HIGHLINE notes January 2026
AI at home, at work, and on the grid, pg. 4 Tools of the trade: Prinoth, pg. 6 Save money with a DIY home energy audit, pg. 8
CassCountyElectric.com
January 2026 | Highline Notes 1
editorial
Paul Matthys, president/CEO, Cass County Electric Cooperative Digital were to ensure that we mitigate risks and do not in any way compromise service reliability or raise electric rates for our legacy or traditional members as a result of serving the data center. We also planned and prepared for the increase in legacy system load, new power generation resources, and a new natural gas pipeline from the Bakken to the Mapleton area (known as the Bakken East pipeline), along with the associated costs of these projects. Our wholesale power provider, Minnkota Power Cooperative, has adopted an all-of-the-above energy strategy, featuring a robust electric generation portfolio that includes a diverse mix of coal, wind, and hydro The old saying, “The days are long, resources. In terms of nameplate but the years are short,” couldn’t electric generation capacity, be more accurate. Here we are about 58% comes from coal, 33% in 2026, and where did 2025 from wind, 7% from hydroelectric go? A friend of mine once said, sources, and 2% from other “A busy life is a good life,” and I resources. All our resources, think that’s very true. 2025 was a including our baseload coal-fired busy year at Cass County Electric, plants, are beginning to age, and with 20 new hires resulting we need to plan, prepare, and from natural attrition, as well as acquire replacement generation power supply resource planning, to support our current and future strategic planning, budgeting, load growth and reliability goals. and preparations to serve a large AI data center, specifically We are in a period of transition Applied Digital near Harwood, that will include the development North Dakota. of transmission infrastructure, Our primary and most important steps in planning to serve Applied
the addition of new power generation resources, a stance on the Bakken East pipeline, and the
decommissioning of some wind resources. All these initiatives are costly and take years of planning for permitting, procurement, and construction. These are some of the drivers that come to mind when you read about or hear me discuss the upward pressure on electric rates. Part of our strategic planning involves initiatives to reduce the increasing pressure on electric rates. Serving large loads, such as AI data centers, will help keep our rates stable and affordable. We plan to utilize excess revenue, known as margins, from serving Applied Digital as a buffer for our members against wholesale rate increases, potentially providing additional capital credits and stabilizing our operating costs. At the wholesale level, we plan to use margins to help fund capital expenditures related to new generation and transmission projects, which will help reduce pressure on rate increases. As we plan for new growth and keep pace with the immense demand for electricity, we will continue to prioritize the needs of our legacy members, maintaining stable and affordable rates. I want to wish you all a happy and safe New Year. Please refer to our website, social media, and Highline Notes for safety tips and advice.
CCEC offices will be closed Jan. 1, 2026. 2 Highline Notes | January 2026
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this month’s content lineup
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BOARD MEETING HIGHLIGHTS - NOVEMBER 2025 The Cass County Electric board of directors met in person on Nov. 25, 2025, and discussed the following topics: • Moved to approve the Nov. 2025 consent agenda of the regular board meeting consisting of minutes, monthly department reports, and the director expense report. • Received the chairman’s report. • President/CEO Paul Matthys gave the president’s report, providing updates from conferences attended. • Moved to approve the 2026 annual meeting voting options, including absentee ballot by request and inperson voting. • Received the October 2025 financial report. • Received the 2026 preliminary budget preview from each department. • Approved the 2026 IT Audit - Scope of
Work Agreement with Eide Bailly, LLP. • Approved the 2026 Letter of Engagement for the 2025 Financial Audit with Eide Bailly, LLP. • Received a report from the RUS Electric State Director. • Received reports from the Minnkota Power Cooperative and NDAREC board meetings. • Moved to approve the November 2025 capital credit estate payments. • The board elected Director Seymour to serve as NDAREC Director and Director Mitzel as the alternate in 2026. • Reviewed upcoming meetings and events. The next board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026.
NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible Agency or USDA’s TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and
TTY) or contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint and at any USDA office or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: program.intake@usda.gov. Cass County Electric Cooperative is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
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Highline Notes Volume 84, Number 1
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 2026. 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. January 2026 | Highline Notes 3
AI at home, at work, and on the grid Artificial intelligence quietly powers your home, your phone, and even assists your cooperative’s grid. Artificial intelligence, or AI, might sound futuristic – like something from science fiction movies – but the truth is that it’s already all around us. Most of us interact with AI every single day without even realizing it. From the way we watch TV to how we get directions, AI is quietly working in the background to make life easier, safer, and more efficient. The best example of everyday AI is the smartphone in your pocket. When your phone suggests words as you type, translates a message, or unlocks using your face, that’s AI at work. Photo apps use AI to sort pictures by faces, places, or even pets. Virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa rely on AI to answer questions and respond to voice commands. Even the autocorrect that saves us from embarrassing typos is powered by artificial intelligence. These tools have become so common that we hardly notice them, but they are all made possible by different types of AI. Each type is designed to see, learn, or respond in its own way. Entertainment, shopping, and travel AI also shapes how we relax. Streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, or Spotify suggest shows and songs based on what you’ve already enjoyed. Video games
rely on AI to create characters that react realistically.
voice commands.
Shopping online is another area full of AI. The personalized recommendations you see on Amazon or Target’s app are created by analyzing browsing and purchase history. Grocery store apps send coupons tailored to your buying habits, while AI in banking apps helps detect fraud by flagging unusual transactions.
In the workplace, AI makes tasks easier and more efficient. Email systems use AI to filter spam, suggest replies, and sort messages. Video conferencing platforms automatically improve picture and sound quality. Even tools like Grammarly or spellcheck are powered by artificial intelligence, quietly polishing our writing behind the scenes.
When it comes to travel, AI is behind nearly every step. Google Maps predicts traffic jams and suggests faster routes. Ridesharing apps like Uber and Lyft use AI to match drivers with riders. In cars, features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and emergency braking are all AIdriven. Even at the airport, AI helps security systems scan luggage for dangerous items.
AI and the electric grid AI doesn’t just improve our phones, cars, and homes. It’s also changing how we use and deliver electricity. Utilities, including cooperatives like Cass County Electric, are beginning to use AI to help manage the grid. Smart meters, energy management systems, and demand forecasting all rely on artificial intelligence to keep power reliable and affordable.
At home and work Inside our homes, AI is becoming just as common. Smart thermostats, such as Nest or Ecobee, learn when you’re home and adjust the temperature automatically, saving energy along the way. Robot vacuums map out your floor plan and avoid furniture. Smart speakers, such as Alexa or Google Home, can play music, set timers, and even control lights with simple
For example, AI can predict when electricity demand is likely to spike, enabling cooperatives to prepare in advance. It can also analyze patterns from smart devices in homes and businesses to balance loads more efficiently. In the future, this could lead to fewer outages, improved utilization of renewable energy on the grid, and more efficient use of resources.
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Powering AI in the north Cooperatives, especially those in northern climates, are well positioned to serve the growing energy needs that come with AI technology. Data centers and AI-powered industries require a steady, reliable, and affordable power supply, and North Dakota is uniquely suited to provide it. Due to transmission limits, our state can generate far more electricity than it can currently send to the wider grid. That means North Dakota is energyrich, with both abundant generation and available capacity. For AI-driven industries looking for reliable power, cooperatives like Cass County Electric can provide a strong, resilient foundation right here at home. Cold climates also offer natural advantages for cooling data centers and large computing facilities, reducing the energy required to keep equipment running safely. Combined with the reliability and local control of the cooperative model, these factors make our region a strong contender for powering the next wave of technology growth. Cass County Electric remains committed to utilizing innovation responsibly to support its members and their communities. As technology evolves, AI will play a crucial role in enhancing the reliability of the grid, facilitating the integration of renewable energy, and ensuring that members continue to receive safe, affordable, and sustainable power.
A glimpse into the future So what does the future of AI look like? The truth is, it’s only just beginning. Many of the systems we already use will get smarter and more personalized. Cars may eventually drive themselves safely on city streets. Health apps could predict illnesses before symptoms appear. Homes will grow more connected, with appliances that communicate to save both energy and money. In the energy sector, AI will play a growing role in supporting renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. Because those resources depend on the weather, AI can forecast generation and adjust usage in real time. Smart homes and smart grids will work together, shifting energy use to times when power is the most affordable. And while AI may feel invisible, its presence will only continue to expand, often in ways that make life more convenient and connected. The key for cooperatives, and for all of us, will be finding ways to use AI responsibly, ensuring it improves lives while keeping data secure and communities strong. AI isn’t a far-off technology. It’s here today, quietly working in the background of our daily routines. Whether it’s streaming a favorite song, navigating a busy commute, adjusting your thermostat, or keeping the lights on, artificial intelligence is already part of everyday life.
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At the end of the day, AI isn’t about replacing people, it’s about helping them. It’s the invisible helper that makes modern life a little smoother, a little smarter, and, when used wisely, a whole lot better.
Types of AI: Reactive AI responds in real time, like autocorrect fixing typos. Limited Memory AI learns from the past, such as Google Maps predicting traffic. Generative AI creates new things, like ChatGPT writing or photo apps making art filters. Natural Language AI understands speech, like Siri or Alexa. Computer Vision AI helps devices “see,” such as Face ID unlocking your phone. Recommendation AI suggests what you might like next, from Netflix shows to online shopping.
January 2026 | Highline Notes 5
TOOLS OF THE TRADE: The Prinoth advantage
When tough conditions stand in the way, Cass County Electric Cooperative’s (CCEC) Prinoth Panther T-8 helps our crews get the job done.
wheels cannot.
CCEC’s Prinoth Panther T-8 is equipped with a Terex Digger Derrick, which makes it a dualpurpose machine. It can be used Many members picture the as a bucket unit for overhead Prinoth in winter, gliding over work and as a pole setter when deep snow to reach downed lines new infrastructure is needed. and restore power after storms. It This flexibility allows crews to is just as valuable in the warmer accomplish more with fewer months. In spring and summer, pieces of equipment, saving time the tracked utility vehicle can and resources. cross muddy fields, wetlands, and riverbanks where traditional Safety is always the priority. The trucks would sink. Its low ground Prinoth’s electronic controls and pressure spreads weight evenly safeguards ensure that it can and allows it to travel where only be operated under proper 6 Highline Notes | January 2026
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conditions, helping protect lineworkers as they navigate challenging terrain. The Prinoth is not used every day because of its high operating costs, but it becomes indispensable when conditions demand it. Whether navigating snow in January or crossing saturated fields in June, the Prinoth helps crews respond faster and more effectively. Durable, versatile, and designed for tough terrain, it is a vital tool in CCEC’s fleet. The Prinoth helps keep members’ lights on in every season.
CassCountyElectric.com
January 2026 | Highline Notes 7
save
Save money with a DIY home energy audit
Want to cut costs and make your home more comfortable? A DIY home energy audit can reveal hidden energy drains, such as leaky windows, drafty ducts, and inefficient appliances. Identifying trouble spots now can help you save and stay comfortable year-round.
Step 2: Lower water heater temperature • Lower your water heater temperature to save money and reduce the risk of scalding burns. Some water heaters are factoryset to 140°F, but most households only need 120°F.
Your step-by-step efficiency guide Before you dive in, gather a few basic tools: a flashlight, a dust mask, a tape measure, and something to take notes (your phone works great!). We’ll start with simple, nocost changes you can make right away, then move on to tasks that take a little more effort.
Step 3: Find and fix energy vampires • Shut off energy vampires — devices that draw electricity even when turned off. This idle load can account for 23% of your home’s energy use. • Unplug appliances when not in use and fully power down devices like computers or gaming consoles. • Use a smart power strip to shut off multiple electronics at once — it’s an easy way to stop energy waste at the source.
Step 1: Adjust your thermostat • Revisit your thermostat settings each season. Lowering the temperature at night or when no one is home is a simple way to cut costs. • Use a smart thermostat for even greater savings. It automatically adjusts based on your schedule.
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Step 4: Check your lighting • Swap out older bulbs, like incandescent or CFLs, for LEDs. They use less energy and last longer. Lighting can account for about 10% of your electric bill. • Add motion sensors or CassCountyElectric.com
timers to reduce wasted electricity. • Don’t overlook outdoor fixtures. Choose LEDs with features like daylight shutoff or motion sensors for even more savings. Step 5: Review major appliances • Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing new products. If your refrigerator, washer, dryer, or heat pump is more than 10 years old, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than repair it. Newer appliances are more energy-efficient and can often recoup their costs in savings within a few years. • Check your heating and cooling systems. Their lifespan can range from 10 to 30 years, depending on the type and maintenance. If yours is older, start planning ahead for an upgrade. • Replace air filters to keep your system running efficiently. Step 6: Seal leaks Air leaks can waste 10-20% of your home’s energy each
Programs to manage your energy bill The budget or levelized billing option averages your past energy use and spreads the cost evenly across the year, so you pay the same amount each month. It can bring peace of mind during seasons when bills usually spike. Keep in mind: Budget billing helps you manage monthly costs but doesn’t lower your overall annual expense. year, but they’re often simple to fix. Here’s where to look and how to seal them. • Check baseboards, floor edges, and wall-to-ceiling joints indoors. • Focus on where different materials meet outdoors. • Pay special attention to windows, doors, light fixtures, plumbing, and outlets. • Use caulk for gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards. • Add weatherstripping to doors and operable windows. Step 7: Inspect insulation Check attic insulation: • Grab your dust mask and tape measure to check the depth of the insulation. It should be at least 12 inches deep. Check EnergyStar. gov for recommended R-values. • Spread insulation evenly. Loose-fill or blown-in insulation should be fluffy with even coverage, while rolled batt insulation should fit snugly with no gaps. Inspect exterior walls: • Check insulation by turning off the power,
removing an outlet cover or switch plate, and shining a flashlight into the cavity. Many homes built before the 1960s have minimal insulation, and houses from the 1960s to the 1970s often require more. • Call a professional to blow in insulation (from the outside or inside) if wall insulation is missing. Don’t forget the basement: • Ensure the rim joists (the area between the top of the foundation and the underside of the first floor) are well-insulated in unfinished basements. • Insulate the underside of the floor between the joists in crawl spaces. • Add insulation to pipes and ductwork for an extra efficiency boost. Congratulations — you’ve taken an important first step toward lowering your energy bills and boosting your comfort. Want to go further? A professional home energy audit can provide a complete plan to reduce waste, maximize savings, and make your home more efficient year-round. CassCountyElectric.com
Another option is a time-ofday (TOD) plan. With a TOD rate, electricity rates vary depending on when you use energy. Power is more expensive during on-peak, when demand is high. Nonpeak hours are when there’s less demand on the grid. On-peak: Monday - Friday 6-9 AM and 4-8 PM Non-peak: All other hours, Saturdays, Sundays, and specific holidays will be considered non-peak Savings are possible if you shift energy-intensive activities, such as laundry or dishwashing, to off-peak hours. Many appliances have timers or delay-start features that make this easy. Interested in these options? Connect with us at energy@kwh.com.
January 2026 | Highline Notes 9
Welcome to the team Manager of Technical Services Matt Williams Hometown: Jamestown, North Dakota Tell us about your education: NDSU: BS Electrical Engineering Tell us about your career: I worked as an electrical engineer for MDU for the last 12 years, doing a combination of construction, power quality investigations, SCADA, and substation work. Tell us about your family: I started dating my wife in 2020, and we got married three years later, in 2023. We have two children and one dog and are currently settling into our new place here in Fargo.
Hobbies: I like traveling, photography, and the occasional video game. What advice have you received that was the most impactful? Always be flexible. No matter how much you plan for things, something unforeseen can still arise, and the ability to adapt can turn something unexpected into an opportunity. If you won the lottery, what would be your first purchase? A vacation home What’s your favorite season? Winter What’s your favorite food? Italian, I love pizza and pasta!
enter your
YOUTH TOUR ERA Join us on the adventure of a lifetime! On the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour, you’ll do it all. You’ll explore monuments and museums, meet with members of Congress and get an up-close look at where our country’s laws are crafted. You’ll stand on the Gettysburg Battlefield, walk the halls of George Washington’s iconic 18th-century mansion, and witness ceremonies honoring the men and women who fought in uniform for this great nation. For one jam-packed week, you’ll be immersed in the cooperative spirit that built and sustains our great nation. And all expenses are paid by your local electric cooperative!
June 14-20, 2026 To enter the essay-writing contest: You must be a sophomore or junior in high school and you and your guardian(s) must be served by CCEC. Essay question: Why is it important to be involved in your community, and how does that prepare you to be a future leader? Application deadline: January 16, 2026 Email entries to ccec@kwh.com Learn more: CassCountyElectric.com/youth-tour
10 Highline Notes | January 2026 CassCountyElectric.com
safety Don’t get burned by a neglected water heater
One home appliance that often receives little thought is the water heater. But neglecting the unit we rely on for hot water can lead to problems over time. You might not think about it until the shower runs cold, but proper installation and routine maintenance are key to keeping your heater operating safely. When components begin to fail, the appliance can create issues that are more than inconvenient. A malfunctioning unit can leak, damage nearby walls or flooring, or in rare cases create enough internal pressure to cause property damage. Knowing how your system works and watching for early warning signs can help you avoid unexpected repairs. A water heater can malfunction for several reasons: • Sediment buildup in the tank • Rust that corrodes the tank • Too much internal pressure If your hot water makes a popping or knocking noise, water may be trapped under sediment.
Scan here for more safety tips!
Flushing and draining the tank at least once a year can help prevent buildup. If your tap water has a brown, rusty tint, the tank may be corroding. Inspect the anode rod every two years and replace it every four to five years, or sooner if you use a water softener. If the temperature and pressure relief valve, or T&P valve, frequently opens or begins to leak, it may be faulty or the tank may be experiencing excess pressure. Set your water heater temperature between 120 and 125 degrees, and test the valve twice a year or have a technician do it for you. Use caution because the water inside is extremely hot. If you are planning an upgrade, Cass County Electric has a water heater program that offers bill credits for qualifying large-capacity electric models. For additional questions, consult a qualified service technician. For more information about electrical safety, visit CassCountyElectric.com/ safety.
CassCountyElectric.com
January 2026 | Highline Notes 11
2026 CCEC Director Elections Cass County Electric Cooperative’s directors serve as liaisons between fellow members and the cooperative executive staff, providing guidance and oversight on cooperative finance and operations. Directors provide the vital service of voicing the membership’s needs and upholding the cooperative value of democratic member control. CCEC members in Districts 4, 5, 6, and At-Large interested in becoming a director should contact our executive assistant at 701-356-4405 or srhea@kwh.com for a director election petition packet. Interested members must return all required paperwork to the cooperative by Jan. 14, 2026. Members will vote for new board members at the cooperative’s
April 14, 2026, annual meeting. Candidates interested in running for three-year terms for positions Scan here for in Districts 4, 5, 6, and At-Large more info! must be bona fide residents of the district in which they are seeking directorship. Below are the current directors of these districts. District 4: Stacey Ackerman (I) District 5: Tom Seymour (I) District 6: Terry Kraft (I) District At-Large: Glenn Mitzel (I) Scan the QR code to learn how to run for the board or to view the district map in more detail.
12 Highline Notes | January 2026 CassCountyElectric.com
Check out our Pinterest page for more recipes!
recipes January brings a full lineup of gatherings, from New Year celebrations to late holiday parties and the start of football playoff season. It is the perfect time to keep a few crowd-pleasing appetizers ready to share. This month’s recipes offer easy, flavorful bites that fit any gettogether, whether you are hosting a game day spread or bringing a dish to a winter party. We hope these classic starters help kick off your new year with good food and even better company.
Velveeta sausage dip
Cajun shrimp
Ingredients 1 pound Velveeta, cut into 1/2” cubes 1 (10-ounce) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained 1 pound Jimmy Dean pork sausage, cooked, drained Instructions Mix Velveeta, tomatoes, and cooked sausage in a slow cooker on low, stirring occasionally.
Ingredients 12 ounces large shrimp, peeled and deveined 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning Instructions Preheat air fryer to 375°F. Pat shrimp dry, then toss with olive oil and paprika in a medium bowl. Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil. Add half of the shrimp, spread them out in an even layer, and cook for 7 minutes. Repeat with the remaining half. Combine the butter and seasoning in a large bowl. Add shrimp and toss to coat.
Brown sugar smokies
Cheesy burger bundles
Ingredients 1 pound bacon 1 (16-ounce) package little smokie sausages 1 cup brown sugar Instructions Preheat the oven to 350°F. Cut bacon slices into thirds and wrap each strip around the sausage. Secure the wrapped sausages on wooden skewers, placing several on each skewer. Arrange the skewers on a baking sheet and sprinkle them liberally with brown sugar. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through.
Ingredients 1 pound ground beef 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 (10-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough 8 slices Cheddar cheese 32 slices dill pickle Instructions Preheat the oven to 350°F. Add ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until it is no longer pink. Add onion to the skillet and cook and stir until tender. Drain off grease. Unroll crescent roll dough on a clean surface. Separate the triangles and then cut each triangle in half diagonally to make 2 smaller triangles. Stack slices of cheese and cut diagonally into 4 triangles. Place one triangle of cheese onto each triangle of dough. Spoon about a tablespoon of ground beef over the cheese and then top with a slice of pickle. Fold the points of the dough towards the center like a diaper and place it on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes in the preheated oven until golden brown.
CassCountyElectric.com
January 2026 | Highline Notes 13
impact Operation Round Up Cass County Electric Cooperative Foundation
Members are helping members. For less than $1 per month, you can make a difference in your community. Participation is simple: Your monthly electric bill is rounded up to the nearest dollar, an estimated average of $6 per year. You can see your current contribution on your electric bill. A volunteer board meets quarterly to distribute the funds used primarily within Cass County Electric Cooperative’s service area for charitable, educational, environmental, and emergency assistance purposes. The funds are never used for political purposes or utility bills.
December 2025
Applications reviewed Organization 18 Individual 1 Emergency 0 Applications approved Organization 17 Individual 1 Emergency 0 Applications denied 0 Applications tabled 1
$62,700 $1,000
2025 year-to-date summary Per member average contribution $5.34 Average member participation 81.6% Total income $233,082 (Includes contributions, interest earned, and donations/memorials.)
Total contributions (1993-present)
Featured recipient: Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley is a faith-based nonprofit in Fargo that collects gently used furniture and household items and gives them at no cost to local individuals and families facing crisis or major life challenges. Working with a network of referral agencies, the organization helps people coming out of situations such as homelessness, housing loss, natural disaster or other hardship to furnish their homes with beds, tables, chairs and other necessary items, helping turn a residence into a home and restoring dignity and comfort during difficult times. It relies on community donations and volunteers to carry out its mission of compassion and service. 14 Highline Notes | January 2026 CassCountyElectric.com
$4,668,954
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 first-received, 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 Spode Christmas China, 10 place settings of dinner plates, salad plates, glasses, coffee cups, wine glasses, & many extra pieces, all $500. 701-367-9168 Kohler Engine CH640-3210 20.5HP Command Pro 674cc used, engine runs, horizontal 1” shaft, elec. start, hydraulic pump w/ 2 outlets, motor needs muffler, comes w/ new air cleaner assembly (w/o filters), motor pulled from a Ditch Witch SK 350, starter was showing weakness below 20 degrees, $600 cash. 701-371-6455 Used exercise bike, cash only. 701-537-3250 Bridgestone Blizzak Snow tires, four 225/60/R17 99H, 12/32” full tread, like new, deliver to 50 miles, sold as a set, $400. 407389-9988 Nelco serger model 928, older workhorse in good cond., 4 white thread cones, sturdy fabric storage/carrying case & instruction manual included, $125. 701-271-0110 Coleman Powermate MAXA 5000ER Generator, 5,000 watt, 9AS, 120/240V, $75/OBO.
Wine coolers 1-5 gal & 1-6 gal, fermenting jugs, plus specific gravity gauge, burpers, other accessories, 10 cases of clean bottles, $50/OBO. 701-318-5004 Philco car radio for a 1938 Ford. 701-781-4282 8-piece China set, blue flowers with/ gold trim, plates, dessert, sauce, small plates, cups and saucers, sugar & creamer, gravy boat, meat platter, serving bowl, 53 pieces in all, $200. 701-2374266 Numerous wood construction & automotive tools, you pick what you want, we’ll deal, very reasonable. 701-541-6325 Sharp 4-head VCR with remote, $60. Snapper 3000 psi, 2.3 gpm, gas power washer, $75. Call 701 371-4674 Boyd’s Bear Collection PA#1364 CN, 1988-2002, $20. 701-388-1107 Set of 4 Bridgestone Blizzak 235/50R18 Snow Tires w/ Rims and TPMS, will fit 2019 Chevrolet Impala (& probably others), lots of tread left, stored indoors over the summer, $425 for all 4 tires & rims. 701-541-9060 CassCountyElectric.com
Hobart Stickmate 205 AC stick welder, works great, $150. 701-3615620 Vintage Minnesota label treadle sewing machine in wood cabinet, over 100 years old, very nice condition, Lisbon area, $250/ OBO. 701-680-2668 John Deere Heritage Collection Village, 4 buildings & 3 boxes of accessories, 2 sets in gently used cond. in orig. boxes, $200/ea set/ OBO. 701-840-2580 Selling rolls of Wheat Pennies $6/ ea. 90% U.S. silver. 701-371-9779 Four-hole portable fish house, Giffy ice auger, telestep ladder, tool shop drill press, Pompadour China 8-piece set & serving dishes, baby crib, & older Tonka toys. 701-566-7165 Eskimo insulated fish house, 6-man, new, never used, paid over $700, will sell for $500. Strike Master ice auger, new, never used, 8”, battery powered, 24 volt, $350. 701-793-7841 Wanted 18.4x34 tractor tire chains or chains that can be modified to fit. 701-361-7152 January 2026 | Highline Notes 15
800-248-3292 | CassCountyElectric.com 4100 32nd Ave. S., Fargo, ND 58104
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KEEPING YOU CONNECTED
16 Highline Notes | January 2026 CassCountyElectric.com
It’s reassuring to know that Cass County Electric Cooperative is always here for you. For generations, we’ve powered the growth of our neighborhoods, businesses, and everything in between. Today, our commitment is stronger than ever to deliver affordable, reliable energy you can count on— now and for the future.