POWERING THRU A GLOBAL CRISIS - - People's Electric ... · tough decision on April 1 to cancel all NRECA in-person events through the end of June. As announced in last month’s issue,

People’s

May 2020

A newsletter for PEC’s electric members

Classifi ed Ads | Page 4

Safety Month | Page 3

Youth Trip Cancelled | Page 2

People’sPowerline

Please read your newsletter carefully. If you spot your account number hidden in these pages, please contact PEC immediately to claim a $5 credit on your next month’s electric bill.

POWERING THRU A GLOBAL CRISIS As we all deal with the

new realities brought on by the coronavirus, we understand this is a challenging time for everyone. I want to assure you that PEC is here to help.

We have always had an Emergency Plan that has served us well in a variety

of circumstances, from ice storms to tornadoes to fl ash fl oods. Early in this crisis, our staff updated that plan with a special emphasis on ensuring we can continue to provide the reliable electric service you have come to expect from PEC. 163100113

We know that after a suffi cient supply of food and water, electricity is the No. 1 thing you need to maintain some sense of normalcy as we hunker down in our homes. With that in mind, keeping the power fl owing is our No. 1 Job.

We are focused on maintaining a healthy workforce, and keeping our essential personnel available so that we can continue to provide excellent service. On March 23 we closed our lobbies to prevent the spread of germs, and many of our employees began working remotely. We divided departments into shifts so that they can practice social distancing even when in the offi ce. We separated our line crews from other employees and even from each other to limit possible spread of the virus. Trucks were relocated so that many lineworkers could head to the job site without coming to the offi ce. New routines were put in place for contractors working on our system

in order to keep them away from employees. Deliveries have been quarantined.

Our management team and board are meeting to fi ne-tune this plan. We are in constant contact with the other electric cooperatives in Oklahoma and with the Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives (OAEC), which in turn is working closely with our national association, the state legislature, Governor Kevin Stitt’s offi ce, and the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management.

So far, it is working well and everyone has adapted to the new norm. In the midst of many unknowns, our staff would like to remind you that we are here, and that we care about our members. Please consider utilizing our SmartHub mobile app for reporting outages, paying your bill or monitoring your energy usage. You can engage with us directly by calling (580) 332-3031 during regular offi ce hours Monday thru Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM or stopping by our drive-thru window located at our main offi ce in Ada at 1600 North Country Club Road. You can also fi nd valuable information online at www.PeoplesElectric.coop, along with our most up-to-date information on PEC’s social media channels (Facebook, Instagram and Twitter). And continue to report outages via our outage number (580) 272-1500, 24 hours/day, 7 days/week.

While we are practicing social distancing and missing many of our regular interactions, remember how resilient Oklahomans are. PEC’s service area has been built by caring, friendly and compassionate people who never hesitate to take care of each other. We know that together we will overcome this diffi cult time, and we will be stronger for it.

PEC cashier Taylor McIntyre, at right, assists member Carlos Brannon of Ada with an electric agreement at PEC’s drive-thru window.

Kevin WoodCEO & Executive VP,People’s Electric Cooperative

PEC’s VP of Human Resources Maranda Babb was selected to be a judge for the state DECA competition in February. DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, fi nance, hospitality and management in high school and colleges around the globe.

February 19, PEC hosted this year’s Leadership Ada class through the Ada Area Chamber of Commerce. The group spent the day with PEC, Flex-n-Gate and LegalShield, learning about local business and industry.

March 13, PEC hosted the Ada Area Chamber Legislative Breakfast. The breakfast featured Senator Greg McCortney (Dist. 13), State Representative Ronny Johns (Dist. 25) along with Amber Savage with Congressman Tom Cole’s offi ce.

2020 YOUTH TOUR CANCELLEDFor the fi rst time in its 62 year history,

the Washington D.C. Youth Tour has been canceled due to concerns amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally scheduled for June 19–25, the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) made the tough decision on April 1 to cancel all NRECA in-person events through the end of June.

As announced in last month’s issue, PEC’s 2020 Youth Tour delegates are Rhylee Tucker and Julie Balcerak, both of Pauls Valley High School, and Logan Morris of Vanoss High School. “We regret this unprecedented cancellation, but given the magnitude of the pandemic, the safety of all participants remains our top priority,” said PEC’s program coordinator Jennifer Boeck. “While our delegates will not have the opportunity to travel to Washington D.C. as originally planned, I’m confi dent they will continue to be great representatives of PEC and Oklahoma’s Youth Tour program for the rest of their lives.” 861100204

The Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives (OAEC) will continue to communicate several opportunities and experiences that are available to this year’s delegates. NRECA is also working to share as much of the experience as they can digitally. While on the trip, delegates would have gathered with all 1,800 students from across the nation, representing co-ops from almost every state. 992800100

The Washington Youth Tour began in 1958 when co-ops in Iowa and Illinois began sending busloads of students to the nation’s capital. Since then, more than 50,000 young people have taken advantage of this special opportunity off ered by their local electric cooperative. PEC alone has sent 101 students since 1964, selecting rising young leaders in its service territory to gain a personal understanding of American history, civic aff airs and their role as citizens and members of electric cooperatives.

(l-r) Shana Wood, Ada Chamber; Mason Groves, PEC; Ronny Johns, State Representative; Amber Savage, Tom Cole’s O� ce; Greg McCortney, State Senator; Kevin Wood, PEC; Jennifer Boeck, PEC.

HEALTH CONCERNS TRIGGER DECISION

24 Hour Outage Reporting System(877) 272-1500 or

(580) 272-1500 (Ada Area)

IMPORTANT DATESBills mailed ........................................31st

Bills should be paid by the ......... 10th

Cutoff s made ................................... 20th

Business Hours8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Friday(877) 456-3031 or (580) 332-3031(Ada Area)

People's Electric CooperativeP.O. Box 429 | Ada, OK 74821

STEPS TO FOLLOW IF YOURELECTRICITY GOES OFF1. Check your fuse or breaker box.2. Check with your neighbors. Are they off ?

Have they reported the outage?3. Call our 24 hour Outage Reporting System

at toll-free 1-877-272-1500 or (580) 272-1500 (local Ada area).

4. Always report outages promptly! Remember, the cooperative's responsibility ends at the meter. If a service call is made and the trouble is found on the consumer's side, a $50.00 service charge will be assessed.

5. For faster service, please make sure we have the correct phone number(s) for your account on fi le. Your phone number will be used to access your account information.

Providing electricity and energy service to over 21,000 meters in the following 11 south central Oklahoma counties: Atoka, Carter, Coal, Garvin, Hughes, Johnston, McClain, Murray, Pittsburg, Pontotoc and Seminole.

Website: www.PeoplesElectric.coop

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Jenny Trett- SulphurChairman & President

Eldon Flinn - FittstownVice Chairman

Vicky Petete - AdaSecretary

Guy Sims - CoalgateTreasurer

Dr. Laurin Patton - AdaTrustee

SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU

While so many of us are at home now more than we ever have been, it’s

a great time to look around and check for potential safety hazards. Remember, every electrical device has a purpose and a service lifespan. While we can extend their operations with maintenance and care, none of them are designed to last or work forever. When electricity is involved, failures can present electrical hazards that might be prevented with periodic inspections.

Ground Fault Circuit InterruptersOutdoor outlets or those in potentially damp locations in a kitchen, bathroom or laundry room often include GFCI features. They are designed to sense abnormal current flows, breaking the circuit to prevent potential electric shocks from devices plugged into the outlets. 622700805

The average GFCI outlet is designed to last about 10 years, but in areas prone to electrical storms or power surges, they can wear out in fi ve years or less. Check them frequently by pressing the red test button. Make sure you hit the black reset button when you are done. Contact a licensed electrician to replace any failing GFCI outlets.

Loose or Damaged Outlets or SwitchesUnstable electrical outlets or wall switches with signs of heat damage or discoloration can off er early warnings of potential shock or electrical fi re hazards. Loose connections can allow electrical current arcing. If you see these warning signs, it may be time to contact an electrician.

Surge ProtectorsPower strips with surge protectors can help safeguard expensive equipment like televisions, home entertainment systems and computer components from power spikes.

Some surge protectors include indicator lights that fl icker to warn you when they’ve stopped working as designed, but many do not. If your electrical system takes a major hit, or if you don’t remember when you bought your surge protector, replacement may be the best option.

Extension CordsWith a growing number of electrical devices connecting your family to the electricity you get from PEC, having enough outlets in just the right spots can be challenging. Remember, extension cords are designed for temporary, occasional or periodic use.

If an extension cord gets noticeably warm when in use, it could be undersized for the intended use. If it shows any signs of frayed, cracked or heat-damaged insulation, it should be replaced. If the grounding prong is missing, crimped or loose, a grounded cord will not provide the protection designed into its performance. And always make sure that extension cords used in outdoor or potentially damp locations are rated for exterior use.

Electricity is an essential necessity for modern living, and PEC is committed to providing safe, reliable and aff ordable power to all of our members. We hope you’ll keep these electrical safety tips in mind so that you can note any potential hazards before damage occurs.

TIPS FOR SPOTTING POTENTIAL ELECTRICAL HAZARDS IN YOUR HOME

Remember to identify ads with your name, phone number and account number. This is a free service to PEC members. Clip and mail the above form to: PEC Newsletter - P.O. Box 429, Ada, OK 74820.

-FREE-Classified Ads for PEC Members!

Type or print your ad on the lines below and mail it in. Remember, we are limited on the amount of available space, so mail ads as soon as possible or email your ad to [email protected] with name/account number._________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________Name:______________________________________________________Acct. No.:_____________________ Phone No.: ( )_______________

ACCOUNT NUMBER WINNER

Since we are limited on the amount of available space, ads will be taken until the classified section is full. Ads received after the section is full will not be held for the next issue. They should be re-submitted. The number of ads published each month will vary according to availability of space and ad content. We reserve the right to delete words and edit accordingly.

ATTENTION PEC MEMBERS:Submit your free ad online!

www.PeoplesElectric.coop

FURNITURE & APPLIANCESWhirlpool electric double ovens, very good condition, all works excellent. (405) 592-9450

Kids table, $5; Stainless steel sinks, $10/each; Glass table, $20; Gold lamps, $5 for set; Puzzles, $1/each; Books, $1/each. (580) 447-4285

Seven Pyrenees/Anatolian pups, born February 6, 2020, six males, one female, wormed and shots, $100/each; Round wooden dinner table with four chairs, $750. (580) 320-2150

LIVESTOCK & PETBrangus bulls, 13 months old to 2 years old, Lula area. (972) 670-5479 or (214) 226-8765

I am looking for a Mille Fleur rooster, please text Susan. (580) 399-5914

Service age Angus bulls. (580) 456-7241

Two aluminum diamond cut dog boxes; Windmill for house, $20,000. Call after 6 PM, (580) 892-3000

Service age SimAngus bulls, cow calf pairs and bred cows, come pick. (580) 272-3786

Registered Polled Hereford, 51 year lifetime, membership Cow Herd, a few 2 year old Heifers, famous genetic bloodlines, old, tired, retiring. (580) 332-2468

Aberdeen Angus bulls, three month to two year old, also called “low line,” google for info, low birthweight, easy delivery calves, pick yours for future breeding, $500. (405) 570-8194

20 head, 3 and 4 year old, black cows, cows are gentle and bred to horned hereford bulls, will start calving in September. (580) 927-5648

Add length, maintain thickness, retain color and increase profits in your calf crop with Beefmaster bulls, gentle natured cattle, 45 years experience. (580) 513-4113 or (580) 456-7226

WANT TO BUYWill pay good prices for railroad items that are marked, MVRR or OCA&A; Also looking for embossed Oklahoma highway signs and Ada pottery crocks. (580) 399-8866

Want to buy: Older single axel boat trailer; Selling: Model 770 Remington 270, never been shot. (580) 265-4359

699 Massey Ferguson, for parts. (580) 618-0067

Needing a motor for 2007 F150 Ford, 5.4 motor. (405) 712-2950

FARM & EQUIPMENTJohn Deere 650 hay rake; New Holland 258 hay rake, both in working condition, best offer accepted. (580) 857-2549

Model 7040 Vermeer 3 pt. disc mower. (580) 320 2668

John Deere 346 square baler, barn stored, bales good, 1 1/2 miles N of Ada, $5,000. (580) 436 4352

Bermuda hay, large round bales, wrapped, under shed, will load. (405) 238-0393 141150100

2003 New Holland, 25 HP, 4 wheel drive, front bucket, 1200 hours, $11,500; 1977 Bass Kit, 18’ boat, 55 HP, Evinrude and Trolling motor, like new, used very little, $1,100. (580) 421-3264

AUTOMOTIVE2016 Jeep Liberty, 4WD, V6, good power train & tires; Box blade, cylinder hoses, tires; 10 heifers, over 1 year, Angus cross; Female donkey, 1 year old; Riding lawn mower, runs and cuts good. (405) 213-6448

MOBILE HOMES, RV’S, BOATS, & ATV’S2005 Holiday Rambler Class A motor home, 30 Amp, 20,000 miles, Ford 6.8L V10, Onan 4000 Microquite generator, outside shower, TV hookup, backup camara, 2” reciever hitch, $32,000. (580) 759-3441

2005 Sun Tracker party barge pontoon boat, 24’, 135 HP, comes with trailer, aluminum deck, professionally serviced, trailer has new tires and bearings, less than 2 years ago, no issues, $12,500. (580) 258-0769

2003 Kawasaki Prairie, auto transmission; 2001 F250 Suzuki four wheeler; Chicken houses for sale. (580) 230-8767

REAL ESTATE100 acres for sale in Lula, OK, runs 25 pair of cattle, great fishing and hunting, $205,000. (580) 320-4606

MISCELLANEOUSStructural pipe, H-Posts, corner posts, rebar, culvert, etc. (405) 207-0101

Top soil, fill dirt, and gravel available, can deliver or you can pick up. (405) 207-8906

20’ and 40’ shipping containers for sale or rent, many to choose from. (405) 207-6714

Storage building for sale, 8x12, $1,995 delivered. (405) 872-7433

Metal shop buildings or barns, industrial or commercial buildings. (405) 207-1240

Good condition, used, various sized freezer panels, many to choose from, call first to set up time to view, will not deliver. Call Butch (580) 371-8349

Portable storage buildings and greenhouses, delivered; carports and garages, built on site, all cash or financed; trailers: utility, car haulers, dump, GN flatbed and BP stock trailers. (580) 332-7785

I have alot of post cards for sale, most have no writing on back, did not count, but I would say there is over 200. (580) 465-6741

Solid exterior metal door, white, 72 in. x 80 in., good condition. (580) 235-2373

Metal roofs, 15 colors, free estimates, vinyl siding & windows, carports & patio covers. 405-783-4335

Tractor work: tilling gardens, brush hogging, mow yards and weed eat, light hauling, cleaning yards, dump truck and backhoe work, haul sand and rock. (580) 421-3264

M77 Mark II Ruger 243, by pod legs, 3x9 scope, score before you shoot sling; Two Trotter boat motors. (405) 712-4726

Full size or baby afghans; crocheted kit towels, pot holders, dish rags; embroidery 7-day week tea towels, baby quilts, pillow cases; will do special orders. (580) 421-2287

Lawn service, free estimates. (580) 221-2378

Pest Control, free service, have a wild hog or coyote problem?I help farmers, ranchers, and landowners eradicate damagingor nuisance pests, no dogs, references available. (580) 272-3676

No members found their account number in April’s newsletter. The find would have netted them a $5 credit on this month’s electric bill. The numbers belonged to Kerry Caldwell of Allen, Kevin Spears of Pauls Valley, James Hunt of Stuart, Shari Morrison of Roff and Marc Lose of Sasakwa. It’s easy to win. Just find your account number located somewhere in the newsletter, then call, write or come to PEC by the 12th of the month in which your number is published to claim your $5.