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PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

By Todd Ware, President & Chief Executive Officer

Ohio winters bring more than snowflakes and chilly winds. Winter brings a holiday season full of family gatherings, holiday baking and staying warm by the fireplace. As we enjoy these seasonal comforts, it is worth pausing to reflect on something you may never think about—the energy behind it all!

ELECTRICAL POWER GRID

America's electrical power grid is an engineering marvel. It supports nearly every sector of our economy and underpins our national security. It delivers electricity across thousands of miles at remarkable speed and precision, powering everything from Christmas lights to smartphones and traffic signals. Electricity keeps our homes warm, grocery stores stocked, and factories running. It is easy to take this for granted when it works as intended.

For most Ohioans, electricity is available at the flip of a switch, day and night. Behind that convenience lies a highly complex, carefully balanced system. The grid must constantly match supply with demand — in real time, through all seasons, and in any weather conditions. That is why even modest threats to the grid's stability deserve serious attention. Today, the utility industry faces significant challenges in providing that alwaysavailable power. As energy demand continues to rise, many of the most reliable generation sources are scheduled to retire because of unrealistic environmental regulations and pressure from advocacy groups.

PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization that oversees the electric grid in Ohio, has cautioned that if reliable generation retires too quickly and new resources do not come online in time, the grid could struggle to keep up. This warning is especially concerning during bitterly cold winter days or ice storms, when demand for heat surges and electricity is needed most.

NATURAL GAS PIPELINE SYSTEM

America's network of natural gas pipelines works similarly to fuel our communities. Utilities deliver natural gas through 2.8 million miles of underground pipeline systems, which include 2.4 million miles of local utility distribution pipelines and 400,000 miles of transmission pipeline throughout the country.

The American Gas Association recently shared its 2025 Winter Heating Outlook. In this publication, they predict natural gas utilities will meet high winter demand with record natural gas production, showing continued reliability for American families, businesses and industries.

YOUR ENERGY COOPERATIVE

Your cooperative understands your need for safe, reliable energy that will last for future generations. That is why we continue to work with policymakers on practical solutions that balance environmental responsibility with the urgent need to protect electric grid reliability and smart policies to ensure we can continue to bring you the energy needed for holiday lights, heating your home, charging your devices, and so much more!

On behalf of all of us at your cooperative, I wish you and your family a joyful holiday season. May your homes be warm, your lights bright, and your gatherings be full of peace and cheer.

Thank you for trusting us to bring you safe and reliable energy. We will continue to work hard to honor those commitments and work on your behalf.

Todd Ware

Investing in the Future Hightlights:

We’re completing a multi-year project to rebuild a 9-mile transmission line powering the Jelloway Substation in Knox County, improving reliability and reducing outages.

Our propane crews install new service for 200 members annually.

The 4.9-mile Clover Valley natural gas pipeline in western Licking County will serve a hyperscale data center and Energy Cooperative members, reducing service interruptions during high demand, lowering costs, and passing savings to members.

YOUR ROLE IN GRID RESILIENCY

By Josh Filler, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer - Electric Operations

A reliable electric grid requires constant vigilance, proactive maintenance, and a partnership between our cooperative and its members. While we work around the clock to protect and strengthen our infrastructure, your eyes and ears are valuable assets to help keep our system resilient.

YOU ARE OUR EYES AND EARS

We have confidence in our system, but we cannot be everywhere. If you see something concerning, let us know.

What should you report?

• Broken or leaning poles

• Trees or branches growing into power lines

• Damaged or downed wires

• Anyone tampering with or damaging utility equipment

• Unusual activity around substations or other electrical infrastructure

• Equipment that appears damaged or insecure

OUR COMMITMENT

Keeping the electric grid secure is one of our top priorities. Our crews conduct regular inspections of substations, poles and power lines. The goal is simple: find a problem before it becomes one. When we discover a pole damaged by wood rot or woodpecker holes, we replace it. When we identify equipment showing signs of wear, we address it. This proactive approach ensures our grid is as strong and resilient as possible.

MAINTENANCE MAKES THE DIFFERENCE

There are many ways to contact us to report an electrical hazard or concern. You can call our local number at 740-344-2102, report after-hours emergencies to our Power Outage/ Emergency Line at 888-535-5888, use the SmartHub app, or send us a message from myenergycoop.com/contact-us.

Together, we can ensure our electric system remains protected, resilient and ready to serve our community reliably for years. Thank you for being our partner in grid resilience and keeping your power as reliable as possible.

Josh Filler

NATURAL GAS & PROPANE SAFETY REMINDERS

IF YOU SMELL GAS

• Do not operate lights, appliances, telephones or cell phones. Flames or sparks from these sources can trigger an explosion or a fire.

• Leave the area immediately. Get everyone out of the building or area where you suspect a gas leak.

• Shut off the gas. Turn off the main gas supply valve on your propane tank, if it is safe to do so. To close the valve, turn it to the right (clockwise).

• Report the leak. From a neighbor’s home or far away from the suspected gas leak, call 911 and The Energy Cooperative right away.

• Do not return to the building or area. You should not return to the area until we determine that it is safe to do so.

• Get your system checked. Before you attempt to use any of your propane appliances, we need to check the entire system to ensure it is leak-free.

APPLIANCE SAFETY

• Properly install and maintain connectors. It is important that all appliance connectors are properly inspected, installed and maintained by a qualified service technician.

• Have connectors checked when moving or replacing appliances. Connectors can wear out from too much moving, bending or corrosion. Connectors should be checked by a qualified service technician whenever the appliance is replaced or moved from its location.

• Use only approved appliance connectors. Make sure that all connectors and gas piping/tubing that bring propane to your appliances are installed by a qualified service technician and approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

• Have older appliance connectors inspected. Over time, some types of appliance connectors can crack or break, resulting in a serious gas leak and the possibility of fire or explosion. If you have an appliance that is more than 20 years old, have a qualified service technician inspect the connectors to be sure they are safe and meet current safety code requirements.

• Do not move an appliance yourself. Moving an appliance might damage the connector and create a leak.

ODOR FADE

The natural gas we deliver to you has an odor added to it called mercaptan that smells like rotten eggs. You may not be able to detect the odorant because of a weakened sense of smell or because the odorant is masked by other odors. Odor fade is an unintended reduction in the amount of odor in natural gas and propane that makes it difficult to smell.

• Air, water or rust in a propane tank or cylinder can reduce propane odor concentration.

• If the gas is leaking underground, its passage through soil may reduce the smell.

• The odor may stick to the inside surfaces of gas piping and distribution systems and possibly other materials.

• Since there is a possibility of odor fade or problems with your sense of smell, you should respond immediately to even a faint odor of gas.

• If you are concerned that you or others in your home may have difficulty smelling propane, consider buying propane gas detectors.

2025-2026 WINTER OUTLOOK

By Dan McVey, Vice President & Chief Operating Officer — Gas Operations

Energy Cooperative members should be prepared for a cold and snowy winter this year, according to several longrange weather forecasts.

The Farmers' Almanac and AccuWeather paint a chilly picture for our region this heating season. While the predictions among them differ slightly, they both suggest a cold and more active storm track for the Ohio Valley.

FARMERS' ALMANAC PREDICTIONS

The Farmers' Almanac explicitly forecasts a "very cold and snowy winter" for Ohio, describing it as a "classic winter wonderland" for the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes states. Their outlook is below normal temperatures, with the coldest periods likely from mid-December to mid-March. Predictions for the amount of snowfall are near or above normal levels, especially in eastern Ohio.

ACCUWEATHER'S PREDICTIONS

AccuWeather's meteorologists predict an "intense and stormy winter" across the Ohio Valley and Great Lakes states. They are forecasting colder-than-average conditions and a "snowy winter". They also anticipate a "bookend winter", with the most significant storms expected early in the season and again in the final weeks.

La Niña is the primary factor driving these forecasts. This weather pattern often influences colder and wetter conditions across the Midwest and Great Lakes. For Ohio, a La Niña typically increases participation, which translates to a higher chance of snow and rain mixes.

While long-range predictions are always subject to change, the current outlooks suggest we prepare for a traditional, active winter season. Frequent blasts of cold air, especially in December, January and February, are expected to bring plenty of opportunities for snow.

The 2025-2026 winter outlook suggests a season full of unpredictable swings, so staying updated on local forecasts will be necessary for navigating the months ahead. Rest easy if you use our natural gas or propane to heat your home or business. We are ready for this winter season and look forward to bringing you safe, reliable gas when you need it most.

Dan McVey

CAPITAL CREDITS

$ARE CAPITAL CREDITS?

CAPITAL CREDITS

Cooperative’s do not have customers or shareholders. Cooperative’s have members. After we pay our bills and needed funds into our system, we allocate excess revenue to members. Margins are allocated to capital credits.

WHAT ARE CAPITAL CREDITS?

Cooperative’s do not have customers or shareholders. Cooperative’s have members. After we pay our bills and reinvest needed funds into our system, we allocate excess revenue to members. Margins are allocated to members as capital credits.

WHAT ARE CAPITAL CREDITS?

Cooperative’s do not have customers or shareholders. Cooperative’s have members. After we pay our reinvest needed funds into our system, we allocate excess revenue to members. Margins are allocated members as capital credits.

$ -

RECEIVE MY CAPITAL CREDITS?

HOW DO I RECEIVE MY CAPITAL CREDITS?

$640, 243

HOW DO I RECEIVE MY CAPITAL CREDITS?

The amount paid in capital credits to electric members in 2025.

credits are distributed in two ways. Current members’ capital applied toward their bill. Former members, who no longer where credits can be applied, will receive a check in the

Capital credits are distributed in two ways. Current electric members’ capital credits are applied toward their electric bill. Former electric members, who no longer have a bill where credits can be applied, will receive a check in the mail.

members to your bill

Capital credits are distributed in two ways. Current members’ capital credits are applied toward their bill. Former members, who no longer have a bill where credits can be applied, will receive a check in the mail.

1984

$640, 243

$908,528

In 2023, $640,243 in capital credits will be paid to members.

*100% of the year will be paid at this time

HOW DO YOU RETURN CAPITAL CREDITS?

Capital credits are assigned annually to each member and are paid in accordance with the Cooperative bylaws. The following years' capital credits will be paid in 2023: In 2023 in capital credits will be paid to members.

$640, 243

Capital credits are assigned annually to each member and are paid in accordance with the Cooperative bylaws. The following years’ capital credits will be paid in 2025:

Capital credits are assigned annually to each member and are paid in accordance with the Cooperative bylaws.

2004

Capital credits are assigned annually to each member and are paid in accordance with the Cooperative bylaws. The following years' capital credits will be paid in 2023: In 2023 in capital credits

The following years’ capital credits will be paid in 2023: 1980 1982 2002 Current members applied to your bill

*12.3% of the year will be paid at this time

1980, 1982 *100% of the year will be paid at this time 2002 *12.8% of the year will be paid at this time

credits are assigned

represent the share of the

margins based amount of kilowatt for that year.

are distributed in two ways. Current members’ capital applied toward their bill. Former members, who no longer where credits can be applied, will receive a check in the represent the of the margins based of kilowatt that year. ENERGY COOPERATIVE'S MEMBERS more than

HOW IS THE CAPITAL CREDIT AMOUNT DETERMINED?

Capital credits represent the assigned share of the Cooperative's margins based on the amount of kilowatt hours used for that year. THE ENERGY COOPERATIVE'S MEMBERS have donated more than $4 MILLION The member-funded program provides assistance to community

HOW IS THE CAPITAL CREDIT AMOUNT DETERMINED?

and recieves $$ 1980, 1982 *100% of the year will be paid at this time *12.8% of the year will be paid at this time

and are paid in accordance with Cooperative bylaws. The following years' credits will be paid in 2023:

Current members applied to your bill Former members mailed as a check

e’re

kilowatts a

HOW IS THE CAPITAL CREDIT AMOUNT DETERMINED?

Capital credits represent the assigned share of the Cooperative’s margins based on the amount of kilowatt hours used for that year.

OPERATION ROUND UP

profits and funds college scholarships. If you'd like to donate credits, please let us know.

program provides

Capital credits represent the assigned share of the Cooperative’s margins based on the amount of kilowatt hours used for that year. uses killowatts a year and receives in capital credits in capital credits

QUESTIONS? Contact us at 740-344-2102 or visit myenergycoop.com/contact-us.

We’re here to help! For questions about capital credits, please visit myenergycoop.com or call member services at 1-740-344-2102

We’re here to help! For

CAPITAL CREDITS

By Heather Juzenas, Vice President of Marketing & Member Services

There are many different types of utilities. Cooperatives are member owned. We are not owned by investors looking to make a profit; we are owned by members looking for safe, reliable, affordable service. This difference in philosophy, makes cooperative's stand out in a meaningful way.

Cooperatives

allocate operating margins to their members as equity and retire (pay) them by check or as a bill credit. Retirement of capital credits is one of the most important things we do as co-ops.

The Energy Cooperative has always allocated capital credits. We have not, however, always been in a financial position to retire (pay) them. Fortunately, a few years ago, we started paying capital credits to our electric members.

back capital credits on a 20- and 40-year cycle. The 40-year cycles address years we were not in a financial position to return profits to members.

The Energy Cooperative retired $908,528 in capital credits to members in 2025!

The following year's capital credits were paid in October 2025:

• 1984: 100% of this year was paid

As a member of The Energy Cooperative, you earn

behalf of an estate, please call us at 740-344-2102.

If you have ever received electric service from us, you should check myenergycoop.com/capital-credits to see if you have any money waiting for you. We send capital credit checks to previous members. This becomes tricky, however, if we do not have a current, valid address. We encourage all our former members to update us with their current address. This makes it possible for future capital credit payments to find you.

While you may not have received capital credits, we hope you see the value of being part of an organization prioritizing community and people over profits.

impressive amount of over $900,000 in capital credits!

The Energy Cooperative pays capital credits in accordance with its bylaws. We are currently paying

Heather Juzenas

HOLIDAY SAFETY

By Connie Hogue, Vice President of Human Resources & Safety

DECORATING SAFETY

During the holidays, families and friends come together to enjoy festive traditions like decorating the home, baking cookies, preparing delicious meals and exchanging gifts. Before the hustle and bustle begins, take a moment to review these safety tips to avoid the holiday chaos and give yourself more peace of mind.

• Lift with care: Bend your knees, not your back, when lifting heavy boxes.

• Inspect your lights: Check for broken bulbs or frayed wires before hanging LED lights. Purchase new light strands if you detect any wear and tear.

• Use the correct ladder: Make sure your ladder is sturdy and placed on flat ground. Keep at least three of your limbs on the ladder at all times (three points of contact).

• Tree placement matters: Keep real trees at least three feet from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators and space heaters. Water them regularly to prevent them from drying out.

• Strategically place the ornaments: Avoid placing fragile or glass ornaments on lower branches where children or pets can reach them.

COOKING SAFETY

• Test your smoke alarms to ensure they are working correctly.

• Keep a Class K fire extinguisher within reach.

• Tie back long hair and wear short sleeves while cooking.

• Keep flammable items like recipe books, oven mitts and towels away from the stove.

• Always have someone monitoring the oven or stovetop at all times.

• After cooking, turn off all appliances and unplug mixers or other kitchen appliances.

CHILDREN & PET SAFETY

• Keep decorations and small items out of reach.

• Avoid leaving them unattended near open flames, such as candles or fireplaces.

• Keep them away from the Christmas tree to prevent accidents.

Spread the cheer—and the safety this holiday season! Share these tips with loved ones and remember to keep safety a top priority throughout the season.

From all of us at The Energy Cooperative, we wish you and your family a safe, warm and joyful holiday season!

Connie Hogue

Newark Station

As energy choices continue to shape the future of business, we are proud to spotlight one of our member businesses that is making the most of our natural gas service.

Newark Station, located at 325 West Main Street in the heart of Newark, within Licking County, represents a transformative redevelopment of a historic warehouse site into a dynamic mixed-use destination to live, work and play. With thoughtfully designed residential

Todd Alexander, and his Director of Operations, Emily Evans. This business spotlight highlights the relationship between The Energy Cooperative and Newark Station and its growing impact on the local landscape.

Q: What does being a cooperative member mean to you?

A: It means the opportunity to work with people who are a part of your community and have an experience that reflects that in a real way.

Q: What is your relationship with the cooperative?

A: We were fortunate to have the choice of using The Energy Cooperative as our natural gas supplier for this project.

Q: How has your experience been with the cooperative?

A: I could not be happier with our choice to use The Energy Cooperative. Every encounter that I have had with the cooperative has been incredible. The people have been kind, helpful and cooperative. Imagine that! I cannot truly explain how each interaction has been other than it is the way you would hope that customer service is—real people who care.

Please provide any additional details about your business that you’d like to share.

THE Yard, which is open now, is a seasonal outdoor venue offering beach volleyball leagues, cornhole, backyard games and casual food/beverages. THE Yard has a covered pavilion with a large Jumbotron, and we are proud to be the home of the Licking County Alumni Association’s designation as their Buckeye Bar! Also open is Earthworks Cafe & Lounge, an expansive restaurant, coffee house and event space. We also offer 18 loft apartments, called The Lofts, that occupy the western and southern perimeters of the former warehouse. These offer immense natural light and meticulously designed industrial details. The Lofts include studios, one bed/one bath, one bed/one and a half bath, and two beds/two baths.

Newark Station aspires to offer active arts, hospitality and a recreational community. No matter what your event needs are, from small to large, we will work with you to make it happen. Visit about who we are and what to expect in future work.

PROPANE PRICES

By Pat McGonagle, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

As we approach the winter heating season, it is a good time to look at propane pricing. Industry experts expect 2025-26 winter propane prices to align with last year's pricing. The pricing is primarily due to high inventory levels and lower than projected crude oil prices.

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) recently reported that the national propane inventory is above the five-year average. Propane storage builds up in months when use is relatively low. This year, propane inventories were 12 million barrels more than the previous five-year average. In October 2025, propane inventories totaled 103 million barrels. This increased inventory offers a buffer of supply heading into peak demand months.

WHAT’S DRIVING PRICES IN 2025–26?

Energy pricing continues to respond sharply to shifts in demand and delivery constraints. Cold weather can rapidly increase propane demand, and the EIA’s winter forecast expects temperatures in the Midwest to be slightly colder than average. Price surges can happen when the propane supply cannot keep up with demand.

Here are a few situations that can cause propane prices to increase:

• Cold snaps can spike local demand, draining inventories quickly and leading to emergency deliveries at higher prices.

• Transportation issues in the Midwest can delay deliveries, especially during winter storms.

• Export growth has reduced the buffer of available U.S. propane—higher overseas demand can mean tighter supply here at home.

This year, propane pricing remains closely tied to the natural gas and oil markets. Those markets fluctuate, and any instability with those commodities may impact retail propane.

HOW WE HELP YOU PLAN AHEAD

The Energy Cooperative uses a detailed planning model to secure propane supply well before winter. We work with multiple suppliers to lock-in our propane pricing. This is one way we ensure our members have the propane they need year-round. Ohio's retail propane prices average around $2.60 per gallon, reflecting the continuing impact of delivery costs and wholesale fuel pricing. Members of The Energy Cooperative enjoy a locked in pricing of $1.99 per gallon until July 2026.

We appreciate your trust in The Energy Cooperative and remain committed to delivering clean, affordable energy to our members this winter and for years to come.

Pat McGonagle

DIRECTOR'S CORNER

By Brad Patton, District 3,

CCD

I have been farming for over 35 years now, and if there is one thing I have learned, it is that what you cannot see can hurt you. Beneath our fields and pastures is a maze of pipelines and power lines carrying natural gas and electricity. You would not know it by looking at the grass or soil, but one wrong move with a backhoe or post-hole digger can set off a disaster.

WHY I ALWAYS CALL OHIO811 BEFORE I DIG

It does not matter if I dig trees growing out of ditches or clear fence rows—I start with OHIO811. They send notifications to utilities to mark where the gas, electric and other utility-owned lines are buried. It is free and does not take long.

WHAT IS AT STAKE

Natural Gas: Hit a natural gas pipeline, and you will hear gas hissing up into the air. Combine that gas with one spark from your machine, and you will create an explosion. I have seen photos of barns leveled and homes destroyed by this situation.

Electric Lines: Burying a bucket into an electric line is no small matter. The shock can kill a person instantly. And, even if no one gets hurt, cutting off power can knock out the lights for your neighbors, or worse, a local school or hospital.

TOO MANY CLOSE CALLS

The safety folks say a utility line gets damaged every few minutes in this country, usually because someone thought their project was “too small to matter." The truth is that no project is too small! You do not know what is under that soil until someone marks it. This year in Ohio, about 19% of utility damages were caused by contractors or property owners who did not follow state law and contact OHIO811 first, resulting in millions of dollars in damages. At The Energy Cooperative, approximately 27% of damages over the past few years are due to contractors or property owners not calling OHIO811 before they dig. That is why I do not skip that call, for my own safety, but as well as the safety of my family, friends and neighbors.

A FARMER’S COMMON SENSE

• OHIO811 is a free service.

• Utilities come out within a couple of days to mark the line.

• Once the lines are marked, you can get back to work with a clear head.

• Skipping this step can hurt someone or result in a bill for thousands of dollars in repairs.

WE ALL DEPEND ON EACH OTHER

I have kids, neighbors, livestock and a community that relies on the same power and gas lines running under my land. If I mess it up, it is not just me who pays the price; it is everyone around me. Do not dig blind. Make the call or go online. Get the lines marked. Then, grab your shovel or tractor and get to work.

Remember: 811 is your first step in any digging job. It saves lives, protects property and it is the law.

GET TO KNOW YOUR DIRECTOR

Brad is a 5th generation farmer in the Utica area farming 2,900 acres of corn, soybeans and wheat.

He was a 28-year member of the Homer Volunteer Fire Department, where he served 6 years as treasurer and 6 years as chief.

He previously served on The Licking County Farm Bureau for 6 years as a board member and currently attends Utica Church of Christ.

Brad Patton

Best Times to Buy

Appliances and Electronics

Product

Refrigerators and Freezers

Best Time to Buy for Discounts

March/April: New models arrive in spring and older models are discounted

Holiday Sales: Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day

Washers/Dryers, Dishwashers, Ovens and Ranges

September/October: New models are released and older models are discounted

Holiday Sales: Labor Day, Black Friday, Presidents' Day, Memorial Day

End-of-Year: Clearance

Large Home Electronics (TVs, Home Theaters)

Holiday Sales: Black Friday, Cyber Monday

Other: Amazon Prime Days, Super Bowl Sales

Smart Assistants and Other Smart Devices

Holiday Sales: Black Friday, Cyber Monday

Other: Amazon Prime Days

Air Conditioners, Heaters and Other Seasonal Appliances

Additional Purchasing Tips:

Off Season: Purchase AC units in the fall or winter and heaters in the summer - Retailers offer bigger discounts when demand is low

y When possible, bundle major appliances for significant savings.

y Be on the lookout. When new models arrive, older models drop in price.

y Retailers typically clear out inventory at the end of the year, which mean big discounts.

y Local retailers typically try to meet end-of-month/end-of-quarter sale quotas, which could mean flexible prices and/or negotiating.

ONLINE SHOPPING SAFETY

By Scott Stitts, Vice President & Chief Information Officer

The holiday season is a time to gather with loved ones, share meaningful stories, create lasting memories, and hunt for deals online. As online shopping surges, so does cybercrime. Scammers know this is when people are busy, distracted, and spending more time online, making it the ideal time to strike.

Cybercriminals

use increasingly sophisticated tactics to steal personal and financial information during the holidays. Some common scams include deals that seem "too good to be true" and fraudulent charity requests designed to exploit your holiday spirit.

Advancements in technology, especially artificial intelligence, have made spotting these threats more challenging than ever. It is more important than ever to be proactive and protect yourself and your data.

While no one is completely 'hackproof', you can become more resilient. The National Cybersecurity Alliance recommends four simple but powerful habits for safeguarding your information, securing your accounts, and protecting your devices.

USE COMPLEX PASSWORDS

Passwords are your first line of defense, especially when entering payment details or tracking packages.

• Long passwords: Safe passwords are at least 16 characters long and include a mix of letters, numbers and symbols.

• Do not reuse passwords: A security breach on one site can compromise your passwords on other sites. Best practice is to have a different and unique password for each site.

• Use a password manager: A password manager generates passwords for you, remembers them, and enters them when needed. The best thing about this service is that you only need to remember ONE password, the one for the password manager.

If you prefer writing passwords down, treat that notebook like cash—store it safely and out of sight.

ENABLE MFA

Multifactor Authentication (MFA) provides another level of protection. Many companies already require this, specifically banks and companies that keep your sensitive information.

• One-Time Codes: Multifactor authentication may involve a one-time code sent to your phone by text, phone call, security key or email.

• Turn on MFA: MFA is essential for email, banking, social media and shopping platforms, especially Amazon or PayPal.

• Never Share MFA Codes: No legitimate company will ask for them; only scammers ask for them.

• Install Software Updates: Protect your devices before using them to shop online. Go to the "Settings" menu and turn on automatic updates for your devices and apps.

• Do Not Ignore Update Reminders: The updates often fix security flaws that hackers exploit.

Before you track a package or download a festive app, be sure your device is up to date.

WATCH OUT FOR PHISHING AND SCAMS

Scammers know how to take advantage of the holiday rush. They send fake messages to get you to give them sensitive information or click on malicious links.

• Be cautious of messages that create urgency or offer deals that seem too good to be true.

• Watch for fake shipping notifications, gift card scams, and phony charity requests.

• Do not click on suspicious links or download unexpected attachments.

Give yourself the gift of peace of mind this holiday season by practicing these crucial tips. You will be better prepared to enjoy the festivities (and your online shopping) safely and securely.

Scott Stitts

Thank You Operation Round Up Members!

The Operation Round Up Foundation awarded $105,618 to the following community organizations in August 2025:

4-H Camp Ohio to acquire a walk-in freezer

Center for Disability Services to fund iPads and laptops

City of Newark for recreation park development

Cornerstone Community Church to support Buddy Break outreach

LAPP to repair air conditioning units

Learning 4 Life Farm to purchase a riding mower

Licking County 4-H Band for building repairs

Licking County Community Center for a new sound system

Licking County Dog Warden to purchase a high-pressure hose and reel

Licking Valley Local schools to support the Youth-to-Youth program

My Place To Be to upgrade an outdoor learning space

Roseville Volunteer Fire Department towards tablets for operations

The Main Place, Inc. to provide laptops for use

Together We Grow Community Gardens to build a fence and add tables

Village of Roseville to construct a fence

Your generosity truly makes a difference!

Because of our members who round up their bills to the next whole dollar each month, The Energy Cooperative's Operation Round Up Foundation has proudly contributed over $5 million to organizations in the communities we serve.

The Operation Round Up Foundation awarded $71,220 to the following community organizations in October 2025:

Centerburg Senior Services to purchase an air conditioning unit

John Glenn High School Boosters for equipment

Johnstown Youth Athletic Association towards field drainage system

Knox County Board of Dev. Disabilities for door/window replacements

Licking COunty Family YMCA to purchase furniture

Licking Township Fire Department for equipment

Mental Health America of Licking county towards computers

National Trail Fire Department to purchase SCBA Air Bottles

Newton Township Fire Department for Super Vac fans

Par Excellence STEM Academy towards changing stations

The Refuge for building repairs

Salvation Army of Newark to buy mattresses and linens

Tri-Valley Joint Fire District towards a Strut system

Do you know an organization that could benefit from a grant? Scan the QR code with your smartphone or visit myenergycoop.com/roundup.

Grant Recipient Highlight

The Energy Cooperative’s Operation Round Up Foundation started in 2005 as a way to give back to member communities. The program rounds up members' bills to the nearest dollar, and we fund local charities, community projects and scholarships. We're excited to highlight a few of the grant winners and show you how Operation Round Up continues to make a positive impact!

Central Ohio Technical College

""Central Ohio Technical College is excited to announce that we have been awarded a $30,000 grant from the Energy Cooperative’s Operation Round Up Foundation to support the renovation of Thomas J. Evans Hall. This exciting project will create a new home for the college’s police academy and law enforcement program. The newly renovated building will house classrooms, a large tactical training area, an armory, faculty offices and other student support space. An elevated platform off the back of the building will allow faculty members to teach and observe training exercises, traffic stops, and other structured simulations. This new facility will not only strengthen our ability to recruit aspiring officers but also enhance the quality of training provided, ensuring graduates are equipped with the skills, confidence, and ethical foundation needed to serve and protect our communities. In addition to student education, the new facility will serve as a professional development hub for local law enforcement and first responder agencies, deepening COTC’s impact on community safety and regional workforce readiness. The newly renovated Evans Hall will give local residents the chance to prepare for a noble and selfless career in law enforcement right here at home. We are so grateful for your investment in the next generation of public servants who will safeguard our streets, staff our correctional facilities, and uphold the law with integrity."

-Dr. John M. Berry, COTC President

HOLIDAY EFFICIENCY WORD SEARCH

The holidays are a fun, festive time of year! But this is also a time when we typically use more electricity at home because the weather is colder and we’re home for the holiday season.

Read the efficiency tips below, then find and circle the bolded words in the puzzle.

Holiday Efficiency Tips:

Decorate your tree with energy-saving LED lights.

Save energy by using a timer to turn off holiday lights when you’re sleeping.

If you have a fireplace in your home, remind an adult to close the damper when a fire is not burning.

Open blinds and curtains during the day to let sunlight in to warm your home.

Lower the thermostat when you invite friends or family over.

• Member service: 740-344-2102

• Electric outages or emergencies: 888-535-5732 Natural gas or propane emergency: 740-344-2102

If you see a downed power line or other electrical hazard, call 911 then call our outage line at 888-535-5732. Assume every downed power line is energized and dangerous.

If you smell rotten eggs or suspect a gas leak, leave the area immediately. Call 911 then call us at 740-344-2102. The Energy Cooperative’s business hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.