JULY 2026
Powering Rural New Mexico Together Member cooperatives gather at NMRECA’s 82nd Annual Meeting to celebrate achievements, strengthen partnerships and prepare for the future Page 14 Socorro Electric CEO Manny Gonzales leads a safety demonstration with rural NM electric lineworkers. PHOTO BY LONNIE TUCKER
July 1, 2026 • Vol. 78, No. 6 USPS 175-880 • ISSN 0046-1946 Enchantment (ISSN 0046-1946) is published 10 times a year—every month except June and December—by the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association, 614 Don Gaspar Ave., Santa Fe, NM 87505. Enchantment provides reliable, helpful information on rural living and energy use to electric cooperative members and customers. More than 113,000 families and businesses receive Enchantment magazine as electric cooperative members. Nonmember subscriptions are available at $12 a year or $18 for two years, payable to NMRECA. Allow four to eight weeks for first delivery. PERIODICAL POSTAGE paid at Santa Fe, NM and additional mailing offices. CHANGE OF ADDRESS: POSTMASTER, please send address changes to 614 Don Gaspar Ave., Santa Fe, NM. Readers who receive the publication through their electric cooperative membership should report address changes to their local electric cooperative office. THE NEW MEXICO RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION provides legislative and educational services to the cooperatives that are members of the association and deliver electric power to New Mexico’s rural areas and small communities. The mission of the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association is to strengthen, support, unify and represent cooperative member interests at the local, state and national levels. Each cooperative has a representative on the association’s board of directors, which controls the editorial content and advertising policy of Enchantment through its Publications Committee. OFFICERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Tim Morrow, President, Springer Electric Co-op, Springer; Charles G. Wagner, Vice President, Western Farmers’ Electric Co-op, Anadarko, Oklahoma; Preston Stone, Secretary-Treasurer, Otero County Electric Co-op, Cloudcroft. BOARD OF DIRECTORS Rusty Gwynne, Central Valley Electric Co-op, Artesia; Bill King, Central NM Electric Co-op, Mountainair; Chris Martinez, Columbus Electric Co-op, Deming; Keith Gottlieb, Continental Divide Electric Co-op, Grants; Antonio Sanchez, Farmers’ Electric Co-op, Clovis; Manny Bustos, Jemez Mountains Electric, Española; Bobby Ferris, Lea County Electric Co-op, Lovington; James Ortiz, Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative, Mora; Thomas G. Rivas, Northern Río Arriba Electric Co-op, Chama; Eric Segovia, Roosevelt County Electric Co-op, Portales; Raymond Ruffini, Sierra Electric Co-op, Elephant Butte; Manny Gonzales, Socorro Electric Cooperative; Joe Reeser, Southwestern Electric Co-op, Clayton; Wayne Connell, Tri-State G&T Association, Westminster, Colorado. NEW MEXICO RURAL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE ASSOCIATION 614 Don Gaspar Ave. Phone: 505-982-4671 Santa Fe, NM 87505 Fax: 505-982-0153 nmelectric.coop Enchantment.coop Vince Martinez, CEO Tom Condit, Editor & Director of Communications DISPLAY ADVERTISING: Rates available upon request. Co-op members and New Mexico display advertisers, email Ryan Ferguson at Enchantmentads@nmelectric. coop or call 409-313-3142. National representative: American MainStreet Publications, 800-626-1181. Advertisements in Enchantment are paid solicitations and are not endorsed by the publisher or the electric cooperatives that are members of the New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association. PRODUCT SATISFACTION, COMPLAINCE WITH APPLICABLE ADVERTISING RULES AND REGULATIONS, AND DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITY LIE SOLELY WITH THE ADVERTISER. © 2026 New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association, in partnership with Pioneer Utility Resources. Reproduction prohibited without written permission of the publisher.
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Sharing Community and Connection Dear Members, July is a time when families across New Mexico and our nation come together to celebrate America’s independence. This year is especially meaningful as we recognize the 250th anniversary of our country. Across rural communities, families will gather, memories will be made, fireworks will light the sky, and traditions both old and new will continue to bring people together. That same sense of community and connection was on full display during New Mexico Rural Cooperative Association’s 82nd Annual Meeting, held May 27-29. Over the course of those 2 1/2 days, I personally felt the friendships, cooperative spirit and sense of purpose shared among our member cooperatives, vendors and guests from across the state. I remain deeply grateful to the member-owners of rural New Mexico’s electric cooperatives, the cooperative employees who work every day to keep the lights on and the many people behind the scenes who help make our communities stronger. It is not always easy work, but we lean on one another, support one another and continue moving forward together year after year. As we pass the halfway point of 2026, the world around us continues to change, but the cooperative spirit across rural New Mexico remains strong and steadfast. I also want to extend a sincere thank-you to all of the volunteers who helped make this year’s Annual Meeting possible. Events like this simply would not happen without your extra hands, time and dedication. Thank you as well to our managers and boards for your continued support and participation. And finally, remember that Enchantment is your magazine. We want to hear from you. Please continue sending us your recipes, your children’s and grandchildren’s accomplishments, story ideas, photos and community highlights. Your contributions help make this publication a true reflection of the people and communities we serve. Together, we power New Mexico. Warmly, Tom Condit Editor & Director of Communications New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association
Monthly Photo Contest Winner Congratulations to Christina Fleming! Christina read her Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative edition of Enchantment while riding her gelding, Nickle. Christina wins $20!
Take a photo of yourself or someone else with the magazine, and email it with a few words about the photo. Include your name, mailing address and co-op name. One lucky member will win $20. Submitting your photos gives us permission to publish or post the photos in Enchantment, on Facebook and in other media outlets. Email tcondit@nmelectric.coop.
July 2026
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CONTENTS 4 Your Electric Co-op 6 A Statewide View 10 Remembering Alan Hale 12 Career Success 13 Cooperative Youth Spotlight 14 Annual Meeting Recap 16 County Fairs, Rodeos and Summer Traditions 19 Your Voice, Your Vote 20 Co-op Kitchen 22 The Market Place 26 Around New Mexico 30 Cooperative Youth Art
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Your Co-op’s Page
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Your Co-op’s Page
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A STATEWIDE VIEW
Co-ops Are Tailored for You, Our Members Happy 90th Birthday to the Rural Electrification Act May 27 marked the 90th birthday of the Rural Electrification Act, which President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed into law in 1936. The REA changed life in rural America forever, bringing light and power to all corners of our country. New Mexico’s first rural electric cooperative was Central Valley Electric Cooperative in Artesia, founded in 1937. Today, New Mexico is home to 16 distribution cooperatives, mostly powered by two generation and “We are a very young country. transmission cooperatives, Tri-State and Western Farmers G&Ts.
Our country is like no other in
Primary Election Day Comes and Goes with a Yawn world history, founded on the A couple of things we knew for sure before the June 2 primary were that at the end of the year we would swear in a new governor, a new lieutenant governor, a simple idea of ‘for the people, new secretary of state and a new land commissioner. Those general election races by the people.’” are now set. The results from June 2 indicate the makeup of the New Mexico House of Representatives will remain firmly under the control of the progressive wing of the Democratic Party. The New Mexico State Senate was not part of this election cycle because its members serve four-year terms and won’t be on the ballot until 2028. Once again, voter turnout for the primary was weak at best. Out of 1,408,185 eligible voters, only 343,768 voted, a rate of 24.41%. For the first time in the state’s history, registered independents were allowed to vote in the primary. Unfortunately, only about 10% chose to do so. D-Day June 26 was the 82nd anniversary of D-Day. The late Andy Rooney, a D-Day veteran, put it like this: “A Day unlike any other. There have only been a handful of days since the beginning of time during which the direction the world was taking has been changed for the better in one 24-hour period by the act of man; June 6th, 1944, was one of them. The landing of American, British, and Canadian soldiers on the continent of Europe to liberate it from Hitler’s German Army was one of the most monumentally unselfish things one group of people ever did for another.” If you think the world is selfish and rotten, go to the cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach, as I was honored to do last year, and see what one group of men did for another on D-Day on June 6, 1944. On May 25, our country observed Memorial Day. This day is set aside by our country to honor those who gave their lives in military service to the nation. I wonder what the more than 1.3 million service members who gave their lives for our freedoms would think about the dismal voter turnout we saw in New Mexico and around the country. Happy Birthday, America This Fourth of July marks the 250th birthday of the United States. Relative to world history, we are a very young country. Our country is like no other in world history, founded on the simple idea of ‘for the people, by the people.’ As we work through some growing pains as a young nation, I hope we can continue to work together toward the common good in all things and in each other. So go out on the Fourth and party like it’s 1776! Vince Martinez, NMRECA CEO 6
JULY 2026
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SMART POWER FOR NEW MEXICO
Keep Your Cool for Less By July, afternoon temperatures across much of New Mexico routinely climb into the 90s, while some areas experience triple-digit heat. Whether you live on the high plains, in a mountain valley or on a ranch miles from town, keeping your home cool can become one of the largest contributors to your summer electric bill. For many electric cooperative members, summer cooling costs account for a significant portion of seasonal energy use. Why Summer Bills Increase Air conditioning systems work hardest during the hottest months of the year. As outdoor temperatures rise, cooling equipment must run longer and more frequently to maintain indoor comfort. In many New Mexico communities, homes face additional cooling challenges. Intense sunshine, limited tree cover, large westfacing windows and older construction all contribute to increased heat gain. As a result, air conditioners, evaporative coolers and ventilation systems work harder to keep indoor spaces comfortable. Air Conditioners or Evaporative Coolers Many New Mexico homes rely on evaporative coolers, often called swamp coolers, rather than traditional refrigerated air systems. Evaporative coolers use significantly less electricity than conventional air conditioners because they cool air through water evaporation rather than refrigeration. In dry climates, they provide an efficient and cost-effective cooling solution. However, proper maintenance is essential. Cooling pads should be cleaned or replaced regularly, water distribution systems should be inspected, and airflow should be kept unobstructed. During monsoon season, increased humidity may reduce cooling performance, making maintenance even more important. Homes with refrigerated air systems should have annual inspections and routine filter changes to ensure efficient operation throughout the cooling season. The Importance of Thermostat Settings One of the easiest ways to control cooling costs is through thermostat management. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting thermostats as high as comfortably possible during summer months. Many households find setting the thermostat at 78
degrees while home and a few degrees higher while away can provide a balance between comfort and savings. Programmable and smart thermostats can automatically adjust temperatures based on occupancy, reducing unnecessary energy use. Keep the Heat Outside Reducing heat gain allows cooling equipment to work less and save energy. Simple strategies include: • Closing blinds and curtains during the hottest hours of the day. • Installing reflective window coverings on west- and southfacing windows. • Sealing air leaks around doors and windows. • Adding weatherstripping where needed. • Maintaining adequate attic insulation. Outdoor shade can also make a noticeable difference. Trees, awnings, shade sails and covered patios can reduce direct sunlight on walls and windows, helping homes stay cooler naturally. Use Fans Wisely Ceiling fans and portable fans help occupants feel cooler by increasing air movement. This allows you to raise your thermostat without sacrificing comfort. Remember, fans cool people, not rooms. Turn off fans when leaving a room to avoid unnecessary electricity use. Understanding Peak Demand Electricity demand often reaches its highest levels during hot summer afternoons and early evenings when homes and businesses use cooling equipment simultaneously. When thousands of members use electricity at the same time, demand on the electric system increases. By shifting activities to cooler mornings or evenings, you can help reduce strain on the grid. Consider running dishwashers after sunset, clothes dryers during morning hours, and ovens less frequently during peak heat. Use outdoor grills instead of indoor ovens when possible. Improving summer energy efficiency doesn’t require major renovations. Choose one or two efficiency improvements and track your electric use. Small changes often produce meaningful savings over time.
How much can you save? While savings vary by home and lifestyle, common efficiency improvements can make meaningful differences.
• Raise thermostat several degrees while away to save up to 10% on cooling costs. • Replace or clean air filters regularly to improve airflow and efficiency. • Seal air leaks around doors and windows to see a 10-20% reduction in heating and cooling costs. • Install a programmable or smart thermostat for a potential annual savings of $50-$180. • Add shading to sun-exposed windows to reduce cooling demand during peak heat. 8
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Find savings estimates at U.S. Department of Energy, Energy Saver Program; Energy Star Home Energy Savings Resources; and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association energy-efficiency guidance.
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HALE TO THE STARS
REMEMBERING
Alan Hale The Enchantment family was saddened to learn of the passing of longtime columnist and friend Alan Hale. For more than 20 years, Alan shared his passion for astronomy with Enchantment readers, helping generations of New Mexicans better understand and appreciate the wonders of the night sky. Through his monthly column, he brought planets, comets, meteor showers and other celestial events a little closer to home, inspiring readers to look up and explore the universe around them. Many readers recently revisited Alan’s remarkable story through our two-part feature highlighting his life, career and accomplishments. While Alan was widely known for co-discovering Comet Hale-Bopp, one of the most celebrated comets of the modern era, those who followed his writing knew him as much more than an accomplished astronomer. He was a gifted educator, a thoughtful storyteller and a passionate advocate for sharing science with others. Over the years, Alan became a familiar and trusted voice in the pages of Enchantment. His ability to explain complex topics in a clear and engaging way made astronomy accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds. His contributions enriched our magazine and helped foster a lasting appreciation for the night sky throughout rural New Mexico. Alan’s column will be missed, and we are grateful for the many years he shared his knowledge, curiosity and enthusiasm with our readers. We were fortunate to have him as part of the Enchantment family, and his legacy will continue to inspire those who look to the stars with wonder. Thank you, Alan, for more than two decades of friendship, insight and service to our readers.
Alan Hale teaches a class as part of the International Space University’s Southern Hemisphere Space Studies Program in Adelaide, South Australia, in 2019. PHOTO BY VICKI HALE
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CAREER SUCCESS
Success Between the Lines Roosevelt County Electric Cooperative’s Tillman Stevens Selected for ENMU Hall of Honors
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Roosevelt County Electric Cooperative Member Services Manager and Safety Coordinator Tillman Stevens has been selected for induction into Eastern New Mexico University’s 2026 Hall of Honors— one of the university’s highest athletic recognitions. Tillman played football for the ENMU Greyhounds from 2007 to 2010 and established himself as one of the top defensive players in program history. During his collegiate career, he appeared in all 44 games, recording 283 tackles and 12 interceptions while earning numerous honors, including Lone Star Conference North Defensive Back of the Year and multiple All-American selections. Following his time at ENMU, Tillman continued his football career in Austria
with the Vienna Vikings, helping lead the organization to two Austrian League Championships and a European League of Football championship.. Today, Tillman serves the members of Roosevelt County Electric Cooperative and remains active in his community as president of the Roosevelt County Chamber of Commerce. Tillman and the other members of the 2026 Hall of Honors class will be formally recognized during a banquet Oct. 30 and during halftime of ENMU’s football game against Central Washington on Oct. 31. Congratulations to Tillman on this welldeserved recognition honoring his athletic achievements and continued service to his community. n
COOPERATIVE YOUTH SPOTLIGHT
The Story of Macy Hi, my name is Macy and I’m 9 years old. I go to school in Raton.
I am very blessed to have lots of family in my life. My mom, my dad, my stepmom and my three annoying brothers are my favorite people. I have lots of animals! I have one dog, two cats and 10 chickens. In the summertime I like to beat my dad by catching the biggest fish. Also, I love playing sports. I like to play volleyball, basketball, baseball and soccer. Last year, I won a drawing contest with Springer Electric and got a check for $50 in the mail! I couldn’t believe it! I was so excited! They always do nice things for the kids in our area. Thank you. Macy
Write In to Youth Spotlight
Do you know a student who has big dreams, fun hobbies or a great smile? Our Youth Spotlight is a place for young people to share a photo and tell us a little about themselves. If your child, grandchild or student would like to be featured, we’d love to hear from you. If you’d like to nominate someone to be featured in an upcoming Youth Spotlight, send their name, contact information, and their interests and acheivements to tcondit@nmelectric.coop.
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Your Co-op. Your C NMRECA celebrates cooperative spirit at 82nd Annual Meeting By Tom Condit More than 300 cooperative leaders, trustees, partners and guests gathered May 27-29 at Isleta Resort & Casino for New Mexico Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s 82nd Annual Meeting. They gathered to celebrate the people, partnerships and cooperative spirit that power rural New Mexico. Centered around the theme, “Your Co-op. Your Community. Your Annual Meeting,” the event provided an opportunity for New Mexico’s electric cooperatives to celebrate accomplishments, strengthen partnerships, and discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of rural communities across the state.
In his welcome remarks, NMRECA CEO Vince Martinez reflected on the cooperative family that unites New Mexico’s electric cooperatives. While each cooperative serves unique communities and member needs, Vince emphasized the shared values, collaboration and commitment that continue to strengthen the statewide cooperative network. Over three days, attendees participated in legislative and policy discussions, safetyfocused sessions, networking opportunities and updates from cooperative partners. State and federal legislative issues were a central topic, as cooperative leaders heard updates on matters impacting rural electric cooperatives and the communities they serve. The meeting also welcomed several statewide candidates—including
Otero County Electric Cooperative’s Aristeo Chavez, second from right, received the Good Catch award. The award was presented by, from left, Tanner Dunlap, Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperative safety and loss prevention instructor-New Mexico; Travis Sullivan, General Manager of Southwestern Electric Cooperative; Cade Standifer, OAEC director of safety and loss controlNew Mexico; Mario Romero, Otero County Electric Cooperative CEO. PHOTOS BY LONNIE TUCKER
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gubernatorial candidates—providing attendees an opportunity to hear directly from those seeking public office. A highlight of the meeting was the U.S. Forest Service and cooperative signing ceremony, recognizing the ongoing partnership between New Mexico’s electric cooperatives and federal land management agencies. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to wildfire mitigation, protecting critical infrastructure, and safeguarding the communities and landscapes that define rural New Mexico. Safety remained a major focus throughout the meeting. During the Safety Awards Luncheon, several individuals and cooperatives were recognized for their commitment to creating and maintaining a strong culture of safety.
Five cooperatives received the Carl M. Turner Award. From left are Antonio Sanchez, Farmers’ Electric CEO; Anthony Mercure, Northern Río Arriba Electric General Manager; Chris Martinez, Columbus Electric Executive Vice President and General Manager; Mario Romero, OCEC CEO; and Travis Sullivan, SWEC General Manager.
M fa K C h N M
r Community. Beyond the discussions and presentations, the meeting provided an opportunity to recognize individuals whose service and leadership have left a lasting mark on New Mexico’s cooperative community. During the Keven J. Groenewold Co-op Champion Awards Dinner, NMRECA honored state Rep. Jack Chatfield, longtime General Counsel Dan Najjar and the late Mike West, who served as president the Board of Directors at Farmers’ Electric Cooperative for 26 years. While Jack and Dan were unable to attend, Mike’s family was present to accept the award on his behalf. Each recipient was recognized for their dedication to rural communities, advocacy for electric cooperatives and commitment to the cooperative principles that continue to guide the industry. Attendees participated in a variety of educational sessions focused on leadership,
safety, public policy and workforce development, while the Vendor Expo provided opportunities to connect with industry partners and explore emerging technologies and services supporting cooperative operations. As the meeting concluded, one message remained clear: The strength of New Mexico’s electric cooperatives lies not only in the infrastructure they maintain, but in the people and partnerships behind it. Through collaboration, service and a shared commitment to the communities they serve, cooperative leaders continue to build a stronger future for rural New Mexico. NMRECA extends its sincere appreciation to our co-op leaders, board members, speakers, sponsors, vendors, volunteers, and attendees whose support, dedication, and participation contributed to the success of the 82nd Annual Meeting.
Safety Awards Winners
During the Safety Awards Luncheon, NMRECA recognized individuals from around the state who exemplified safety over the past year. Long Rope Safety Award: Omar Pinon, Lea County Electric Cooperative Good Catch Award: Aristeo Chavez, Otero County Electric Cooperative My Why Award, recognizing his dedication to the values and purpose that drive the cooperative mission: Kenneth Marble, Columbus Electric Carl M. Turner Award: Columbus Electric Cooperative, Farmers’ Electric Cooperative, Otero County Electric Cooperative and Southwestern Electric Cooperative.
ADOBE STOCK IMAGES BY LOTNOM, HNKZ
Mike West’s wife, Stacy, and family members accept the Keven J. Groenewold Co-op Champion Award on behalf of her late husband from NMRECA Board President Tim Morrow.
Kenneth Marble, center, of Columbus Electric Cooperative won the My Why Award. It was presented by, from left, Tanner Dunlap, OAEC safety and loss prevention instructor-New Mexico; Cade Standifer, OAEC director of safety and loss control-New Mexico; Bryan Jackson, Columbus Electric Operations Manager; and Travis Sullivan, SWEC general manager.
Lea County Electric Cooperative’s Omar Pinon, second from right, won the Long Rope Safety Award. It was presented by, from left, Tanner Dunlap, OAEC safety and loss prevention instructor-New Mexico; Cade Standifer, OAEC director of safety and loss control-New Mexico; Travis Sullivan, SWEC general manager; Bobby Ferris, Lea County Electric general manager. J U LY 2 0 2 6
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County Fairs, Rodeos and
Summer Traditions Celebrate the traditions that bring rural communities together across New Mexico
The smell of funnel cakes drifts through the air. Dust rises beneath arena lights. Kids carry oversized stuffed animals down carnival midways while country music echoes across fairgrounds and rodeo arenas. Across rural New Mexico, summer means more than warm weather and long evenings—it means tradition. For generations, county fairs, rodeos and local festivals have brought families, neighbors and entire communities together. From small-town rodeos and livestock shows to bluegrass festivals and Fourth of July celebrations, these gatherings remain some of the most anticipated events of the year. In many rural communities, summer traditions are deeply woven into everyday life. Families return year after year to the same fairgrounds. Children proudly show livestock projects they’ve spent months preparing. Volunteers organize parades, cook meals, direct parking and do everything else that makes each event possible. While communities may change over time, the spirit behind these gatherings remains strong. Rodeos continue to serve as a centerpiece of many summer celebrations throughout New Mexico. Arena lights flicker on as crowds gather to watch barrel racing, team roping, bull riding and other events that celebrate the ranching heritage deeply rooted across the state. For many participants, rodeo is a family tradition passed down through generations. County fairs offer their own kind of magic. Ferris wheels light up the night sky while children rush between carnival rides and game booths. Local vendors serve roasted corn, lemonade, barbecue and classic fair favorites that have become part of the experience itself. Live music fills the air while neighbors reconnect and visitors experience the welcoming atmosphere rural communities are known for. These events also reflect the importance of community involvement. Volunteer fire departments, civic groups, schools, electric cooperatives and local organizations work behind the scenes to support celebrations that help strengthen small-town connections. In a fast-moving world, county fairs and rodeos offer a chance to slow down, gather and celebrate the traditions that continue to define rural America. This summer, fairgrounds will fill with laughter, rodeo arenas will roar with applause and fireworks will light up the skies above New Mexico. Communities across the state will once again come together to celebrate not only the season, but the enduring spirit of rural life. Whether it’s a parade through Main Street, a rodeo beneath the lights or a family evening spent sharing funnel cakes and lemonade, these moments continue to create memories that last long after summer fades. 16
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Ken Macken, right, presents at the New Mexico Safety Conference alongside his NRECA counterpart, Jasmyne Montague.
Remembering Ken Macken Ken Macken, director of safety and loss control programs for the NRECA, was a leader who put people first The cooperative community recently lost a remarkable leader, mentor and friend with the passing of Ken Macken, director of safety and loss control programs for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association. To many across the cooperative world, Ken was more than a safety leader. He was someone who genuinely cared about people. Cade Standifer, director of safety and loss control-New Mexico for the Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives, first met Ken three years ago when Ken stepped into the national safety leadership role. “My first impressions of Ken were just that he was an extremely kind man who truly cared about other people,” Cade says. “He was willing to do whatever he needed to do to help other people. He just truly loved people in everything he did.” That compassion became the foundation of Ken’s approach to safety leadership. Rather than focusing solely on policies and 18
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procedures, he focused on people. “No one will care how much you know until they know how much you care,” Cade says, describing the philosophy Ken lived by every day. Ken had a unique ability to make people feel valued. Whether speaking to cooperative leaders, lineworkers, or hotel staff working behind the scenes at conferences and events, he made a point of recognizing others and expressing appreciation for their work. “Several times, he would bring some of the staff of the hotel or convention center into the group meeting just to tell them how good a job they were doing and let them know they were appreciated,” Cade says. Ken was widely known for one of his signature sayings: “10-10, 2 and 2”—a reminder that every employee should return home safely with 10 fingers, 10 toes, two arms and two legs. That message reflected his deeper
belief that safety was never just about compliance—it was about protecting people and families. Outside of his work at NRECA, Ken was devoted to his faith and family. He served as a pastor, deeply loved his wife, Malia, and son, Sam, and brought the same servanthearted spirit into every part of his life. He was also involved in a cattle operation and enjoyed chainsaw carving, even donating some of his Willie Wiredhand carvings to cooperative fundraisers. For many who knew him, Ken embodied the cooperative spirit through humility, kindness and service to others. “People need to know that Ken exemplified the cooperative spirit with a selfless love that he had for everyone,” Cade says. “His wish would be for cooperative employees to truly understand what is valuable in life, slow down, work safe and get home the same way you left.” Ken’s impact will continue to be felt throughout the cooperative community for years to come—not only through the safety programs he championed, but through the countless lives he touched along the way. ADOBE STOCK ILLUSTRATION BY VG
enchantment.coop
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One-Bowl Wonder These orzo, roasted vegetable and turkey meatball bowls were adapted from a Food & Wine recipe with a few familyfriendly modifications. The salt was reduced, green onions were substituted for garlic and extra vegetables were added for roasting. The recipe is highly customizable. Harder vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes and sweet potatoes, should roast from the beginning, while softer vegetables, such as zucchini, squash, asparagus, onions and bell peppers, can be added halfway through cooking. A variety of greens including kale, chard or beet greens also work well in place of spinach.
“You know it’s a keeper when the teens go back for seconds!” —THE MCCONVILLE FAMILY, MORA-SAN MIGUEL ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Orzo, Roasted Vegetable and Turkey Meatball Bowls Serves: 4-6 Prep and cook time: 45 minutes
Simple Parsley Salad 1 cup parsley leaves 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste Turkey Meatballs ¼ cup water 1 large egg ½ cup panko breadcrumbs, breadcrumbs or cracker crumbs 3 green onions, finely chopped (or substitute garlic) ¼ cup finely chopped parsley ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 1 pound ground turkey Roasted Vegetables 4 carrots, peeled and sliced into 1-inch pieces 2 orange or red bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces Optional: peeled pearl onions or quartered red onion 1 tablespoon vegetable oil Salt and pepper, to taste Orzo and Spinach 3 cups chicken stock 1½ cups orzo pasta 4 cups baby spinach ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil Salt and pepper, to taste
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• Preheat oven to 425 F. • In a medium bowl, massage parsley
leaves with lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper until lightly softened. Set aside. • In a large bowl, whisk together water and egg. Stir in breadcrumbs, green onions, parsley, Parmesan, salt and pepper. Let mixture rest for 3-5 minutes. Add ground turkey and mix until fully combined. Form into meatballs and place on one side of a large sheet pan. • Toss carrots with oil, salt and pepper, then place in the center of the sheet pan alongside the meatballs. Toss remaining vegetables with oil and seasoning and set aside. • Bake meatballs and carrots for 10 minutes. Stir carrots, add remaining vegetables to the pan, and bake for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until vegetables are tender and meatballs are browned and cooked through. • While the meatballs and vegetables roast, bring chicken stock to a boil in a large pot. Add orzo and cook according to package directions. When 2 minutes remain in the cooking time, stir in spinach. Drain excess stock and return orzo and spinach to the pot off heat. Stir in Parmesan, olive oil, salt and pepper. • Spoon the orzo and spinach mixture into bowls. Top with meatballs and roasted vegetables. Garnish with parsley salad, lemon slices and additional Parmesan cheese, if desired.
enchantment.coop
CO-OP KITCHEN
Want to be Featured in Enchantment? Do you have a favorite family recipe you’d love to share with fellow co-op members? We’re always looking for recipes that bring a taste of rural New Mexico to the table. Whether it’s a family classic passed down for generations, a childapproved favorite, a potluck staple or a quick weeknight meal, we want to feature it in an upcoming issue of Enchantment. To submit your recipe, include: X The recipe name, ingredients and step-by-step instructions. X A short story or background about the recipe, such as where it came from. X A photo of the finished dish if you have one. Submit your recipe to tcondit@nmelectric.coop. Your recipe could be featured in a future issue and shared with more than 113,000 readers across New Mexico’s electric cooperative communities.
enchantment.coop
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THE MARKET PLACE Animals MEAT RAMS AND EWES FOR SALE. Raise your own meat! This breed, called ‘Rocky Mountain Big’ are very large cross bred Rambouillet/Suffolk sheep specifically bred for raising meat instead of wool. Rams are quite gentle weighing about 350+ pound and with right nutition produce single 7-8 pound lamb at birth, also twins. Lincoln, NM 575808-2711 (text only). BLACK ANGUS BULLS FOR SALE. Thick, Easy Fleshing ,Low Maintenance ,Raised at high elevation.Trich and fertility tested. Top quality herd and heifer bulls available. Yearlings starting at $ 3400.00. 2yr old starting at $3600.00 Call/Text Bobby Salvo at Y Ranch, 575-642-0962. Datil, New Mexico. AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB ANATOLIAN SHEPHERD PUPPIES AVAILABLE IN AUGUST. CONTACT EUGENE VIGIL 505-929-9406.
SMALL ALFALFA BALE FOR SALE. Free composted horse manure. Seven miles south of Belen. Call 505-681-8545. FOR SALE: 2 axle trailer 16 x 6; Post hole digger, hand held, gas motor; Propane grill with side burner. Leave message at 505-753-4271. POWER WHEELCHAIR. Never been used. Located in Rio Rancho. 505-856-1744. Make offer.
Great Finds BUYING OLD GAS PUMPS, PUMP PARTS, OIL CANS, GLOBES, ADVERTISING SIGNS THERMOMETERS CLOCKS, OLD LICENSE PLATES, OLD NEON SIGNS. Call the Gas Guy in Embudo 505-852-2995. Have Truck Will Travel. PELLET 2000 LB LIFT LIKE NEW $300.
Equipment
Real Estate
IRRIGATION PIPE FOR SALE. Used PVC and Aluminum gated and non gated pipe for half price of new. Butterfly Valves, T’s, Elbows, plugs, Bonnets, ETC. Delivery Available. Call Sierra (575)770-8441.
TUCUMCARI-1120 S SARATOGA, (Also next to US 54/Mountain Road) $20,000. City water close by. Big Mesa Realty, 575-4562000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
SUPERIOR WATER STORAGE TANKS FOR PEOPLE, CATTLE, RAINWATER, FIRE PREVENTION. Many sizes. Best Prices. 575-682-2308.
TUCUMCARI-1516 S SECOND STREET, PRICE REDUCED, Three bedroom, two bathroom home with garage and carport. $65,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
EQUIPMENT: 500 lb scale ($250); 180/220 volt wire feed MIG ($250); Lincoln Stick welder ($450); 3-point garden lister, new ($450); Scott riding lawn mower, 42” cut ($475); Power River CattL working chute, working, chute ($1,500); Cannon 6 ft 3-point blade, w/teeth ($400); 3-point dirt bucket, very handy ($475); Much more just ask!; Marble slab, 48” × 54”, 1½” thick ($450); Old queen-size bed, complete, 1900 ($300); 2 electric irons, $50 each; Old cast iron pot, 38” diameter, 20” deep ($650); Ringer washer, very clean ($375); Blk Leather Chaps Elk leather Call.
CANADIAN RIVER-WEST UTE LAKE- Six 40 acre +/- parcels. Lake and Mesalands view. Call for showing and pricing. Owner Financing Available. Big Mesa Realty, 575456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-7605461. www.bigmesarealty.com. CONCHAS-615 BULLHEAD, Three bedroom, two bathroom home with four bay boat storage/garage on three lots totaling just over one acre. $245,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-7605461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
SUMNER LAKE- 225 Indian Place, Two bedroom, two bathroom home on 20 acres in River Ranches Subdivision. Spectacular views of Pecos River valley. $307,500. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com. MILAGRO- 0000 PECOS SPUR, PORTILLO CREEK RANCH SUBDIVISION. Tract 6, 164 acres. Partial fencing. Wide open space. $80,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com. MAGDALENA-0000 TBD STATE ROAD 169, 1.28 ACRES. Great mountain views 15 miles from Magdalena. Borders Cibola National Forest. Hunting potential. $15,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com. DATIL/PIE TOWN AREA- 0000 3 HERRINGTON CANYON ROAD. 40+/acres west of Herrington Canyon Road. North of Sawtooth Mountains and Cibola National Forest. $19,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-4562000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com. DATIL/PIE TOWN AREA- 0000 4 HERRINGTON CANYON ROAD, 20+/ACRES EAST OF HERRINGTON CANYON ROAD. North of Sawtooth Mountains and Cibola National Forest. $12,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com. PIE TOWN- 78 E SAWTOOTH DRIVE, SAWTOOTH MOUNTAIN SUBDIVISION LOT 41. 14.43 acres vacant land. Views of Sawtooth Mountains. Close to Pie Town. $35,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com. SOCORRO, SAN MARCIAL-SOUTH OF SAN ANTONIO-WILLOW SPRINGS SUBDIVISION- 16A Winchester, PRICE REDUCED, 161 acres. Great views in the Chupadera Mountain foothills. $90,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com.
The sun sets over Shiprock.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY EDB3_16
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HILLSBORO-10841 STATE ROAD 152, OVER 5000 SQUARE FOOT HOME ON JUST OVER SIX ACRES. Excellent opportunity for bed and breakfast or large family. Pool and hot tub. $699,000. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www. bigmesarealty.com. EASTERN NEW MEXICO- LET US SELL YOUR LARGE ACREAGE WORKING FARM OR RANCH. Broker is farm owner/operator and lifetime New Mexico resident. Big Mesa Realty, 575-456-2000, Paul Stout, Broker 17843, 575-760-5461. www.bigmesarealty.com. OWN A HISTORIC TIERRA AMARILLA PROPERTY. 2-story traditional adobe 1881 Garcia House w/tin roof; original interior adobe walls & wood floors in most of house. Zoned commercial & residential. Room in back was used as a stage. $200,000. Laurie Frantz, Real Broker LLC, 505-920-1346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com.
To Place a Classified Ad 1. Visit www.enchantment.coop/classifieds and complete form. You will be contacted by email with price and deadline to submit check or money order. 2. Ads will not be accepted over the phone. 3. Or, complete form and select category. 4. Write ad on another sheet of paper. 5. Price: $1.25 per word. For example: 40 word ads are $50 80 word ads are $100 To Send and Pay Your Classified Ad 1. Mail ad and payment (Payable to NMRECA) NMRECA • enchantment 614 Don Gaspar Ave. Santa Fe, NM 87505
80 GLORIOUS HILLY ACRES 3 MILES SOUTH OF MADRID OFF TURQUOISE TRAIL. Stupendous views of surrounding hills & valley. Many building sites, good dirt road to top of lower 40 acres; no graded road beyond that. Large level spot w/shipping container on lower 40 acres is great building spot. No utilities in place. Laurie Frantz, Real Broker LLC, 505-920-1346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com. BLUEWATER LAKE-BOARDERS STATE PARK HWY 412. 2.75 acres - Historic, renovated log and timber home, RV spaces, 2 cabins, 2 wells, corrals, other outbuildings. Great views, riding, lake access. Presently Bluewater Lake Lodge RV and Horse Motel. $765,000. 505-290-2699.
Vehicles TRUCKS FOR SALE: 1981 Chevy Dually, 454 engine, clean body, good work truck. 1979 Dodge 4x4 Power Wagon, one owner, low mileage, clean inside and out. 1954 Ford F-100, original except 6 volt changed to 12, completely restored OEM, new paint and upholstery. Leave voice message at 505-753-4271. COLLECTOR VEHICLES FOR SALE: 1955 Ford Victoria hard top sedan, 312 Y-block T-bird engine, 3 speed manual, clean, no rust. 1960’s and 70’s MG Midget collection and car parts. 1974 VW Bug, custom paint and upholstery, new tires + rims. Leave voice message at 505-753-4271.
WORK FROM HOME! 3B2B 1568SF MANUFACTURED HOME ON 9.6 ACRES OF GRASSLAND & MOUNTAINSIDE. 2 (38’x60’ & 8’x20’) mostly insulated workshops on slabs, both w/200amp electric; 8’x10’ greenhouse; small stable w/2 stalls; 10’x30’ garden shed/chicken coop. RV hookup w/100amp service, h2o & septic. High-producing well w/delicious water. Laurie Frantz, Real Broker LLC, 505-9201346, lauriefrantz@gmail.com Deadline 1. Due the 7th, one month prior. Ads due June 7 for the July issue. Good to Know 1. Only members of New Mexico electric cooperatives may place ads. 2. We reserve the right to reject any ad. 4. Advertisements in enchantment are paid solicitations and are not endorsed by the publisher or the electric cooperatives of New Mexico. 5. PRODUCT SATISFACTION, COMPLAINCE WITH APPLICABLE ADVERTISING RULES AND REGULATIONS, AND DELIVERY RESPONSIBILITY LIE SOLELY WITH THE ADVERTISER. 6. Enchantment prints monthly, except for June and December. Questions? Call: 505-982-4671.
Name:________________________ ___________________________ Address:_______________________ ___________________________ City:_________________________ State:_________ ZIP:_____________ Phone:________________________ Cooperative:____________________ Select Category Below
Animals
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Born in the Cosmos. Priced for Earth. The rare spectacle of black opal—captured without the collector’s price HHHH “I never expected it to be so beautiful that it takes your breath away.”
Price ssible Impo NLY O
$59
— Kaya C., on Stauer Opals A.
S
ome gemstones shimmer. This one ignites.
At the center of this striking ring glows a Nebula black opal alive with flashes of emerald, sapphire, ruby, and molten gold—colors that seem to drift and collide like distant galaxies. The effect is mesmerizing… as if you’re peering into the heart of the Orion Nebula itself. Naturally occurring black opals are among the rarest gemstones on Earth—so rare, in fact, that fine examples can command thousands. Their signature “play of color” is unpredictable, untamed, and nearly impossible to duplicate… until now. Using advanced growing techniques, we’ve recreated the extraordinary visual phenomenon that makes B. black opals so coveted. The result is a gem that delivers the same cosmic fire and depth— without the astronomical cost. Set in a warm 14K yellow gold-finished design, this ring doesn’t just catch the
light—it commands it. A bold, otherworldly statement that feels both timeless and impossibly rare. And yet, it’s yours for just $59. But not for long. Pieces like this— especially at this price—don’t linger. Once this limited run is gone, it may not return. Because at Stauer, we believe you should always be able to afford the extraordinary… before it disappears.
Jewelry Specifications:
• Lab-created black opal • 14K yellow gold-finish • Ring whole sizes 5-10, Earrings: hinged post
Opal Nebula Collection
A. 5-Stone Ring (1 2/5 ctw) $399 $59* + S&P Save $340 B. Earrings (1 2/3 ctw) $399 $79* + S&P Save $320 *Special price only for customers using the offer code.
1-800-333-2045 Your Insider Offer Code: ONR140-01
14091 Southcross Drive W. | Dept. ONR140-01, Burnsville, MN 55337 | www.stauer.com
AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY®
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New Mexico’s rural communities, served by electric cooperatives across the state, are surrounded by breathtaking deserts, mountain ranges, and more than 50 national and state parks. From quiet villages to historic cities such as Santa Fe and Taos, the Land of Enchantment blends Native American, Mexican and Spanish cultures into something truly unique. Here are upcoming local events happening in co-op areas and beyond: Smokey Bear Stampede When: July 1-4 Where: Capitan Visit one of New Mexico’s premier Independence Day celebrations featuring rodeos, ranch rodeos, team roping, parades, live entertainment, food vendors, shopping and activities for children. Families can also meet Smokey Bear. smokeybearstampede.com
Farmington Freedom Days When: July 1-5 Where: Throughout Farmington Celebrating its 40th year, Freedom Days includes an electric light parade, fireworks, community events, a parade, Party in the Park and familyfriendly activities throughout the Four Corners region. farmingtonnm.org/events/freedom-days
UFO Festival When: July 2-4 Where: Downtown Roswell Roswell’s famous UFO Festival features family activities, costume contests, entertainment, vendors, exhibits, food and extraterrestrialthemed fun for all ages. ufofestival.com
Fourth of July in Capitan When: July 3-4 Where: Capitan Celebrate Independence Day in the cool mountain air of Capitan, home of Smokey Bear. Festivities include a parade featuring historical figures, vintage cars and tractors, local vendors, food, a Civil War reenactment camp and the Smokey Bear Stampede rodeo—one of the nation’s largest open rodeos. villageofcapitan.org/home-page/page/independence-daycelebration
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Wild West Days When: July 3-5 Where: Downtown Grants and Grants Rodeo Grounds, Grants Celebrate Independence Day with an annual parade, three-day rodeo weekend, bull riding, barrel racing, food and family entertainment. visitgrants.com/events
Freedom 4th When: 3-10 p.m., July 4 Where: Balloon Fiesta Park, Albuquerque Albuquerque’s Fourth of July celebration features live music, food vendors, family activities and one of New Mexico’s largest fireworks displays. cabq.gov/culturalservices/things-to-do/annual-events/ freedom-4th
Socorro Fourth of July Celebration When: noon to 10 p.m., July 4 Where: Socorro Rodeo & Sports Complex, Socorro This free community celebration features entertainment, family activities, food vendors and fireworks. socorronm.gov/events/29th-annual-4th-july-celebration
Cloudcroft July Jamboree When: July 11-12 Where: Zenith Park, Cloudcroft A mountain-community favorite, the Cloudcroft Jamboree features arts and crafts vendors, food, live entertainment and family-friendly activities in the cool Sacramento Mountains. chamberdata.net/EvtListingMainSearch.aspx?dbid2=nmc lcr&origin=202607&class=B
Cloudcroft Museum Fest When: July 18 Where: Cloudcroft More than 20 history museums from across
southern New Mexico bring exhibits and displays to the cool mountain air of Cloudcroft for this unique museum sampler. Free and open to the public, the event is for anyone curious about the rich history and culture of the region. Visitors can also enjoy optional side trips to a restored 1898 wooden trestle in Cloudcroft. cloudcroftmuseum.com/events
30th Annual Weed Bluegrass Festival When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., July 18-19 Where: Weed Community Center, Weed Celebrate 30 years of bluegrass music in the cool pines of Weed. The family-friendly festival features five bluegrass bands, vendors, door prizes, face painting and an indoor bouncy house for children. Food is available to buy, including a catered fried catfish lunch. Admission is $15 per person or $30 for an immediate family. Sunday admission is free and includes Gospel bluegrass music through noon. weednm.org
Ruidoso Art Festival When: July 24-26 Where: Ruidoso Convention Center, Ruidoso One of New Mexico’s largest art festivals features more than 100 artists, food vendors, children’s activities and opportunities to meet artists from across the Southwest. discoverruidoso.com/calendar-of-events/ruidoso-artand-wine-festival
Lea County Fair and PRCA Rodeo When: July 31-Aug. 8 Where: Lea County Fairgrounds, 101 S. Commercial Street, Lovington New Mexico’s largest county fair features carnival rides, livestock shows, youth exhibits, concerts, PRCA rodeo events, food vendors and family entertainment. leacountyfair.net
Include Your Upcoming Event Send details to eventcalendar@nmelectric.coop. Include the event title, date, town and a summary of the event. Include the event website address so readers can get additional event information. Submit the event notification at least 60 days before the event to meet our press deadline. Space is limited, and events are published at the discretion of the editor.
ADOBE STOCK PHOTO BY RICKTRAVEL
AROUND NEW MEXICO
Co-op Coloring
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New tools and technologies allow electric utilities to be more effective in monitoring and responding to a variety of grid threats. PHOTOS COURTESY OF HORRY ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE
Keeping the Grid Secure As threats to the power grid grow more complex, public utilities are building layers of protection—and asking consumers to help By Michael Leitman and Jennifer Paton The North American power grid— comprised of multiple regional grids— is the backbone of modern life. Considered the world’s largest machine, the grid powers homes, businesses and institutions, including hospitals and other critical infrastructure. As the grid becomes more interconnected and digitized, it faces growing threats, ranging from cyberattacks to extreme weather events and wildfires. Keeping the grid reliable and resilient is essential. Public power utilities are actively involved in national efforts to stay secure. Infrastructure Protection Electric utilities and grid operators follow standards set by organizations, such as 28
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the North American Electric Reliability Corp., that mandate protections for critical infrastructure, including: Cybersecurity measures. Firewalls, encryption and multifactor authentication help prevent unauthorized access to control systems. Regular software updates and vulnerability scans reduce the risk of exploitation. Physical security. Electric substations and control centers are protected with fencing, surveillance and restricted access. Physical breaches or attacks can be just as damaging as cyberattacks. Redundancy and resilience. Backup systems and redundant lines ensure power can be rerouted during outages caused by natural events or deliberate attacks. This minimizes disruption and speeds recovery.
“Our grid security is protected by layered safeguards, including cyber, physical and operational security,” says John Luquette, information technology and facilities manager at Tillamook PUD, based in Tillamook, Oregon. “With that, it helps us reduce our risks, identify problems early and respond quickly to situations when conditions change.” John says cyber- and physical security are treated as core safety functions at the utility, not just IT or facilities responsibilities. All employees play a role. “The goal is to protect our system, our employees and the public while maintaining safe, reliable service,” he says. “A lot of this comes down to planning, training and coordination across teams and departments.” enchantment.coop
PLUGGED IN
Electric utilities create plans and conduct trainings to practice their responses to natural hazards and cyber- and physical attacks.
Advanced Technology As threats evolve, so do the tools to combat them. New tools—including drones, remote sensors and advanced controls—allow electric utilities to be more effective in monitoring and responding to a variety of grid threats. “When it comes to newer technology, the biggest benefit for Tillamook PUD is greater awareness and faster response times,” John says. “Improvements in monitoring, automation and data analysis help us spot unusual conditions sooner and respond more quickly when something changes.” One example is the PUD’s automatic meter reading system, which not only allows the utility to read meters but also provides insight into potential issues in the field. “We have dedicated staff monitoring this system 24/7 and reviewing daily reports,” John says. “A meter with a single blink can be identified and investigated right away.” Artificial intelligence can be a powerful technology to enhance these other tools, especially in sifting through large amounts of data or imagery to detect irregularities or patterns. To be effective, AI tools must be well designed, properly trained and incorporated into cybersecurity protections. System Hardening Electric utilities invest in hardening their local systems against the growing threat of wildfires, extreme weather events and enchantment.coop
other natural hazards. These investments include identifying vulnerable parts of the grid, replacing wooden poles with metal or cement poles, burying lines or adding enhanced technologies that allow greater visibility and control to anticipate and respond to emergency conditions. Planning for the unexpected is critical. Emergency Readiness Utilities and government agencies conduct large-scale exercises to test their readiness for emergencies. One example is GridEx, a biennial event organized by NERC that simulates cyber- and physical attacks on the electric grid. Thousands of participants, from utilities to law enforcement, work together to identify weaknesses and improve coordination. Scott Corwin, American Public Power Association president and CEO, has participated in these exercises. “In our industry, exercises are an essential piece of the puzzle when it comes to operating a reliable and resilient electric system,” he says. “Practicing our response to a cyber- or physical attack or a natural disaster gives us an opportunity to collaborate with our industry brethren and government partners to test processes and look for areas of improvement.” These exercises also provide an opportunity to forge relationships with the people who would interact in the event of a reallife situation. “This is something we stress to our
Consumers Play a Role, Too One of the best ways consumers can help ensure safe and reliable service is to stay engaged and informed. Keeping contact information up to date, paying attention to outage alerts or safety notices, and reporting issues such as downed lines or unusual conditions help utilities respond faster and more safely. “During storms or outages, giving crews room to work and following safety guidance is also very important,” John says. “Tillamook PUD offers multiple communication methods for customers, and we make a point of staying active in our community at local events to share the latest information.” It’s important to be aware of email, text and phone scams that target consumers. Scammers often try to create urgency around payments or service shutoffs to pressure people into acting quickly. “We encourage our customers to be cautious about unexpected messages or phone calls and to verify requests by contacting our office through official phone numbers before sharing personal information or making payments,” John says. A secure electric grid isn’t just about keeping the lights on. It’s about protecting public health, economic stability and national security in the communities served by public power utilities. By combining robust industry standards, rigorous training, cutting-edge technology and consumer awareness, electric utilities help build a grid that is not only reliable but resilient today and in the future. J U LY 2 0 2 6
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ADOBE STOCK BACKGROUND BY KICHIGIN19
members,” Scott says. “It’s important to make these connections during ‘blue sky times’ rather than when a disaster strikes, and exercises are a perfect time to do this." In terms of preparing their consumers for emergencies, public power utilities— particularly those in disaster-prone regions—take a multifaceted approach. “They are active on social media, sharing tips, toolkits and information to help their customers prepare for—and live through—outage events,” Scott says. “They also cultivate relationships with the local media to quickly disseminate safety and restoration information.”
Cooperative Youth Art Congratulations to the winning artists who created a new flavor of ice cream to keep cool in the heat.
Eden Castaneda • Age 5 Jemez Mountains Electric Cooperative Santa Fe
Marcus Cates • Age 10 Southwestern Electric Cooperative Grenville
Valerie Pacheco • Age 4 Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative Portales
Ava Tenorio • Age 10 Farmers' Electric Cooperative Santa Rosa
Romeo Romero • Age 8 Mora-San Miguel Electric Cooperative Pecos
Alexis Trejo • Age 10 Lea County Electric Cooperative Seminole
August topic: August is back-to-school month! Draw your favorite thing to do at school, whether it is reading, science, art or playing outside.
Deadline: Submit by the 9th, one month prior to publication. Winners receive a $15 gift card and are featured in the magazine.
Send your drawing to: By mail: Youth Editor 614 Don Gaspar Ave. Santa Fe, NM 87505 By email: tcondit@nmelectric.coop
Have a Youth Art topic? Email or mail to the addresses at left or call 505-982-4671.
Checklist Include the following five items on the back of your drawing, otherwise you are disqualified: First and last name Age Mailing address Phone number Electric co-op Artwork accepted up to age 13.
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enchantment.coop
War Between Financiers Creates First $11 Million Watch Impos sible ONLY Price
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★★★★
“It is a beautiful timepiece that calls back to a time when craftsmanship was appreciated.” — F.A., Edina, MN
Inspired by the legendary $11 million Graves watch of 1933
I
n 1933, millionaire Henry Graves commissioned what many consider to be the most important watch ever built — a mechanical masterpiece that later sold at auction for more than $11 million before disappearing into a private vault. Today, few collectors will ever see the original again.
Fine automatics of this caliber often sell for thousands, but the Graves ’33 can still be yours for under $150. Supplies are limited, and once this special offering disappears, it might never return.
Inspired by that legendary timepiece, the Stauer Gold-Finished Graves ’33 Wristwatch revives the elegance and complexity of the famed original at a fraction of the cost. Its antique-style enameled dial features four interior complications, including day, date, 24-hour clock, and celestial sun and moon displays — details once reserved for the world’s elite.
• Day, date, 24-hour clock, sun and moon displays • 39 mm stainless steel case • Automatic movement water resistant to 5 ATM • 27-jewel movement • Croc-embossed brown leather band fits wrist size: 6 ½" - 9"
Inside beats a sophisticated 27-jewel automatic movement with over 200 precision-crafted parts, powered by the natural motion of your wrist.
Watch Specifications:
Stauer Gold-Finished Graves ‘33 Wristwatch $499 $129*+ S&P Save $370 or 2 credit card payments of $64.50 +S&P
*Special price only for customers using the offer code.
1-800-333-2045 Your Insider Offer Code: GVS135-01
14091 Southcross Drive W. | Dept. GVS135-01, Burnsville, MN 55337 | www.stauer.com
AFFORD THE EXTRAORDINARY®
WHATEVER THE FUTURE HOLDS, WE’LL POWER IT.
®
Reliability means showing up — for today and tomorrow. We’re here before the sun rises and we’re working all through the night, 24/7/365. Why? Because every community our members serve deserves power they can count on. We work as one connected cooperative family to share resources, expertise, and solutions like mobile substations. When disaster strikes or equipment fails, these portable, quickly deployable substations can restore power fast, helping minimize outages and keep communities running when they need it most. It’s all part of the strength that comes from standing together so your co-op can deliver what matters most: reliable, affordable electricity for every moment of life.
Scan to learn more or visit www.tristate.coop/powering-future
Tri-State is a not-for-profit power supplier to cooperatives and public power districts in Colorado, Nebraska, New Mexico and Wyoming.