All Co-op CCL Oct 2025 by coloradocountrylife

A Taste OF Fall

Powered by Purpose

By Josh Dellinger General Manager

This month, electric cooperatives across the country take time to celebrate National Cooperative Month and reflect on the unique advantages of being part of a cooperative. It’s also the perfect time to thank you, the members who make it all possible. For us, it’s not just a celebration. It’s a chance to reaffirm the values that guide everything we do.

As the general manager of Empire Electric Association, I see purpose in action every single day. Unlike investor-owned utilities, our co-op doesn’t exist to make profits for distant shareholders. We exist to serve our members and our communities. That purpose is what sets us apart. It’s why we were founded 86 years ago, and it continues to drive every decision we make.

At its core, being a cooperative means we are member-owned and locally controlled. That’s not just a tagline; it’s the very heart of our business model. Members have a voice in how our co-op operates. You elect board members who live right here in our service area and who understand the unique challenges and opportunities our communities face. Decisions aren’t made in corporate boardrooms hundreds of miles away; they’re made here at home, by people who care about the same things you do.

This local accountability means we can stay focused on what matters most: delivering reliable, affordable electricity and providing real value to the people we serve.

We do that by investing in essential infrastructure upgrades and technologies that strengthen our local

grid and improve electric service. We work hard to manage costs and keep rates as low as possible, because we know how much rising prices affect families and businesses in our area. And when storms hit or outages occur, EEA crews are here and ready to respond quickly, because we live here too.

But our commitment doesn’t end at the power lines.

Co-ops were built to meet community needs, and that purpose extends well beyond delivering electricity. Whether we’re supporting local schools, sponsoring youth programs, or partnering with volunteer organizations, we are always looking for ways to improve the quality of life in the places we serve. Community support isn’t an afterthought. It’s part of who we are.

We’re also planning for the future. As electricity demand grows due to new technologies and economic development, EEA is working to ensure we continue to meet those needs with a balanced, reliable energy mix. We know our members care about affordability and dependability, and we’re committed to delivering both.

That’s the power of the cooperative difference. That’s what it means to be powered by purpose.

This National Cooperative Month, I encourage you to take pride in your cooperative membership. You’re not just a customer — you’re an owner, a stakeholder, and a vital part of a larger effort to keep our community strong, connected, and energized.

Thank you for the trust you place in us. We’re proud to be your local electric cooperative.

EEA EducationContinuing Scholarship Winners 2025

EEA Refrigerator & Freezer

Recycling Event in Monticello, UT

San Juan County Fair Grounds October 14 - 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Our members are the heartbeat of EEA. National Co-op Month

Bring up to two units to the San Juan County Fairgrounds, fill out a recycle form, and we will do the rest. You will receive a $15 bill credit per unit recycled. Must have an active EEA account.

Kenneth Chadd Dove Creek, CO

Taylor LaRose Dolores, CO

Makayla Wayman Mancos, CO

Shelby Jabour Mancos, CO

Quinn Maness Cortez, CO

Andres Moreno Mancos, CO

Avery Stiegelmeyer Cortez, CO

Kade Hankins Dove Creek, CO

Izabella Balfour Cortez, CO

Lexie Burton Dolores, CO

Jayden Thomason Cortez, CO

Brooklyn Lee Dolores, CO

Gabriel Crowley Cortez, CO

Lilly Bell Figueroa Mancos, CO

Trista Barnett Dove Creek, CO

Member Services Building Nearing Completion

Construction of Empire Electric Association’s new member services building located next to the existing engineering and operations building is nearing completion. The new building is located north of Cortez at 23999 Road L.4. We anticipate most construction to be completed by the end of October with final inspections and sign-offs to be finished mid-November. Near the end of the year, we plan to host an open house for member before staff moves into the new building in early 2026. Watch for the announcement.

The new building will provide office space for EEA’s member services, the finance department, and senior staff. We have expanded parking to accommodate more traffic; the lobby and a drive-up window will be available for members to conduct business in person as needed.

The new building will not put upward pressure on rates. Construction has been kept within the allot-

ted budget, and the building funds came from extra income from the employee retention tax credit and the sale of assets. We anticipate future savings with reduced operating expenses that come from owning a new building and maintaining a single location.

THE GIFT OF READING

Outside of a dog, a book is a man’s best friend. Inside of a dog it’s too dark to read.”

— Groucho Marx

The written word is useful in many ways, unless you are inside of a dog as Groucho Marx kindly points out. Empire Electric Association was graciously given the opportunity to gift several new books to the Dolores County Library. The books were made available to EEA by Colorado Country Life, which receives books from Colorado authors throughout the year for the book reviews it publishes periodically. These books are then donated to Colorado rural electric cooperatives to distribute to libraries within their service territories.

The donation included books from several different genres including children’s stories, cookbooks, and mysteries. Librarian Laurie Ernst was excited to receive them and informed us they will benefit readers beyond Dolores County. The Dolores County Library is a member of a regional library group that shares books, which allows more books to be available to patrons.

Aerial view of EEA’s new member service building in early September. Construction will be completed by the end of the year. Photo courtesy of Tri-Hurst Construction

Librarian Laurie Ernst with two of the books donated to the Dolores County Library. Photo by Denise Moore

District 3 Director Earns Certification

Empire Electric Association Director Corey Robinson recently completed the requirements for the Credentialed Cooperative Director certificate from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association.

The electric utility industry continues to evolve and increase in complexity and requires cooperative board directors to grow with it. The NRECA CCD program provides directors with the knowledge and skills required to serve members. Earning the CCD certificate requires completing courses on director duties and liabilities, understanding the electric business, board operations and processes, strategic planning, and financial decision making.

Robinson also serves as EEA’s owner-representative on the Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association board. This is a critical position because of the impact Tri-State has on EEA’s ability to provide reliable and affordable power. In his professional life as a documentary filmmaker, Robinson constantly hones his skills of curiosity, connection, and adaptation in order to effectively understand and share people’s stories. These skills have been important for navigating the constantly shifting landscape of the electric industry. A self-described “energy nerd,” he dives into the details necessary to provide effective guidance on the issues EEA and Tri-State face. Robinson’s award of the CCD certificate is proof of his desire to serve our membership well.

Please join us in congratulating Robinson for completing the CCD certificate program and thanking him for his dedicated service to EEA members.

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

Take advantage of “shoulder months,” which refer to the transitional periods between peak heating and cooling seasons. During the fall, these milder weeks typically occur between September and November. Shoulder months offer a great opportunity to reduce home energy consumption as the need for extensive heating or cooling is reduced. Look for simple ways to boost indoor comfort without running your heating and cooling system. Use ceiling fans and open windows on breezy days to ventilate your home. On cooler days, add a layer of clothing and avoid running the heat.

MONTHLY CALENDAR & CO-OP PHOTO CONTEST WINNER

October 10 – EEA board meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. at its headquarters in Cortez. The agenda is posted 10 days in advance of the meeting at eea.coop. Members may attend in person or remotely. Instructions to attend remotely are included on the agenda.

October 14 – Cooperative Day of Service in Monticello. Refrigerator/freezer recycling event at San Juan County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Northern Pygmy Owl Along the Dolores River.

Photo by Natalie Tamminga

EEA District 3 Director Corey Robinson.

Rate Change Approved

Average

GVP consumer will see a four percent increase

By Tom Walch Chief Executive Officer

One of the most important jobs the Grand Valley Power Board of Directors has is setting rates for the electric service the cooperative provides. These rates must cover the cost of this service and should be fair and equitable to members. To do this, we engage a rate consultant from time to time to perform a cost-of-service study and provide support in rate design. Knowing that we will face challenges covering our costs in coming years, we started down this road earlier this year.

As a result of this process, we received a cost-ofservice study confirming that, like other cooperatives, Grand Valley Power faces rising costs. But unlike most other growing cooperatives, Grand Valley Power has also observed a decline in kilowatt-hour sales. The board felt that this required action. At its September meeting, The Grand Valley Power Board of Directors approved a rate restructure. The new rates will take effect November 1 and will increase the average residential consumer’s electric bill by 4 percent beginning with bills received in December.

RISING COSTS

A rate increase is not something we take lightly. Our last rate adjustment was more than two years ago, and since then, operating costs have climbed (see “The Impact of Rising Costs” on page 8). While we’ve controlled expenses — purchasing lightly used fleet vehicles rather than new ones, for example — cost recovery is no longer keeping pace with the increases.

DECLINING KILOWATT-HOUR SALES

Rising costs are only part of the story. Another factor in the necessity of the rate change is declining kilowatt-hour sales. Grand Valley Power has enjoyed steady growth over the past several years. Logic would tell us that more members would mean higher kilowatt-hour sales to help cover the associated costs of a growing membership. But a noticeable trend is defying that logic. As membership grows, more households are generating their own power, mainly from solar. These consumers are buying fewer kilowatt hours from Grand Valley Power, leading to a noticeable decline in kilowatt-hour sales.

WHY IS THAT A BIG DEAL?

Grand Valley Power has different kinds of costs: fixed costs, demand costs, and energy costs. Rates must recover all these costs. Traditionally, most of these costs have been recovered through Grand Valley Power’s kilowatt-hour energy charges. But when consumers don’t

buy kilowatt hours, they don’t help cover costs that are built into kilowatt hour charges. If we do not adjust rates, and we keep a disproportionate amount of fixed costs in the kilowatt-hour charges, 93% of consumers will see a bigger rate increase and pick up the slack for the other 7% who are buying fewer kilowatt hours.

WHAT IS DEMAND?

One of the things GVP is doing to address this situation, is introducing a demand charge. This charge is designed to help pay for some of the co-op’s distribution demand costs. What are these costs? They are costs incurred in building out our distribution system so that it can reliably provide all of the power our members need when their need for power is the greatest. The biggest cost drivers are substations, distribution lines, and transformers. We just wrapped up a $2.2 million upgrade to our Highline Substation to meet growing member demand. Upgrades to various other distribution lines and substations will be required in the near term. We need to have a way to pay for these improvements that is not tied to kilowatt hour sales. That’s why GVP’s new rates will include a Distribution Demand Charge.

You can look at your past bills to see what your demand has been. It’s called Demand kW and is measured in kilowatts. You can control your demand — and charges associated with it – by limiting the number of electric devices you use at one time.

THE NEW RATES

The new rates will more effectively recover fixed, demand, and energy costs in a way that reflects how people use electricity. On the energy side, we are lowering the off-peak Time-of-Use rate. To recover more of our fixed costs, Grand Valley Power is raising the Grid Connectivity charge by $1.50 per month and adding a Demand charge. With the new demand charge, consumers who use a lot of electric devices at the same time will pay more of the costs associated with increasing demand. These are all components of recovering the cost of our electric service. When you use electricity impacts the time-of-use rate charged (with 4 to 9 p.m. being the higher, on-peak rate), and how much electricity you use at once impacts a household’s demand charge.

While we must raise our rates, remember that you can help us save costs and share in these savings by taking advantage of our Shared Savings program. That way you can help us provide safe, reliable, and affordable power — backed by the hometown service you expect.

T H E I M P A C T O F R I S I N G C O ST S

The past five years have seen rising costs pushed by soaring demand, supply chain challenges, and materials shortages. The cost of producing power is rapidly increasing and driving electric rates up for consumers across the nation. The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) identified many significant increases:

20%

Increases in the cost of vehicle maintenance and insurance add to fleet expenses

40%

The cost of power poles has increased by 40 percent

50%

Utility construction labor, including contractors for tree trimming, has increased by 40 percent

Postage increases have increased the cost of mailing monthly bills by more than 40 percent

100% 120%

Underground and overhead wires have increased by 50 percent.

Shortages of bucket trucks and digger derricks have increased the cost of fleet replacements by 50 percent

Due to material shortages, overhead and pad-mounted transformers have nearly doubled in cost Transformers are critical to the safe delivery of electricity

Natural gas is a primary fuel source for the generation of electricity Its cost has more than doubled.

N O T I C E O F A C H A N G E I N TA R

P r o p o s e d R a t e s E f f e c t

I F

Grand Valley Rural Power Lines, Inc (GVP) hereby provides notice of proposed changes to its General Service Time-of-Use (GS-TOU) tariff to become effective November 1, 2025 (with first billing generated in December 2025) GVP will revise its rates to recover costs to operate and maintain its distribution system GVP proposes changes in the rate class listed in the table The “General Service Time-of-Use” tariff is renamed “General Service Time-of-Use/Demand” (GS-TOU/D). Official notice; the full language of the proposed tariff changes; and details regarding questions, concerns, and the complaint process are published on the Grand Valley Power website at gvp org /rates-2025 and are also available for examination at Grand Valley Power ’s office located at 845 22 Road, Grand Junction, CO 81505

The changes shown here are for Grand Valley Power's General Service Time-of-Use (GS-TOU) consumer class. No other rates are changing at this time. All rates can be viewed on our website at gvp.org/rates.

H O W C A N I

S AV E ?

To offset bills, members can join the Shared Savings program. By switching to paperless billing and paying your bill automatically from a bank account for 12 consecutive months, you can get a $50 bill credit at the end of the term Do one of the two, and you can get a $25 credit Enrollment is required at gvp org/sharedsavings

W H AT I S

D E M A N D ?

Demand is the highest amount of electricity that a household uses at one time, measured in kilowatts (kW) Where is demand on my bill?

Electric cooperatives must build their distribution systems to handle the highest amount of electricity use. The Demand charge pays for a consumer ’s highest amount of electricity usage at one time in the month.

If a consumer simultaneously runs their clothes dryer, electric oven, and electric water heater, the demand from using them at the same time could add up to 10.3 kW. But if that same consumer runs these appliances one at a time, then the highest point of demand would be 4 5 kW for the electric water heater, which pulls the most electricity from the grid at once

Consumer 1 Runs

Consumer 2

Runs dryer, water heater and oven one at a time throughout the evening and is only charged for the highest demand appliance running during that period.

10.3 kW x $1.00 = $10.30

E L E C T R IC

The wattage values provided are samples only; actual wattage of appliances varies depending on age and features.

Source: U.S. Department of Energy ’s Appliance Energy Calculator https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/estimating-appliance-and-homeelectronic-energy-use

Happy 7 5th Bir thday Willie Wiredhand !

Grand Prize Winner - Ron H. Age 66

1 Place

Winners st

5 & Under - Morgan B Age 5

6-9 - Amelia G Age 9

10-13 - Hailey T. Age 13

14-17 - Charlotte G. Age 14

18+ - Ron H. Age 66

2nd Place Winners

5 & Under - Macy W Age 5

6-9 - Gwendalyn G Age 7

10-13 - Porter G Age 12

14-17 - Benjamin M. Age 14

18+ - Megan A. Age 29

OCTOBER IS CYBER SECUR MONTH

Grand Valley Power completes Level Two National Rural Electric Cooperative Assoc Co-op Cyber Goals Program

What is it? A voluntary, industry-wide progra consisting of two levels, 10 goals per level, th electric cooperatives build strong, practical cybersecurity foundations

Why is it important? By completing both leve program, Grand Valley Power demonstrates a commitment to member trust, data protectio reliability Grand Valley Power receives natio recognition at NRECA’s Co-op Cyber Tech eve

Halloween S afe t y Tip s

Accompany children

Cross streets safely in designated crossings and as a group

Stay on well-lit streets and sidewalks

Only visit homes with the front light on

If older children are trick-or-treating alone, create a route and agree on what time they should be home

Sort and check candy before eating

OCTOBER 2025

Voluntary and Open Membership

By Mike McBride Chief Executive Officer

If you are new to GCEA’s membership — welcome! And, if you have been part of our family for years, we are grateful to have you with us. Whether you are a new homeowner, a longtime rancher, or a small business owner, every member is valued equally — and every member makes our cooperative stronger.

When you joined GCEA, you were welcomed into an electric cooperative with voluntary and open membership. This means that GCEA is open to all people who can reasonably use its services and stand willing to accept the responsibilities of membership, regardless of race, religion, gender, or economic circumstances.

Their strength came from the willingness of individuals and families to join voluntarily and work collectively toward a brighter future.

Today, that spirit of openness remains at the heart of cooperative membership. Anyone who lives or operates within the cooperative’s service territory and takes electric service is eligible to become a member-owner. There are no artificial barriers to joining—such as income level, social status, or political affiliation. Membership is a choice, not a requirement, and it comes with both rights and responsibilities.

As the first of the seven cooperative principles, voluntary and open membership protects the fundamental human rights of interested individuals and members. Each member has one vote, no matter how large or small their home, ranch, or business may be. This democratic structure ensures that the cooperative serves the collective interests of all its members rather than the profits of outside shareholders.

When rural electric cooperatives were first formed in the 1930s, millions of families and businesses in rural America lived without reliable electricity because investor-owned utilities could not justify the cost of serving areas with few customers spread over long distances. Neighbors came together to solve this problem themselves by forming electric cooperatives.

Members are expected to support the cooperative by paying their bills on time, participating in annual meetings or director elections, and engaging in discussions about the cooperative’s future. These responsibilities are not burdens but opportunities— opportunities to help shape policies, set priorities, and ensure that the cooperative remains strong and sustainable for future generations.

The principle of voluntary and open membership is more than just a line in a mission statement. It is the foundation of the cooperative difference. It means your electric cooperative belongs to you and your neighbors. It means your voice matters. And it means that together, we can continue to provide safe, reliable, and affordable power to our communities — today and for decades to come.

ON THE COVER

Energy Use Advisor Alantha performs an energy evaluation with GCEA member Jason MacMillan.

Photo by Alliy Sahagun

GCEA’s New Rate Structure in 2026 Understanding peak demand

By Alantha Garrison Energy Use Advisor

In January 2026, GCEA will move to a threepart rate structure that includes a peak demand charge for most residential and small commercial accounts.

WHAT IS DEMAND?

Demand is the rate at which energy is used, measured in kilowatts. Peak demand is the highest amount of power used during GCEA’s peak period of 5 p.m.–9 p.m., Monday–Saturday. Members will be charged $1 per kilowatt for their highest peak during the billing month. This rate will increase in future years.

HOW DEMAND AFFECTS YOUR BILL

Using multiple high-wattage appliances at the same time — or “stacking” — raises your demand and costs. For example:

• An electric clothes dryer uses about 5.5 kW, adding $5.50 to demand charges if run during peak hours.

• If paired with a washing machine (1.4 kW) and an electric water heater (4.5 kW), the total could reach 11.4 kW, costing $11.40. In comparison, using several low-wattage items at once has little impact. For instance, streaming on a device (15 watts), watching a TV (200 W), and running a stereo bar (100 W) equals only 0.3 kW — or 30 cents.

EVERYDAY USAGE CONSIDERATIONS

Some appliances run automatically — refrigerators, modems, and routers. These contribute to demand but usually stay under 1 kW. If you have multiple refrigerators, that can add up. Demand is often higher in winter due to heating and lighting needs. Electric heating, such as baseboard systems, can create large fixed demand costs. For example, a home with 15,000–20,000 watts of electric heat could see

a demand of 15–20 kW ($15–$20) if all heaters run at once — before adding other appliances.

MONITOR YOUR DEMAND

Your monthly bill shows all account details, including usage, peak demand, and when it occurred. Once the new structure takes effect, a line item will display your highest kW demand during the peak period. While you may use more power at other times, only the highest peak between 5 p.m.–9 p.m. is billed.

TAKEAWAY

To keep costs down, avoid running high-wattage appliances at the same time during peak hours, or try to think of off-peak times to use them. Awareness and planning can make a big difference in managing your electric bill.

Members make the most of off-peak hours with their laundry routine. Photo by Alliy Sahagun

Your Home, Your Community, Your Co-op

By Logann Long Communications and Outreach Coordinator

When you flip a switch, it’s not just electricity flowing, it’s your cooperative powering your home, your family’s routines, and the little moments that matter most.

At Gunnison County Electric, our job is simple: We help our members and we power their lives. From the first cup of coffee in the morning to the last porch light at night, we’re here to make sure your day runs efficiently. But we’re more than just poles, wires, and electricity. We are your neighbors who live, work, and raise families alongside you. Whether it’s keeping the lights on, offering programs to save you money, or investing in projects that strengthen our communities, everything we do starts with you.

GCEA is here to make energy efficiency affordable. Our rebate programs make it easier to upgrade to energy efficient appliances, lighting, and heating systems. If the upfront costs of larger upgrades feel out of reach, GCEA’s on-bill repayment program can help with projects including heat pumps or energyefficient windows.

We at GCEA are here to support our members. We listen, we care, and we strive to provide what’s best for our community. Through a variety of programs, we help members save energy, reduce costs, and enjoy added benefits. For more information about GCEA and all the programs we offer, please visit gcea.coop.

Celebrate Co-op Month with GCEA

GCEA offers a wide range of programs designed to give you options, save you money, and keep you connected. We also create opportunities for members to learn about GCEA, whether at our annual meeting, community events, or through workshops that share tips for saving energy and lowering costs.

GCEA is committed to expanding renewable energy opportunities for members. In 2024, the Taylor River Hydro facility was energized, producing enough electricity to serve approximately 450 homes. Building on this success, GCEA will add two new community solar projects in 2025: CR-17 Solar in Gunnison and Oh Be Joyful Solar in Crested Butte.

Need help identifying energy-saving opportunities? GCEA offers free energy evaluations for members. Our energy use advisor will review your home or business, show where energy is being used most, and provide practical tips to save electricity and lower your bills.

Carry your co-op pride! During the month of October, visit either GCEA’s Crested Butte or Gunnison office to pick up your free member tote bag. Available while supplies last.

More Power to Ya

Take control of your energy use with GCEA

By Logann Long Communications and Outreach Coordinator

At Gunnison County Electric Association, we want our members to take control of their energy use. That’s why we offer free energy evaluations with our energy use advisor to help you save energy and money. This fall, GCEA is focused on helping members prepare for GCEA’s new rate structure starting January 2026.

GCEA Energy Use Advisor Alantha Garrison will walk through your home or business, show you where and how you use the most power, and share practical ways to shift usage, improve efficiency, and take full advantage of off-peak hours. It’s just one more way we’re here to make sure you have the tools and support you need to power your life.

GCEA’s free energy evaluations can make a real difference by:

• Identifying your highest energy users, from heating and cooling systems to everyday appliances.

ances, that will help you save under the new rate plan.

• Recommending efficiency upgrades that can bring even greater long-term savings.

Start now with small changes that will add up to savings when the new rates begin in Janu-

U n c l a i m e d c a p i t a l c r e d i t s l i s t

5 2 0 K n o w s o m e o n e l i s t e d ? E n c o u r a g e t h e m t o c o n t a c t u s

Energy Use Advisor Alantha performs an energy evaluation with GCEA member Jason MacMillan. Photo by Alliy Sahagun

Take the PowerWise Pledge™

By Alantha Garrison Energy Use Advisor

Chances are you’ve seen a $1 line item on your GCEA bill for the PowerWise Pledge™. Maybe you were enrolled when the program became active and decided to opt out because you weren’t sure what it is. Or maybe you saw something about the PowerWise Pledge in the new member packet when you signed up for service but didn’t know exactly what the extra charge was for.

WHAT IS THE POWERWISE PLEDGE AND WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?

GCEA created the PowerWise Pledge program in 2022 as a way to support beneficial electrification and local renewable energy projects such as the CR 17 and Oh Be Joyful solar arrays in Gunnison and Crested Butte. It is a voluntary program that members may opt in or out of at any time and costs $1 per month.

Your PowerWise Pledge contribution qualifies you for larger energy efficiency rebates on items like heat pumps, EVs and EV chargers, energy efficient household appliances, battery energy storage systems, and more.

For example, if you decided to opt out of the PowerWise Pledge but purchased a heat pump water heater, you would be limited to $350 in rebates. If you were a PowerWise Pledge contributor, the rebate amount goes up to $950. A 5-ton heat pump would be eligible for $2,500 in rebates without the PowerWise Pledge; if you are contributor, that rebate could be up to $5,000 or more if you convert from a gas heat source to a heat pump.

If you would like to support beneficial electrification and be eligible for larger efficiency rebates, consider taking the PowerWise Pledge today.

For more information about the PowerWise Pledge and GCEA’s rebate program, visit gcea.coop

GCEA crews install solar panels on County Road 17. CR 17 Solar wouldn’t be possible without support from the PowerWise Pledge Fund. Photos by Alliy Sahagun

A Taste OF Fall

Powered by Purpose

By Dennis Herman General Manager

In October, electric cooperatives across the country take time to celebrate National Co-op Month and reflect on the unique advantages of being part of a cooperative. It’s also the perfect time to thank you — the members who make it all possible. For us, it’s not just a celebration. It’s a chance to reaffirm the values that guide everything we do.

As the General Manager of Highline Electric Association, I see purpose in action every single day. Unlike investor-owned utilities, our co-op doesn’t exist to make profits for distant shareholders. We exist to serve you — our members, our neighbors, and our communities. That purpose is what sets us apart. It’s why we were founded, and it continues to drive every decision we make.

This local accountability means we can stay focused on what matters most: delivering reliable, affordable electricity and providing real value to the people we serve.

We do that by investing in essential infrastructure upgrades and technologies that strengthen our local grid and improve electric service. We work hard to

manage costs and keep rates as low as possible — because we know how much rising prices affect families and small businesses in our area. And when storms hit or outages occur, Highline crews are here and ready to respond quickly, because we live here too.

But our commitment doesn’t end at the power lines.

Co-ops were built to meet community needs, and that purpose extends well beyond delivering electricity. Whether we’re supporting local schools, sponsoring youth programs, partnering with volunteer organizations, or helping bring economic development opportunities to rural areas, we are always looking for ways to improve the quality of life in the places we serve. Community support isn’t an afterthought, it’s part of our mission.

We’re also planning for the future. As electricity demand grows due to new technologies and economic development, Highline is working to ensure we continue to meet those needs with a balanced, reliable energy mix. We know our members care about affordability and dependability, and we’re committed to delivering both.

That’s the power of the cooperative difference. That’s what it means to be powered by purpose.

This National Co-op Month, I encourage you to take pride in your cooperative membership. You’re not just a customer — you’re an owner, a stakeholder, and a vital part of a larger effort to keep our community strong, connected, and energized.

Thank you for the trust you place in us. We’re proud to be your local electric cooperative.

1300 S. Interocean P.O. Box 57

Holyoke, CO 80734-0057

phone 970-854-2236

toll free 800-816-2236

info@hea.coop

Holyoke & Sterling: M-Th 7 a.m.– 5:30 p.m.

Ovid: Mon., Tues., Thurs. 9 a.m.–3 p.m.

hea.coop facebook.com/HighlineElectric

Celebrate Co-op Month with a Pumpkin

And help Highline support local businesses

At Highline Electric Association, you’re more than a member — you’re a cooperative owner. We’re guided by seven core principles, including one we’re especially proud of: Concern for Community.

October is co-op month and to celebrate, we’re excited to bring back a popular promotion from last year.

Check your October statement for a special voucher to pick out a FREE small pumpkin from one of these local pumpkin patches:

• Pumpkins & More A-Maiz-ing Farm (Holyoke)

• Baseggio Family Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze (Atwood)

• Cox’s Pumpkin Patch (Champion, Nebraska)

We’re proud to reinvest in our local community and encourage members to support these wonderful local farms. It’s just one way we say thank you for being part of Highline Electric Association.

Terms: One pumpkin per membership. Valid for “small” pumpkins only. Want to upgrade? You are welcome to pay the difference. Voucher expires October 31.

NO TRICKS, JUST EASY BILL PAY

This October, treat yourself to convenience.

Calling after hours?

Press 1 to report an outage

Press 4 to pay your bill anytime

Press 5 to leave a billing voicemail

Press * to repeat the menu

FLEXIBLE PAYMENT SCHEDULING MADE EASY

Whether you prefer to pay weekly, monthly, or on a date that fits your budget, you have options.

You can now schedule your payments online through your account or by calling us directly. Payments scheduled after the due date will still incur a late fee.

Congratulations

Congratulations to the following employees who observe an employment anniversary in October:

Lukas Bracelin - 8 years

Tadius Huser - 7 years

Justin Wert - 6 years

Chris Yanez - 4 years

Wes Longshore - 1 year

DAYLIGHT

SAVING TIME ENDS NOVEMBER 2

Is Your Name Below?

Below continues the list of names of Highline Electric Association members who have unclaimed capital credits from the electric cooperative. HEA publishes the list every year to notify members that the co-op has issued them a capital credit check and that the check has not been cashed.

INVESTMENTS, GREENWOOD-ENGLE

IRELAN, BEN

IRIBARREN, MIKE T

IRWIN, PATRICIA J

ISBELL, TAMI

ISENBART, CURT

J W OPERATING CO

JACKSON, CULLY

JACOBS, SAMANTHA

JACOBSON, BRETT

JACOBSON, BRYCE

JACOBSON, MAURICE

JAEGER, CYNTHIA

JAMES, DAVID WALLACE JR

JAMES, L MERCK JR

JAMES, DENNIS

JAMES, TIFFANY

JANSMA, MIKE

JAQUES, DALE W

JARAMILLO, PAULA B

JAZO, MARCUS

JC CONSTRUCTION

JEFFREY, RICK

JENNINGS, CORY

JENNINGS, ESTATE OF GINGER

JUNE

JERNBERG, RAMONA

JESSEN, MATT

JIMENEZ, MADELINE

JIMINEZ, MANUEL

JOANES C ARREGUY TRUST

JOBE, FERN

JOBE, NORM

JOCK, MELVIN

JOHN D MILLER SR

JOHN HANCOCK INS CO

JOHNSON, E LYLE

JOHNSON, EARL E

JOHNSON, ELDON

JOHNSON, GORDON

JOHNSON, LOREN & HEIDI

JOHNSON, MARGARET

JOHNSON, MICHELLE

JOHNSON, RODNEY E

JOHNSON, RONALD R

JOHNSON, SHERRY

JOHNSON, TED & DONNA

JOHNSTON, EVA A

JOHNSTON, JEANETTE

JON D ROSSEN

JONES, DENNIS

JONES, DONALD M

JONES, KRIS R

JONES, LEONARD

JONES, LOREN

JONES, MARION E

JONES, MICHELLE

JONES, PAUL

JONES, QUENTIN

JONES, RENEE

JONES, TIM

JORGENSEN, LLOYD

JOST, LYNN A

JOYCE, CORY

JUAREZ, ROSA

JUHNKE, JEREMY

JULESBURG DRAG STRIP

JULIUS, JIM OR JESSICA

K M X X

K S T C INC

KACIK, BARBARA

KAHL FARMS

KAISER, GERALD E

KARG & RUTH STODDARD, DONALD

KARG, SAM & MABEL E

KARI, PAUL

KARIM, MOHAMED M

KARRAKER, BRADLEY W

KARSTENS, CHRISTINE A

KASTEN, ROBERT A

KAUFFMANN, LENNY

KAUFMAN, G R

KAUFMAN, ROBERT E

KAUS, JEREMY & MANDY

KEISER, RICHARD

KEITH, ROBERT

KEMLING, WILBUR

KENNEDY, RONALD K

KENT, STAN

KEPLER, RONALD & MARILYN A K

KEREKES, ANTHONY

KESTERSON, THOMAS E

KIESTER, RUSSELL W

KING, TRICIA

KINNISON, RICK

KINOSHITA, VIRGINIA R

KINZIE, DOUGLAS O

KIRKLAND, BERNICE L

Look for your name in the printed list below. If you are a current or former HEA member and find your name, email capitalcredits@hea.coop or call 970-854-2236. Names will continue in next month’s Colorado Country Life magazine.

KLEIMOLA, STEVE

KLEIN, ROSS J

KLEMP, CHERYL

KLINE, ADRIAN

KLINETOBE, TERRY

KLIPFEL, JENNIFER K

KLOBERDANZ, GERALD E

KLOTZBACH, DARRYL

KLUMPE, VALERIE

KNECHT, KENNETH R

KNIPP, JENNIFER L

KNITTLE, JASON & ANNA

KOCH, HOWARD

KOENIG, THOMAS

KOESTER, DORIS

KOETTER, KENARD

KOGL, JODY

KOHLSCHMIDT ESTATE, DALE

KONKOLESKI, LORI

KOPP, ERIK

KORF, KELLY

KORF, LEOETTE

KORMAN, LEW

KORTUM, RICHARD & MARVIN

KRAMER, BETTY

KREHER, ROBERT M

KRUEGER, BRIAN

KRUEGER, CAROL

KRUGER, WILLIAM

KRULL, MICHAEL

KUENNING, C J

KUNKEL, MIKE D

KUZMIC, VERNON G

L A W SALES

LACER, DINA

LADD, REX & SHARON

LAFARGE, LAIR, MAXINE

SNYDER & RICHARD

LAMBERT, DARRELL

LAMBERT, HELEN L

LAMBERT, MYRA

LAMBERT, PATRICK X

LAMBERT, WENDY

LAMM, MICHELLE

LAMONT, REID

LANDEFELD, JOHN

LANDIS, ERICA

LANDSMAN, JAMES & CHERYL

LANE, JAMES A

LANG, GREGORY

LANGIN, EDWARD

LANGIN, SEAN

LAPPART, LILLIAN M

LARAMORE, DESIRAE

LARSEN, ERWIN J

LAW, LINDA

LAWN, LUXURY

LAWRIE, JOHANNA

LAWSON CONSTRUCTION CO

LAYBOURN, NATE

LE PLAINS LEASING CO

LEAVELL, GRADY R

LEBLANC, JACK E

LEE, BEVERLEY S

LEE, JAMES H

LEE, ROBERT

LEEPER, DOROTHY

LEI ESTATE, ELIZABETH ANN LEITHEAD, JUDY L

LEITSCHUCK, GARY

LEMILY, CHERYL

LENHART, DEC’D, DENNIS

LETT, BETH

LEWIS, KURT

LEWIS, SALLY

LEWIS, WILLIAM C

LIBRA, RYAN J LIKE, TOM LINDBERG, DONNA R LINDENBERGER, JOHN LINDENTAHL, D.J. LINDSEY, LISA

LINDSTROM, ROSS J LINN, PAUL

LIRA, SAVINO LLC, FARMLAND PARTNERS LLC, GATEWAY ANTIQUES

LLC, MILLER-WHITNEY

LLC, OVERSEAS

LLC, P & M PETROLEUM MANAG. LLC, ROSENFIELD FARMS

LLC, ROSES AND WHEAT

LLC, SCURLOCK PERMIAN

LLC, STERLING FARMS

LLC, STERLING LAND INVEST

LLC, STEVE’S TOWING & RECOVERY

LLLP, GUENZI FAMILY LAND

LOCK, MATT & JENAE

LODGE, IOOF HALL GRAND

LOGAN, DARMON

LONG, CALVIN A

LONG, JIM

LONG, KYLE

LONG, MICHAEL

LONGTIN, ISABELLA LONTINE, LEROY

LOOP, MARI

LOOS, ARLENE

LOPEZ, ANDREA

LOPEZ, ELIZABETH

LOSEKE, SCOTT L

LOUDDER, CAROL

LOUNGE, CHAMP INN & MILL

LOWEN, MAUDE

LTD, WISDOM INDUSTRIES LUDEKE, MICHAEL LUECK, ROD

LUKENS, DONALD E

LUKER, ALVIN

LUNDGREN, GREG

LUNDGREN, MARIETTA F LUNDOCK, BILLY R

LUTH, ARLENE

LUTHER, CINDY L

LYNCH, ROBERT

LYONS, DOROTHA

M G M 6 LTD PARTNERSHIP

MACK, JAMEY D

MADDUX, TANYA

MAGEE, CHRIS

MAIKOWSKI, MATTHEW

MAINE, MELISSA G

MAKUSKI, PAMELA

MALONE, VERLIN RAY

MANGEL, ROBERT

MANUELLO, ROBERT E

MARCHANT, DENNIS

MARCOTTE, DALE

MARET, RALPH

MARIANO, HERMELANDO

MARICK, GERMAINE

MARIE, MADELYNN

MARKEL, ANDY

MARKET, HOMETOWN

MARLATT, JAMES

MARQUEZ, BRANDON

MARROQUIN, JESUS

MARSHALL, MARILYN

MARSHALL, MICHAEL

MARTIN, CAROLYN

MARTIN, CHRIS

MARTIN, STACY

MARTIN, TAB

MARTINEZ, JONATHAN MARTZ, SARAH

MATOUSH, SHERRI

MATTHEWS, CHRIS

MATTICKS, JEANNINE M

MATTICKS, VELMA G

MATZNER, TRACEY

MAUPIN, MARGIE

MAVIS, TREVOR

MAY, JACKIE L

MAYHILL, GARY

MAYNARD, HERMAN B

MCADOO, BARBARA A

MCCONNELL, LARRY

MCCORMICK, H PHIL

MCCRABB, KIMBERLY K

MCCRACKEN, LANCE & RHONDA

MCDANIEL, RUSS

MCDONALD, SUE

MCENDAFFER, BRET

MCGLAUGHLIN, ROGER

MCKELLIPS, SAMUEL

MCLINN, STEVE

MCNEW, JOHN

MCPHERSON, GEORGE

MCVICKER, SHAUN E

MEAD, BERNICE

MEAD, DELMER

MEDLEY, JILL A

MEDLEY, KENDALL A

MEEK, HEIDI

MEKEEL, CINDY & DANIEL

MELCHER, JOHN

MELCHIOR, MICHAEL

MELENDEZ, CHRISTIAN BARRALES

MELINE, MARC

MENSENDICK, ANNETTE

ME-N-U

MERAZ, ALONZO O

MERCER, KEITH

MERITAGE ENERGY PARTNERS

MERRILL M GODDARD TRUST

METCALF, LARRY

METCALF, PAULA J

METROPOLITAN LIFE INS CO

METZLER, DON

MEYER HONEY CO

MEYER, DEAN

MEYER, JOSEPH M

MEYER, TROY

MICHAEL, MARJORIE

MICHELE R TE MAAT

MILBURN, ELAINE

MILLER, CHRISTOPHER

MILLER, DANIEL E

MILLER, DANIEL L

MILLER, DENNIS

MILLER, JIM

MILLER, JOYCE

MILLER, KATHRYN B

MILLER, KELLY B

MILLER, MARVIN

MILLER, MOLLIE

MILLER, REBECCA

MILLER, RICHARD R

MILLER, SUSAN REESE

MINARDI, JAMES & DEBORAH

MINTON, EDWARD JAMES

MISPLAY, MIKE

MITCHELL, DUDLEY

MITCHELL, DUSTIN

MITCHELL, JAMES E

MITCHELL, ROY L

MITZNER, TRESSIE

MOBILE, WESTERN

MOIST, MABEL L

MONASMITH, DON MONHEISER, JOSEPHINE MONK, JEFF

MONTEITH, PAUL

MONTEITH, TOM

MONTGOMERY, BILL

MONTGOMERY, JOHN

MONTGOMERY, MICHAEL

MONTGOMERY, ROBERT

MOODY, JAMES P

MOORE, FREDA

MOORE, JACKIE

MOORE, NORVAL & MARGARET

MOORE, TED D

MORENO, THERESA

MORGAN, TIM

MORRIS, JACK F

MORRIS, JAMES & RICHELLE

MORRIS, MIKIE

MORRISON, NATASHA

MORRISON, SHIRLEY

MOSES, BILL

MOYER, J T

MOYER, MARIE E

MUELLER, MARVIN

MULLENAX, DEAN A MUNSON, LYLA

MURPHY, DARLENE

MURRAY, ARCHIE

MUTUAL, CONNECTICUT

MYERS, DALLAS

MYERS, DENNIS

MYERS, ROGER

MYERS, SUE

MYLREA, TIMOTHY D MYROM, CHAD

NAILL, GARY E

NAT L ADVERTISING CO NATION, RUTH

NAVARRO, PAUL P NEB, JEFFREY S

NEEMANN, JOYCE E

NEIL, SAMUELLA

NEILSEN, FRANK W NELSON, DARLENE NELSON, LEE

NERUD, JOSEPH D

NESS, CHRISTOPHER P

NESTOR, REBECCA

NESTOR, TREY

NEVAREZ, RAMON

NEW DIRECTIONS MEDIA INC NEW TESTAMENT ASSOCIATION

NEWTON, MIKE

NEXT MEDIA OUTDOOR

NICHOLS, MICHAEL A NICHOLS, TROY

NICHOLS, VIRGIL

NIELSEN, ELISABETH

NIELSEN, TERESA

NIESLANIK, RAYMOND

NOBLE, JONATHAN

NOEL, RICHARD

NOLAN, JENNIFER L

NOLAN, MICHAEL L

NOLAND, VERLIE

NOON, LYNDA

NOPENS, DALLAS

NORRIS, JERRY

NORTH, ELIZABETH

NORTHROP, MARK

NOYES, HELAMAN

NUNEZ, JAIME

O’BRIEN, KEVIN

OCANAS, TRISHA

ODONNELL, ROBERT

OGDEN, LISA M

OGERLY, JERRY

OGG, MARY

OIL, BRIGHT & SCHIFF

OIL, NEW LONDON

OLIVAS, YOLANDA

OLSEN, BRENDA KAY

OLSEN, DORIS JO

OLSON, DAVID

O’NEAL, DALE

ONEAL, JIM

O’NEAL, SHAWN M

O’NEIL, PATRICK

ONKEN, KEITH

OPORTO, JOSE LUIS

ORIN, JESS

ORMAT NEVADA INC

ORTEGA, SERGIO

ORTIZ, RON

OSBORN, ANGELIA & MONTGOMERY

OSBORN, CHAD

OSBORN, DWYLA P

OSBORN, MELVIN R

OSBURN, RON

OSCAR LESLIE SWANSON TRUST

OSTERHOLT, JOE

O’SULLIVAN, DAVID M

OUTDOOR SYSTEMS INC

OWEN, DENNIS

P & D HOWLAND

P R B OIL & GAS

P T I SERVICE COMPANY

PACK, JACKIE & ROY

PACKARD, DEAN L

PADILLA, SONYA

PAGE, MICHAEL L

PAIZ, AMADOR

PALM, MATTHEW & MELISSA

PALMER, AMANDA

PALSER, MICHAEL D

PAQUETTE, SHELLY

PARKE, F J

PARKER, JACK

PARKER, RICHARD

A Taste OF Fall

Powered by Purpose

By David Churchwell General Manager

Each October, electric cooperatives across the country take time to celebrate National Co-op Month and reflect on the unique advantages of being part of a cooperative. It’s also the perfect time to thank you — the members who make it all possible. For us, it’s not just a celebration. It’s a chance to reaffirm the values that guide everything we do.

As the General Manager of K.C. Electric Association, I see purpose in action every single day. Unlike investor-owned utilities, our co-op doesn’t exist to make profits for distant shareholders. We exist to serve you—our members, our neighbors, and our communities. That purpose is what sets us apart. It’s why we were founded, and it’s what continues to drive every decision we make.

At its core, being a cooperative means we are member-owned and locally controlled. That’s not just a tagline; it’s the very heart of our business model. Members have a voice in how our co-op operates. You elect board members who live right here in our service area and understand the unique challenges and opportunities our communities face. Decisions aren’t made in corporate boardrooms hundreds of miles away; they’re made here at home, by people who care about the same things you do.

This local accountability means we can stay focused on what matters most: safely delivering reliable, affordable electricity and providing real value to the people we serve.

We do that by investing in essential infrastructure upgrades and technologies that strengthen our local

Our mission is to provide our members with safe, reliable service at the lowest cost, while maintaining an environmentally responsible, accountable, and sustainable operation now and in the future.

grid and improve electric service. We work hard to manage costs and keep rates as low as possible—because we know how much rising prices affect families and businesses in our area. And when storms hit or outages occur, K.C. crews are here and ready to respond quickly, anytime day or night.

But our commitment doesn’t end at the power lines.

We’re also planning for the future. As electricity demand grows due to new technologies and economic development, electric co-ops are working to ensure we continue to meet those needs with a balanced, reliable energy mix. We know our members care about affordability and dependability, and we’re committed to delivering both.

That’s the power of the cooperative difference. That’s what it means to be powered by purpose.

Thank you for the trust you place in us. We’re proud to be your local electric cooperative.

K.C. Electric Staff

David Churchwell General Manager dchurchwell@kcelectric.coop

Bo Randolph Office Manager and CFO brandolph@kcelectric.coop

Phone 719-743-2431

Toll-free 800-700-3123 Web kcelectric.coop

Darren Fox Operations Manager dfox@kcelectric.coop

George Ehlers Member Services Specialist and IT Manager gehlers@kcelectric.coop

Address 422 3rd Avenue Hugo, CO 80821

K.C. ELECTRIC MISSION

Hunting Safety

Look out for power lines

As hunting season approaches, excitement builds for time outdoors. But before you head into the woods, make sure electrical safety is part of your preparation checklist. Power lines and utility equipment are often out of sight — and out of mind — especially in wooded or rural areas. Ignoring them can lead to serious injuries or even death.

BEFORE YOU CLIMB THAT TREE STAND, LOOK UP AND OUT

Never install a tree stand near a power line or on a utility pole. Electricity can arc — jump through the air — up to 10 feet from high-voltage lines. This means you don’t even have to touch a wire to be at risk of electrocution.

Never shoot near or toward power lines, utility poles, transformers, or substations. Stray bullets or pellets could damage equipment, possibly interrupting electric service. Even more concerning, they could drop a power line to the ground, causing a hazardous scenario: those who get within 50 feet of a downed line could be shocked or electrocuted.

5 ELECTRICAL SAFETY TIPS FOR HUNTERS

1. Never install stands or blinds on utility poles or near electrical equipment.

2. Stay at least 10 feet from overhead power lines when climbing or placing a tree stand.

3. Stay a minimum of 50 feet from a downed power line and call 911 to report it.

4. Don’t aim or shoot near power lines, poles, or substations.

5. Always assume power lines are live and dangerous, even if they appear inactive.

KEEP THESE TIPS IN MIND TO STAY SAFE AND AVOID COSTLY OR DANGEROUS INCIDENTS

• Scout the area. Before hunting, take time to scout your area during daylight. Look for power lines, poles, and electrical equipment. Note their locations to avoid them later.

• Power safely. If you’re using a portable electrical generator on your hunting trip, don’t use it inside a cabin or RV, or in a confined area. Make sure it’s used outside where there is plenty of ventilation.

• Avoid aiming toward power lines or equipment. Never fire near or toward poles, lines, substations or transformers. A stray bullet could knock down a line, interrupt power, or create a deadly hazard.

• Keep your distance. Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead lines, poles, and other electrical infrastructure when setting up or taking down tree stands.

• Never climb a utility pole. Even if it looks like the perfect vantage point, don’t do it. Poles carry high-voltage lines — climbing them can be deadly.

• Don’t use utility poles for support. Tree stands or blinds should never be attached to or supported by power poles or electrical equipment.

KNOW THE DANGER OF DOWNED LINES

If you come across a downed power line or damaged electrical equipment, stay at least 50 feet away, even if it doesn’t appear to be live. Power lines can still carry electricity when on the ground, posing a risk of shock or electrocution. Call 911 or the utility right away to help prevent a dangerous situation.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or heading out for the first time, staying aware of your surroundings could save your life.

For more tips on staying safe around electricity, visit SafeElectricity.org.

K.C. ELECTRIC RECEIVES SAFETY AWARDS

K.C. Electric Association employees recently attended the annual Colorado Rural Electric Association Loss Control Seminar and brought home two safety awards. K.C. Electric received a plaque for working 2024 without a Lost Time Accident and received the 2024 Achievement of Excellence Performance in Safety Award. The Achievement of Excellence Award is presented annually to one Colorado cooperative recognizing their safety record and its commitment to safety.

CREDIT CARD PAYMENT POLICY UPDATE

K.C. Electric Association's credit card policy recently changed.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

TIP OF THE MONTH

Fall is the time of year to inspect your home for air leaks around windows. Leaks lead to higher heating costs in the winter.

If you can see daylight around the edges of a window frame or if a window rattles slightly when touched, air is likely leaking.

Caulking and weatherstripping are simple, effective methods for sealing windows. These materials are available in a variety of compounds and forms, each designed for different types of surfaces. Be sure to apply it properly to reduce heat loss, improve comfort, and lower energy bills.

Members with electric services classified as small commercial, large commercial, oil well pumping, large power, street lighting, wind, and irrigation will no longer be eligible to make payments by credit card. These members must use cash, checks, electronic checks, or bank drafts.

The association will continue to accept credit card payments from the following rate classes:

• Town residential

• Rural residential

• Non-domestic

These changes will help the co-op

• Reduce the amount of credit card processing fees K.C. Electric pays

• Minimize financial risk and administrative costs

• Ensure more efficient use of K.C. Electric’s resources

• Maintain service integrity across our membership

If you have questions about how this policy affects your account or if you need assistance with alternative payment methods, contact K.C. Electric’s Hugo office at 719-743-2431 or the Stratton office at 719-348-5318.

Left to right: K.C. Electric's Riley Shaffer, Jake Smith, and Darren Fox accept safety awards from CREA Safety and Loss Control Director Curt Graham.

Keep Your Family Safe

Don’t overload your home’s electrical system

With power strips and outlet converters (a multiple outlet “bar” plugged directly into an existing outlet), we can plug in multiple items in or near the same outlet.

But just because we can, doesn’t mean we should

Attempting to draw too much power from an outlet or circuit can overload your home’s electrical system. Depending on how your home is wired, you may get away with it — or you may not. If too much current is drawn, usually a circuit breaker will trip or fuses will blow, but this is never guaranteed. The results of overloading a circuit could range from a damaged appliance to starting a fire. That is because when too much electrical current flows thorough a circuit, things can overheat. Whether it is a wire, an outlet, or any other part along the electrical path, excess heat can cause serious problems.

K.C. Electric Association and Safe Electricity remind you of the following electrical safety tips to help prevent overloading a circuit:

• Do not plug too many things into one outlet, extension cord, power strip, multi-outlet device, or outlets on the same circuit.

• Look for loose connections or damaged or corroded wires, which can also cause an overload.

• If you continually upgrade your home with more electrical demands — lighting, appliances, electronics, and so on — your home’s circuits may not be able to handle the increased load.

• Plug in a space heater to a dedicated outlet — with nothing else plugged in — and do not plug a space heater into an extension cord.

• Major appliances such as a refrigerator, stove, or washing machine should be plugged into their own outlet since they draw a lot of power. For smaller appliances, do not plug more than two into one outlet.

• Know how much power you draw on an outlet or circuit; some experts recommend no more than 1,500 watts per outlet or circuit.

• Consult a qualified electrician to assess your home’s electrical system, especially if you have an older home.

Although we take for granted that our homes are electrically sound or that we can plug in “just one more thing,” don’t take chances. When in doubt, have a qualified electrician assess your home, and mention any odd symptoms you may notice, like flickering or dimming lights, warm or discolored outlets or cover plates, and frequently blown fuses or tripped circuits.

For more information about electrical safety, visit safeelectricity.org.

CLAIM YOUR SAVINGS

Each month, K.C. Electric Association members have a chance to claim a $20 credit on their next electric bill. All you must do is find your account number, call the Hugo office at 719-743-2431, and ask for your credit. The account numbers are listed below. How simple is that?

You must claim your credit during the month in which your name appears in the magazine (check the date on the front cover).

Carroll Schroeder, Hugo — 6518xxxxx

Kerry Rich, Flagler — 5005xxxxx

Larry Feldhousen, Burlington — 11155xxxxx

Tony Ford, Flagler — 5367xxxxx

In August, three members called to claim their savings: Ken Stroud, Hugh Scott, and BJ New.

Photo by WendellandCarolyn/

A Taste OF Fall

MCREA

Powered by Purpose

By Dave Frick General Manager

As the general manager for Morgan County REA, I see purpose in action every single day. Unlike investor-owned utilities, our co-op doesn’t exist to make profits for distant shareholders. We exist to serve you — our members, our neighbors, and our communities. That purpose is what sets us apart. It’s why we were founded, and it continues to drive every decision we make.

Members have a voice in how our co-op operates. You elect board members who live right here in our area and who understand the unique challenges and opportunities our communities face. Decisions aren’t made in corporate boardrooms hundreds of miles away; they’re made here at home by people who care about the same things you do.

This local accountability means we can stay focused on what matters most: delivering reliable, affordable, and safe electricity and providing real value to the people we serve.

We do that by investing in essential infrastructure upgrades and technologies that strengthen our local grid and improve electric service. We work hard to manage costs and keep rates as low as possible — because we know how much rising prices are affecting

MCREA MISSION

Morgan County REA, a member-owned cooperative, is dedicated to serving our members by providing safe, reliable energy with a strong tradition and vision for the future.

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

families and small businesses in our area. And when storms hit or outages occur, MCREA crews are ready to respond quickly and safely, because we live here too.

But our commitment doesn’t end at the power lines, poles, or the meter at your house.

Co-ops were built to meet community needs, and that purpose extends well beyond delivering electricity. Whether we’re supporting local schools, sponsoring youth programs, or giving to local nonprofit organizations, we are always looking for ways to improve the quality of life in the places we serve. Community support isn’t an afterthought — it’s part of our mission.

That’s the power of the cooperative difference. That’s what it means to be powered by purpose.

Thank you for the trust you place in us. We’re proud to be your local electric cooperative.

734 Barlow Road | P.O. Box 738 Fort Morgan, CO 80701 970-867-5688 | customerservice@mcrea.org mcrea.org facebook.com/MorganCountyREA @morgancountyrea

CELE B R A TING

CELEBRATE CO-OP MONTH AT MORGAN COUNTY REA

It’s National Co-op Month and Morgan County REA is excited to celebrate with our members throughout October.

Stop by our office in Fort Morgan and enter to win one of the Coop Month giveaways. Each week, we will draw member names to receive bill credits, and at the end of the month we will draw a winner for the grand prize — a RYOBI 40-volt, 550 CFM cordless leaf blower with battery and charger. It will come in handy as leaves start to fall. (Bill Linnebur, acct. #xxx0000)

As we celebrate Co-op Month, we’re really celebrating you, the members who make MCREA possible. We look forward to seeing you.

MEET NATE SCHILD

Morgan County REA welcomes Nate Schild as the crew’s newest journeyman lineman. Originally from Rapid City, South Dakota, Nate completed the power line program at Mitchell Technical College and has been a lineman for seven years.

One of Nate’s favorite things about being a lineman is the variety of the work.

“Every day is something different,” Nate said. “I’m looking forward to being part of MCREA and meeting new people.”

Nate and his wife, Aubrey, enjoy hiking and fishing. Nate is also a fan of spelunking — exploring natural caves. Welcome to the team, Nate!

MEET HAIDEN ARAUJO

Morgan County REA welcomes Haiden Araujo as the co-op’s newest warehouseman. Originally from Fort Morgan, Haiden has extensive experience in both the oil field and telecommunications industries.

“I’m most looking forward to being part of the team at MCREA,” Haiden shared. “The people here are great.”

In his free time, Haiden enjoys going on walks with his two daughters, Lily and Charlie, and their black lab Jax. Welcome to the team, Haiden!

Hunting Safety

Hunting season is here, and excitement has been building for spending time outdoors. But before you head into the woods, make sure electrical safety is part of your plan.

(DJ Washburn, acct. #xxx6900)

Power lines and utility equipment are often out of sight — and out of mind — especially in wooded or rural areas. Ignoring them can lead to serious injuries or even death.

BEFORE YOU CLIMB THAT TREE STAND, LOOK UP AND OUT

Never shoot near or toward power lines, utility poles, transformers, or substations. Stray bullets or shot can damage equipment, possibly interrupting electric service. Even more concerning, they could drop a power line to the ground, causing a hazardous scenario: those who get within 50 feet of a downed line could be electrocuted.

KEEP THESE TIPS IN MIND

• Before hunting, take time to scout your area. Look for power lines, poles, and electrical equipment. Note their locations and avoid them.

Win a $25 Bill Credit!

• Power safely. If you’re using a portable electrical generator on your hunting trip, don’t use it inside a cabin, RV, or in a confined area. Make sure it’s used outside where there is plenty of ventilation.

• Never fire near or toward poles, lines, substations, or transformers.

• Keep your distance. Always stay at least 10 feet away from overhead lines, poles, and other electrical infrastructure when setting up or taking down tree stands.

• Never climb a utility pole. Even if it looks like the perfect vantage point, don’t do it. Poles carry high-voltage lines — and climbing them can be deadly. Tree stands or blinds should never be attached to or supported by utility poles.

KNOW THE DANGER OF DOWNED LINES

If you come across a downed power line or damaged electrical equipment, stay at least 50 feet away, even if it doesn’t appear to be live. Power lines can still carry electricity when on the ground, posing a risk of shock or electrocution. Call 911 or your utility right away to help prevent a dangerous situation.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or heading out for the first time, staying aware of your surroundings could save your life. For more tips on staying safe around electricity, visit SafeElectricity.org.

Each month, Morgan County REA gives two lucky members a chance at a $25 bill credit, just by reading Colorado Country Life. Congratulations Rick Brown and Mark Strickland! You each spotted your name in the August issue and called to claim your bill credit. There are two more member names and their account numbers hidden somewhere in this issue. If you find your name and account number call MCREA’s communications department at 970-8675688 by October 31 to claim a $25 credit on your next bill.

WHAT IS RIGHT-OF-WAY?

A right-of-way, when it comes to utilities, is an agreement that allows a utility to use or access a piece of property according to the terms of the easement.

Easements are areas designated for overhead and underground utility access, and are usually defined when a lot or neighborhood is first platted. Easements are implemented because it is more efficient and less expensive to run utility lines straight through neighborhoods than it is to run them around parcels of land.

Having right-of-way means that utilities can access the area to fix a utility-related problem or to perform maintenance.

Easements outline general property rights by others while right-of-way (as its name implies) is a specific property right.

Workers who service utility lines should arrive in a marked vehicle and have proper identification. If you have any concerns, please call Morgan County REA at 970-867-5688.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

TIP OF THE MONTH

Fall is the time of year to inspect your home for air leaks around windows. Leaks reduce indoor comfort and lead to higher heating costs in the winter.

If you can see daylight around the edges of a window frame or if a window rattles slightly when touched, air is likely leaking.

Caulking and weatherstripping are simple, effective methods for sealing windows. These materials are available in a variety of compounds and forms, each designed for different types of surfaces. Choose the right product and apply it properly to reduce heat loss, improve comfort, and lower energy bills.

TRICK OR TREAT

Don’t Let an Electrical Mishap Be Your Halloween Trick

As you ready your yard and porch for Halloween, make sure the decorations you plug in do not become hazardous. To avoid a Halloween scare, take these safety precautions:

• Discard any decorations that have cracked or frayed cords or damaged plugs.

• Do not put any decorations on power poles, padmount transformers or any other electrical equipment.

• Use decorations that are endorsed by a reputable testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

• If you are using extension cords outdoors, make sure they are rated for outdoor use.

• Secure all cords so they do not become tripping hazards.

• Plug all cords into circuits protected by GFCIs to prevent electrical shock.

• Do not use nails or tacks to hang lights or other electrical decor.

• Keep decorations away from flammable items like bales of hay, cornstalks or witch’s brew.

Have a safe and festive Halloween complete with safe tricks and tasty treats.

Learn more at:

The Cooperative Difference Electric Co-ops Are Powered by Purpose

By Ruth Marks CEO

In October, electric cooperatives across the country celebrate National Co-op Month and reflect on the unique advantages of being part of a cooperative. It’s also the perfect time to thank you — the members who make it all possible. For us, it’s not just a celebration. It’s a chance to reaffirm the values that guide everything we do.

As the CEO of Mountain View Electric Association, I see our purpose in action every day. Unlike investor-owned utilities, our co-op doesn’t exist to make profits for distant shareholders. We exist to serve you—our members, neighbors, and communities. That purpose sets us apart. It’s why we were founded, and it’s what continues to drive every decision.

At its core, being a cooperative means we are member-owned and locally controlled. That’s not just a tagline; it’s the heart of our business model. You elect Board members who live here and understand the unique challenges and opportunities our communities face. Decisions aren’t made in corporate boardrooms hundreds of miles away; they’re made at home by people who care about the same things you do.

This local accountability keeps us focused on what matters most: delivering reliable, affordable, and safe electricity and providing real value to the members we serve.

We invest in infrastructure upgrades and technologies that strengthen our grid and improve service. We work hard to manage costs and keep rates as competitive as possible — because we know how much rising

prices affect families and small businesses. And when storms hit or outages occur, MVEA crews are here and ready to respond quickly and safely, because we live here too.

But our commitment doesn’t end at the power lines, poles, or the meter at your house. Co-ops were built to meet community needs, and that purpose extends well beyond delivering electricity. Whether we’re supporting schools, sponsoring youth programs, partnering with volunteer organizations, or helping bring high-speed fiber internet access to our membership, we’re always looking for ways to improve quality of life in the places we serve.

We’re also planning for the future. It may come as a surprise, but MVEA is one of the fastest growing electric co-ops in Colorado. With growth, comes demand. As electricity demand grows with our growing co-op membership and new technologies that tap into the grid, we are working to meet those needs with a balanced, reliable energy mix and strategic planning. We know our members care about affordability and reliability, and we’re committed to delivering both. That’s the power of the cooperative difference. That’s what it means to be powered by purpose.

Picture Perfect:

MVEA members capture Colorado’s beauty

Every year, Mountain View Electric Association members grab their cameras to show off Colorado at its best — and you never disappoint! From glowing Pikes Peak sunsets to lightning dancing across the plains, our 5,000-square-mile service territory is a photographer’s dream. With more than 250 entries this year, narrowing it down to the winning shots was no easy task. The result? A stunning 2026 photo calendar that tells the story of our seasons, wildlife, and way of life. Each month features one main photo and two smaller supporting images to showcase MVEA member talent. A limited number of calendars will be available starting in November at MVEA’s Falcon and Limon offices. Thank you to all of the MVEA members who participated in the 2026 photo calendar contest!

We’re always looking for photos that bring our landscape and seasons to life — whether it’s golden aspen leaves, a frosty winter wonderland, or spring storms rolling over the plains. Ready to share your shot? The 2026 entry period is open through July 9, 2026. Get the details at www.mvea.coop/ photo-calendar-contest.

The Power of Change

Neighbors Helping Neighbors

MVEA’s Operation Round Up® program was formed to assist charitable organizations, communities with special needs, and individuals who have suffered from loss, personal disaster, or medical emergencies.

Pennies add up to great things at MVEA. For less than $12 per year, you can round up your monthly electric bill to the nearest dollar, turning your coins into CHANGE to help support your community and your neighbors in need.

December 2025

Keith Desposito, Peyton

Joe Stephens, Elbert

Barbara Yingling, Peyton

Shane Morrison, Co Springs

Angela Martinez, Co Springs

Jamie Bowker, Simla

Gayle Bowyer, Co Springs

Lisa Dryer-Hansmeier, Franktown

Brandy Leggett, Co Springs

David Munns, Co Springs

David Nutting, Peyton

Angela Martinez, Co Springs

Sheryl Lambert, Co Springs

Brandy Leggett, Co Springs January 2026 April 2026

2026

Source: KnowBe4, Inc. Don’t Take the Bait! Lookout for Phishing Scams

Phishing is one of the most common attack methods used by cybercriminals and the one we’re all probably most familiar with. Fortunately, there are signs that can help you identify whether or not an email is a scam. Lookout for emails that use any combination of the following characteristics.

Asking for Personal Information

Unrealistic Threats & Sense of Urgency

Asking for Payment (Money or Gift Cards) Poor Spelling & Grammar

Looking for more cybersecurity tips? www.staysafeonline.org

High School Sophomores & Juniors

Your Leadership Adventure Awaits

High school sophomores and juniors—pack your bags (and your leadership skills)! You’re just a couple of short questions away from a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip of a lifetime through MVEA’s Leadership Trip Contest.

Fly to Washington, D.C. for the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour—where history, leadership, and networking meet in our nation’s capital.

Hit the road to Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp in the mountains outside Steamboat Springs, Colorado—a week of teamwork, rafting, and mountain adventures.

Application Deadline | Tuesday, November 11, 2025

Start Your Adventure | www.mvea.coop/tripcontest

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Kevin L. Paddock, District 5 President

Barry R. Springer, District 6 Vice President

Jim Riggins, District 7 Secretary-Treasurer

Joseph D. Martin, District 1 Assistant Secretary

Rick L. Gordon, District 2

Wayne Vanderschuere, District 3

Jim Beals, District 4

Telephone Numbers Toll-Free: (800) 388-9881 (719) 495-2283

Website www.mvea.coop

Falcon Office 11140 E. Woodmen Road Falcon, CO 80831

Limon Office 1655 5th Street • P.O. Box 1600 Limon, CO 80828

Office Hours

Monday - Thursday 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Stay Connected: Like. Follow. Share.

Make sure to connect with MVEA on social media for timely service and program updates.

www.facebook.com/@MVEAInc

www.linkedin.com/company/ mveainc www.x.com/@MVEAInc

www.youtube.com/@MVEAInc

www.instagram.com/MVEAInc

To provide our members safe, reliable, affordable, and responsible electric service and access to broadband services.

This Association is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Blue Ribbons and Bright Futures

MVEA

Champions County Fairs

By Erica Meyer Community Relations Specialist

Every summer, county fairs remind us what makes rural life special: agriculture, youth leadership, and a community spirit that brings everyone together. For Mountain View Electric Association, supporting those traditions isn’t an afterthought — it’s part of our cooperative mission.

This year, MVEA was proud to champion local agriculture and youth across Elbert, Lincoln, and El Paso counties, as well as at the Colorado State Fair.

At the Elbert County Fair, MVEA proudly served as a Gold Level Sponsor, helping make possible the crowning of champions, rodeo events, live music, and the free kiddie corral. We also joined in the 4-H Livestock Sale, purchasing the Champion Heavy-Weight Market Lamb, raised by Harlan Summers.

In Lincoln County, MVEA worked alongside the Lincoln County Buyers Club to maximize support for 4-H exhibitors. By pooling resources with other funders, our contributions went further — helping purchase more animals and reward the hard work of even more young participants.

and 4-H

Traditions

Meanwhile, at the El Paso County Fair, MVEA sponsored Military Appreciation Day, the Light Up the Night Fireworks Show, and Give and Gather Day to benefit the Eastern Plains Community Pantry. At the Junior Livestock Sale, we were part of the Pikes Peak Posse Buyers Group which purchased the Grand Champion Goose, raised by Guinevere Gray-Reno, as well as a Market Steer raised by Brayden Lee.

The season wrapped up at the Colorado State Fair Junior Livestock Sale, where we once again joined the Pikes Peak Posse Buyers Group that purchased nine animals in support of 4-H youth from the Pikes Peak Region and across co-op service territories.

From sponsorships to livestock auctions, MVEA is proud to celebrate agriculture and invest in the next generation of leaders. These fairs honor our shared heritage while inspiring a bright future for our communities — and that’s the cooperative difference in action.

SCORE BIG WITH CRAZY-FAST INTERNET.

This streaming season, catch every touchdown, tackle, and replay without the buffer!

GET CONNECTED!

MVEA worked alongside the Lincoln County Buyers Club to maximize support for 4-H exhibitors.

RESCUING

Celebrating the Cooperative Difference

BY JEFF WADSWORTH PRESIDENT & CEO

Every October, electric cooperatives across the country celebrate National Cooperative Month.

It’s a time to reflect on what makes cooperatives unique, impactful, and deeply rooted in the communities we serve. For Poudre Valley REA, this month is not only a celebration of our cooperative’s history, but also a chance to reaffirm the values that guide us today.

In 1939, we were born out of necessity, bringing power to rural communities that traditional utilities, focused on profit, deemed too costly to serve. While the landscape of our industry and territory has changed, the challenge of serving less-dense areas remains.

PVREA has 12 meters for every mile of power line, compared to 34 for investor-owned utilities and 48 for city-owned utilities. Despite this significant difference, our commitment to sound financial planning and doing more with less allows us to deliver reliable, affordable electricity that is competitive with rates from those larger utilities.

You may be familiar with Willie Wiredhand, the friendly figure with a light socket head and wire arms, created in 1951 as the mascot of America’s electric cooperatives. Willie embodies the cooperative spirit — reliable, affordable, and always ready to serve.

Just as Willie became a symbol of this spirit, PVREA continues living out those same principles daily.

The cooperative difference is seen most clearly in

three areas: reliability, affordability, and service. PVREA consistently delivers among the highest reliability in Colorado while also maintaining the lowest residential electric rate in the state.

But our work goes far beyond just keeping the lights on. As a cooperative, we live and work in the communities we serve. From the mountains to the plains, our employees volunteer, donate, and engage with schools, fire districts, emergency services, nonprofits, and more. That’s the cooperative difference in action — neighbors helping neighbors, both on the job and in everyday life.

PVREA is committed to strengthening the places we call home with programs and services that empower members and through support of organizations that uplift our communities. Whether by partnering with local nonprofits, aiding education, or lending a hand at community events, we seek to multiply the good already happening across Northern Colorado.

One shining example is our partnership with Vindeket Foods, a local nonprofit dedicated to food rescue. You can read more about their important mission on page 7 of this issue.

Your member-owned utility partner will continue to honor the cooperative spirit, invest in reliability and affordability, and serve our communities with care.

This month, and every month, we celebrate the cooperative difference!

ABOUT YOUR CO-OP

PVREA serves energy solutions to more than 57,000 homes and businesses in Boulder, Larimer, and Weld counties. We are a memberowned co-op, led by those we serve.

OUR MISSION

We are committed to providing safe, reliable, efficient energy solutions with exceptional service to our members.

1.800.432.1012 pvrea@pvrea.coop www.pvrea.coop

MAILING ADDRESS

Poudre Valley REA

7649 REA Parkway

Fort Collins, CO 80528

SOCIAL facebook.com/PoudreValleyREA instagram.com/poudre_valley_rea youtube.com/PoudreValleyREA

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair

Peter Hyland

Weld County

Vice Chair

Bryan Ehrlich

Larimer County

Secretary

Thaine Michie

Larimer County

Director

Steven Anderson

Larimer County

Director

Rick Johnson

Larimer County

Director

Jan Peterson

Larimer County

Director

Jack Schneider

Weld County

Director

Ron Sutherland

Boulder County

Sheryl Dryer Henderson

Larimer County

Rescuing Food, Creating Community: INSIDE VINDEKET FOODS

What happens when passionate advocates come together to vindicate food from waste? You get Vindeket Foods. This food rescue nonprofit in Fort Collins is redefining what it means to care for both people and the planet. What started as a discovery project has now blossomed into a thriving hub that rescues 40,000 to 70,000 pounds of food each week — food that would otherwise go to waste.

Nathan Shaw, the founder and executive director behind Vindeket, brings a unique blend of environmental awareness and community spirit. A Texas A&M graduate with a degree in geology, he spent years in environmental remediation. His journey eventually led him to the Western Slope, where his connection to farms and food deepened. After moving to Northern Colorado, Nathan saw firsthand how much food was thrown out in his community. He began rescuing food by partnering with the local nonprofit Serve 6.8, and by 2020, his project had grown into a mission big enough to stand on its own.

Vindeket operates on a simple but powerful philosophy. “We want food to be consumed so it doesn’t go to waste,” Nathan said. “We’re made of a true, community who cares about one another and food — where it comes from and where it goes.” The organization is comprised of one parttime and two full-time employees and a dedicated team of 230 regular volunteers. They have relationships with more than 50 regular partners including major grocery stores, farms, and restaurants who reach out when they have a surplus of food, trusting Vindeket to redistribute it effectively before it is wasted.

Education is also a key part of Vindeket’s mission. Nathan speaks passionately about the confusion surrounding food labeling. Terms like “use by,” “best before,” and “expired” often lead to unnecessary waste. By helping the community understand the difference between food quality and food safety, he empowers people to make informed choices.

Earlier this year, Vindeket Foods moved into a new facility and became a member of Poudre Valley REA. With the move comes big plans to improve the facility and expand its ability to serve the community by adding walk-in coolers and freezers to increase cold storage capacity, as well as installing an air conditioning system. To bring these improvements to life, Vindeket is continuing into the second phase of their Root Bound fundraising campaign. Additionally, general support donations will help cover the day-to-day costs of operating seven days a week.

Nathan emphasized how volunteers are the backbone of the operation. They complete four to five daily food pickups around Colorado in their Vindeket box trucks, they unload and clean the trucks, maintain the building, and run the food markets held three times a week: Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, two shifts per day. The market is open to anyone and everyone with a ‘donate what you can’ model. Vindeket averages over 12,000 visits per month.

At its core, Vindeket is more than a food rescue, it’s a movement. It’s about reducing waste, serving the community, and creating a space where people care for one another. As Nathan puts it, “I’ve learned that people keep showing up and working hard for their communities to do something meaningful. People want the opportunity to do good for each other.” Through Vindeket, people get that opportunity and it’s becoming a powerful tool for change.

To learn more about Vindeket Foods, donate, or get involved visit vindeketfoods.org

National Cooperative Month

In October, electric cooperatives across the country take time to celebrate National Co-op Month and reflect on the unique advantages of being part of a cooperative.

It’s also the perfect time to thank you — the members who make it all possible. For us, it’s not just a celebration. It’s a chance to reaffirm the values that guide everything we do.

7 Cooperative Principles ALL COOPERATIVES OPERATE BY THE SAME SEVEN PRINCIPLES.

1. Voluntary & Open Membership Membership is open to anyone who can use our services and accepts the responsibilities, without discrimination.

2. Democratic Member Control Members set policies, elect leaders, and guide decisions through a democratic process.

3. Members’ Economic Participation Members invest in and control the co-op’s capital. Profits are returned to members as credits.

4. Autonomy & Independence As a member-owned organization, we make decisions locally to reflect community needs.

5. Education, Training & Information We provide learning opportunities so members, staff, Board Directors, and community partners can strengthen the co-op and enhance safety.

6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives We collaborate with other co-ops to improve services, support economies, and meet community needs.

7. Concern for Community We exist to strengthen the communities we serve and improve quality of life.

The Cooperative Difference

DELIVERING VALUE THAT MATTERS

You depend on us for safe, reliable, affordable energy solutions with exceptional member service. Our mission is to do just that — while continuously improving to meet and exceed your evolving needs.

VALUE OF MEMBERSHIP

PVREA provides the lowest residential rate and is among the highest reliability in Colorado.

VALUE BEYOND THE METER

We promise energy for your life, savings for your budget, and services to empower our community.

VALUE OF THE CO-OP BUSINESS MODEL

There’s value in being part of an electric cooperative instead of a municipality or investor-owned utility.

SAFETY CORNER

4 Best Bets to Stay Cyber Safe

OCTOBER is Cybersecurity Awareness Month

Protecting yourself online doesn’t have to be complicated or costly. By adopting a few smart habits, you can greatly reduce your chances of falling victim to cybercrime. While no one is completely “hackproof,” you can be far more resilient by following these best bets.

AT THE HEART OF CYBERSECURITY ARE FOUR ESSENTIAL BEHAVIORS, KNOWN AS THE CORE 4.

1. Use Strong, Unique Passwords

Your password is the first defense between you and cybercriminals.

• Aim for at least 16 characters, mixing letters, numbers, and symbols.

• Never reuse passwords — small tweaks don’t count as unique.

• Use a password manager to securely store and generate strong logins.

2. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)

Think of MFA as adding a second lock to your digital door. Beyond a password, it may require:

• A code sent to your phone

• A fingerprint or FaceID scan

• A physical security key

Never share MFA codes — a legitimate company will never ask.

3. Keep Software Updated

Updates often fix security flaws criminals exploit.

• Turn on automatic updates when possible.

• Promptly update operating systems, browsers, apps, and antivirus tools.

• Remember: phones, tablets, and smartwatches are computers too.

4. Watch for Phishing Scams

Phishing is the most common online threat. Attackers send fake emails, texts, or messages to trick you into revealing information or clicking harmful links.

• Be skeptical of urgent or unexpected requests.

• Avoid suspicious links or attachments.

• Report phishing attempts to your provider, platform, or IT department.

• When in doubt, ask someone you trust to double-check.

Spook-tacular Energy Savings

This Halloween, don’t let scary energy bills haunt your home! We’ve brewed up some frightfully easy tricks so you can treat yourself to lower energy costs and cozier comfort. Here are four ways to keep your energy use from becoming a monster.

Haunt down savings with a smart thermostat. Heating and cooling can drain your wallet like a vampire at midnight. A smart thermostat helps you control the chills — and the thrills — while making your energy use more efficient.

Banish bone-chilling drafts. Creepy cracks and ghostly gaps let cold air sneak inside. Seal them up before the frost bites back, and you’ll keep the ghouls (and the chills) outside where they belong.

Light your crypt the clever way. Swap out old bulbs for LEDs. They use up to 75% less energy and shine 25 times longer.

Cook up savings in your cauldron. Whether you’re simmering soup or brewing chili, countertop slow cookers and Instant Pots use far less energy than a full stovetop or oven.

Read more energy efficiency tips at www.pvrea.coop

Save the Date | 2026 ANNUAL MEETING

Your cooperative’s 2026 Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at the Embassy Suites in Loveland. Business Meeting begins at 9am.

More details will be released later and members should expect their official invites and ballot information in the mail closer to the date of the meeting.

Learn more at www.pvrea.coop/annual-meeting APPLY FOR OUR

STEAM FUNDING FOR CLASSROOMS

Apply before Nov 3

Empower Grants provide funding up to $2,000 per K-12 classroom for STEAM focused learning objectives.

Grants have been used to purchase 3D printers, robotic kits, outdoor learning spaces, various electronic kits, and more!

Share this opportunity with the teachers and school administrators in your life to help fund their educational programs.

Learn more or apply today at www.pvrea.coop/empower-grant-program

OUR OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED | MONDAY, OCT 13

Our office will be closed for an all-employee training day.

OCTOBER 2025

Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month

Use your PVREA app or online account to make payments and/or report outages. Did you know you can leave us a message? Call 800.432.1012 to leave us a voicemail.

As winter approaches, now is the time to inspect your home for air leaks around windows. Leaks reduce indoor comfort and lead to higher heating costs.

If you can see daylight around the edges of a window frame or if a window rattles slightly when touched, air is likely leaking.

Caulking and weatherstripping are simple, effective ways to seal windows. These materials come in various compounds and forms, each suited for different surfaces. Select the right product and apply it properly to reduce heat loss, increase comfort, and lower energy bills.

Keeping the Lights On with Lions

Apprentice Lineworker Tim Paulson thought the toughest part of his workday was going to be battling snow. His day took a turn when a full-grown mountain lion decided to face off with him.

During a late spring snowstorm, Paulson was working an outage on the Spanish Peaks’ West Peak. He was chosen to ride a quad through the snow a mile or so up the mountain to visually inspect a line.

“I'm trying to get up the hill. The snow was getting deeper, and I was stuck more than I was moving. I’ll admit, there was some frustration building,” Paulson recalled.

Just after the quad finally started crawling forward, an adult mountain lion ran in front of him. It happened so fast he almost hit it.

“It stopped like it was startled and started crouching like it was gonna jump on me,” Paulson said while arching his back, hissing, and showing his own teeth, as he impersonated the cat showing its fangs.

Experts say mountain lions rarely attack humans, but fast, erratic movement, like the stop-and-go of Paulson on his quad, can spark a predator y response.

Thanks to experience and training, Paulson knew what to do. He made himself look big, jumped up and down, yelled, and used the quad to make noise. The cat eventually ducked back into the woods. Instead of turning back down the mountain, Paulson continued his slow, frustrating trek. He eventually ditched the quad and hiked through the snow up the peak to finish his job to restore power.

When the job was finished, Paulson used the two-way radio to alert the rest of the linecrew of danger possibly lurking in the shadows. “I’m coming down. Just had a cat try to attack me,” he called out on the radio. “People working 30 miles away chimed in, ‘Did you just say cat? What did you say?’ Even employees at headquarters in Pueblo West were talking about it ,” he said.

Only a few of the longtime journeyman lineworkers have stories of big cats they had seen and heard on the job.

“Reuben always has tall tales of cats and bears. My first thought on the way down the mountain was, I can’t make fun of Reuben anymore,” Paulson said. “We always laugh about him hearing animals or this and that. The first time I saw Reuben afterwards he teased, ‘It’s not so funny anymore, is it?’ And I’m like ‘Nope, nope, I can’t make fun of you.’”

Linework is a lifestyle. It takes grit, courage, and dedication to endure the unpredictable hazards of the job — including close encounters with wildlife.

Thanks to San Isabel Electric lineworkers like Paulson, when the lights go out, we know they’ll come back on.

Apprentice Lineworker

Above:

Tim Paulson.

The Power of When

What are time-of-use rates? Who do they work best for?

Working families across the country try to figure out how to make ends meet every day. San Isabel Electric Association’s Board of Directors understands this. The co-op is also facing continued cost pressures and is reviewing a variety of options to keep power affordable while continuing to provide you with excellent service. One option that could be considered is moving to a standard time-of-day (TOD)rate structure, where what you pay depends on when you use electricity.

SIEA currently offers two optional TOD rates that offer nearly half-price electricity during off-peak hours when demand on the grid is the lowest. Some members on a TOD rate can use the same amount of electricity and save money on their electric bill by simply changing when they use electricity. Most SIEA members are on the Classic Rate, or fixed rate plan, which charges the same price no matter when you use power.

These are our current options, and while they may change in the future either by going away or by expanding, right now they give members new ways to save.

Before enrolling in a TOD plan — which requires a one-year minimum commitment — make sure your household routines line up with off-peak hours.

HOW TOD WORKS

TOD rates are a lot like off-season travel or matinee movie tickets. The product is the same, but the price depends on timing. When electricity demand is high — like from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. when families are at home cooking, cleaning, and heating or cooling their homes — it costs more to produce and deliver. When demand is low, it costs less.

WHO BENEFITS FROM TIME-OF-USE RATES?

• Members who can shift more than about three quarters of their usage to off-peak hours.

• People who can run appliances overnight, mornings, during the day, or on Sundays.

• Households that can avoid using their heating and air conditioning systems, and electric appliances between 5 p.m.–9 p.m.

• Owners of electric thermal storage heaters.

TOD rates can be beneficial to both the member and the co-op. When you use less electricity during peak hours, the co-op saves money, and those savings are passed on directly to you.

These rates aren’t for everyone, but for some, these rates can help save money over time.

OFF-PEAK PLUS RATE

SIEA’s Off-Peak Plus rate offers nearly half-price electricity for most of the day and all day on Sunday. But the on-peak rate costs more than double the regular fixed rate during the four on-peak hours, between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m., Monday–Saturday.

Members who can be flexible about when they use electricity or who can shift the majority of their electric use to off-peak hours are most likely to benefit from the Off-Peak Plus Rate.

NOTICE OF RATE HEARING

The San Isabel Electric Association, Inc. Board of Directors is hosting a rate hearing to discuss electric service rates for 2026 with our membership. The date, time, and location of the meeting are as follows: Thursday, November 13 6 p.m.

Huerfano County Community Center 928 Russell St. Walsenburg, CO 81089

Any member may appear personally at the hearing. Any member who cannot appear personally, but who wishes to comment in writing on electric service rates for 2026, can file written comments by mailing them to San Isabel Electric Association, Inc., 781 E. Industrial Blvd., Pueblo West, CO 81007 or by emailing contactus@siea.com.

PURPOSE FOR ADJUSTMENT

SIEA is experiencing increasingly higher costs of materials, supplies, labor, and equipment necessary to provide reliable electricity for our members.

ELECTRIC THERMAL STORAGE HEATER OWNERS

An ETS heater is a simple home heating device that can help decrease heating costs by storing heat during off-peak hours. Controlled by a thermostat, heat is released as needed. Members on the ETS Rate get nearly half-price electricity 14 hours a day in the winter and 8 hours a day in the summer.

For homes currently using propane or electric baseboard heating, ETS heaters can reduce costs, extend the life of existing systems, and add comfort without the added cost of more ductwork.

POTENTIAL SAVINGS

When members shift usage away from on-peak hours, it helps the cooperative reduce costs and keep rates low for everyone.

Because rate design affects all members, the San Isabel Electric Board of Directors is carefully reviewing current rates and considering options to address rising costs. A public rate hearing will be held on November 13 to present additional information and to hear from members. Look for additional announcements about the rate hearing and future rates on bills, email, mail, and at siea.com.

If you’re interested in exploring a TOD plan, the SmartHub app can show your household’s hourly usage and help you determine if your routines align with off-peak hours. TOD rates require a one-year commitment, so it’s important to make sure the plan is a good fit before signing up. To learn more about different rates visit siea.com/rateselectiontool, call 800-279-SIEA (7432) or email contactus@siea.com.

Apply for 2026 Leadership Trips

By Trevor Vigil Communications Intern

San Isabel Electric is looking for four high school students to send on a life-changing trip to visit either Washington, D.C., or explore the mountains near Steamboat Springs, Colorado. The trips — Washington D.C. Youth Tour and Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp — are two separate, weeklong, all-expenses-paid trips. They are an excellent opportunity to meet new people, spend time in beautiful locations, and gain valuable leadership skills.

“I learned that electric cooperatives have an impact beyond providing electricity. Youth Tour is a great example of how SIEA supports its communities,” said Cadence Doering. She and Haley Douglas represented SIEA on the 2025 Youth Tour in June. And thanks to SIEA, Jacklyn Rogers and Holly N. traveled to Steamboat Springs in July to participate in Leadership Camp.

ARE YOU INTERESTED? APPLY TODAY:

• Visit siea.com/youthleadership

• Register for the online scavenger hunt by 10 p.m. on November 30.

• The scavenger hunt begins Thursday, December 18.

• From there, it is a race to the finish line: The first students to complete the scavenger hunt will be awarded a trip to either Youth Camp or Youth Tour.

We hope you take advantage of this opportunity. We are excited to see which bright young students participate in Youth Tour and Leadership Camp in Summer 2026.

During a visit to the World War II Memorial on their Youth Tour trip, Haylee Douglas (left) of Astravo Online Academy and Cadence Doering (right) of Hoehne School District pose together in front of the memorial’s Colorado pillar.

Holly N. (left) of Rye High School and Jacklyn Rogers (right) of Hoehne School District take a break from Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp activities to take a photo together.

Training with Purpose

Just weeks before school was back in session, San Isabel Electric was contacted about a towering 100-foot tree leaning towards power lines and a busy street. The tree needed to be removed before it caused damage.

The project was more than just a regular job, it was a training opportunity for SIEA’s newest line clearance crew members. The co-op has hired eight line clearance crew members in the last few years, many of whom are new to the work of vegetation management.

Under the guidance of seasoned crew members, they learned specialized techniques for working safely near power lines and how to properly use equipment. They also learned how to handle emergencies, which, fortunately, did not occur that day.

Thanks to protective rubber sleeves that covered the high-voltage power lines, power lines remained energized as crew members in bucket trucks cut away branches before carefully cutting the tree down.

The crew made fast work of the project, wrapping up after a half day of work.

“The best part of being a co-op is being able to be a good neighbor,” SIEA General Manager Ryan Elarton said. “Our business strategy isn’t about making money, it’s about lending a hand when we can and doing the right thing.”

Special thanks to Trinidad State College and the City of Trinidad for providing SIEA with this unique partnership and training opportunity.

Have you ever wondered why tree trimmers do not use ladders? Cut branches can sweep under the tree and knock down the ladder. Tree Trimmer Foreman David Padilla and Tree Trimmer John O’Donnell use pole saws and bucket trucks to remove as many branches as possible before the tree is safely cut down. Cutting the branches before removing the entire tree makes the drop location on the ground easier to estimate, reduces the size of the drop area, and reduces the weight of the tree before it falls.

unclaimed

Photo by Paris Daugherty

A Taste OF Fall

Colorado’s Energy Future Balancing renewable and fossil fuels

By Jon Beyer Chief Executive Officer

Colorado has set an ambitious target: achieving 100% net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. As your electric cooperative, Sangre de Cristo Electric Association is committed to meeting this goal while ensuring you have reliable, affordable power when you need it most. The path forward requires a thoughtful balance between renewable energy expansion and maintaining dependable baseload sources, such as natural gas plants.

Creating a truly reliable energy grid means considering more than just renewable energy — we must also maintain a certain percentage of baseload resources that enable us to supply you with a reliable source of energy 24/7/365 days a year. In addition to generation assets, we must also factor in transmission infrastructure, and the reality that renewable sources don’t always produce critically necessary power 24/7/365 days a year.

Key to our approach to supplying electricity to members when they need it is our partnership with Tri-State Generation and Transmission, SDCEA’s wholesale power supplier. Through this collaboration, we’re building a more resilient energy system that combines the environmental benefits of renewables with the reliability of traditional sources.

MANAGING PEAK DEMAND AND WEATHER EXTREMES

Renewable energy sources face an inherent challenge: they don’t always generate electricity when we need it most. Solar panels don’t produce power at night, and wind turbines sit idle during calm weather. Meanwhile, energy demand fluctuates dramatically throughout the day and across seasons.

This is where baseload generation sources play a crucial, and in some cases, ongoing role in ensuring a reliable supply of power. During extreme weather events, high-demand periods, or when renewable output drops unexpectedly, these baseload resources ensure the lights stay on. Having multiple generation sources creates the redundancy necessary for a reliable power grid.

Our current energy mix reflects this reality. While we’re rapidly transitioning toward renewables, maintaining diverse generation sources protects against supply disruptions that could leave communities without power during critical times.

Continued on page 8

P.O. Box 2013

Buena Vista, CO 81211-20131

ph 719-395-2412

tf 844-395-2412

info@myelectric.coop www.myelectric.coop

facebook.com/SDCEA.Inc

@sdceaenergy

Continued from page 7

POOLING RESOURCES FOR GREATER EFFICIENCY

Tri-State’s and, by extension, our upcoming participation in the Southwest Power Pool Regional Transmission Organization represents a significant step toward more efficient energy distribution across Colorado and the broader western region. This expanded partnership allows us to leverage resources that would be impossible to develop independently.

SPP integration is expected to create a more interconnected power grid. When one area experiences high demand or weather-related outages, other regions can provide power more seamlessly. This regional cooperation strengthens reliability and balances costs among all participating members.

RENEWABLE ENERGY GOALS

Through our Tri-State partnership, we expect to achieve 50% renewable energy usage by the end of 2025, with a target of 70% by the end of 2030. These aggressive timelines would be impossible to meet with our cooperative’s resources alone but become achievable through shared infrastructure and coordinated planning.

Abundant solar and wind resources across Colorado and the broader Southwest provide an ideal foundation for renewable energy development. Our regional approach through Tri-State also improves project development and transmission planning. By coordinating renewable development across multiple service territories, we can locate projects in the most productive areas and build transmission lines that serve multiple communities efficiently.

PREPARING FOR TOMORROW’S ENERGY DEMANDS

Battery technology represents the next frontier in creating a fully renewable energy system. We’re actively exploring both utility-scale battery installations and residential storage options that could fundamentally change how we manage electricity supply and demand.

Batteries can store excess renewable energy generated during peak production periods and release it when demand spikes or renewable output drops. This technology could, perhaps, reduce our dependency on baseload resources while maintaining grid reliability. Currently, costs for such batteries are high, though technology is expected to improve and potentially lower these costs.

In addition to energy storage technologies, there is a lot of work being done with small modular nuclear

reactors. While we may be years away from commercial operation for one of these units, the technology is promising and is perhaps the technology that delivers baseload power with no carbon emissions.

MEMBER PARTICIPATION AND COST MANAGEMENT

Tri-State has worked diligently to hold its rates steady in the past few years and is now in the process of planning for its future energy supply. The Tri-State Board of Directors recently approved its 2026 budget. The budget included a rate increase for 2026 that will be passed on to SDCEA. The SDCEA Board of Directors will be evaluating this increase and determining the best course of action on how to handle these increased costs.

To help manage electricity use and lessen the impacts of potential bill increases due to rising costs, SDCEA is enhancing its energy efficiency programs to assist members in reducing their electricity usage, offering greater control over monthly bills.

BUILDING COLORADO’S CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE TOGETHER

The transition to net-zero emissions by 2050 represents both a significant challenge and an unprecedented opportunity. Success requires continued collaboration between residents, government representatives, and energy companies working toward shared solutions.

Our partnership with Tri-State provides the resources and expertise needed to navigate this transition while maintaining the reliable, affordable power our communities depend on. By combining renewable energy expansion with strategic baseload resources, improved transmission infrastructure, and innovative member programs, we’re creating an energy system that serves environmental, reliability, and affordability goals.

Monday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Dispatch for outages is available 24/7/365 at 844-395-2412.

County Fair Congratulations

Congratulations to Mitchell, Brennan, and Lynzee on their successful livestock sales this year.

SDCEA is always proud to support the next generation of leaders at our county 4-H fairs. These programs offer invaluable hands-on learning opportunities in agriculture and food production. The annual auctions not only help participants offset their costs but often play a key role in funding their future education.

Well done to all the participants for your hard work and dedication.

Coffee with the Co-op attendees learn about upcoming SDCEA projects in the community.

COFFEE WITH THE CO-OP

In August, Coffee with the Co-op provided a warm and welcoming opportunity for members to connect with the SDCEA community. Attendees were invited to drop by the co-op, pour themselves a fresh cup of coffee, and enjoy a delightful selection of breakfast treats. It was a chance to chat with staff, learn more about the exciting initiatives happening at SDCEA, and ask questions about the co-op’s work. We’re grateful to everyone who joined us.

An early morning crowd visits with staff and learns about SDCEA at the Coffee with the Co-op event in August.

Attebery Earns Director Gold Credential

Sangre de Cristo Electric Association Board of Directors Chair Sandra Attebery recently earned the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association Director Gold Credential. This is the highest level of achievement in NRECA’s board director certificate programs.

An ever-changing business environment has imposed new demands on electric cooperative directors, requiring increased knowledge of changes in the electric utility business, new governance skills, and a solid knowledge of the cooperative principles and business model. Electric cooperatives in Colorado have a commitment to work through NRECA to sharpen this body of knowledge for the benefit of their electric cooperative consumer-owners.

“Sandra has shown an unwavering commitment to becoming well-educated in the governance of our electric cooperative, ensuring the best possible service to our members throughout central Colorado. Her achievement of the Director Gold certificate is a testament to her dedication to continuous learning and excellence,” said Jon Beyer, SDCEA CEO.

Director Gold recognizes directors who have already earned their Credentialed Cooperative Director and Board Leadership Certificate, plus three additional credits, and who wish to continue to learn throughout their service to the board.

Unlike the CCD and BLC certificates, Director Gold includes a continuing education requirement which calls for directors to earn three credits for approved course work and/or conferences every two years to maintain their Director Gold status.

“The Director Gold certificate is designed for directors who go above and beyond, to earn a credential that highlights their expertise and dedication. It also demonstrates to co-op members the directors’ steadfast commitment to expanding their knowledge and fulfilling their fiduciary responsibilities with the utmost integrity and skill. We deeply appreciate Sandra’s hard work and her contributions to our cooperative,” Beyer said.

NRECA represents the nation’s almost 900 consumer-owned electric cooperatives, which provide electric service to more than 42 million people in 48 states.

SANGRE DE CRISTO ELECTRIC ASSOC. IS BRINGING ENERGY-EFFICIENT HOME UPGRADES TO YOU THROUGH OUR ON-BILL REPAYMENT PROGRAM!

Co-op members can make energy-efﬁcient home upgrades including heat pumps, windows and doors or a new heat pump water heater with no money down, no credit check and low interest rates thanks to this program.

XC ITIN G NEW S ! START YOUR UPGRADE: Visit myelectric.coop/electrify-and-save

HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT SOMETHING TO DO WITH SDCEA?

Give our office a call at 719-395-2412 or toll-free 844-395-2412. Our business office in Buena Vista is open 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday. Or, send an email with your question to info@myelectric.coop.

Jon Beyer, Sangre de Cristo Electric Association CEO and Board Chair Sandra Attebery.

A Taste OF Fall

Powered by Purpose

By Mark Hall Interim Chief Executive Officer

As the interim CEO of Southeast Colorado Power Association, I see purpose in action every single day. Unlike investor-owned utilities, our co-op doesn’t exist to make profits for distant shareholders. We exist to serve you — our members, our neighbors, and our communities. That purpose is what sets us apart. It’s why we were founded and it continues to drive every decision we make.

At its core, being a cooperative means we are member-owned and locally controlled. That’s not just a tagline; it’s the very heart of our business model. Members have a voice in how our co-op operates. You elect board members who live right here in our area and who understand the unique challenges and opportunities our communities face. Decisions aren’t made in corporate boardrooms hundreds of miles away; they’re made here at home by people who care about the same things you do.

This local accountability means we can stay focused on what matters most: delivering reliable, affordable, and safe electricity and providing real value to the people we serve.

We do that by investing in essential infrastructure upgrades and technologies that strengthen our local grid and improve electric service. We work hard to manage costs and keep rates as low as possible because we know how much rising prices are affecting

families and small businesses in our area. And when storms hit or outages occur, Southeast Colorado Power Association crews are here and ready to respond quickly and safely, because we live here too.

But our commitment doesn’t end at the power lines, poles, or the meter at your house.

Co-ops were built to meet community needs, and that purpose extends well beyond delivering electricity. Whether we’re supporting local schools, sponsoring youth programs, partnering with volunteer organizations, or helping bring broadband to rural areas, we are always looking for ways to improve the quality of life in the places we serve. Community support isn’t an afterthought, it’s part of our mission.

That’s the power of the cooperative difference. That’s what it means to be powered by purpose.

Thank you for the trust you place in us. We’re proud to be your local electric cooperative.

27850 Harris Road P.O. BOX 521

La Junta, CO 81050

719-384-2551

Toll-free 800-332-8634

Fax 719-384-7320

www.secpa.com

facebook.com/secpaonline @southeastcoloradopower

County Fair Highlights

Photo courtesy of Renee Milenski

Photo courtesy of Laura Thompson

ARKANSAS VALLEY

Photo courtesy of Megan Berg and sponsored by R Triple C Farms

BACA COUNTY

KIOWA COUNTY

PROWERS COUNTY

BENT COUNTY

Photo courtesy of Leann Ridley

Photo courtesy of Kelly Rose Photo courtesy of Kelly Rose

Photo courtesy of Amber Comer

Photo courtesy of the Kiowa County Independent

Save the Date

Southeast Colorado Power Association will hold its annual meeting on Thursday, April 23, 2026 (tentative.)

Cash prize drawings given away throughout the meeting.

Please join us at the Minnick Building at the Baca County Fairgrounds in Springfield, Colorado.

BOARD DIRECTOR ELECTIONS

SECPA Board positions up for election in 2026 are:

• District 4 – Western Baca & Eastern Las Animas County

• District 5 – Otero County

• District 7 – Crowley County

Registration 5 p.m.

Dinner 6 p.m.

Meeting 6:45 p.m.

FIND YOUR NAME AND WIN!

If you find your name in this issue as follows (WIN* Your Name, your account number), contact Southeast Colorado Power Association at 719-384-2551 or 800-332-8634 to receive a $50 credit on your next power bill.

*WIN Orville Mousel acct xxx501

A Taste OF Fall

Powered by Purpose

By Trent Loutensock General Manager

Communities come in all shapes and sizes. Some are based on geographical proximity, some are based on shared interests or hobbies, and some communities can even be found in virtual spaces like social media groups. Regardless of where or how they are formed, communities can bring people together and create a sense of belonging.

We at Y-W Electric Association are deeply committed to our members, and we’re glad you are part of the electric cooperative community.

This month, more than 30,000 cooperatives across the U.S. celebrate National Co-op Month. It’s a time to reflect on all the aspects that set cooperatives apart from other types of businesses. And more importantly, it’s a time to celebrate the power of co-op membership.

Electric cooperatives are not-for-profit utilities that are built by the communities they serve. For Y-W Electric, our mission has always been to provide you with safe, reliable, and affordable power. We care about your quality of life and because we are locally operated, we’re uniquely suited to meet our members’ evolving energy needs.

Beyond the business of electricity, our employees and directors are equally invested in our local community. Why? Because we live here too. That’s why we work hard to support local economic development projects, youth programs and scholarships, charitable giving initiatives, and additional programs that make our community a better place to call home.

All co-ops, including Y-W Electric, are guided by seven cooperative principles that embody the values and spirit of the cooperative movement. These seven principles are a framework to help all co-ops navigate challenges and opportunities while remaining true to our purpose:

1. Open and Voluntary Membership: Co-op membership is open to anyone who can use the co-op’s services.

2. Democratic Member Control: Members make decisions that shape the cooperative. Why? Because co-ops are created by the members, for the members.

3. Members’ Economic Participation: Members contribute money to the co-op to make sure it runs smoothly now and in the future. At Y-W Electric, this happens through paying your energy bills.

4. Autonomy and Independence: Co-ops are independent and can operate on their own, which ultimately benefits the members.

5. Education, Training, and Information: Co-ops continuously focus on education to ensure employees have the training and information they need to make the co-op successful.

6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives: Co-ops share with and learn from other cooperatives. We help each other out in times of need because we want other co-ops to thrive.

7. Concern for Community: All cooperatives work for the greater good of the local communities they serve. Co-ops give back to their communities to help them thrive and grow.

As we celebrate National Co-op Month and the power of membership, we hope you will recognize the many aspects that set electric cooperatives apart. Our mission is reliable power. Our purpose is people — the local communities we’re proud to serve.

Mailing Address

P.O. Box Y Akron, CO 80720

Street Address

Y-W ELECTRIC MISSION

Y-W Electric Association is dedicated to providing high-quality, reliable electric service and related products to our members at competitive prices. Our members deserve and shall receive quality service unexcelled in our industry. We are committed to maintaining an environment where the Board of Directors and employees can perform at maximum potential to benefit our Y-W community.

26862 U.S. Hwy 34 Akron, CO 80720

PH: 970-345-2291

TF: 800-660-2291

ywelectric.coop

Attention High School Juniors!

IWhyshouldIapply?

youNowthatyouknowthisisn’tjustanothercamp, maybeaskingyourself,“ShouldIapply?”

f you are interested in an intriguing, all-expense-paid experience this summer, please obtain and fill out an application for the Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp and the Washington D.C.

LeadershipYoushouldapplyifyouhave: potential An awesomepersonality Astrong academic record An interest inmeetingnewpeopleAdesiretogetmoreoutofacamp than a sunburn

The application deadline is Decemb

came from President Lyndon B. Johnson who advocated for rural electrification and youth development. In 1957, when he was still a U.S. Senator, Johnson suggested “sending youngsters to the nation’s capital where they can actually see what the flag stands for and represents.”

WASHINGTON D.C. YOUTH TOUR

Ifyouareinterestedinapplyingforthisallexpense-paidtrip,contactyourlocalelectric cooperative,orreachouttoCREA.Contact information is on the back of this brochure. comingApplicationsareacceptedinthefallforthe year’strip.

The winner will join other students from Colorado co-op and from co-ops across the United States June 15-21, 2026. [Dimes to Dollars Inc 52810xxxxx]

How to Apply

Contact your local electric cooperative to learn more about how to apply for the June 2026 Washington, D.C. Youth Tour trip.

Applications are due before the end of the year.

into a nationwide effort to send youth on an organized, fun and educational trip in the 1960s. Now, some 60 years later, electric cooperatives from across the country send over 1,500 youth to the nation’s capital every summer.

A week of activities begins in Denver on June 15. Students will visit our state capitol building before heading to Washington, D.C. Once there, students will meet many of our Colorado congressional members and learn about electric cooperatives and the issues facing the electric industry today. Students will also learn about the legislative process. There will be plenty of time for fun and touring. Attendees will visit Mount Vernon, the National Cathedral, the Holocaust Memorial Museum, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Library of Congress. They will stroll through the Smithsonian museums, visit the monuments and memorials, and much more. An evening at the theatre and a cruise on the Potomac River are also included in this once-in-a-lifetime experience. [Don Keller 2228xxxxx]

This scholarship is valued Julie Baker Colorado Rural Electric Association 455 South Pierce Street Lakewood, CO 80226 720-407-0700 jbaker@coloradorea.org crea.coop

YOUTH LEADERSHIP CAMP

Top6reasons youshouldapplyforthistrip

• Make new friendsfromColorado,Kansas,OklahomaandWyoming

• ExperiencethebeautifulRocky Mountains

• Swimming,dancing,shopping,raftingand volleyball–allinonecamp

• Camp”“AttendedCooperativeYouthLeadership willlookgreatonyour resume

• It’s all free

• Learn leadershipaboutyourselfandbuildnewskillsthatyouwillusetherestofyourlife!

Formoreinformation,contact: JulieBaker Colorado Rural Electric Association 455S.PierceSt.|Lakewood,CO80226 Tel:720.407.0700|Email:Jbaker@coloradorea.org

From July 11-16, 2026, about 100 students chosen and sponsored by rural electric cooperatives from all over Colorado, Kansas, Wyoming, and Oklahoma attend Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp. The camp is designed to provide a better understanding of cooperatives, energy prices, power generation, and the rural electric cooperative program. It also focuses on developing leadership skills to help students handle the challenges of the future. The camp, run by the students, is a lot of fun and provides an excellent learning experience. Field trips are planned to tour a large open-pit coal mine and an electric generation power plant. There is also time for fun and sightseeing. Free time is taken up with volleyball, swimming, whitewater rafting, dancing, a banquet, and meeting many new friends. [Thomas D. and Treva S. Lippert 10511xxxxx]

All expenses for Cooperative Youth Leadership Camp and Washington D.C. Youth Tour are covered by Y-W Electric. The parent or guardian of the applicant must be a member of Y-W Electric and/or directly receive electric power from Y-W Electric. The selection process is conducted like a job interview.

• Applications are now available on our website, ywelectric.coop. Apply by December 18, 2025.

• For more information, please see your guidance counselor or call Andy Molt at Y-W Electric at 970-345-2291.

WASHINGTON

Don’t Miss Out on Scholarships

Apply to get a Y-W Electric scholarship for 2026

APPLY BY JANUARY 29, 2026 TO COMPETE FOR THE FOLLOWING SCHOLARSHIPS

• Y-W Electric* $1,000/year scholarship, renewable up to $4,000

• Y-W Electric* $1,000 scholarship

• Basin Electric Power Cooperative $1,000 scholarship

• Y-W Electric* $500 scholarship

• Y-W Electric* $500 continuing education scholarship

• Tri-State Generation and Transmission $500 scholarship

• Y-W Electric* $1,000 line technician training scholarship

*Y-W Electric scholarships are funded by the Unclaimed Capital Credits Account

TO QUALIFY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

• Your parents or guardians must receive electric service from Y-W Electric You must be a graduating student from a local high school or approved homeschool program or be a continuing college student

• You must maintain full time resident student status

• Semesters must be continuous excluding summer

• You must provide copy of your grade transcript to Y-W at the end of each semester to receive renewable funding for specific scholarships

• You must maintain minimum GPA requirements

• Applications were made available on ywelectric.coop at the beginning of October

Applications must be e-mailed or delivered to Y-W Electric prior to 5 p.m. on January 29, 2026

• Applications received after 5 p.m. January 29, 2026, WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED

For more information, please see your guidance counselor or call 970-345-2291 and speak to Andy Molt at Y-W Electric.

[Charlee and Susan Stallings 7301xxxxx]

BILLING CORNER

SMARTHUB BILL PAY AND MORE

For your convenience, Y-W Electric Association offers the ability to pay your account with the SmartHub app. This service allows you to pay your bill electronically with a credit card, debit card, or checking account.

This is also a great place to go to get account information. Information on billing history, usage, payment history, and past billing invoices are available. There is also a link to sign up for auto payment.

Reporting an outage is also available in SmartHub. This information goes directly to our operations department in an email. This leaves our phone lines open for those who do not have SmartHub available.

SmartHub is compatible with iPhones as well as Android devices. Check our website at ywelectric.coop for more information.

DON’T FALL VICTIM TO UTILITY SCAMS

Do you know the warning signs of an energy scam? Scammers will often use high-pressure tactics that create a sense of urgency. They may also ask for unusual payment methods such as gift cards or cryptocurrency. Odd communication is typically associated with a scam, including poor grammar, spelling errors, or unusual email addresses. If you spot any of these warning signs, take a moment to pause and determine if it is legitimate or if it is a scam.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY TIP OF THE MONTH

Fall is the time of year to inspect your home for air leaks around windows. Leaks reduce indoor comfort and lead to higher heating costs in the winter.

If you can see daylight around the edges of a window frame or if a window rattles slightly when touched, air is likely leaking.

Caulking and weatherstripping are simple, effective methods for sealing windows. These materials are available in a variety of compounds and forms, each designed for different types of surfaces. Choose the right product and apply it properly to reduce heat loss, improve comfort, and lower energy bills.

Each month, Y-W Electric Association offers its members a chance to earn a $20 credit on their next electric bill. If you find your name and account number in this magazine, call 800-660-2291 and ask for your credit. It couldn’t be easier.

Get acquainted with your account number, read your Colorado Country Life magazine, and pick up the phone. You must claim your credit during the month in which your name appears in the magazine — check the date on the front cover.

Congratulations to the members who found their name in the August issue and claimed a $20 bill credit: David Blach, Mark Wells, Jeremy and Crystal Juhnke, and Joel and Michelle Dracon.