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Oklahoma Electric Cooperative News July 26

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FROM the TOP CEO ADDRESS

PATRICK GRACE

As summer settles over Oklahoma, many of us spend more time outdoors, planning family activities and finding ways to stay cool. For your electric cooperative, summer is also among the busiest periods for managing energy demand and preparing our system to perform reliably.

Historically, summer has been when electricity use peaks, especially in July, due to increased air conditioning. As temperatures rise, cooling systems work harder, increasing energy consumption.

OEC remains focused on keeping rates as affordable as possible year-round. We manage costs responsibly to provide reliable service at the lowest practical price. If temperatures stay moderate, it can ease the impact of summer energy use. However, Oklahoma's unpredictable weather can quickly increase household electricity consumption.

A few years ago, you (our members) told us you wanted more rate options. As a result, we created multiple rates and gave you the power to choose which one best suits your energy use. Most members who switch rates experience lower electric bills, so I encourage you to visit okcoop.org/ratecalc to use our calculator to find your best rate.

Summer brings another challenge: rapid vegetation growth near power and fiber lines. Trees and brush interfering with lines are a leading cause of outages, especially during storms.

To address these risks, OEC crews and contractors proactively trim vegetation and maintain clear rightsof-way year-round. Though most visible during the growing season, this targeted work strengthens system reliability. Keeping clearances around power lines directly reduces outages and allows faster restoration after storms.

Much of the reliability our members experience during storm season is the result of work completed long before a storm appears on the radar. Preventive maintenance may not always be noticeable, but it plays an important role in keeping power flowing when conditions become challenging.

As always, thank you for your membership and trust in OEC. We appreciate the opportunity to serve you and your family, and we remain committed to delivering safe, reliable and affordable electricity and internet service throughout the summer and beyond.

John Jensen, Vice President 6 District6Trustee@okcoop.org

Asst.

Management Matters Why Vegetation

There’s something timeless about trees. They ground us. They remind us of where we’ve been, and they stretch toward what’s ahead. Here in our community, we take pride in the natural beauty that surrounds us—the shade on a summer afternoon, the colors that mark the changing seasons, the quiet strength of something that grows slowly but endures.

At the same time, we share another responsibility—one that’s just as essential to our daily lives. The responsibility to keep the lights on, to power our homes and businesses, to make sure that when you flip a switch, the energy you depend on is there.

That’s why OEC works every day to strike a careful balance between preserving the beauty we cherish and delivering the reliable electricity you expect. One of the most important ways we do that is through regular tree trimming. 0413311503

Now, it may not always be obvious, but keeping lines clear of overgrown vegetation plays a major role in preventing power outages. We’ve all seen what can happen when severe weather rolls in—strong winds, heavy ice or sudden storms can bring down branches and power lines and poles. In fact, nearly half of all power outages can be traced back to trees and vegetation coming into contact with electrical infrastructure.

That’s why you may notice crews from OEC or our trusted contractors working in neighborhoods throughout the year. Our crews are highly trained and certified, following the latest industry standards to ensure the job is done safely and effectively. Their work might seem routine, but it’s anything but—it’s a proactive step that helps prevent problems before they start.

And it’s not just good practice—it’s required. Electric utilities across the country are obligated to manage vegetation near power lines. Scheduled trimming helps remove dead or weakened limbs and keeps trees from becoming hazards. It’s about staying one step ahead, especially as we prepare for the increasing frequency and intensity of severe weather events. But beyond reliability and efficiency, there’s another reason this work matters: safety.

Electricity is a powerful force, and when trees grow too close

to power lines, that power can become dangerous. Branches that touch lines—or even come close—can carry electrical current. Children climbing trees in their own yards may not realize the risk. And during storms, fallen trees can create hazardous conditions not only for families but also for our lineworkers working to restore service. Proper tree trimming helps reduce the risk of power outages and fires caused by vegetation coming into contact with energized power lines.

There’s also a financial reality we can’t ignore. Preventative maintenance, like tree trimming, is far more cost-effective than repairing widespread damage after an outage. That’s why OEC uses an integrated vegetation management approach, combining several tools and techniques to manage vegetation in a way that is both financially and environmentally responsible. Left unchecked, overgrown vegetation can lead to more frequent disruptions and higher costs for everyone. A thoughtful, strategic vegetation management program helps keep those costs down while maintaining reliable service for our members.

You can help, too. When planting new trees, consider their mature height and distance from nearby power lines. Trees that grow up to 40 feet should be planted at least 35 feet away from overhead lines. Larger trees exceeding 40 feet should be planted at least 60 feet away. If you’re landscaping near pad-mounted transformers, maintain at least 10 feet of clearance around the equipment. Vegetation growing too close to transformers can interfere with safe operation and access, which may require trimming or removal to protect electric service reliability and crew safety.

If your neighborhood has underground lines, don’t forget to call OKIE811 before digging. It’s a simple step that can prevent serious accidents.

At the end of the day, we all want the same thing: a community that’s safe, resilient and beautiful. At OEC, we’re proud to be part of that effort. Our roots run deep here, just like the trees we work to care for.

GAME CHANGERS

OEC employees volunteer at the Oklahoma Special Olympics

OEC employees joined fellow electric cooperative volunteers from across the state in Stillwater for the 2026 Special Olympics Oklahoma Summer Games, continuing a longstanding tradition of service and support for Oklahoma athletes.

Seven OEC representatives volunteered during the event: District 7 Trustee Danny Watters, Community Outreach Associate Carrie Koesler, Service Technician Shane Dominey, Member Service Associate Lindy Herzog, Chief Meter Technician Jimmie Turnpaugh, OEC Fiber Sales & Business Developer Isaac Lewis and Journeyman Power Lineman Andy Bills.

OEC volunteers were among hundreds of electric cooperative employees, family members and supporters who assisted with track and field events during the three-day competition. Volunteers worked in a variety of roles, including athlete staging, event operations, placings and athlete encouragement.

This year's Summer Games welcomed more than 7,000 athletes and unified partners across Oklahoma. Athletes competed in a variety of events while thousands of family members, coaches and supporters gathered to celebrate their accomplishments.

A total of 22 Oklahoma electric cooperatives and cooperative organizations participated in the event.

More than 280 co-op volunteers served throughout the three days, with 79 volunteers on Wednesday, 111 on Thursday and 90 on Friday.

"Being part of the Summer Games reminds you how powerful encouragement can be," Koesler said.

"The athletes bring so much determination, joy and heart to every event. It was inspiring to see our cooperative family come together to support them and help create such a memorable experience."

In addition to OEC's volunteers, the OEC Foundation, Inc., through Operation Round Up®, provides annual funding to area Special Olympics teams. That support is made possible by OEC members who voluntarily round up their monthly electric bills to the nearest dollar.

"The athletes' enthusiasm is contagious, and seeing them achieve their goals makes every moment worthwhile," Watters said. "It is an honor to represent OEC and support an event that celebrates determination, sportsmanship and community."

Oklahoma's electric cooperatives have supported the Special Olympics Oklahoma Summer Games for decades, demonstrating the cooperative principle of Concern for Community through hands-on service and volunteerism. The annual event continues to provide athletes and their families with an unforgettable experience while bringing cooperative employees together in support of a shared mission.

The athletes' enthusiasm is contagious, and seeing them achieve their goals makes every moment worthwhile

LIVELINE

Bring OEC's high voltage demo to your school or business

Electrical safety is top priority for OEC employees and top priority for our educational programs. As such, our safety and efficiency experts developed the Live Line high voltage demonstration to raise public awareness of electricity's dangers. Our trained lineworkers tailor the Live Line lessons to all age groups and can accommodate school groups, first responder trainings, professional or civic groups, and more.

Our state-of-the-art demonstration has become a staple at fire and police department trainings, as well as career fairs, teaching all who attend about

the life-threatening dangers of electricity. We present how best to navigate dangerous electrical situations, like car wrecks and downed power lines, with a fully functional and interactive trailer — complete with electrical arcs, a hot dog demonstration and engaging content. 5121300301

Those in our seven-county service area are invited to reserve the Live Line at your next event or training. All requests are pending weather conditions as inclement weather (and the restoration of power) must take precedent. Please allow a three-week lead on all requests.

Drive-Thru

ANNUAL MEETING

Meet us in the Lloyd Noble Center’s parking lot on the University of Oklahoma’s campus. This event is for OEC electric members only, as it pertains to official cooperative business.

10.02.2026

FROM 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M.

At OEC Fiber, predictable pricing isn’t accidental, it’s on purpose.

Scan the QR code to learn more today!

AUTOS, PARTS & ACCESSORIES

• ‘96 Corvette 350 LT-1 automatic 127k miles white with black interior and has targa top $10,000 OBO. 226-4095.

• I buy cars that aren’t running. 651-9112.

• ‘90 Chevrolet Pickup Extended Cab 2 door 350 V8 Power Door Locks And Windows Runs Good Color Blue 124k $5,000 Cash Only. 381-9096.

• 1073, Dodge 3/4 ton truck, 440 motor, new 4 barrel Edelbrock carberator 627K, runs, must sell, $5,000, leave message, please, new battery. 206-2394..

• ‘96 Corvette 350 LT1 automatic 127k miles white with black interior and has targa top $9500 OBO. 226-4095.

FARM & EQUIPMENT

• ‘71 Massey Ferguson 165 tractor, gas, 52hp, runs good, with 6ft box blade and 6ft brush hog $4,500. 570-8111.

• Complete Linebach auger includes 6”, 9”, and 12” augers $650, 4’ box blade with rippers $300, 3 point middle plow $125, Shop dust collector heavy duty with 3 phase motor single phase adapter included $175. 243-7981.

FURNITURE AND APPLIANCES

• New double hammock comes with a frame and chains. 615-0656.

HAY & FIREWOOD

• Bermuda Grass hay in small square 21 bale bundles and mid size 3x3’s sprayed and fertilized, East Norman. 850-1005.

LIVESTOCK & PETS

• Live mealworms, nutritious treats for chickens, reptiles, sugar gliders, amphibians, birds and fishing; 125 for $5; 250 for $10, $25 for starter colony. 625-9247.

• For Sale Young Black Bulls 14-15 months old and Red Limo Bulls 14-15 months old that are full blood with papers. 520-1604.

• For Sale 3 young Black Bulls, 2 Red Limo Bulls 14-15 months old and 1 little Hereford Bull. 520-1604.

• Scottish Highland Heifer

$3,000 (2/15/25 DOB) & Steer $1,500 (3/10/25 DOB) w/great personalities; both halter broken, love cattle cube treats & being brushed. 550-7648 or 274-6838.

• Handraised cockatiels, conures, & parakeets; Higgins inTune & ZuPreem pellets, custom seed blend, millet, etc; toys & cages; boarding, nail & wing trims. 401-4887.

MISCELLANEOUS

• Burn Barrel’s $10 each with or without the top cut out of them Barrels with vent holes drilled $15 each Blanchard area. 306-6974.

• Pecan smoker, bbq wood, small splits, rounds, large splits, also firewood $5 bundles and $20 loose stacks. 615-1114.

• USDA Beef, Buy by the Cut or 1/4, 1/2 side, Whole Freezer Beef, Direct from our Ranch in west Norman. Jsjcattle.net or 850-6652.

• Golf Super Swing Trainer slightly used, $175 cash only. 659-0349.

• Concrete work, No job too big or small, Call Rick. 205-6836.

• Winchester #190 22; #12 12 Ga; Revelation #350 16 Ga; Pedersoli Rolling Block 54 cal carbine; Text first. 833-6769.

• Do you have excess apples, peaches, pears, prickly pear cactus fruit, sand plums, other fruit? Also want rose rocks; For Sale, McCulloch MAC15 for parts; 802-4227.

• Ammunition: Various rifle calibers and 12 gauge 3-31/2 tungsten/heavy metal/steel BBB/ BB/2 shot, turkey loads; IMR 4320 rifle powder; 274-8420. dbradshaw3006@yahoo.com.

• for sale - radial arm saw (like new), table saw, band saw, drill press. 387-4433.

• W: Ham Radio Gear: Radios - Amps - Antennas etc, please text. 641-7582.

• For sale: Double depth lawn crypt at Sunnylane cemetery, section 15, row 7, lot 61, space A&B, $3000 call or text. 823-6136.

• Scaffolding platform, only, solid metal, G, C, 19”w, 81”L, $200,vb&d workmates, $25. 684-0350.

• Giant iron bird cage for large bird and small cage designed for parrots $50 00 for both. 872-5445.

• Green egg 2XL $2000 brand new in the box never used new $2800. 830-1028.

• Norinco sks, model m very clean $1000. 387-5425.

MOBILE HOMES, RVS & BOATS

• 4ea 22 5 x 255/70R Toyo tires mounted on steel wheels 50% tread regroovable off my motorhome $100 each one non mounted $50, text me please. 249-8742.

• ‘21 K-Z SPORTSMAN LE 251RLLE 28’ travel trailer, adult usage only, bought new, 4-5000 miles,1/2 pickup towed,excellent condition, $19,500. 580-763-1992.

REAL ESTATE

• Thinking of selling your home/ acreage? Contact Metro Brokers acreage specialist: To get started, OkRealtySolutions,com/ seller-services; Call/text Teri. 417-1849.

• Nexthome Simply Real Estate: Looking to Buy or Sell? Call Kim or Bernard Rabbitt 201-4890 or 464-4167.

• United Country Heard Auction & Real Estate, We are here to assist you with all your real estate & auction needs. Aaron Owens 229-2973 or Casey Owens 812-6162.

• 55- or 75-acres in Blanchard on 240th west of Portland recreational or home site Washington Schools creeks, woods, pond, pasture, private setting; $13,500 per acre. 823-1228.

• Private individual interested in buying small or very small oil & gas royalties or mineral rights in Oklahoma. 802-4227.

WANTED

• Wanted: Ham Radio Gear: Radios/Amps/Antennas, Ect; text only. 641-7582.

• Looking to buy unwanted collections, cash for comics, toys new and old, collectables, sports cards, nonsports cards. 306-1462.

• Want to buy a white armoire, also called a wardrobe with hanging space at the top and drawers at the bottom. behslh79@pldi. net.

• Sand plums, pears, apples, peaches, prickly pear cactus fruit, persimmons, other unwanted fruit, for jelly; Frost Free upright freezer; Old jelly jars. 802-4227.

• Scrap metal farm equipment cars trucks washer dryer hw heater lawnmower bikes air conditioner etc, call or text please leave voicemail if no answer. 863-7492.

• Frost free upright freezer, 2001 Ford Explorer right front fender, prefer white, and grill; For sale McCulloch MAC15 chainsaw for parts. 802-4227.

• W: RUGER 10/22, Rifle - Older may be OK - Leave Message or Text. 641-7582.

• Vintage Barbie dolls, Barbie’s family and friends, clothes, accessories, doll cases and playsets; Leave a message if no answer and if able, send pictures. 606-5894.

• I have 2 Moore, OK Resthaven Memorial Garden niches for sale,  #9 and #10, Row 1, Selling both for $4,000, price covers transfer fees, Original price $8,400.00. 831-5608.

BUSINESS

• Handyman for Hire: off-duty fireman, remodel, painting, flooring (tile, laminates, etc), sheetrock, roofing, siding, fences, decks, carports, room additions, windows & doors, custom made bookcases, shelving, cabinets, etc General home repair; All types of construction, 37yrs exp; 2455502 or 381-2007.

• American Blinds & Shutters: Off-duty fireman, window treatments for home or business. Free estimates. 245-5502 or 381-2007.

• You dream it, and I can build it: Custom cedar swing sets, forts, playhouses, she sheds, backyard cottages with kitchen and bath, poolhouses, all types of furniture, bookcases, etc. Off duty fireman, 381-2007 or 245-5502.

• Construction & Fabrication: In shop or on site; welding, fabrication, Equipment building and repair; oilfield through New and existing construction, custom work; I’m also looking for used oilfield equipment, like pumps, generators, heat exchangers, air boosters, structural steel, derricks, sub structures, etc. 308-5742.

• Oilfield & Construction Equipment: Fabrication & machine shop equipment and machines, Diesel engines, Pump Drives, Transmissions, Pto’s, etc. 308-5742.

• C&B Paint Co: 15yrs experience, insured, interior/ exterior painting, popcorn ceiling removal, custom textures & drywall repairs. Cnbpainting. com or call Cody for a reasonable yet fair price. 431-9601.

• Jim’s Painting & Remodeling:interior & exterior wallpaper, popcorn ceiling removal, sheetrock repairs, texture, power washing, deck and fence staining, free estimates, quality work, 20yrs exp erience & insured. 366-0722.

• JL Painting: Commercial & residential sheetrock, wood repairs, custom texturing, interior/exterior, insured, free estimates. 314-0755.

• Sunshine Realty LLC: Rhonda Simmons Broker/Owner, Residential, Commercial, Foreclosures, Short Sales, Property Management, Service buyers/sellers throughout Oklahoma, Active OK Licenses, call/text Rhonda (405) 808-0705, #142160 & #175498 or Cody Simmons, 405-203-2449, #183016, www. sunshinerealty.realtor.

• Masonry Work & Repair: brick, block, stone & repair. All size jobs: fireplaces, mailboxes, planters, tuck pointing, pavers, brick replacement due to erosion. 40yrs experience, competitive prices. Danny, 779-5362.

• Alfredo Medina III Construction: All types of quality concrete work at an affordable price, no job too large or small; satisfaction guaranteed, free estimates, 405-664-9820.

• Bowman’s Welding Service: Fences, corrals, entryways, alleyways, ornamental fence, any type of welding, shop or portable. 360-8091 or 990-1084.

• Weld Up Steel Buildings: 30x30x12= 25,836.00, 40x50= 44,920.00, 40x100= 81428.00, Pricing includes concrete one walk dr, and garage dr, 872-0338.

• Bargain Barns: 18x21 stell carport = 1395.00, 12x31 rv cover = 2505.00, 24x31 steel garage = 7710.00, Delivery and installation included, call 872-0338.

• Portable buildings: 8x10 mini barn = 2410.00, 10x16 lofted barn = 4425.00, 12x28 garage = 8710.00, 872-0338.

• Argo Siding & Windows: Windows, doors, siding, patio rooms, carports, remodeling, room additions, tile, painting, roofing, we also do skirting and repair siding on mobile homes. 255-5553, leave message.

• Hetrick Family Dentistry: we’re accepting new patients, we provide service to Chickasaw Tribal members and accept private insurance, call today for an appointment and let our team join you on your journey to a Happy Health Smile. 632-2273.

• Christian Land Services: Offduty firefighter offering Tractor work, Brush hogging, grapple work, tilling, dirt/gravel grading, backhoe work. Gage Christian. 420-5646.

• Tractor Work: Brush hogging, gravel drives, dirt work, garden tilling, holes drilled, tree trimming & removal. 808-8202.

• Hometown Paving: An asphalt company located in Chickasha OK for all of your asphalt paving & maintenance; 892-9075 or www.hometownpaving.com.

• Woodcraft: In shop furniture repair and or refinishing, custom wood projects on request such as chests, book shelves etc, call Russ. 887-5870.

• BMW Shutters, Blinds and Shades: Window Treatments for Residential or Commercial over 30 years experience; Call for Free Estimates. 760-8407.

• Swopes Tractor Worx: brush hog spread gravel and dirt work call Wayne; call for free estimates. 255-3440.

• Tractor Repair: I repair tractors, 50 Years experience, Lexington. 365-7572.

All phone numbers are area code 405 unless otherwise noted

• Want Salvage Tractors: 19722026, any kind or model 2x4 WD; John Deere SG Balers, any number, any condition; $150 for 2026. 641-7728.

• Land services: acreage and lawn mowing, brush hog, driveways, gravel and dirt work, call for free estimate. 365-6875.

• Estate Cleanup: Clean Up & Haul Off Trash, Storm & Other Debris from properties & building interiors; tree removal; Call JERRY RICHARDSON for a neatly completed professional job; Insured; /References. 850-0577.

• L&S Land Services: Mustang, OK; Mowing, Brushogging, Trenching and Backhoe work.

• Specialize in overgrown areas and demolition work: If you are a do-it-yourself person we do a lot of trenching for homeowners. Instead of wasting time and going to rent a piece of equipment. Give us a call or text. 274-5790.

• Reliable small gas engine repair: mowers of all kinds chain saws and weedeaters call or text Johnny Smith you can bring them or I can pick them up from a reasonable distance from me. 740-6223.

• All vintage: 70s matching livrm tables, 12casesdecanter coll 4cane back chairs, wicker baby carriage, 4pc duncanphyphe dining chairs, misc lamps pics, carney area. 366-6166.

• Paint and body shop: call Randy for Free estimate. 590-2284.

• Kirby Construction: Excavator work, 50 years of experience; pond work: stone pond surrounds; dams; waterlines; culvert installations; concrete breaking and sawing for free estimate. 617-6827.

• Rainbow, authorized vacuum repair and service: 409-4074.

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Oklahoma Electric Cooperative News July 26 by Oklahoma Electric Cooperative - Issuu