2025 August Highline Notes

HIGHLINE notes August 2025

Little lures, big impact, pg. 4

Welcome to the team, pg. 6

Who owns what?, pg. 7

Scholarship winners, pg. 10

A local Tom’s Tackle fan tying on a favorite lure.

CassCountyElectric.com

August 2025 | Highline Notes 1

editorial President/CEO, Paul Matthys

near Enderlin resulted in fatalities.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and friends affected by this tragedy.

Late Friday evening, we began receiving outage calls and alarms through our SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system, signaling widespread power outages. While line crews were initially dispatched, they were called back due to safety concerns as the severe weather continued sweeping through the area.

It was the first official day of summer, and the school break was in full swing. People had plans to head to the lake, go fishing, camping, horseback riding, or catch a baseball or softball game. But many of those plans changed on the evening of Friday, June 20.

Although North Dakota isn’t considered part of Tornado Alley or a high-risk tornado area, we do experience tornadoes along with strong winds, hail, and heavy rain. On June 20, 2025, we faced a significant severe weather event that included a powerful derecho—a long-lasting windstorm accompanied by fast-moving thunderstorms—and several tornadoes. The storms formed in the late afternoon and continued into the night, bringing damaging winds, large hail, and multiple confirmed tornadoes. Tragically, one particularly destructive tornado

We activated our disaster recovery plan early Saturday, June 21. Jodi Bullinger, our Vice President of Engineering and Operations, led the restoration efforts. We called on all 29 of our full-time lineworkers and seven seasonal apprentices, along with many additional employees, to support the restoration process. Those who weren’t trained lineworkers stepped up to patrol power lines for damage assessments, deliver supplies and meals, and develop communications and updates for our members.

Our system suffered extensive damage: countless downed trees, 216 broken poles, and 18 of our 41 distribution substations left without power. In total, 8,485 members were without electricity.

Our wholesale power provider, Minnkota Power Cooperative, also experienced significant systemwide damage, with high-voltage

transmission structures toppling, causing additional substation outages. While assessments are still ongoing, the total cost of the June 20 storm is expected to be around $1 million.

Throughout the restoration, employee safety remained our highest priority. Thankfully, there were only a few minor injuries and no major equipment damage.

During these types of events, we urge everyone to keep safety top of mind. Please avoid approaching or interrupting crews as they work. If you have questions or want to help, contact our office directly. Even if we’re already aware of a power outage in your area, please report it via our website, the CCEC app, or by phone.

A final note: Be prepared for power outages. If you live in a rural area or rely on critical equipment like medical devices, computers, or sump pumps, consider investing in a backup generator or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS). Keep a battery-powered radio for severe weather alerts, have flashlights and extra batteries on hand, and know your shelter location in case of tornadoes or high winds.

Our team takes great pride in their work. One of our highest responsibilities is keeping the lights on and restoring power when they go out. We will always do our best to serve you safely and efficiently.

CCEC offices will be closed Monday, Sept. 1, for Labor Day 2 Highline Notes | August 2025

CassCountyElectric.com

l

Highline Notes

this month’s content lineup

8 9 11 12 13 14 15

save

energy

tech

impact

recipes

safety

ads

REMINDER TO OFF-PEAK MEMBERS Summer is the perfect time for a propane tank refill.

BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS - JUNE 2025 The Cass County Electric board of directors met in person on June 24, 2025, and discussed the following topics: • Moved to approve the June 2025 consent agenda of the regular board meeting, consisting of minutes, monthly department reports, Form 300 review, director expense report, and the May purchased power adjustment (PPA).

• Received the chairman’s report from Director Mitzel.

• President/CEO Paul Matthys gave the president’s report, providing updates from meetings and conferences attended.

• Received the May 2025 financial report.

• Received annual business accounts update.

• Received an update from the Minnkota board meeting.

• Received an update from the Square Butte board meeting.

• Received a report from NRECA International.

• Moved to approve the June 2025 capital credit estate payments.

• Reviewed upcoming meetings and events.

The next board meeting is Monday, Aug. 25, 2025.

COLOR CODE FOR UTILITY MARKINGS PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION

WATER

ELECTRIC

SEWER

GAS-OIL-STEAM

RECLAIMED WATER

TELEPHONE & CABLE TV

TEMPORARY SURVEY MARKINGS

Volume 83, Number 8

Communications: Morgan Bachelor Sara Hand Jocelyn Lura Hovland

Printer: Forum Communications Printing Board of Directors: Paul White, Secretary Douglas Anderson Vanessa Kummer Stacey Ackerman Tom Seymour Glenn Mitzel, Board Chair Wendy Loucks Kalvin Hoff, Treasurer Terry Kraft, Vice Chair Executive Staff: Paul Matthys, President/CEO Jodi Bullinger, VP of Engineering & Operations Chad Brousseau, VP of Member & Energy Services Andy Weiss, VP of Corporate Services & CFO Mitchell Lyter, VP of Information Technology & CIO Highline Notes (USPS 244-740) is published monthly by Cass County Electric Cooperative Inc., 3312 42nd St. S., Suite 200, Fargo, ND 58104. Periodicals postage paid at Fargo, North Dakota 58104, and at additional mailing offices.

Postmaster: Send address changes to Highline Notes 3312 42nd St. S., Suite 200 Fargo, ND 58104 © Copyright Cass County Electric Cooperative 2025. All rights reserved.

Questions: 701-356-4400 800-248-3292 info@kwh.com Call Before You Dig: 800-795-0555 or 811 Cass County Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Information about the cooperative, articles of incorporation, bylaws and more can be found at CassCountyElectric.com.

CassCountyElectric.com

August 2025 | Highline Notes 3

LITTLE LURES, BIG IMPACT Cass County Electric member Tom’s Tackle reels in continued success

4 Highline Notes | August 2025

CassCountyElectric.com

There’s not really a debate over how Todd and Sharon May became the fifth Midwest family to take ownership of Tom’s Tackle.

“I guess I could say I’m kind of responsible,” Todd said with a hint of mischief.

Todd, a Valley City native, has always loved to fish. When he brought his wife Sharon home to North Dakota from their time living on the East Coast, the two continued to bond by boat. Fishing trips from their home in Horace to Minnesota’s Lake of the Woods became standard. “I always go for that elusive 30-inch walleye,” Todd said. “Everybody's still trying to find ‘em.”

But back in 2020, instead of spotting that monster walleye, something else caught the Mays’ eyes – a “business for sale” sign. Tom’s Tackle was up for grabs, and the couple was ready to bite. Sharon always had an inkling to own a small business, and Todd knew the handcrafted jigs and lures were the best on the market.

“It’s a standing tradition at Lake of the Woods. If you're buying jigs, all the jigs are Tom's Tackle. It was so well known up there that we thought there's no reason why we can't sell these great jigs in North Dakota,” Sharon said, elaborating on their plans to bring Tom’s Tackle to Devils Lake, Lake Sakakawea, Lake Ashtabula and beyond. “We were like, well, we could do this.”

Tom’s Tackle got its start back in 1959, the brainchild of Tom Nichol of Baudette, Minnesota. Although the business has changed hands five times over 66 years, the quality of the product hasn’t wavered. The tackle is known for its razor-sharp hooks and jig paint that’s nearly indestructible –

important for fishing over the rocky lakes and rivers of the region. Most alluring of all, Tom’s Tackle uses real 24-carat gold plating that never rubs off and forever maintains its luster.

“We had to do a lot of testing and research, and Lake of the Woods, like the Red River and other lakes, is very muddy water. And when you put that gold jig in there, it grabs the light. You can actually see it in this briny water,” Todd explained.

“There’s a scientific side to that, too,” Sharon added. “Fish see only a few colors. They see contrast, shades of black and white, chartreuse and pink. And in that color spectrum, gold is the closest color to black, so fish will see that … no matter what the light conditions are.”

The Mays had a strong, wellrespected product that was flourishing locally on word of mouth. To expand the reach farther, they decided to bring their main production headquarters to Horace, taking advantage of Fargo-Moorhead’s mail distribution opportunities and the closer proximity of family helpers. Along with their shop in Lake of the Woods and the local businesses that sell their product, Tom’s Tackle also ships out around the country, with heavier out-of-state sales in Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa and Montana.

The nationwide appeal of Tom’s Tackle hasn’t shaken the Mays’ strong focus on the needs of their neighbors. The duo is proud to make custom jigs and tackle kits for those who are searching for the perfect gift or giveaway. In fact, both Cass County Electric Cooperative and its wholesale power supplier, Minnkota Power Cooperative, commissioned CassCountyElectric.com

co-op-branded kits for special events.

And now, as a member of the Pride of Dakota cohort of North Dakota small businesses, Tom’s Tackle has even more in-person opportunities to hear the ideas and requests of local anglers.

Todd and Sharon thrive when they’re connecting with the community.

Tom’s Tackle has become a strong philanthropic partner in several initiatives to make fishing more accessible, including early involvement in Minnesota’s Keep It Clean campaign to keep garbage and waste out of the state’s lakes.

The Mays are also proud to donate to the state’s Take a Kid Fishing program, as well as the Walleye Master Pay It Forward charity event for veterans.

“To get them to fish is phenomenal, because you just see their openness to talk to other veterans that are in the same situation that they're in,” Todd said. “We do a spinner blade every year that's red, white and blue.

It says, ‘Fishing with Vets,’ it has the year on it, and we donate the tackle – whoever’s involved gets one, including the vets and the guides, just as a keepsake.”

In the end, it truly doesn’t matter what led Todd and Sharon to buying a little tackle business in northern Minnesota. What matters is what they’ve done with it – and what they will continue to do.

“We just want to make sure we’re top notch in what we do, and we do rank amongst the best when it comes to our jigs and our spinners,” Todd said.

“We’re dipping our toes in the water yet to find the next niche that we can get into and make better.”

Find them at tomstackleinc.com.

August 2025 | Highline Notes 5

Welcome to the team

Nathan Hart, Meter & Apparatus Technician Hometown: Henning, Minnesota

two nephews. Both of my parents were high school teachers.

Education: Minnesota State Community and Technical College of Wadena

Favorite season: Summer

Tell us about your career: Right after college, I spent five years working for an electrical contractor, progressing from apprentice to journeyman and most recently earning my Master Electrician license. During that time, I gained hands-on experience across a wide range of projects—including commercial, residential, agricultural, industrial, and service work.

Tell us about your family: I am the middle child and have two brothers and two sisters. I am an uncle of three nieces and

Hobbies: I enjoy the outdoors. I fish, hunt, and play a variety of sports. I’m a big sports fan of the Vikings, Twins, Wild, and Timberwolves.

What advice have you received that was the most impactful?

Never stop continuing to learn and grow. Never settle.

If you won the lottery, what is your first purchase?

A big lake house that I can enjoy with friends and family.

Favorite food: Lasagna

ALERT:

Missing Material & Safety Reminder Recent storms have stirred up debris across the region, and Cass County Electric Cooperative is asking for your help. Farmers, ranchers, and landowners are urged to watch for downed electrical material especially poles and wires that may have been blown into ditches, fields, or windrows.

If you find co-op equipment during field work, call our Power Control Center at 701356-4400 so our team can retrieve it safely.

Hidden material can pose serious risks to both people and machinery during haying, spraying, or other agricultural work. Your vigilance helps us ensure safety and maintain reliable service across our area.

Thank you for helping us stay Cooperative Strong.

6 Highline Notes | August 2025

CassCountyElectric.com

Who Owns What?

Electric Co-op Owned Equipment vs Member-Owned Equipment

This graphic depicts equipment owned by the co-op (in gold) and the member (in blue). If a storm damages any equipment owned by the co-op, we are responsible for repairs. If a storm damages any member-owned equipment, the member is responsible for repairs. Members should hire a licensed electrician when making any repairs to member-owned equipment.

Co-op owned Member-owned

Power distribution lines

Service point

Transformer Weatherhead

Service line Tree trimming

Trimming trees around service line is the member’s responsibility

Power pole

Service mast

Service mast guy

Meter socket and jaws

Meter Meter socket

Padmounted transformer

Service panel

Service line Note: This graphic depicts overhead and underground service.

Please be aware of which type of service you receive at your home or business.

CassCountyElectric.com

August 2025 | Highline Notes 7

save

Save on water heating with smart CCEC programs Water heating is one of the biggest energy users in your home—second only to heating and cooling.

Luckily, Cass County Electric Cooperative (CCEC) offers two flexible programs designed to help you save, while also easing pressure on the grid.

First, CCEC’s Off‑Peak Water Heating program allows members with large-capacity tanks (usually 100+ gallons) to receive a discounted electric rate in exchange for the utility’s ability to temporarily cycle their water heater during peak periods. It’s a win– win: You enjoy a lower rate and CCEC can better manage demand during times when demand on our system is high.

To sweeten the deal, there are one-time rebates—a new installation, conversion, or new construction may qualify you for incentives totaling several hundred dollars, helping cover the cost of a properly sized tank and control equipment.

Second, CCEC’s Time‑of‑Day rate gives members with flexible usage the option to shift consumption away from peak pricing hours. While this program primarily targets EV charging and electric heating, it also works well for water heating—allowing households to take advantage of cheaper rates by running the water heater during off-peak times.

Whether you go with Off‑Peak or Time‑of‑Day, each program is voluntary, opt-in, and designed to fit different lifestyles.

Off‑Peak: Best if you have a large tank, want gridcontrolled cycling, and want rebates.

Time‑of‑Day: Ideal if you prefer to manage timing yourself and shift usage around peak-rate windows.

To explore which option fits your home and lifestyle, visit CassCountyElectric.com/energy‑management or give CCEC’s Energy Management team a call.

INCENTIVES FOR 100+ GALLON WATER HEATERS INSTALLED ON OFF-PEAK: NEW INSTALLATION CREDIT

$450

Replacement of an existing water heater

GAS-TO-ELECTRIC CONVERSION $250

In addition to $450 new installation credit

NEW CONSTRUCTION

In addition to $450 new installation credit

$100

~ Water heaters must be 100+ gallons and on long-term control to qualify. Credits will be applied to the

electric bill after a visit from a Cass County Electric Cooperative technician. These one-time incentives are in addition to the discounted off-peak electric rate. All incentives are subject to final approval from Cass County Electric Cooperative.

8 Highline Notes | August 2025

CassCountyElectric.com

energy Small duct, high-velocity systems

Looking to improve your indoor comfort without major remodeling or bulky ductwork? A small duct, high-velocity (SDHV) system might be the perfect solution.

Improved air quality Many systems offer built-in options for air filtration, humidification, and dehumidification, reducing dust, allergens, and excess moisture.

SDHV systems offer a modern way to Energy efficient heat and cool your home or business With less surface area and tighter by using small, flexible ducts that fit connections, SDHV systems tend to where traditional systems can’t — lose less air compared to traditional like inside existing walls, crawlspaces, ducted systems, potentially helping or ceilings. Unlike standard HVAC lower energy use and costs. systems, which rely on large metal ducts and big vents, SDHV systems Who should consider it? deliver air through narrow, insulated • Homeowners looking to add tubes that quietly and efficiently central air without tearing up circulate air throughout every room. walls or ceilings. These homes in our area are often heated with Why do people love SDHV? electric baseboard heat.

Quiet comfort • Business owners interested in Thanks to special soundspace-saving, energy-efficient dampening materials, SDHV climate control for offices or retail systems run quietly, meaning you’ll spaces. feel the comfort but barely hear it.

• If you live in an older home or have limited space for ductwork, Space-saving design SDHV could be a smart choice.

The small ducts and compact air • It is gaining popularity in new handler take up less space, making custom homes where design them ideal for historic homes, flexibility is important. homes with HVAC equipment that doesn't currently include ductwork, Keep in mind, if you determine that a or businesses with limited SDHV system is right for your home, mechanical space. the system should be installed by trained professional.

Even temperatures By using high-pressure airflow, With SDHV technology, you can SDHV systems eliminate hot and enjoy quiet, even, and efficient cold spots, delivering consistent comfort — no matter the size or age temperatures from floor to ceiling of your home or building. and room to room.

CassCountyElectric.com

August 2025 | Highline Notes 9

- CCEC Student Scholarships Cass County Electric Cooperative, with CoBank’s support, provides $19,000 annually in scholarships through North Dakota Dollars for Scholars and the West Fargo Area Scholarship Fund. Congratulations to this year’s recipients!

Brandt Mueller Barnes County North

Mallory DeVries Central Cass

Makayla Wall Enderlin

Jacob Orpen Fargo - Davies

Grayce Anderson Fargo - North

Jack Deitz Fargo - Oak Grove

Isaac Beauchamp Fargo - Shanley

Mea Nylander Fargo - South

Broderick Anderson Hope-Page

Garret Richard Kindred

Georgia Lettenmaier Litchville-Marion

Jacob Lyons Lisbon

Stella Satrom Maple Valley

Keelan Monson Northern Cass

Alayna Schmitt Richland #44

For information regarding scholarships, visit our website.

Bodi Haglund Valley City

Taylor Christians West Fargo

Brooke Jewett

West Fargo Horace

Samuel Mauriello

West Fargo Sheyenne

10 Highline Notes | August 2025 CassCountyElectric.com

tech

Tech Up Your Garden: 7 gadgets that make growing easier Smart tools can save time, conserve resources, and help your garden thrive. Whether you're a seasoned green thumb or a weekend plant parent, a little tech can go a long way in the garden. These seven smart gadgets bring convenience, efficiency, and even a little fun to your outdoor space—making it easier than ever to grow healthy plants while saving water, energy, and effort.

4. Bluetooth plant monitors Great for houseplants, patio pots, or raised beds, these tiny gadgets sync with apps to monitor light, soil moisture, and overall plant health. Some even offer suggestions for plant care based on species.

5. App-connected greenhouses Yes, there’s an app for that! Some home greenhouse systems now include app-based controls for temperature, humidity, fans, and lighting—letting you manage your microclimate from your phone.

1. Smart irrigation controllers These systems (like Rachio or Orbit B-hyve) use Wi-Fi and weather data to water only when your garden actually needs it. Many adjust automatically for rain, 6. Solar garden lights with motion sensors heat, or humidity—helping cut water use by up to 50%. Light up walkways and garden beds sustainably with solar-powered LEDs. Motion sensors can extend 2. Soil moisture & nutrient sensors battery life, while smart timers allow for easy control— Stick a sensor in your garden bed, and it’ll track no wiring required. moisture, temperature, and nutrient levels in real time.

Some even sync with your phone, giving you alerts 7. Self-watering planter systems when it's time to water or fertilize—so you never have Whether indoors or out, these planters store water in a to guess again. bottom reservoir and slowly deliver moisture as plants need it. Many now come with sensors or app alerts for 3. Wi-Fi weather stations refills—perfect for travel or forgetful gardeners.

Compact and connected, these personal weather stations give you hyper-local forecasts and monitor Why it matters sunlight, rainfall, and wind speed. Knowing what’s Smart gardening isn't just about convenience—it's coming helps you plan your watering, planting, and about using fewer resources to grow more. With harvest. drought concerns and energy costs on the rise, these tools support a more efficient, sustainable way to garden. And that’s something co-op members can feel good about.

CassCountyElectric.com

August 2025 | Highline Notes 11

impact

Electric Cooperative Youth Tour

Imaya Armstrong

Trinity St.Claire

What is the most impactful thing you learned/ saw? The most impactful experience was visiting the Holocaust Museum. It really opened my eyes to the immense loss and suffering, and helped me better understand how deeply people’s lives were affected.

What is the most impactful thing you learned/saw?

The most impactful thing I saw was the U.S. Holocaust Museum. It was incredibly eye-opening to see the depth of suffering people endured during the Nazi invasion. I learned so much more about the Holocaust than what we were taught in school.

What is the most interesting thing you learned/saw? One of the most interesting parts of the trip was watching the changing of the guard at Arlington Cemetery. It was powerful to see the respect and precision in that ceremony.

What is the most interesting thing you learned/ saw? Gettysburg really stood out to me. When we first drove into town, it seemed so flat—I wondered why the battle didn’t end quickly. But once we were out walking the fields, I understood the challenges and how intense it must have been.

What is your favorite thing you learned/saw?

My favorite fun moment was hearing from speaker Mike Schlappi. His story really inspired me—he showed me that even when life knocks you down, you can get back up even stronger.

What would you tell someone else about this experience? This trip was not just about the incredible places we visited—it was also about the friendships built along the way. I feel so thankful to have shared it with such an amazing group.

What is your favorite thing you learned/saw?

Capitol Day was my favorite! It was amazing to see where so much history has taken place. I also loved getting to meet our senators.

What would you tell someone else about this experience? This trip taught me so much about our country’s history and the NRECA. Les Misérables was incredible, and going inside the White House felt surreal. Our chaperones were the best, and all the other delegates were so kind—I felt truly welcomed. I also loved pin trading and meeting kids from all over the country. I’m so grateful for this opportunity and thankful to my electric co-op for making it possible!

Future Youth Tour Dates: June 14-20, 2026, June 16-22, 2027, and June 24-30, 2028 The 2026 application window will be open October - January.

12 Highline Notes | August 2025 CassCountyElectric.com

Check out our Pinterest page for more recipes!

recipes Email recipes to ccec@kwh.com or mail to: Cass County Electric; Highline Notes, 4100 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, ND 58104

There’s something special about food grown close to home—especially when it’s shared. These recipes celebrate North Dakota’s late-summer harvest and the neighbors who make it possible. From overflowing gardens to backyard trees and farmers markets, each dish brings together freshpicked flavor, seasonal tradition, and the spirit of our co-op community.

Chokecherry syrup (N.D. Classic)

Mint iced tea with N.D. honey

Ingredients: 4 cups chokecherries (fresh or thawed from frozen) 2 cups water 2½ cups sugar 1 Tbsp lemon juice (optional, for tartness and preservation) Preparation: In a large saucepan, combine chokecherries and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, mashing occasionally to release juice. Pour through a fine strainer or cheesecloth to remove skins and pits. You should have about 2 cups of juice. In a clean saucepan, combine juice, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil and cook for 5–8 minutes, stirring constantly until slightly thickened. Pour into sterilized jars or bottles. Store in the refrigerator for 2–3 weeks, or water bath can for longer shelf life. Drizzle warm over buttermilk pancakes or mix with sparkling water for a homemade soda.

Ingredients: 4 cups water 4 black tea bags (or green if preferred) ½ cup fresh mint leaves, loosely packed ¼–⅓ cup North Dakota honey (adjust to taste) 2 cups cold water or ice cubes Lemon slices (optional) Preparation: Boil 4 cups water. Remove from heat. Add 4 black tea bags and ½ cup fresh mint. Steep 5–7 minutes.

Remove tea bags and mint. Stir in ¼–⅓ cup ND honey. Cool to room temp. Add 2 cups cold water or ice.

Serve over ice with mint or lemon.

Important Safety Note: Chokecherry pits contain naturally occurring compounds that can be harmful if consumed.

Always strain thoroughly and discard pits before using the juice in recipes.

Zucchini bread with walnuts Ingredients: 2 cups grated zucchini (about 2 medium, unpeeled) 1¾ cups all-purpose flour ½ tsp salt ½ tsp baking soda ½ tsp baking powder 1 tsp ground cinnamon ½ tsp ground nutmeg 2 large eggs ½ cup vegetable oil ½ cup granulated sugar ½ cup brown sugar

2 tsp vanilla extract ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional: toast them for more flavor) Preparation: Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x5 loaf pan. Mix 1¾ cups flour, ½ tsp salt, ½ tsp baking soda, ½ tsp baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon, and ½ tsp nutmeg.

In another bowl, beat 2 eggs. Add ½ cup oil, ½ cup white sugar, ½ cup brown sugar, and 2 tsp vanilla.

Stir in 2 cups grated zucchini. Combine wet and dry.

Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts. Pour into pan. Bake 50–60 mins. Cool before slicing.

CassCountyElectric.com

August 2025 | Highline Notes 13

safety

Scan here for more safety tips!

Downed power lines: What you don’t know could be deadly

If you’re ever in a car accident involving a utility pole, your first instinct might be to jump out and check the damage. But when power lines are involved, that’s the last thing you should do.

Here’s the truth: If a power line comes down on or near your vehicle, the ground around it— and your vehicle itself—could be energized with dangerous voltage.

Stepping out could mean stepping into serious danger.

We’re not trying to scare you—we just want to make sure you and your loved ones know what to do.

Because knowing how to respond in a split-second situation could save a life.

If you hit a power pole or utility equipment: Stay in your car or cab Even if it looks safe, stay put.

Call 9-1-1 and let them know

there’s a power line involved so crews can safely respond.

Only get out if there’s a fire If you see smoke or flames and must exit, don’t touch the car and ground at the same time. Jump clear with both feet together, then hop away— keeping your feet together—at least 50 feet from the scene.

Don’t approach the scene If you see an accident involving a pole or power lines, don’t run over to help. Call 9-1-1 and keep others away until help arrives.

Why hopping matters Electricity from downed lines can spread through the ground like ripples in a pond—each ring carries a different voltage. If you step from one voltage “ring” to another, even a small difference in current can travel through your body.

That’s called step potential, and

14 14 Highline Highline Notes Notes || August August 2025 CassCountyElectric.com 2025 CassCountyElectric.com

it’s extremely dangerous. Hopping keeps both feet in the same voltage zone.

Quick tip for farmers and drivers: Even if you just hit a guy wire (the wire running into the ground to stabilize poles), treat the scene like it’s energized. That wire can carry current if it’s damaged or pulled loose.

We hope you never have to deal with a situation like this. But just in case, share this info with your family, especially new drivers and equipment operators. When it comes to power line safety, staying calm—and staying put—can save your life.

At Cass County Electric, safety is always part of the plan. Learn how to protect yourself and others at casscountyelectric.com/SafetyMain.

ads Member market

All ads must be 40 words or fewer and will be abbreviated following our guidelines. No real estate or commercial ads will be accepted. Ads are published for members at no charge as space permits on a firstreceived, first-printed basis. Ads are due by the 10th of the month prior to publication. Members may submit only one ad per issue. Editor reserves the right to edit or reject any ad. Email ads to: ccec@kwh.com.

For sale: Cutie Tabletop Frame for quilting w/ your domestic machine, small, portable, storable, like new, includes 4 bungee clamps, channel locks, leader cloth w/ Velcro & pins, all for $475. 701-271-0110 Post hole digger, 2-stroke power head w/ 4/6/8” bits, unopened in box, $100. 701-238-7906 Free barn cats, Valley City. 701-8400295 Coleman camping stove, Model 425E, 2-burner gas camping stove, $25. 701-412-3562 1959 Plymouth Fury 361 Engine, push button drive. New: generator, battery, carburetor, fuel pump, starter, $1,200 Sound System, and upholstery. $20,000 or reasonable offer. 701-730-1712 2 NFL Viking hats. 1 new in bag, $20.

Other, $18. 701-866-0218 Pool Table Brunswick Allenton 7 foot slate top, Cues and balls etc included, buyer must move, current price new $4,000, used very little, asking $850. 701-293-0805 750 HONDA Shadow, 3,400 miles, great shape, custom paint job, $3,300. 701-840-0470 Brand new DeWalt 20V 4AH Lithium Ion DCB240 battery, still in original plastic clamshell packaging, $43. 701-371-8161

Antique cast iron Enterprise sausage stuffer No. 5 plate with the original cooper tube, last used 2 years ago, $75/OBO. 701-205-2267 2 LT275 17R 18 Firestone tires, $50/ ea. 4 265 50R 20 Norman, $100/ ea. Dodge front grill fits 1977-1978 pickup, $150. 701-367-9646 John Deere LT150 riding mower with bagger, $950 OBO. Snapper 3000 psi gas power washer, $125/ OBO. NordicTrack AudioStrider 990 elliptical $350/OBO. 701-371-4674 60” Trail Mower, Briggs 15.5 HP, needs fuel pump, $350. Mechanics Special,1999 Dodge Durango, $400.

Chest of drawers, $25. 701-799-6661 Morton Whole Home Water Filter System, brand new in the box, Mod: MCWF, retail $369, P/U, $340. 701282-0356 2021 FORD Class B (van) Motorhome, Pleasure-way Ontour 2.0 like new, 41-K miles, no smoke, no pets, warranty, showroom cond., must see to appreciate. For more info: pleasureway.com, Ontour 2.0, great MPG, $95,000/OBO. 701-3670115 2003 Harley Davidson Fatboy (100 anni.), 13,000 mi, fuel injected, detachable windshield, screaming eagle pipes, lockable saddlebags, chrome swingarm, pics avail., $6,000. 701-361-2551 2022 John Deere CPBagger, 3 bags for grass, for 1025R tractor, hardly CassCountyElectric.com

used, $2,750. 701-238-5275.

Exercise Equipment, Horizon Elite Treadmill & Elliptical, both purchased from Scheels, exc. cond., $550 each or $750 for both. Text preferred, 701-205-6127 Air Flow style tail gate fits Ford Pickup 2016-2023, $150/OBO. Heavy Duty Tow Rope w/ carrying crate, $50. Heavy Duty Tow Rope w/ carrying bag, $40. Shop Vac w/3 extra bags $40. 701-371-8111 1951 Cadillac Series 62 4-door sedan, black, original engine, 62,868 miles, exterior and interior have been fully restored, runs and drives great, $35,000 OBO. Photos can be provided. 701-799-5639 1982 Dodge Ram Charger Prospector Royal SE 150, new tires, new battery, needs some work, four-wheel drive, air conditioning, automatic transmission, power steering, 318 engine, $6,000/OBO. 701-261-4735 Wanted Vintage electronics, 1970s stereo equipment, digital cameras, video game consoles/games, CDs, tapes, & records.701-541-7852 Older car for work, early 2000’s w/ lower mileage, less than 150K miles, cash. 701-240-0488 National Bank Notes, any state, and sterling silverware. 701-371-9779

August 2025 | Highline Notes 15

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