Area students gather together for REC's Youth Leadership Summit
Leadership, motivation and learning brought 12 schools from Rural Electric Cooperative’s service area together for REC’s 17th annual Youth Leadership Summit.
“REC is passionate about our youth and helping to develop their skill set,” said Megan Lawrence, Manager of Member Services and Marketing. “REC and the Board of Trustees understand the importance our youth play in our communities and fostering their leadership development will only assist them later in life.”
Rhett Laubach, owner of Your Next Speaker, in Edmond, Oklahoma spent the day working with approximately 70 students about leadership and preparing for the future. The students interacted with each other throughout the day and gained useful tips on making an impact. Laubach has taught leadership skills for over 25 years to audiences across the United States, the Bahamas and Canada.
This year, students from Alex, Bray-Doyle, Cement, Dibble, Elmore City-Pernell, Lindsay, Maysville, Ninnekah, Pauls Valley,
Purcell, Wayne and Wynnewood participated in the Youth Leadership Summit. In addition to a full day of mental, emotional, social and physical activity, REC gave five scholarships. The winners of the scholarships were selected based on their participation throughout the day, their application they submitted and recommendations from their sponsors.
REC gave four, $250 scholarships and one, $500 scholarship. This year’s $250 Youth Leadership Summit scholarship winners were Clara Wright from Alex, Nigel Reid from Maysville, Sarah Christensen from Pauls Valley and Serenity Garrett from Wynnewood. Adam Edelman from Purcell was awarded the $500 Youth Leadership Summit scholarship award.
“REC is honored to provide opportunities for our youth to expand their leadership skills," Lawrence adds. "We are also thankful the schools in our service territory allowing their students to participate in this event and all of our youth programs."
A newsletter for members of Rural Electric Cooperative March 2023
CEO’s MESSAGE
Electric Vehicle FAQs
be plugged into any standard household outlet. For an eight-hour overnight charge, this will enable traveling around 36 to 40 miles a day. If you typically drive longer distances or are in a hurry, a Level 2 charger takes about half the time and provides about 180 miles of range over an eighthour charging period. A Level 2 charger must be installed by a licensed electrician.
Q: Does the outside temperature affect the range of an EV?
March 2023
Co-op Comments
Official publication of Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. CO-OP COMMENTS is owned, controlled and directed by Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. It is printed monthly and mailed to members in Garvin, McClain, Comanche, Stephens, Grady and Carter counties in Oklahoma.
You have likely heard or read most automakers are transitioning many or all their new vehicles to electric-only models over the next 10 years. Regardless of the type of car you drive today, the electrification of the transportation sector is underway. We receive inquiries about electric vehicles from REC members, so I thought it would be helpful to respond to some of those frequently-asked questions.
Q: Why is REC communicating about electric vehicles?
A: It is no secret consumer interest in electric vehicles (EVs) is growing, and REC is providing information so our members can make informed decisions when considering an EV purchase.
Q: Why is REC involved in EV infrastructure issues?
A: All electric utilities are planning now to ensure they have the necessary electric infrastructure in place to meet future EV charging needs – without jeopardizing the ability to keep reliable power flowing to our local homes and businesses. As your local energy provider, REC is best suited to advise and help our members and local businesses plan for the electric vehicle future.
Q: Can I charge my EV using an existing outlet or do I need a special outlet?
A: All EVs come with a 110-volt-compatible (Level 1) charging unit which can
A: Outside temperatures, particularly colder weather, can impact the range of an EV. Unlike a gas-powered vehicle, where the heat is mostly coming from the engine, an EV must produce cabin heat and manage an optimal battery temperature with energy coming from the battery, which can reduce battery range.
Q: Will an EV meet my daily driving needs? 304400
A: If you are like most Americans and drive an average of 30 miles a day, an EV can meet your daily needs.
Q: What kind of incentives are available for EVs?
A: There are a variety of tax credits, rebates and other incentives available for EV purchases. Visit www.afdc.energy. gov/laws/electric-vehicles-for-tax-credit to learn about federal incentives available through the Clean Vehicle Credit program.
Q: Should I let my Co-op know if I purchase an EV?
A: If you purchase an EV, please let us know so we can better serve you. As more REC members buy EVs, it is helpful to know where they are located in our area so we can ensure we have the necessary infrastructure in place to meet charging needs and provide reliable power to our local homes and businesses.
We understand making the switch to an EV is a big decision. Whether you are ready to make an EV purchase or wondering if an EV can meet your daily driving needs, we are here to help you make an informed decision. Give us a call at 405756-3104 or 800-259-3504.
Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. 13942 Highway 76 • P.O. Box 609 Lindsay, OK 73052 405-756-3104 • 800-259-3504
Outage Number: 855-399-2683
www.recok.coop
Board of Trustees
Gary Jones, President, District 1
Scott Christian, Vice President, District 1
Brent Bacon, Sec./Treasurer, District 1
Larry Anderson, District 2
Johnny Harrel, District 2
Terri Hays, District 2
Mark Finch, District 3
Randy Griswold, District 3
Lisa Whitman, Attorney
Management and Staff
Dusty Ricks, Manager/CEO
Linda Ray, CFO
Kelli Lindsey, Administrative Assistant and Staff Coordinator
Elaine Gilreath, Manager of Customer Service and Data Processing
Jon Jones, Manager of Engineering
Mitch Gilreath, Manager of Information Technology Services
Megan Lawrence, Manager of Member Services and Marketing
Clint Yeary, Manager of Safety and Loss Control/Facilities
David Crull, System Superintendent
Jason Mays, Operations Superintendent
2 Co-op Comments
Play it safe when using generators
Storm season is upon us, which means greater potential for power outages. If you are planning to use a portable generator in the event of an outage, REC reminds you to play it safe.
With proper use and maintenance, portable generators can provide great convenience during an outage. However, when generators are used incorrectly, they can be extremely hazardous. In a 2022 report, the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated 85 U.S. consumers die every year from carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning caused by gasoline-powered portable generators.
Here are 10 do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when using portable generators:
1. DO: Install backup CO alarms.
2. DO: Keep children and pets away from portable generators at all times.
3. DO: Position generators at least 25
feet outside the home, away from doors, windows and vents which can allow CO to enter the home.
4. DO: Ensure your generator is properly grounded. Use a portable ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to prevent electric shock injuries.
5. DO: Use three-pronged extension cords rated to handle the load of the generator. Inspect extension cords for cuts, frays or other damage before use.
6. DON’T: Operate a generator inside your home or an enclosed (or partiallyenclosed) space. Generators produce high levels of CO, which can be deadly.
7. DON’T: Open windows or doors while the generator is running.
8. DON’T: Rely on generators as a full-time source of power. They should only be used temporarily or in emergency situations to power essential equipment or
appliances.
9. DON’T: Overload generators. They should only be used to power essential equipment. Make sure your generator can handle the load of the items you plan to power.
10. DON’T: Connect generators directly into household wiring unless you have an appropriate transfer switch installed. If a generator is connected to a home’s wiring without a transfer switch, power can backfeed along power lines and electrocute utility lineworkers making repairs.
While generators provide convenience during power outages, they can quickly become hazardous – even deadly – if improperly operated. Before you operate a portable generator, be sure to thoroughly read the owner’s manual for important safety information and tips.
Co-op Comments 3
PETS & LIVESTOCK
FOR SALE: Top quality polled Hereford bulls from Whiskey Bent Ranch, yearlings to mature bulls, can deliver within 50 miles, starting at $1650. PH: 405-207-7590.
RECREATIONAL
FOR SALE: Rockwood Premier pop-up camper with slide-out, fully self-contained, sleeps six, lots of storage, heat and air, kitchen sink, microwave, refrigerator, hot water heater, toilet, shower, inside or outside three burner stove, new propane tank, new tires and new spare, ready to go, $4,200. PH: 405-207-0228.
FOR SALE: 8' x 10' storage shed, ready to be moved, located west of Rush Springs. PH: 985-247-5211.
FOR SALE: Gear Wrench Manufacturing Company reversible titan chain, 67 tongs, 2 to 12 in. pipe, pre-owned, $1,000. PH: 405-207-0228.
Co-op Connections
Use your Co-op Connections Card to save you money on lodging, photographs, oil changes and other items. You can also save on prescriptions, dental, vision, hearing, lab work and imaging and chiropractor services at participating locations. Your card is a discount card. If you have misplaced your card, contact REC for a replacement card and use it to save yourself some money.
Energy Efficiency Tip of the Month
Washing windows and screens are a great way to practice energy efficiency during spring cleaning. Clean windows and screens make your home brighter by allowing more sunlight in, reducing the need for lamps and fixtures. Clean screens also allow more fresh air in the home when the windows are open to recycle indoor air. Natural light and clean air are energy savers, and they enhance overall health and productivity. Learn more at www.energy.gov.
FOR SALE: Adjustable Kingpin 5th-wheel camper bipod stabilizer, $80. PH: 405-207-0228.
FOR SALE: Innova inversion table, new, fully assembled, $100. PH: 405-207-0228.
Leadership Summit scholarship winners
REC awarded five scholarships at its Youth Leadership Summit. The winners pictured from left to right: Clara Wright from Alex was a $250 winner, Serenity Garrett from Wynnewood was a $250 winner, Adam Edelman from Purcell was a $500 winner, Sarah Christensen from Pauls Valley was a $250 winner and Nigel Reid from Maysville was a $250 winner.
Local Co-op Connection Card Deals
A-U-Store It, Purcell$5 off first month rent
Backroads Boutique, Lindsay5% off everything excluding special order and sale items
Best Western, Chickasha15% Off Regular Room Rate
Blue Moose Outdoor
Portable Rentals, Elmore City5% Off Septic Tank Pumping, Tent Rental and Special Event Toilet Rentals
Chickasha Diesel Services, Chickasha$50 off any big diesel oil change
Edwards Canvas, Pauls Valley - 5% Off
Jenny’s Pics Photography, Lindsay10% Off $50 or More Purchase of Pictures
Lindsay Tire and Lube, Lindsay$5 Off Any Full Service Oil Change
M & M Furniture, Chickasha10% Off Any Purchase
Mazzio’s Italian Eatery, Purcell10% Off Purchase
Photos by Ginger, Pauls Valley1 Free 8x10 Print With First Order of $25 Pharmacy Discounts -
Check out the discounts available using your Co-op Connections Card at participating pharmacies throughout our area. For a complete list of pharmacies, visit REC’s website to see if your pharmacy is offering discounts to Co-op Connections Card holders.
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Co-op Comments 4