Building a Legacy Together
The Story of the Mohave Valley Fort Mohave Community Park Page 4
ALSO INSIDE >> MEC Rebate Program Undergoes Changes After ACC Review Page 26
s MEC
WINTER 2025
Volume 2, No. 4
P.O. Box 22530
Bullhead City, AZ 86439
Member Services: 928-763-1100
Outage Reporting
Toll free 844-632-2667 or text “outage” to 55050 from the phone number linked to your MEC account. mohaveelectric.com
Mohave Electric Cooperative
Board of Directors
President Joe Anderson
Vice President Deborah Johnson
Secretary Toni Barbaro
Treasurer Rich Tempelman
Cindy Head
Tracy Weisz
John Nelssen
Kevin Nestrick
Jose “Joe” Solar
CEO
Tyler Carlson
MEC Currents is published by Mohave Electric Cooperative quarterly (Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer) for $2.81 per year by Mohave Electric Cooperative, 1999 Arena Dr., Bullhead City, AZ 86442-6943. Application to Mail at Periodicals Postage Prices is Pending at Bullhead City, AZ, and at additional mailing offices.
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MEC serves 38,238 members, 45,532 meters, with more than 1,571.95 miles of line spanning areas from Bullhead City to Topock on the west, Hualapai to Burro Creek to the south, and Nelson to the east by providing reliable costeffective power.
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ISSUE
Building a Legacy Together: The Story of the Mohave Valley Fort Mohave Community Park
When volunteer project manager Mehdi Azarmi was asked in 2012 to help revive the long-dormant idea of a community park in Mohave Valley, he didn’t hesitate— though he knew it wouldn’t be easy.
“The Mohave Valley Fort Mohave Park idea had been around for over 30 years,” Azarmi recalls. “There were two or three attempts before, but they failed because of financial challenges. I told former Mohave County Supervisor Sockwell I’d help—if I could choose my own team.”
That choice marked the beginning of what would become one of the most ambitious and inspiring community-driven projects in Mohave County history.
A Vision Decades in the Making Azarmi quickly teamed up with longtime friend and local businessman Chip Sherrill, whose family has farmed in the valley for more than 50 years. Together in 2015, they co-founded the Mohave Valley Fort Mohave
Community Park project, bringing together neighbors, businesses, and civic leaders to finally make the long-awaited dream a reality.
The park sits on a 39-acre parcel owned by the Sherrill family—land leased to Mohave County for 50 years at just $1 per year. Using equipment and labor donated by contractors from Azarmi’s development firm, the team performed the initial rough grading.
The project soon drew attention across the region. An anonymous donor pledged $250,000—but only if the team could match it twice over. The Legacy Foundation quickly stepped forward with a $250,000 grant, and at the time, Steve Moss, newly elected to Mohave County Board of Supervisors, was instrumental in securing another $250,000 in support to procure the initial pledge.
“District 5 had no community park, even though it’s one of the second largest property tax bases
in the County,” Azarmi explains. “We knew this would benefit thousands of families.”
Lighting the Fields and Lifting the Spirit By 2018, the park’s first softball and soccer fields were complete—but the desert heat made daytime use difficult. Lighting was critical, yet cost estimates came in at $2.2 million. Undeterred, Azarmi reached out to Mohave Electric Cooperative, who not only agreed to help but did so entirely through volunteer labor.
On a Saturday morning, 47 Mohave Electric employees arrived—on their own time—to install 17 steel light poles in just four hours.
“MEC employees live here, raise their families here, and care deeply about this community,” says Tyler Carlson, CEO of Mohave Electric Cooperative. “When there is a chance to help local kids play ball under the lights, our team shows up with their sleeves rolled up.”
Among the volunteers were community members from every walk of life: electricians from H.T.W.T. Electric, then-County Supervisor Steve Moss, former hospital CEO Alex Villa, doctors, and residents from
across Mohave Valley and Fort Mohave. The lighting equipment, provided through Wisconsin Lighting and supported by a $95,000 grant from Legacy Foundation, gave new life to the park.
A Playground Built by Hundreds
No community park is complete without a place for children to play. Initially in 2019, Legacy Foundation contributed $75,000 along with the $75,000 donation from Fiesta Bowl Charities, and $30,000 from the national nonprofit Kaboom, for Azarmi to build the park’s playground. Kaboom requested 80 volunteers—over 300 people showed up from all corners of the valley to help.
Over the years the need for accessible play spaces was requested, which led to the recent upgrades of the playground to include Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) features. First, Mohave County Supervisor Ron Gould kicked off the improvements by providing a $25,000
donation to fund the resurfacing of a concrete area of the park to an ADAcompliant turf for the playground. Numerous volunteers from Redmond Construction, Fairway Village Estates, and local businesses worked alongside residents to install equipment and pour more than 1,200 square feet of concrete and place 900 square feet of ADA-compliant wood-chip surfacing.
To enhance the area, The Home Depot Foundation awarded a $17,700 materials grant and sent a team of a dozen volunteers. They were joined by 18 employees from Southwest Gas, as well as members of the Mohave Sunrise Rotary Club, who together planted over 40 trees, installed six benches, spread decorative gravel, and added 600 square feet of artificial grass.
“It was one of the biggest community workdays we’ve ever had,” Azarmi says. “We had everyone from families to business owners out there working side by side.”
Sustaining the Park: Community in Action
The Mohave Valley Fort Mohave Community Park now serves as a central hub for the entire region. Students from Little League Baseball, the Desert Warrior Football Team, River Valley High School, Harvest Bible Church School, as well as visitors from Golden Shores, Topock, Needles, Bullhead City, and Golden Valley are all welcome to use the park as needed.
The park’s four-acre dog park—the largest in Arizona—is divided for large and small breeds and funded by a generous but anonymous local doctor.
Maintenance is overseen by full-time caretaker Juan Sanchez, also a member of the Mohave Sunrise Rotary Club, which formally adopted the park and has been instrumental in its upkeep for years. Mohave County provides an annual maintenance grant—recently increased to $75,000 per year—ensuring the park’s beauty and safety are preserved.
Community service groups such as the Mohave Sunrise Rotary Club members, River Valley High School Basketball Team, Desert Star Academy, and volunteers from Southwest Gas regularly organize cleanup days.
“It’s amazing how many hands have touched this park,” Azarmi reflects. “From students to retirees, everyone has a role.”
Other Recent Improvements
When newer, brighter LED fixtures became available, Mohave County Supervisor Ron Gould of District 5 secured $200,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to upgrade lighting in all four baseball and softball fields.
Together, TWN Communications, Arizona Electric Power Cooperative, Mohave Electric Cooperative CEO Tyler Carlson and MEC employees donated nearly $50,000 for new poles for the fields and playground, and to remove the old lights and install the new lighting systems.
“MEC was built on a cooperative principle:
concern for community,” Carlson says. “Partnering on a project like this isn’t charity. It’s a gesture we embrace.”
TWN donated $16,897, Arizona Electric Power Cooperative donated $12,000, and Tyler Carlson donated $3,000 for new poles for the ball fields and playground. MEC crew members donated their time and equipment by volunteering to install the new poles and hang the lighting for a value of $16,000, and MEC-subcontractor Outsource Utility Contractor, led by Neil Garney, donated $5,000 in labor to install poles and hang the new scoreboard.
Colin Wood, CEO of TWN Communications added, “We are committed to strengthening neighborhoods and improving quality of life across Mohave County,” Wood says. “This park is a shining example of local collaboration at its best.”
“AEPCO supports the distribution cooperatives that power Arizona’s rural communities,” stated CEO, Patrick Ledger of Arizona Electric Power Cooperative. “Helping strengthen the places where families gather
reflects the very purpose of the cooperative network. When local recreation thrives, so does the community.”
“We joke that players need sunglasses now,” Azarmi says with a smile. “The new lighting is that bright.”
Adding to the enhancements, Tri-State Wi-Fi by Wi-Fiber installed new equipment at the park, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy free public Wi-Fi internet while simultaneously enjoying the many other park features.
Water, Wells, and What’s Next
To sustain its grass fields, the park originally used water from River Valley High School. But thanks to a $90,000 grant from Legacy Foundation and Sherrill’s expertise in well systems, a new well and pump were installed, ensuring long-term irrigation independence—and even backup water for the nearby school.
The park team isn’t slowing down. Seven new projects are planned, and Mohave County, through Supervisor Ron Gould’s
assistance, waived permit-fees for the future improvements for a total of $40,000 in savings. Improvements include:
• A two-story concession and referee building with snack bar and press windows overlooking the four ballfields. A future $250,000 grant from Legacy Foundation is planned to assist with this enhancement.
• A 40×50-foot community Ramada, funded by a future $40,000 donation from Los Matadors de Bullhead City
• New parking-lot lighting, a frequent community request.
• Lighting extensions for the east fields and playground areas.
“Every improvement is driven by feedback from the people who use it,” Azarmi says. “It’s truly a park built by the community, for the community.”
Celebrating a Shared Legacy
A ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 17, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. celebrated the park’s ADA playground and honored the many contributors who made these improvements possible. Attendees included Mohave County Supervisors Ron Gould and Rich Lettman, Judge Steve Moss, members of the local and Phoenix Legacy Foundation Boards, Mohave Electric Cooperative leadership, TWN Communications COO, representatives from The Home Depot, Southwest Gas, the Mohave Sunrise Rotary Club, Mohave Valley Fire Department, and Mohave County Sheriff’s Office, among others.
“This park represents local pride and lasting partnerships,” Carlson says. “Mohave Electric Cooperative is honored to help make each new step a reality.”
A Community’s Heartbeat
From its humble beginnings to its growing
network of ballfields, playgrounds, and gathering spaces, the Mohave Valley Fort Mohave Community Park stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with shared purpose.
Every dollar raised, every pole lifted, every tree planted reflects a collective belief—that the people of Mohave Valley deserve a place to play, connect, and belong.
“This park represents what we can do when we work together,” Azarmi says. “It’s not just about the park—it’s about the people.”
MEC Announces 80th A nn iversary Lo g o
Earlier this year in MEC’s March Currents magazine, CEO Tyler Carlson announced the official 80th Logo Art Contest.
Every milestone year, we have a special logo created to commemorate the achievement.
Mohave Electric Co-op has been proudly serving you with safe, reliable, and affordable power for 79 years. And as a memberowned, not-for-profit distribution utility, we wanted you as owners to participate directly in the logo process. We accepted entries through June 2025.
We must give credit where credit is due! We were thrilled with the engagement from members, from how many members submitted logos, to the talent and creativity of the numerous designs! We literally chuckled that if we had budget to hire a graphics position, we’d hope some of you would apply – that’s the testament to how
truly good the logos were and how incredibly difficult it was to select the official winner!
At our Annual Meeting in September, CEO Tyler Carlson announced Matt Miller as the official winner of the 80th Logo Contest and presented him with a $100 check award and lots of bragging rights!
We are debuting the 80th logo here, so all members can expect to see the logo on all MEC’s content throughout 2026.
We also wanted to give kudos to the 13 logos that made the semifinals. They were all very good in different ways! At MEC we - staff, management, and our board members - all enjoyed reviewing the entries. If MEC has any future contests, we encourage you to participate again! Thank you, members, for helping us celebrate this milestone with your hard work on this project and for creating a successful design for our 80th year. n
CEO Tyler Carlson congratulates Matt Miller with a $100 prize for his winning entry in MEC’s 80th Logo Contest.
PHOTO BY DAYJALITE PHOTO PRODUCTIONS
Co-op Connections Promotion: $300 in Services for Only $50!
Whole-Person Wellness, One Intentional Phase at a Time
Dr. Sheila Barnett owner and physician at Total Health Clinic, knows that total health blossoms when body, mind, and spirit are all cared for. Her mission has never changed: Equip every patient with the knowledge, care, and encouragement they need to live their healthiest life today and for years to come.
Dr. Barnett says, “Compassion first. I listen to your story, not just your symptoms. Together we create a personal individualized program that will benefit your overall well-being.”
Although each patient’s care is on a case-bycase basis, prior to any adjustments, Dr. Barnett takes the time to learn about you, your lifestyle, and what is ailing you. She’ll explain the why, so you feel confident in every decision. She’ll then put into motion your individual roadmap to wellness.
Total Health Clinic believes in the chiropractic roadmap, three phases of care:
• Phase 1: Relief/Acute Phase – calm the pain and inflammation – gentle
chiropractic adjustments, targeted physicaltherapy modalities (e-stim, ultrasound, soft tissue work), and home-care tips you can start the same day.
• Phase 2: Corrective/Restorative Phase –fix the underlying root issues that caused the problem – customized adjustment schedule, digital X-rays or functionalmovement scans to measure progress, and a rehab program that re-trains posture and stabilizes muscles.
• Phase 3: Wellness/Maintenance Phase – keep your spine, and your lifestyle, performing at its best – ergonomic coaching, periodic spinal checkups.
It’s not just chiropractic at Total Health Clinic, they provide Department of Transportation (DOT) and sports physicals, personal nutrition and weight-management plans, ongoing coaching and accountability, diagnostic lab work, functional medicine consultations and treatment. Need something not listed, give them a call and if they can’t provide it, they’ll help you find someone who can.
Barnett’s Total Health Clinic is located at 2775 Miracle Mile, Suite 1, Bullhead City, across from Star Nursery and Scooters Family Fun Center. Flexible scheduling, early-bird and after-work appointments call 928-758-4101 or email thcofchiropractic@gmail.com to schedule your appointment today.
And when you show your Co-op Connections® card or mobile app, you’ll receive a complete consultation, examination, any necessary x-rays, and report of findings for $50.00. That’s a $300 value!
Don’t have a Co-op Connections® card? Stop in at MEC Member Service 928 Hancock Rd. or download the app at connections.coop on your mobile phone.
Businesses, interested in becoming a Co-op Connections® business member but not sure where to start? Scan the QR code or email us at coopconnections@mohaveelectric.com to learn more.
MEMBER Appreciation
October is Member Appreciation Month at Mohave Electric Cooperative — a time dedicated to say thank you to YOU, our members. Every Thursday throughout October, members were invited to stop by and join in the fun with refreshments, giveaways, and good company.
The lobby was buzzing with excitement each week as members enjoyed fresh coffee, popcorn, and “ahhh-mazing” cookies that quickly became a crowd favorite. Alongside the sweet treats, our popular prize wheel kept spirits high and smiles wide. Members spun the wheel for a chance to win fun and useful prizes such as chip clips, night lights, and wireless charging pads — just to name a few!
More than just giveaways, these Thursday celebrations were a chance for members to connect with MEC employees, share stories, and learn more about the cooperative’s programs and services.
The cheerful atmosphere reflected the appreciation we have for each and every one of our members — after all, you are the reason we exist.
“It’s always such a joy to see our members and take a moment to hear what they’ve been up to, or how the kids and grandchildren are doing. I was even treated to a little song and dance from one of our members — moments like that make Member Appreciation Month truly special!” says Christine Owens public affairs coordinator.
TWN Communications also joined us on October 16 and 30. They were able to answer fiber internet questions, and pre-register or sign-up members.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who stopped by to celebrate with us. Whether you enjoyed a cookie, took home a prize, or simply shared a smile, we hope you felt our gratitude for your continued membership and support.
At Mohave Electric Cooperative, every month is about serving you — but October gave us the perfect opportunity to show just how much we appreciate our members!
Community Safety Fair Lights Up Learning for Kids
The Bullhead City Fire Department’s Community Risk Reduction Safety Fair, held at the Anderson Auto Group Fieldhouse, brought learning, fun, and community spirit together for a day focused on safety and awareness. Families from across the area came out to enjoy hands-on activities, exciting demonstrations, and important lessons about staying safe — all designed with kids in mind.
Mohave Electric Cooperative joined the event to help teach young attendees about electrical safety and how power is restored after an outage. The Operations team wowed the crowd with their interactive demonstration, showing how a fuse-style cutout works and how linemen safely close it using an insulated hot stick. Children had the chance to try it themselves — using the hot stick to “turn the power back on,” just like a real lineman. The realistic setup gave children and parents a close-up look at the skill, precision, and teamwork required to bring power back to the community — all while emphasizing the importance of keeping a safe distance from electrical equipment.
To add to the fun, MEC handed out freshly popped popcorn, nightlights, soccer balls, footballs, and Slinkys, all big hits with the kids. The nightlights served as a bright reminder that safety starts at
The Safety Fair was more than just an educational event — it was a celebration of community partnership. Local agencies and organizations came together to share resources, answer questions, and engage families in conversations about fire prevention, emergency preparedness, and household safety.
“We just want to provide as much information and education to our residents as possible,” said Lori Viles, an information specialist and fire investigator for the Bullhead City Fire Department’s Community Risk Reduction Division. “In addition to one-on-one conversations, we try to give them hands-on experience as well.”
By blending interactive demonstrations with family-friendly activities, the Community Risk Reduction Safety Fair helped empower kids with knowledge they can carry into everyday life.
Mohave Electric Cooperative was proud to take part in such an important event dedicated to keeping our community safe, informed, and connected.
home, helping children feel secure during nighttime hours, while the sports balls and Slinkys encouraged active and playful fun.
Mohave Electric Cooperative Holds Annual Meeting
On Thursday, September 18, Mohave Electric Cooperative, Inc. (MEC) held its Annual Meeting at the Anderson Auto Group Fieldhouse. The annual meeting was attended by hundreds of Cooperative members as well as guests, and spotlighted presentations from CEO Tyler Carlson, the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority with the Light Up Navajo project, and the announcement of MEC’s 80th Logo Contest winner, Matt Miller.
Members entered the Fieldhouse, registered, received their complimentary meals, and tote bag filled with swag, and visited informational tables for TWN Communications and Arizona Generation & Transmission Cooperatives (AzG&T). MEC staff
was also on hand to share information on the MEC UAV Drone Program, SmartHub® app, and the Outage Management System.
The annual event, as mandated by the Cooperative’s bylaws, allowed members to vote on a new bylaw requiring all Board of Director candidates to qualify prior to the elections, so members can receive all candidates’ information at once in the mailer and prior to arriving at the election meetings. Board President Joe Anderson introduced the nine, member-elected Directors that comprise Mohave Electric Cooperative’s Board of Directors, along with Patrick Ledger, CEO of AzG&T; Grand Canyon State Electric Cooperative Association (GCSECA) CEO Dave Lock; Chuck Moore, President and CEO of Navopache Electric Cooperative; Russell Smolden, CEO of B3
MEC Linemen Cole Garcia and Chad Valenzuela receive a Light Up Navajo
Vircynthia Charley, representing the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, Kayenta
PHOTOS BY DAYJALITE PHOTO
Strategies; COO Justin Donaldson with TWN Communications; Vircynthia Charley of the Navajo Tribal Utility Authority, Kayenta District; and Tim Sabo, Partner, at Osborn Maledon Attorneys at Law.
MEC’s Tyler Carlson discussed several activities from the past year as well as a glimpse forward to the future. Power supply costs are stable for now, and do not account for the continuous rise in fixed costs of the goods and services that MEC utilizes to distribute electricity to your homes and businesses. These operational costs are also evaluated regularly to ensure MEC’s current rates and charges are adequately supporting these costs while providing the reliable service our members expect. In a recent Key Ratio Trend Analysis survey of electric cooperatives, Mohave Electric ranked 11 out of 11 in having the best rating in the state with the lowest controllable expenses. As a not-for-profit cooperative, MEC’s rates cover the cost of service and are not marked up to generate a profit for shareholders.
MEC contracted an energy rate analyst to review our cost of service based on our audited 2024 financials. This comprehensive study took months and indicated the need for a $5.99 increase to the customer charge on standard residential bills in order to appropriately recover the cost to provide service. Commercial, solar, time of use, and demand services could see a combination of slight increases in customer, energy rates, and demand charges.
MEC also hosted three district meetings earlier in the week. The District 1 election decided by acclamation that Rich Tempelman (District 1) will continue representing members for another threeyear term. Members in attendance at Districts 2 and 3, recommended that Deborah Johnson (District 2) and Toni Barbaro (District 3) continue representing members for a three-year term.
“I’d like to congratulate these three board members who, along with the rest of the board of directors, work tirelessly to help the cooperative and MEC’s members. We are happy to have them continue in their roles. If you haven’t made it out to MEC’s Annual Meeting, I encourage you to come out next year and hear what’s going on,” said CEO Tyler Carlson.
ABOVE: CEO Tyler Carlson congratulates Matt Miller with a $100 prize for his winning entry in MEC’s 80th Logo Contest. LEFT: Old Number 1 on display in front of Anderson Auto Group Fieldhouse for MEC’s 79th Annual Meeting. BELOW: Hundreds of Cooperative members attended MEC’s Annual Meeting.
Employee Spotlight
JUSTIN BROCK
Justin Brock is a Meter Reader at Mohave Electric Cooperative (MEC).
Born and raised in Southern California, Justin moved to the Tri-state area in 2008 and has been proud to call it home ever since. Before joining MEC, he worked at Dot Foods as a Material Handler, where he built pallets, loaded and unloaded trucks, and earned his forklift certification.
At MEC, Justin’s days are busy and active. He performs about 200 manual meter readings a day, often working independently across the cooperative service area. In addition to meter reads, Justin is currently being trained on service orders, including installs and disconnects. When asked about a memorable moment on the job, Justin laughed as he recalled sprinting out of a member’s yard after a large dog suddenly appeared through a doggie door.
Justin says his favorite part of working at MEC is “being able to work on my own and stay active.” He also takes pride in contributing to the community, volunteering for Little League and MEC’s Annual Meeting.
Justin’s strong work ethic traces back to his love of sports. Growing up, he was involved in just about any game that included a ball, especially baseball and football, where he played linebacker and fullback in high school. Today, that same team spirit carries into his life as a youth coach, helping his nine-year-old son and seven-year-old daughter develop their own love for sports.
When he’s not on the job or on the field, Justin enjoys spending time with his family at theme parks, pumpkin patches, and other local attractions. His favorite movies, The Nightmare Before Christmas and National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, capture his fun, family-oriented personality.
A fan of country, rap, and rock music, Justin finds a good playlist makes even the longest days more enjoyable. When it comes to sports, he roots for the Los Angeles Angels, Los Angeles Chargers, and University of Michigan.
Looking ahead, Justin says he’s found his long-term home at Mohave Electric Cooperative. “I plan on retiring with MEC,” he shares proudly, a sentiment that reflects the dedication and community spirit that makes him such a valued part of our team. If you see Justin in the field, be sure to say hello!
FROM TOP: Justin with his wife at a local wedding.
Justin with his wife and kids at a pumpkin patch.
Justin and his son celebrated a win at the perfect game travel baseball championship.
RIGHT: The Brock family at Ruth Lake, California during an annual vacation. PHOTOS COURTESY OF JUSTIN BROCK/MEC
Bacon Wrapped Artichokes
Hi MEC Members,
Chief Communications Officer Allison Ellingson shares her favorite appetizer. Allison Ellingson
Directions
This appetizer is my absolute favorite. A recipe taught by my mama, and is perfect for holiday gatherings, football parties, or just a tasty snack. It is easy to make, very simple prep and cleaning, full of flavor, and a guaranteed crowd pleaser. You can serve in the same pan or keep warm on low temp in a crockpot. Ingredients
1
2 14 oz cans or jars of artichoke hearts (quartered)
Baking Pan 9x13
Cooling Rack (for cooking)
Preheat Oven to 350 degrees.
Line your baking pan with aluminum foil then place the cooling rack in the pan. Strain and rinse quartered artichokes in a strainer. Cut bacon slices in half. Wrap bacon around each artichoke and secure with a toothpick. Place enough brown sugar in a separate bowl to roll and fully coat the artichokes and place on wire cooling rack in pan in single rows. Sprinkle more brown sugar over the entire dish. Bacon grease will drain through cooling rack while cooking. Cook 30 – 45 minutes depending on how you like your bacon cooked and enjoy!
PHContestto MEC Member Contest
Congratulations to Chris who won a $25 power credit for his stunning photo of Lagoon Nebula captured using his astrophotography setup. Lagoon Nebula is located about 4,000 light years away.
Mohave Electric Cooperative would like to thank our members for their Co-op spirit by submitting photos in our recent Photo Contest. Power credits for the winner will automatically be added to your member account.
Send us your favorite recipe and you may be featured in our 2026 Fall magazine. Email recipes to mecpa@mohaveelectric.com Submit a
Photo Winner: Chris C.
Energy Sources Activity
Did you know Americans use electricity that is generated from different fuel sources? Some fuel sources are renewable, meaning they harness natural energy from the Earth’s resources, and some are non-renewable, meaning they use fossil fuels.
Do you know which energy sources are renewable and non-renewable? Use safety scissors to cut out the images below and place them in the correct row. Use the answer key to check your work.
Renewable Sources
Non-Renewable Sources
Unplug and Play
Use family fun to teach kids the power of energy conservation
By Drew Woolley
Everyone likes finding ways to save on their energy bill. But watching the thermostat like a hawk, turning off lights behind everyone in the house and sweating an investment in energy-efficient appliances isn’t much fun, especially when you’re trying to get the kids to play along.
Fortunately, electric cooperatives have been working to make energy savings more approachable for many years.
After decades of educating kids of all ages, cooperatives have learned a few helpful tricks to resonate with younger audiences. Hands-on activities, such as asking kids to look through their backpacks for electronic devices and calculating how much energy they use, can drive home just how much electricity they use in their daily lives. Meanwhile, avoiding technical terms like “energy efficiency” can help saving energy feel less daunting and more fun.
Even so, some of the most effective ways to drive home the importance of energy conservation are the routine reminders members may have heard from their parents growing up. Luckily, there are still plenty of ways to teach your kids the importance of energy conservation while having fun as a family.
Here are some fun ways to encourage energy efficiency and conservation at home:
Cook a family-powered dinner. Have
AI-GENERATED ILLUSTRATION BY FREEPIK/BRANDON POMRENKE
the whole family help cook dinner with one rule: No electricity is allowed. Avoid using major kitchen appliances like electric ovens, blenders, mixers or microwaves to teach kids about common ways your family uses electricity during peak demand times. Top it all off with some no-bake treats.
Take turns on power patrol. Every child enjoys being in charge from time to time. Take turns letting everyone in your family be responsible for enforcing good energy habits around the house for a week. You can even set up a point system for every time they notice a light left on in an empty room, unplug unused electronics chargers or adjust the thermostat to a more efficient setting. Offer prizes and rewards to encourage them to be mindful of energy use every day.
Build an energy-efficient dream home. Encourage everyone to design their dream home with energy-saving features in mind. This is a great way to introduce ideas like solar panels, efficient appliances and sustainable
building materials. Break out the crayons and art supplies to bring their homes to life, or use household crafts to build models.
Play energy-saving bingo. Make bingo cards with squares for energy-saving actions like using natural light instead of lamps or ceiling lights, unplugging devices, turning off lights and cooling off the temperature by opening a window. Kids can cross out each square as they complete each task, and the first one to bingo gets a prize.
Have power-free fun. Designate one night a week as power-free time when everyone in the family turns off phones, computers and TVs together. Play a board game, spend time reading your favorite books or enjoy some outdoor activities technology-free. Save on your electric bill, teach the importance of reducing energy use during peak periods and get some valuable family time all at once.
Make an energy-saving scavenger hunt. Make up a list of energy-saving practices,
such as updating light fixtures with LED bulbs, turning off lights in empty rooms and unplugging unused devices. Challenge your kids to search the house and check off an example of each scavenger hunt item. You can celebrate with small prizes or treats for each energy-efficient discovery they make along the way.
Create energy-efficient art. Kids enjoy seeing their artwork displayed, so put those creative skills to work on energy-efficient reminders around the house. Spend arts and crafts time teaching your kids about some of the steps they can take to save energy around the house. Make fun signs to serve as daily reminders to close the fridge quickly, turn off lights and only change the thermostat as a last resort.
Keep “phantom power” waste bottled up. Phantom energy—the electricity devices use even when they are turned off—can be a tricky concept for kids to understand. Illustrate it in a fun way
by adding marbles to a glass bottle or jar every time someone spots an unused device still plugged in. Set a goal and reward yourselves when everyone keeps phantom energy use down.
No matter what you do to keep energy savings fun around the house, the most important part of instilling good habits is reliably reminding your family of the little steps they can take to be more efficient. Consistency is key. n
National Night Out
Building Safer, Stronger Communities
Every year, neighborhoods across the United States come together to celebrate National Night Out, a unique initiative that strengthens community ties and promotes safety. Since its inception in 1984, law enforcement agencies nationwide have connected with residents and neighbors in an effort to reduce crime.
Over the years, the event evolved. By the late 1980s, neighborhoods began hosting block parties, cookouts, parades, and safety demonstrations, often with local police and fire departments in attendance. In the 2000s, the celebration expanded to include all 50 states, U.S. territories, and even military bases worldwide.
The local event, originally held in the parking lot at Mohave Electric Cooperative’s (MEC) Member Service office on Hancock Road, began over 20+ years ago. When it outgrew the Hancock parking lot space, the event was moved to the Bullhead City Police Department (BHCPD) parking lot.
This year, Bullhead City Police Department, Bullhead City Fire Department (BHCFD), and Mohave Electric Cooperative hosted National Night Out, a free local community event held on Wednesday, October 1, 2025. More than two dozen organizations joined the evening event.
It’s more than just a celebration; it’s a platform for crime prevention education, neighborhood camaraderie, and community engagement. Activities included games, refreshments, raffle drawings, face painting, safety demonstrations, children’s events, miniature horses, resource booths, information and demonstrations from police and fire personnel.
Mohave Electric contributed to the festivities by sponsoring some of the refreshments, face painting, tables and chairs, as well as purchasing raffle prizes that included boys’ and girls’ bicycles, scooters, board games, LEGO sets, and other fun toys - helping create an exciting and welcoming atmosphere for everyone who attended.
MEC employees handed out gourmet chocolate chip cookies, footballs, and soccer balls, while the operations team brought an interactive demonstration of power restoration, using the closing of the fuse style cut out with the insulated hot stick.
The mission of National Night Out is simple yet powerful: to build safer and more connected communities. By bringing neighbors and first responders together in a spirit of cooperation and celebration, the event encourages residents to look out for one another and fosters a sense of shared responsibility for community well-being. From humble beginnings to a national tradition, National Night Out continues to strengthen the bonds that make neighborhoods thrive.
For more information on National Night Out and future events, please contact the Bullhead City Police Department at (928) 763-9200 ext. 8204.
Bridge to Bridge First Responders Appreciation Day & Chili Cook-Off
Bridge First Responders Appreciation Day and Chili Cook-Off held at the Mohave Valley Fort Mohave Community Park.
Representing MEC were Chief Communications Officer Allison Ellingson, Public Affairs Coordinator Christine Owens, and MEC alum and former Chief Financial Officer Ardie Lauxman — each bringing their own unique flavor to the competition.
It was “game on” as contestants fired up their Sterno flames, crockpots, and propane stoves, filling the air with the mouthwatering aroma of simmering chili. Anticipation grew as the line of eager taste testers began to form, spoons in hand and appetites ready. After plenty of stirring, seasoning, and good-natured competition, the moment everyone was waiting for arrived.
�� Drumroll for the winners:
�� 1st Place: Ardie Lauxman — Green Hatch Chile Chili
�� 2nd Place: Christine Owens — Warm Your Heart Chili
�� 3rd Place: Allison Ellingson — You Had Me at Cheese Chili
Allison and Christine had so much fun cooking — and eating — their delicious creations they couldn’t resist sharing their recipes with all of you! Ardie, on the other hand, declared that his first-place Green Hatch Chile Chili recipe is proprietary and would remain locked away in the vault, guarded by an imaginary fire-breathing dragon. Who could blame him!
Award Winning Chili Recipes
1st Place: Ardie’s ‘Green Hatch Chile’ Chili
2nd Place Christine’s ‘Warm Your Heart’ Chili
Ingredients:
1 14oz can chili beans, drained and rinsed
1 14 oz can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 14 oz can diced or crushed tomatoes
1 8 oz can tomato sauce
1 small white onion chopped
1 green pepper chopped
6 cloves garlic chopped
2 Lawry’s chili packets (or any other brand)
2-3 tbsp oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper
1 tsp ground pepper
1 ½ - 2 lbs round steak (cut into small cubes) or any other steak or ground beef you choose
3rd
Directions:
Turn flame to medium, add oil to a large pan. Once the pan is warm, add onion, green pepper, and garlic, stir to coat with oil. Cook for about 3-5 minutes; onions will look translucent. Add your meat and cook thoroughly. Add tomatoes and tomato sauce, mix well. Add the chili packets and other seasonings (you can add more to taste) mix well. Add the drained/rinsed beans and mix well. Let simmer for about 40-50 minutes, then enjoy!
Place Allison’s ‘You Had Me at Cheese’ – Chicken & Navy Bean Chili
Ingredients:
3 lbs ground chicken
1 14 oz can southwest corn (with poblano & red pepper)
1 32 oz chicken stock
4 14 oz can navy beans, drained and rinsed
1 14 oz can Ro*Tel (diced tomatoes with lime juice & cilantro)
2 tbsp jarred chopped garlic (or use fresh)
1 onion
3 tbsp New Mexico chile powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp ground pepper
2 tsp salt
2 tsp Lawry’s salt
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp coriander
8 oz jar 505 Flame Roasted Green Chile
1 ½ lbs Velveeta Cheese (diced into half inch cubes)
Directions:
In a large saucepan cook meat with all the dry seasonings till browned to ensure the chicken itself has plenty of flavor. Add chicken stock and your preference of onion (diced or whole). In this recipe, we peeled & cut each end and left the onion whole in the chili and later removed from the pot. Add corn, tomatoes, beans, and garlic. Mix well. Add the remainder of the seasonings (add more or less to taste). Let simmer for 1 hour. Add in the 505 Flame Roasted Green Chile, some or the entire jar, based on your preference. Add Velveeta Cheese cubes 1 cup at a time to your liking. We used 1.5 lbs of a 2lb Velveeta box. Stir occasionally as the cheese melts. Once completely melted, pour yourself a bowl and enjoy!
MEC REBATE PROGRAM UNDERGOES CHANGES AFTER ACC REVIEW
Electric cooperatives in most states across the country are not regulated, but here in Arizona we have the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) as the regulatory authority. The Commission is comprised of five elected officials and with staff oversees most utilities in the state including Mohave Electric Cooperative (MEC).
In 2010, the Arizona Corporation Commission (ACC) voted and created the Energy Efficiency (EE) and Demand Side Management (DSM) Rules. These were put in place by a different set of elected officials, but the mandates have remained in place for fifteen years.
member-customers compared to investor-owned utilities (thousands to millions of customers), the ACC granted the exemption.
The rules required utilities to create and implement programs to meet minimum energy efficiency goals. To fund the program, budgets were established and a mechanism to fund the budget, called a DSM tariff, is shown as a separate line item on member bills when collected. As a result, MEC members have seen this surcharge on their MEC bills for more than ten years now. The ACC also requires annual and bi-annual reporting on the program. This has been an ongoing requirement and process for utilities for more than a decade: propose programs, adjust tariffs if needed for budget purposes, receive approval from the Commission, and submit reports on results for approved programs.
The programs have proven to be beneficial to members by saving energy and associated savings on electric bills. The Arizona cooperatives were able to receive an exemption to the rule and create more achievable energy efficiency goals, since the programs are mandated but based on volunteer participation. With smaller
The elected officials on the Commission have changed throughout the years, each with their own opinion on the EE and DSM rules and programs. However, the current elected Commissioners have strong leadership ideas for the state and have prioritized focusing on reliability and affordability. They have also stated they do not support subsidies for the rich and are not in favor of mandates. Last year they opened the idea of repealing the EE and DSM rules, and on September 17, 2025, the Commission unanimously approved the initiation to repeal the rules. Next steps include filing the repeal with the Arizona Secretary of State at the end of October, holding public comment hearings in December, and filing the repeal with the Attorney General’s Office for approval by mid-2026.
What does this mean for MEC and our members?
The Commissioners balanced their desire to see the mandates repealed and supporting individual utility programs on merit. In August 2025, the Commission changed MEC’s existing program significantly, but they offered alternative programs for MEC to continue having energy efficiency options and assistance for our members instead of none at all. The Commission voted similarly for Unisource Energy, too, a few months prior.
MEC’s new programs will be available for qualifying low-income and
fixed-income members that are property owners.
• MEC will still offer rebates to these eligible members for a/c systems, heat pumps, and mini split systems. Rebates range from $200 – $2,000 depending on which system and which higher SEER rating.
• MEC will continue to partner with Bullhead City and WACOG on Weatherization improvements, and this budget has increased to $4,000 per eligible household.
• MEC will still be available to provide phone or in-person Home Energy Reviews and will be a resource of information for energy efficiency questions, tips, and brochures.
MEC will be updating our website over the next few weeks with the new qualification form and program details to begin processing any rebates moving forward. MEC will distribute the remaining inventory of our LED light bulbs to our members. Operation Cool Shade is budgeted and approved under the committed funds for this year, which is why Operation Cool Shade was able to continue as planned with tree sales in September and pick-up on November 15, 2025, in Bullhead City or in Kingman on November 17, as pre-ordered.
Essentially, the DSM / EE programs can change year-to-year whether Commission driven, MEC driven, or member driven. We believe our program has assisted thousands of members over the last decade (plus) with rebates, lowered energy bills, which equates to savings on member bills. We’d also love to hear from you, so if you have questions or thoughts, please reach out to MEC’s energy management specialist Courtney Nixon at 928-763-1100 or cnixon@mohaveelectric.com.
Powering Progress: AEPCO and MEC Support Nucor’s Expansion
Nucor, the largest steel producer in North America, operates a facility on the outskirts of Kingman, Az. The plant manufactures wire rod and rebar used primarily in the construction of roads, buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure. By recycling scrap metal into new steel products, Nucor is one of the most sustainable steel producers in the world.
Nucor’s Kingman mill is undergoing a major expansion that includes the installation of a new electric arc furnace. This upgrade will boost the facility’s production capacity to approximately 600,000 tons annually.
With the increased production comes greater electricity needs. Nucor brainstormed with Ameresco, Mohave Electric Cooperative (MEC), Arizona Electric Power Cooperative (AEPCO), and GreenFront Energy Partners on a solution to meet Nucor’s reliability and energy demand needs.
While AEPCO and MEC contracts can provide round-the-clock access to affordable grid power, reducing peak demand periods can help manage and lower costs for Nucor. To support this effort, Nucor secured a 20-year storage services agreement with Ameresco.
On October 16, Nucor and Ameresco held a ribbon cutting ceremony announcing the expansion and the commercial operation of an onsite 50 MW / 200 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) that will be integrated with a 25 MW solar system to offset a portion of Nucor’s energy needs.
The project featuring 58 Tesla Megapack 2XL battery units will be the largest behind-the-meter (BTM) project in Arizona and ranked fourth largest in the United States. The solar is scheduled to come online in 2026. Nucor also contracted with AEPCO and MEC for an additional 25 MW solar project to be completed in the next couple years.
Renewable Energy Standard & Tariff Program Updates
Similarly to the Demand Side Management (DSM) and Energy Efficiency (EE) rules discussed on page 26, the Arizona Corporation Commission created the Renewable Energy Standard and Tariff (REST) Rules back in 2006 and recently in August decided to start the process of repealing these rules. The REST goal is to reduce Arizona’s carbon footprint by requiring regulated electric utilities to meet minimum percentage goals of renewable energy resource generation. Investorowned utilities have a 15% minimum requirement for their renewable energy generation portfolios by this year. Whereas a small cooperative, MEC’s goal has been a four percent goal of consecutive retail energy sales which increases each year. MEC’s most recent REST plan was approved by the Commission in early 2024 and remains in effect.
MEC’s REST programs have funded solar rebates to MEC members over the years and the SunWatts Renewable Energy and Sustainability grants to educators and schools. MEC also believes in helping those that help others and created our Solar Initiative for the Community program. Non-profit and government entities that utilize their own funding to help MEC members and residents can qualify for a SunWatts solar grant through MEC’s REST program. This will allow the agency to reduce their monthly electric bill and the savings to be utilized on their programs that directly benefit MEC members and residents.
MEC’s most recent recipient of the Solar Initiative for the Community program was the Bullhead City Fire Department #7 awarded in September 2025 for $50,000. These are long-term projects as many buildings need engineering designs for solar, building permits, and solar bids and awards before they can start the months-long construction process. By adding solar to publicly funded buildings, MEC is helping our members indirectly by saving tax dollars which would have been spent on energy costs.
“Mohave Electric Cooperative’s support makes a real difference for our community,” said Bullhead City Fire District Assistant Chief, Scott Neal. “This grant allows us to install solar panels, reducing operational costs so we can direct more resources to our core mission of providing fire protection and emergency medical services. We value our strong partnership with MEC and the positive impact it delivers for the citizens we serve.” MEC has provided $1.9 million in solar to more than 45 community-based projects across our service territory since 2010.
MEC will continue to monitor any changes or updates to the REST rules. If any members have questions on the SunWatts rebates or programs, please contact Courtney Nixon, MEC’s Energy Management Specialist at 928-763-1100 or cnixon@mohaveelectric.com.
December 2025 February 2026 Community Calendar
January
A Message from CEO Tyler Carlson
2025 Reflections
Greetings MEC Members,
On behalf of the MEC Board of Directors and staff, I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! 2025 has been a busy and eventful year for MEC. I’d like to share a few highlights with you.
Rate Case
We know rising costs are at the top of everyone’s mind. We are pleased that fuel and power generation costs remained stable this year, with no adjustable PPA charges implemented in 2025. Many of you attended our Rate Case townhall meetings, where we described the double and triple fixed cost increases we’ve incurred that have led to our proposed $5.99 residential customer charge increase, along with other increases to commercial, demand, and solar members. We will continue to keep all members informed as this process moves into 2026. Even with these changes, we are proud to have the lowest overall monthly residential bill costs compared to any other regulated investor-owned or co-op electric utility in Arizona. This is the result of conscientious efforts by MEC’s Board of Directors and management to control costs where we can without sacrificing reliability and while maintaining exceptional member service.
Reliability
Reliability is MEC’s #1 priority. We have made numerous system improvements this year as we strive to keep the lights on 100% of the time. Through our line hardening program – the process of upgrading 1 of every 3 wooden poles to steel or ductile iron – we replaced 32 poles in our eastern service territory near Blake Ranch Road and Hualapai Mountain Road. Also, 6 miles of line were hardened between Vanderslice on Courtwright Road and Golden Shores.
Resources
We’ve continued to expand our natural gas, solar, and battery resources to account for the large amount of growth we’ve experienced over the years, as well as meet our peak load which has been increasing annually. The diversity in energy sources gives us flexibility to use the most cost-effective resource while maintaining local generation options to limit disruptions in power.
Grants
Together with TWN Communications, we secured two broadband grants – BTA and BEAD – to help continue the build out of our fiber project. Also partnered with our generation and transmission provider Arizona Electric Power Cooperative, we have been selected for both NewERA and PACE solar and battery system projects. We are grateful to receive these grants and look forward to implementing them in the coming years.
As 2025 ends, we are pleased with our accomplishments and are excited for the opportunities in 2026. Next year we celebrate our 80th Anniversary of providing safe and reliable electricity to MEC members! This milestone is only made possible by the trust and support of our members. Thank you, and together, we’ll continue to build a stronger, more resilient energy future.
CEO Tyler Carlson