Economy. It was fascinating to see the intersection of national policies and economics and to compare and contrast various models around the world and their successes.

at the public power model and the regional transmission model. We will work closely with our colleagues in the Nebraska Power Association to help members of the Natural Resources Committee – to which this interim study was referred – understand the many advantages Nebraskans enjoy because of our public power model.

How important is advocacy in spreading public power’s message, and what’s the best way to go about it? Informed, one-on-one conversations about the complex issues we deal with on a daily basis are critical to ensure we have a well-reasoned policy framework, allowing us to continue to provide low-cost, reliable service to Nebraskans. We all have an opportunity to advocate for public power, in every conversation we have with our customers and policymakers.

What Nebraskan do you look toward as a role model? Father Flanagan. He selflessly gave of his time to improve the lives of others – especially children who were most in need.

What is one thing no one knows about you?

I don’t know that there is anything no one knows, but perhaps many don’t know I am bilingual (I studied Spanish in Mexico and Ecuador), and that I’ve had the opportunity to visit more than a dozen countries on five continents (so far).

Dentlinger also visits Kyoto, Japan, as Nebraska’s economic development director to promote Nebraska’s products and services - and takes a selfie on a short cultural break!

Working within economic development prior to her career at NPPD, Dentlinger attended a formal dinner with the Governor of Shaanxi Province in China as part of a formal trade mission.


NPPD’s Canaday Station is something of an enigma. First, no one seems to know exactly where it is. (It’s southeast of Lexington, by the way). Second, the station still soundly operates using much of the same equipment from when it was initially constructed in 1958. And, third, it has served a variety of unique purposes over its lifetime, like as a civil air defense station in the 60s. Throughout its lifetime, it’s even served as an active weather station.

A tour of the tidy plant is like taking a trip in Doc Brown’s time-traveling DeLorean. The same mint green color that may still cover your family’s old garage refrigerator enrobes Canaday Station’s General Electric steam turbine–generator unit and much of the other equipment and trim work around the station. That very turbine-generator has a hand-crank wheel that, to this day, must be spun to start it up.

A wall of yellowed dials, knobs and switches shares space with a high-tech computer operations system. Decades-old piping still reliably circulates natural gas to the generator. Modern dances with aged as 1958 air compressor technology works seamlessly alongside today’s compressor technology.

“Don’t be fooled by the age of the plant equipment,” said Canaday/Water/Renewable Energy Manager Chuck Troia, who has 42 years of knowledge of plant operations at NPPD under his belt. “If we were to dismantle the plant today, much of the machinery could be salvaged and possibly sold to others – that’s how reliable it is.”

In the station’s entryway, a 60s-era plaque reads: “Canaday Steam Plant: Financed by Rural Electrification Administration and Dedicated to The Welfare of the Rural People.”

The plant pays homage to the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District (CNPPID) – its original owners and operators. Lining the

entryway is a faded black and white photo of Ralph Canaday, an attorney and advocate for water resource development. It was Canaday who suggested building a steam plant in 1955 to avert a possible power shortage and helped with lengthy and complicated negotiations to see the project through. His portrait is accompanied by yellow-tinged photos of original plant workers, whose work-related belongings still occupy a nearby cabinet.

There, good as new, if not lined with a thick layer of dust, lie rotary dial phones, a Geiger counter, measuring scales, radiation warning signs and a slew of gas masks thrown in a duffel bag as if just yesterday – remnants of the plant’s history as a civil air defense station. Lining the cabinet shelves are training certificates from Nebraska’s Office of Director of Civil Defense demonstrating employees’ proficiency for protecting the area in the event of a nuclear war strike.

“This station has served Nebraskans in so many diverse ways throughout the years, and as you can see, not just as a power plant,” said Troia.

2. The plant is located 13 ½ miles northwest of Bertrand, or about 8 ½ miles southeast of Lexington.

3. The plant’s boiler is 35 feet by 50 feet and 120 feet high. It weighs approximately 2,500 tons and is suspended from the ceiling. Steam leaves the boiler at 1,000 degrees.

1. The total cost to construct Canaday Steam Plant was $16 million.

Canaday Quick Facts:

Canaday Stationcelebrates


The 100-megawatt natural gas-powered plant, purchased by NPPD in 1994, was originally designed to generate power from gas, although an oil system was added to the plant in the late 60s to make it a duel-fuel facility. Located on CNPPID’s Supply Canal, cooling water for Canaday’s steam cycle is readily supplied.

But, what many don’t know is prior to NPPD acquiring the plant in the 90s, tentative plans called for it to transform into a coal-fired unit, and designs proposed four coal pulverizers and a coal yard to the southeast.

However, as electrical demand increased in the 90s and the price of natural gas stabilized, a study determined a gas-fired plant would be the most cost-effective to operate. What is now called a “peaking unit,” the plant serves three important functions.

First, it helps NPPD meet electrical loads during high demand periods, like summer irrigation or extremely cold or hot days. Second, it serves as a low-cost backup to NPPD’s baseload facilities, like Gerald Gentleman Station, Sheldon Station or Cooper Nuclear Station, when one is shut down for maintenance. And, finally, NPPD is able to sell its surplus generation to the Southwest Power Pool’s Integrated Market, which helps keep rates low for customers.

In any of these situations, the plant can be called into action within 72 hours. At that time, employees located across the District trained to operate the facility return to do just that.

“Currently, we simply need two teammates employed full-time to keep the plant in available mode,” said Troia. “Once a need arises to get the plant on-line, we call upon all trained teammates to run it, as needed.”

Much like the plant’s time-tested machinery keeps it in excellent working condition, so do those two teammates help keep the plant a viable, economical option for NPPD.

“Our Canaday workers are also tasked with other responsibilities within Water Systems and Renewable Energy departments to ensure NPPD, as a whole, is working as efficiently as possible,” said Troia.

But, that doesn’t mean Canaday won’t call upon these teammates on a yearly basis. Come August, they perform maintenance capacity tests, as well as rigorous environmental testing, to ensure the station can pick up electrical load within 72 hours.

“Canaday Station is an enigma because we have very limited personnel working most days,” said Troia. “As such, it’s more imperative than ever we train and keep teammates abreast on facility control and system operations so we can have a good, safe run each and every time.”

Coupled with security technology that could spot a pin drop, it’s clear the plant is well maintained, and teammates easily handle any challenge they meet – proof that lies in its stellar operating record.

But, what might the future of Canaday hold? Troia says your guess is as good as his, although he is confident the plant is well-positioned for a variety

of future uses. “If we wanted to, Canaday boasts

90 acres of land touting an 800-pound natural gas line that could be a suitable energy hub for solar panels or even some type of gas turbine,” said Troia. “All infrastructure is already in place.”

The chameleon-like nature of the plant and its smart mode of operation has ultimately led to its continued success.

As Stephen Hawking once said, after all, “Intelligence is the ability to adapt to change.”

4. Canaday was built with 221 railway carloads of equipment and steel, 52 carloads of which contained the boiler, alone.

5. There are 2,500 miles of piping, conduit and wiring in Canaday.

6. The plant building is 165 feet by 144 feet and is 140 feet high. It lies on a five-foot thick slab of reinforced concrete weighing 10,692 tons resting over a coarse gravel bed more than 50 feet thick. The building and foundation contain 6,280 cubic yards of concrete and 2,800 tons of steel.


Creating a dollhouse for his two-year-old granddaughter, Valentina, propelled Senior

Environmental Specialist Keith Karel into the limelight, not only with her, but within the Columbus General Office. Upon rumors spreading of the dollhouse’s temporary home at the General Office, dozens of teammates flocked to the fourth floor to see it.

There, among mounted trophy fish, duck statues and stacks of regulatory paperwork, you’ll find the Environmental team, of which Karel has been a part for 30 years.

A dollhouse isn’t the sort of thing to be found in this rugged atmosphere, yet there it was, scalloped trim, delicate furnishings and all.

Teammates marveled over the hinged, stained cabinets and double-lidded toilet. They flat out gushed over the working lazy Susan and clocks. And their hearts melted when they saw the framed picture of Valentina over the marble and walnut fireplace (complete with real logs, of course).

“She’s a spitfire, just like her mama,” said Karel lovingly of his granddaughter. “I made her mom one of these dollhouses in 2005 when she was a girl – although nothing nearly as ornate as this one!”

When presented with the upgraded dollhouse, Valentina was delighted to the core.

“She jumped up and down all excited. Dolls were in the bathtub. They were taking naps. They were going in and out of the door,” Karel said of the dollhouse, which buttons up like a suitcase and can be easily transported due to its handle and sturdy locking mechanism.

As talented as he would come to be, woodworking wasn’t always a passion for Karel. It wasn’t until his wife, Alda – a schoolteacher at St. Bonaventure at the time – bought him a Sears Craftsman scroll saw for their wedding in 1989 that he tried his hand at shaping thin planks of wood into creative masterpieces.


What began for Karel as cut-out Christmas ornaments and holiday toys – which Alda would paint – soon transitioned into candle holders, nameplates, clocks and mirrors. Planed down to anywhere from a fourth to half an inch thick, his favorite woods to work with are red oak, ash and walnut.

“Clocks can take many hours, depending on how much ‘fret’ work is involved,” Karel said, referring to carving out the ornate, minuscule details.

The dollhouse was an entirely different feat. Karel began cutting out the design in 2016 using his skill saw, and he assembled it in early 2017. From there, he started building the Plexiglas windows, balcony and dormers before beginning the laborious process of designing each room, down to linoleum flooring, trim and paint. Karel also cut out a total of 31 furniture pieces over the winter of 2017/2018 to complete the ensemble, including using scotch pine for the toilet stool. Take a look inside the house, and you’ll see an elaborate four-poster bed, kitchen cabinets, an armoire, toy chest, and living and dining room furniture.

“I enjoy making something unique that someone else can’t do,” he said of his projects. “I don’t like to watch TV – I’m an active guy, and I recognize I need to stay active to keep up my lifestyle.”

If woodworking is Karel’s favorite winter hobby, gardening is his summer one. From Columbus’ largest, giant white pumpkins to potatoes, tomatoes, broccoli and everything in between, Karel aims to be the area’s largest produce farmer, selling his veggies and fruits at the Columbus farmers’ market each Saturday morning between May and October.

Yet, after the last giant white pumpkin is picked and a chill takes to the air, the itch for his scroll saw and work bench will return. It’s then Karel will dive into another large project – this one including a barn, complete with a lean-to, loft and fencing, and housing hand-carved cows, horses and pigs.

While he works, a thin layer of sawdust will inevitably begin to cover him and his basement workshop floor. As he always does, Karel will put heart and soul into his creations, coming back to reality only when Alda, raising her voice from the top of the stairs, calls out for the third time in a row that it’s dinnertime.

As a senior environmental specialist, Karel applies the same eye for detail and hearty work ethic to his daily tasks. For more than 30 years, Karel has performed soil/water analysis and hazardous waste testing and initiated methods of disposal for NPPD, including asbestos, solid waste and universal waste like lamps and electronics. Karel also provides hazardous material handling training annually to NPPD teammates, and says his favorite part of the job – much like his ties to woodworking and gardening – is being out in the field on nice days and inside when it is cold.

Karel’s position plays a role in NPPD’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Not only does NPPD take great strides to ensure all power plants meet current environmental regulatory limits and standards for emissions, but members of NPPD’s environmental team, like Karel, constantly monitor air, water and soil at facilities across the state to ensure their protection, and the protection of all Nebraskans, including those employed at NPPD.

About Keith Karel


Alex Beshaler Nebraska City H.S.

Son of CNS HR Operations Mgr.

Dallas Beshaler

Jackson Boeve Auburn H.S. Son of CNS

FIN Team Supv. Jessie Boeve

Shania Borchers Scotus H.S.

Dau. of Columbus Sr. Systems Analyst

Lisa Borchers

Peyton BruggerMcCool Junction

H.S. Dau. of York

Asset Value Consult. Mark Brugger

Bailey Colman Norfolk H.S.

Son of Norfolk Customer Contact

Specialist Melissa Colman

Shae DeRosier Tarkio H.S. (Missouri)

Son of CNS Sr. Reactor Operator

Brian DeRosier

Ryan DewhirstRock Port H.S.

Son of CNS Scheduler Rich and CNS Correct. Action

& Assess. Mgr. Linda Dewhirst

Jack DohertyOgallala H.S. Son of GGS

Operations Contract Coord.

Matt Doherty

Isaac DreifurstLakeview H.S.

Son of Columbus Right-of-Way Agent

Neal Dreifurst

Daniel EggerJohnson Brock H.S.

Son of CNS Control Room

Operator Nick Egger

Megan FerrisLakeview H.S.

Dau. of Columbus Accounts Payable

Spec. Carolyn Ferris

Melissa HatchPius X H.S.

Dau. of Lincoln Journey Substation

Technician Dave Hatch

Monykka HazlettColumbus H.S.

Dau. of Columbus Corp. Cyber Security

Systems Analyst Tracy Hazlett

Katelyn IskeSutherland H.S.

Dau. of GGS Inventory Control

Specialist Stacy Iske

Caleb EschColumbus H.S.

Son of Columbus Engineering Technician David Esch

Nikita EstradaAuburn H.S. Dau. of CNS

Nuclear Efficiency Program Mgr.

Roman Estrada

Wyatt KeeGibbon H.S.

Son of Doniphan Transmission System

Operator Brandon Kee

John KinnamanAuburn H.S. Son of CNS Mechanical Maint. Supt.

Bryan Kinnaman

Katelyn KosoAuburn H.S. Dau. of CNS

Non-Licensed Operator

Kevin Koso

Brock KracmanScotus H.S.

Son of Columbus Sr. Business Analyst

Gina Torczon

Nick LemkeEast Butler H.S.

Son of North Platte Water Resources

Advisor Chris Lemke

Alexis LoutzenhiserBattle Creek H.S. Dau. of Norfolk

Energy Efficiency Consultant

James Loutzenhiser

Keaton LudwigGrand Island

Northwest H.S. Son of Doniphan System Control

Tech. Supv. Dirk Ludwig

Shelby CapetilloNorfolk H.S.

Dau. of Norfolk Customer Contact

Specialist Tina Capetillo


Tacy MitchellFairfax R-3

Dau. of CNS Department Performance

Improvement Coord. Lisa Mitchell

Logan MuellerScotus H.S.

Son of Columbus Financial Planning

Leader Staci Mueller

Mackenzie NovakColumbus H.S.

Dau. of Columbus Drafting Supv.

Tim Novak

Jake NovickiScotus H.S.

Son of Columbus Sr. Comm. Specialist

Jill Novicki

Dylan RahderYork H.S.

Son of York Planner/Scheduler

Monty Rahder

Kelsey RitchieGrand Island

Northwest H.S. Dau. of Doniphan System Operator

Jason Ritchie

Ashley RobinsonNebraska City H.S.

Dau. of CNS Engineer

Tom Robinson

Ryan RogersAuburn H.S. Son of CNS

Assistant Operations Manager - Training

Deric Franklund

Caden RubenkingWaverly H.S.

Son of Sheldon Station Tech.

Training Spec. Marvin Rubenking

Emily SmithAuburn H.S. Dau. of CNS

Plant Operator Greg Smith

Callie Jo StoeckleColumbus H.S.

Dau. of Columbus Corp. Cyber Security

Systems Analyst Matt Stoeckle

Morgan Tanner Auburn H.S. Dau. of CNS

Rad. Shift Supv. Kevin Tanner

Trevor Vaught Scotus H.S.

Son of Columbus Sr. Accounting

Analyst Tammy Vaught

Kendra Wiese Scotus H.S.

Dau. of Columbus Wholesale Billing

Specialist Christi Wiese

Timothy WillsonKearney H.S.

Son of Kearney Customer Services

Leader Lisa Willson

Sidney ZimmererPierce H.S.

Dau. of Norfolk Sr. Asset Mgmt. Project Analyst Judy Zimmerer

Carter Luedtke Lakeview H.S.

Son of Columbus Records Analyst Cheri Luedtke

Nick MaddoxNebraska City H.S.

Son of CNS Mechanical Eng.

Jeff Maddox

Mikayla MarvinO’Neill H.S.

Dau. of O’Neill Planner/Scheduler

Mike Marvin

Dawson MertensHTRS H.S.

Son of retired CNS Mechanical Planner Kurt and CNS EP

Onsite Coord. Kim Tanner


Emily SlamaPeru State College

Dau. of CNS Maintenance Shop Spec. Bob Slama

Julie SlamaYale University Dau. of CNS Maintenance Shop Spec. Bob Slama

Ashley ThomsonCCC-Columbus

Dau. of Columbus Eng. Operations Asst.

Joy Meister

Blayne WurdingerNECC-Norfolk

Son of Columbus HR Services Coord.

Kathy Bonk

P O S T G R A D U A T E D E G R E E S

Lincoln HavranekUN-Lincoln

Dr. of Musical Arts

Son of O’Neill Utility Service Technician

Dan Havranek

Trey JohnsonU. of St. Mary Dr. of Physical

Therapy Son of GGS Planner

Tom Johnson

Angela KwapnioskiClarkson College

M-Nursing Dau. of Columbus

Contracts & Analysis Spec.

Mary Kwapnioski

Alyse AndreasenUN-Lincoln

M-Education Administration

Dau. of Columbus Asset Mgmt. Spec. Scotty Andreasen

Kelli BombergerUN-Lincoln

M-Music Theory Dau. of CNS Chemistry Technician

Lary Bomberger

Libbey Anderson Peru State College

Dau. of CNS ALARA Supv. Dan Anderson

Elizabeth BalerudUN-Lincoln

Dau. of Columbus Procurement Supv.

Carol Balerud

Amber Cook Peru State College

CNS ITT Intern Dau. of CNS Armed

Security Officer Sonny and CNS Doc. and

Records Analyst Cheryl Cook

Katie Donoghue Dakota Wesleyan U. Dau. of Columbus

Custodian Susan Donoghue

Andrea HartmanU. of South DakotaDau. of Columbus

Sr. Systems Analyst Tom and Columbus

Sr. Auditor Jane Hartman

Brittany HopwoodUN-Kearney

Dau. of Columbus Procurement Coord.

Sarah Hopwood

Haleigh KentU. of Northern Iowa Dau. of Columbus Vice President and

Chief Operating Officer

Tom Kent

Michael KoneckyCCC-Columbus

Son of Columbus Engineering Specialist

Brian Konecky

Dylan KutaUN-Omaha

Son of Columbus Admin. Asst. - Legal

Elaine Kuta

Ben KuehnWayne State College

Son of Columbus Sr. Planner/Scheduler Bill Kuehn

David MeisterUN-Omaha

Son of Columbus Eng. Operations Asst.

Joy Meister

Adam RomansUN-Lincoln

Son of retired York Substation

Tech. Support Spec. - Metering

Gary Romans

Rachel ShaferNebraska Wesleyan

Dau. of Norfolk Senior Project Coordinator Jim Shafer

Clint HarrisonFlorida Gulf Coast U.

Dr. of Physical Therapy

Son of retired Ogallala Lead

Line Tech. Ron Harrison


When grade school students can venture outdoors for part of the day, learning about nature and how to nurture it, it’s going to be a good day. And, a good day it was!

In the spirit of Arbor Day, fourth and fifth grade students from Dakota Elementary School got their hands dirty on April 26 (some a little hesitantly, as you’ll soon read) planting trees around the community’s soon-to-be memorial honoring fallen firefighters.

The kids first gathered around to listen to a variety of speakers, including South Sioux City Journey Line Technician Nathan Abels, who talked about planting trees in the right place and safely away from overhead power lines.

Students then shared posters of trees created just for the event, expressing their knowledge of the importance of trees to the community – and even finding ways to incorporate mustaches into their environmental themes! (Kids are nothing, if not clever.)

After talking the talk, in early afternoon, it was time to walk the walk. It was time to plant trees.

“I had five girls with me planting a tree, and they were girlie girls – they didn’t want to get their hands dirty right away,” laughs South Sioux City Distribution Support Specialist Kris Cross. “But, once they saw me do it, they jumped right in.”

Cross said the group worked very well as a team and was proud of the work they did.

“They even named our tree ‘Blossom,’” Cross said. “They were excited to do something good for the environment!”

It’s not too late for you to do the same. Consider picking out a tree or bush, grab a shovel, and make a new home for it in your yard. It’s the perfect time of year to tie your actions back to the symbolism of Arbor Day – the idea that planting a tree also plants a seed of hope for the future. It’s something that will positively affect the quality of life for families, neighbors and communities for generations to come.

CUSTOMER NEWS

Dakota City students sure did!Can you dig it?

17

Dirk Dietz was named

Howard Greeley Rural Public Power District’s CEO/general manager in March, replacing recently retired GM Brian

Lukasiewicz. Dirk brings to his position more than 19 years of experience in the utility industry,

Dietz named new GM of Howard Greeley RPPD

Dirk Dietz

the majority of it at NPPD in Operations and Energy Supply departments at Sheldon Station and Doniphan, respectively. “I am really looking forward to the challenges that come with the new job, and working on the other side of the business compared to working at NPPD,” said Dietz. “I thoroughly enjoyed my career at NPPD and look forward to working with them in the future in my new position.” In his free time, Dietz enjoys hunting, team roping, and spending time at the lake with his family.

CUSTOMER NEWS18

of events

S E P T E M B E R 12-13 NPPD Board Meeting Columbus 13-14 Nebraska Open Golf Tournament Elks Country Club Columbus

14 Rate Review Committee/Power Resources Advisory Board/ Customer Meeting Grand Island

J U L Y 4 Independence Day Holiday

12 NPPD Board Meeting Kearney

19 Rate Review Committee/ Power Resources Advisory Board/Customer Meeting Columbus

9 NPPD Board Meeting Columbus

23-24 NPPD Annual Meeting Norfolk

A U G U S T O C T O B E R 11 NPPD Board Meeting Columbus

Chadron / Jennifer Branson, Customer Service Support Specialist / [email protected]

Maci Rutledge (second from left) helped her Chadron Lady Cards sixth grade basketball team win the Cheyenne County Youth Basketball Classic Tournament for the

second year in a row. The team traveled to Cheyenne, Wyoming, and racked up wins against Ogallala, Scottsbluff, Sidney, Gering and Cheyenne. Maci is the daughter of Chadron Distribution Supervisor T. J. Rutledge and his wife, Meagan.

York / Pam Hoeft, PBX Operator/Receptionist / [email protected]

As Leadership York participants, Director of Operations Support Matt Gilliland and Planner/Scheduler Monty

Rahder volunteered during the organization’s annual fund-raising event, Flavors of York, in late April. The event, which sold 300 tickets, featured 14 vendors offering a variety of delicious food. Attendees could also purchase raffle tickets for 29 donated prizes. All proceeds went to the United Way of York. Leadership York assists in developing future community leaders. The program offers participants an opportunity to learn more about the historical, organizational and operational aspects of York County and develop specific skills. Two NPPD teammates have participated in the program each year for 23 out of the program’s 24 years of existence.

Cooper Nuclear Station / Brianna Gentert, Nuclear Communications Coordinator / [email protected]

Elaina Riley, daughter of Work Week Director Ken Riley, won sixth place in Entertainment Speaking in the Class D-1 State Speech contest in Kearney March 23. Elaina is a sophomore at Johnson-Brock High School. The Johnson-Brock team placed sixth in Class-D1 at the meet.

Columbus / Kathy Fadschild, Community Relations Coordinator / [email protected]

Elaina Riley

The Scotus Central Catholic girls’ basketball team won the 2018 C-1 State Championship, finishing the season with a 22-5 record. Pictured, left to right, are Kendra Wiese, daughter of Wholesale Billing Specialist Christi and Gerry Wiese; Shania Borchers, daughter of Corporate Cyber Security Senior Systems Analyst Lisa and Clete Borchers; and Blaney Dreifurst, daughter of Business Support Services Systems Support Specialist Dawn and Rick Bogus, and Todd Dreifurst. Kendra and Shania graduated this May, and Blaney will be a senior this fall at Scotus.

Left to right: Kendra Wiese, Shania Borchers and

Blaney Dreifurst

Senior Communication Specialist Cassie Rief received first place in the Nebraska Press Women’s 2017 Communications Contest Award in the category of “Feature Story – Magazine.” The first place award was for her Energy Insight story in the November/December 2017

issue entitled, “Happiness is Just a Sehnert’s Bakery Away.” Rief accepted the award at Nebraska Press Women’s spring conference in Papillion May 5.

Cassie Rief


from around the state

NPPD employees are “always there” to make a positive and lasting impact with customers and communities. On Saturday, May 5, employees teamed together to help build a Habitat for Humanity (HFH) house in Columbus. The group added support to inside walls, wrapped the house, and moved dirt. This is the fifth year NPPD has been involved in HFH projects. Each house takes approximately six to eight months to complete. While professional laborers work on the house regularly, volunteers assist with building, painting, trimming, pouring concrete and much more every Saturday of each month. Front row, left to right –Part-Time Corporate Physical Security Assistant Tammy Osten, Retail Billing and Systems Team Leader Nicole Brumbaugh, Vice President of Customer and Corporate Services Ken Curry, Corporate Cyber Security Systems Analyst Lourdes Herling and Corporate Cyber Security Operations System Analyst Jason Chlopek; back row, left to right – HFH Safety Manager Chuck Kinnison, Florian Lalande (foreign exchange student of Lisa McFarland and family), Staff Attorney Lisa McFarland, Drafting Supervisor - Electrical Arlen Francis, GIS/OMS/GWD Technical Lead Cameron Brumbaugh, Substation Technical Support Specialist Andy Beckman, Mark Dostal (son of Alan Dostal), Director of Research Alan Dostal, Senior Project Manager Mike Hasenkamp, HFH Construction Manager Jim Haake, HFH Site Supervisor Dan Smith, Corporate Accounting Supervisor Chuck Keep, and an additional HFH volunteer.

The Center for Rural Affairs selected NPPD Director Mary Harding of Plattsmouth to receive the 2017 George Norris Policymaker Award. The award is given to a policymaker dedicated

to improving policy outcomes for family farms and rural communities. Harding has been a member of NPPD’s Board of Directors since 2003 and served as executive director of the Nebraska League of Conservation Voters and executive director of the Nebraska Environmental Trust Fund. She was recognized at an award ceremony in Red Cloud in March.

NPPD teammates walked away happy after participating in this year’s American Public Power Association Lineworkers Rodeo in North Carolina in late April. At the rodeo, journeyman and apprentice lineworkers compete for professional recognition, attend training courses and practice essential skills. Lineworkers participate in competitive events such as the Hurtman Rescue, 600 Amp Switch Replacement, Cross Arm Change-Out, a written exam and much more. They are judged based upon safety, work practices, neatness, ability, equipment handling and timely event completion. NPPD sent one journeyman team and two apprentices to this year’s rodeo, in which 66 other journeyman teams and 145 apprentices from throughout the U.S. participated. The journeyman team included Bassett Local Manager Todd Keller, Norfolk Journey Line Technicians Chad Sedlacek and Jarid May and Plattsmouth Senior Line Technician Brian Caba. Apprentices were Norfolk Apprentice Line Technician Taylor Sudbeck and Kearney Apprentice Line Technician Spencer Frederick. Acting as chief judge of the 600 Amp Switch Replacement during the journeyman event was York Operations Program Manager Trevor Roth. Earning first place overall in the apprentice division was Frederick, who garnered perfect scores in the Rope Toss, Sidewalk Guy, Double Dead End and Hurtman Rescue events. He also got first in the written test. Also in the apprentice division, Sudbeck received perfect scores in the Rope Toss, Sidewalk Guy, Double Dead End and Hurtman Rescue events. Meanwhile, NPPD’s journeyman team scored a perfect score of 500. This is only the second time NPPD’s journeyman team scored perfectly since NPPD began competing in the rodeo. NPPD has participated in the rodeo for 15 years.

From left to right: Taylor Sudbeck, Brian Caba, Jarid May, Chad Sedlacek, Scott

Fritz, Todd Keller, and Spencer Frederick

Mary Harding


NPPD Board Director Melissa Freelend was named to the Grist 50 list for 2018 as a “hometown hero.” Founded in 1999, Grist is an independent, non-profit news outlet and network of innovators. Each year, Grist assigns the most promising influencers to its Grist 50 list. The list features

visionaries who make bold ideas happen, creators who think outside the box, catalysts who spark connections between disparate groups, strategists who write a playbook for a better future, and hometown heroes who put their communities first. Melissa was chosen as a hometown hero for her passion for her community and renewable energy, and her work on NPPD’s Board, to which she was elected in 2017. She accepted the award May 9-10 during a gathering and workshop in Brooklyn, New York, in which the group shared stories of success, struggles and breakthroughs, as well as personal goals. A fifth generation Nebraskan and Grand Island native, Melissa has worked in early childhood education for Head Start and Central City Elementary School. Since 2007, Melissa has held a career in media and broadcasting, being a community service director and on-air personality for a Kearney radio station. Freelend enjoys volunteering and giving her time to Big Brothers Big Sisters and Habitat for Humanity.

Melissa Freelend

NPPD placed first in Group G of the American Public Power Association’s 2017 Safety Awards of Excellence. The award is based on NPPD’s recordable incidence rate. Last year, NPPD achieved the best safety performance in more than 20 years. NPPD also was awarded the 2017 Peak Workforce Safety Award – Award of Honor with Distinction – for the 18th year in a row from the Nebraska Safety Council. Not only that, but NPPD received the Nebraska Safest Company Award from the National Safety Council. Both awards are given to organizations that exhibit a commitment to safety across all levels of the organization. They are based on submitted safety logs and safety training/programs using a weighted average of the past three years in comparison to similar organizations. NPPD was recognized for the APPA award during the 2018 Engineering and Operations Technical Conference in Raleigh, North Carolina, in late April. The District was honored for the Safest Company award at the National Safety Council’s Nebraska Celebration of Safety Luncheon May 9 in LaVista. It was honored for its Nebraska Safety Council award last December.

Several teammates accept NPPD’s Peak Workforce Safety Award.


R E T I R E E

Klassy Kilowatts will meet every third Monday of the month at 12:30 p.m. (CDT). The next meetings are June 18 at the Canteen in North Platte, July 16 at Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse and Lounge in Paxton, and Aug. 20 again at the Canteen. They will meet Sept. 17 at the NPPD cabin in North Platte for a picnic/potluck. Linda Holmstedt, (308) 530-1337, [email protected]

Low Voltage Panhandlers will meet June 19, Aug. 21 and Oct. 16 at Perkins Restaurant at 9 a.m. Kathleen Busekist, [email protected]

The Cooper Nuclear Retirees will meet the second Tuesday of every month — July 10, Aug. 14 and Sept. 11 — at 9 a.m. at Cafe Metro in Auburn. Jon Warren, (402) 740-8875, [email protected]

Columbus Energizers will meet every third Thursday of the month at 8 a.m. at Stack-n-Steak. The next meetings are June 21, July 19, Aug. 16 and Sept. 20. Marge Prokupek, (402) 564-0348, [email protected]

NPPD Antiques will meet the first Monday of each month. The next meetings are July 2, Aug. 6 and Sept. 3 at 8:30 a.m. at Country Cooking in Beatrice.


Retired Columbus Training Specialist Andy Jensen, 84, of Columbus passed away March 7. Jensen began his NPPD career in 1952 and retired in 1987.

Retired Columbus Energy Management Manager Cliff “Andy” Anderson, 84, of Columbus passed away March 21 at his home. Andy began his District career in 1960 and retired in 1993.

Retired York Lead Building Maintenance Technician Erwin Reicheneker, 87, of York passed away April 15. Erwin began his NPPD career in 1975 and retired in 1993.

Retired Columbus Lead Accountant Dean Foland, 83, of Columbus passed away April 22 at Cottonwood Place in Columbus. Dean began his NPPD career in 1960 and retired in 1994.

Retired Oakland District Manager II Merle Kilgore, 87, of Oakland passed away May 10 in Omaha. Merle began his District career in 1952 and retired in 1990.

Retired York Material Controller Rolland (Rolly) Peterson, 67, of York passed away May 20. Rolly began his District career in 1977 and retired in 2015.

Retiree Norfolk Distribution System Control Operator Richard Berglund, 73, of Norfolk passed away May 19 at Countryside Home in Madison. Richard began working at NPPD in 1976 and retired in 2004.

Former Columbus Senior Project Coordinator Sterling Stolpe, 61, of Aurora passed away May 9. Sterling began working at NPPD in 1986 and left the District in disability status in 2016.

Merle Kilgore

Rolland “Rolly” Peterson

Sterling StolpeDean Foland

Erwin Reicheneker

Cliff “Andy” Anderson

Andy Jensen

Richard Berglund


P.O. Box 499 Columbus, NE 68602-0499

Address Service Requested

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE

PAID COLUMBUS NE PERMIT NO. 3


diamond in the rough 60 - nppd.com · bill johnson, second vice chairman jerry chlopek, secretary...

Documents