Rural Renaissance | OEC News

The power of connection

Through the 1930s, the unavailability of electricity in rural areas kept their economies entirely and exclusively dependent on agriculture.

Things changed in 1937 thanks to the hard work and determination of a group of farmers from Cleveland and McClain Counties. Since then, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative has been at the forefront of improving members’ quality of life through the safe delivery of highly reliable electricity.

Long before OEC Fiber put its first fiber cable in the ground, in 2017, OEC sent a survey to its members asking them what they could do better. What did the area need that they could provide? The overwhelming response was the internet, and it became clear that high-speed internet was akin to electricity in the 20th century. Many of our electric members did not have access to affordable or reliable internet services, or access to the internet at all. From that, OEC Fiber was born and founded on the same principles that brought us OEC all those years ago.

Together, we are reinvesting in Oklahoma by bringing reliable electric and high-speed fiber services to our community’s homes, businesses and schools. We understand that connected communities create jobs, attract new employers and directly jump-start local economies. We are proud to provide a couple of the key ingredients needed to ensure a healthy 21st-century economy — reliable electricity and high-speed internet access.

OEC Fiber’s fiber network invests in our community’s future and the next generation in four fundamental ways.

1. Fiber Helps You Work and Live Where You Love

Without high-speed internet, small-town America would be left in the dust. Small businesses and farms could not compete with their industrial counterparts. Families would miss out on essential benefits, like streaming entertainment or video calls with loved ones.

The expansion of fiber internet infrastructure is altering the landscape, putting small-town America on a level playing field with more densely populated regions. The superior quality of fiber internet also allows smaller communities to attract new businesses and investments, bringing in well-educated and highly skilled younger people who previously departed for larger cities.

This rural migration makes it far less likely that families will have to choose between where they want to live or taking a great job opportunity. Fiber internet technology doesn’t just help you stay connected to other people—it’s also helping you stay in your community and keep the ones you love closer.

2. Remote Work and Relocation Fuels Job and Economic Growth

Online and internet-based jobs are no longer “the careers of the future.” They are the jobs of the present.

According to Forbes, 12.7% of full-time work is done from home, and 28.2% of jobs have a hybrid approach. These numbers will only grow. Fiber internet is helping to fuel the remote working trend and helping attract new workers to our community.

Relocation, or “recruiting”, remote workers away from major cities and to smaller and often more scenic, relaxed regions, is another significant trend in American life and relocation, made possible by fiber internet, can be an engine to power sustainable economic growth to help our community thrive.

Today’s workforce depends on fast, reliable internet. Fiber internet draws talent to our small communities to work from home or even in the local coffee shop. It helps keep our families together and attracts new families into our community. As a result, the local economy is boosted, from restaurants and shops to other small businesses and service providers.

3. Improved Schools and Educational Benefits

Today’s schools go well beyond chalkboards and desks. Resource-rich curriculums bring a swath of learning materials from all over the world into the classroom via the internet.

Fiber’s reliable internet means teachers can easily access and share resources with their students, greatly enriching the learning environment and improving educational outcomes for our children. By bringing these critical education materials and tools to our schools, fiber internet makes perhaps its most crucial—and longest-lasting—investment in our community.

4. Fiber Enhances Farms and Keeps Agri-Businesses Competitive

Farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural-related businesses also benefit from access to fiber internet. From up-to-the-minute weather information to soil and moisture data and access to global markets, fiber helps small farms and rural communities thrive.

Fiber improves connections to governmental and regulatory agencies, speeding up permitting, insurance claims and more. Modern tech powered by fiber can vastly improve efficiencies for livestock and agricultural farms—bringing more profit and stability to farming families. Plus, easier access to online knowledge and resources ensures our local farmers don’t fall behind competitors in other areas.

These are just a few ways OEC Fiber and its fiber network invest in our community and the next generation. Whether helping to grow our economy, young minds or agricultural products, OEC Fiber’s high-speed, reliable fiber internet is built to sustain them all for years to come.

Here at OEC and OEC Fiber, we are managed and operated by employees who embody local and reliable service to the communities we both live and work in. Our electric and fiber services’ reliability, along with our unmatched member service and subscriber support, will be unlike anything you’ve seen or experienced before. Call us today to sign up for OEC Fiber at (405) 217-6868.

Elevate Your Connectivity!

Explore how high-speed fiber internet can transform your daily life with OEC Fiber!
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Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »
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Capital Credits | OEC News

OEC board of trustees approves $2 million in capital credits to be paid to members from 2010

OEC’s board of trustees has authorized the distribution of over $2 million in capital credits to members of the cooperative who purchased electricity during parts of 2010.

“The issuing of capital credits each year truly highlights what a cooperative is,” said CEO Patrick Grace. “We’ve been working together since 1937 to provide an affordable, reliable service — capital credits signify what it truly means to come together for a common cause. Plus, we would much rather return dividends to the members we serve rather than far-off investors.”

Over 26,000 current and former members received a check in September.

What are capital credits?

Unlike investor-owned utility companies that strive to generate profits for shareholders, electric cooperatives like OEC operate on an at-cost basis. Any profits made by OEC – referred to as margins – are returned to the consumer-members. Capital credits represent these dividends.

What qualifies members to receive capital credits?

Capital credits are allocated to each member based on the amount paid to OEC over the years. Currently, we “retire” or issue capital credit checks on a 10-15 year.

What if those owed money are no longer members?

Some who were members in 2010 might no longer be members but are still owed capital credits. Please visit okcoop.org/capitalcredits and, if you see a name you recognize on the list who could’ve been an OEC member during 2010, please have that person submit the online form and any accompanying documents. All address updates must be received in writing.

If you see the name of a family member who is deceased and you are the rightful heir, you can download the form from okcoop.org/capitalcredits and return it along with the appropriate paperwork to transfer all remaining capital credits into your name.

I was a member in 2010 but didn’t receive a check

Checks were not issued for less than $25 unless a member has no further refunds due for future years. Refunds of less than $25 are retained until and added to the next distribution.

A full list of names – both individuals and businesses owed money – can be found at okcoop.org/capitalcredits along with appropriate forms. Mail paperwork and supporting documents to OEC, P.O. Box 1208, Norman, OK, 73070.

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Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »
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Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrating Co-op Month: OEC’s Commitment to Growth and Community

October is National Co-op Month, and Oklahoma Electric Cooperative is joining cooperatives across the U.S. to celebrate. Co-ops come in all shapes and sizes, but they each have a common goal: to provide goods or services for the members of the co-op.

Electric co-ops, including OEC, exist to serve their members. Our priority is to provide affordable, reliable energy to our local communities. Because we are led by you, the members we serve, we can evolve to meet your needs. We started OEC Fiber with this in mind.

This October, as we celebrate Co-op Month, we’re focusing on the ways “Co-ops Grow” for their members.

Co-ops Grow Communities

Co-ops help communities grow by promoting economic empowerment, fostering community engagement and supporting the unique needs of co-op members. “Concern for Community” is one of our core principles — and being community-focused is essential to everything we do.

Co-ops Grow Together

Co-ops are all about cooperation, not competition. That’s why electric co-ops work together to share lessons learned, successful strategies and better ways to serve our members. We’re better when we grow together! 

Co-ops Grow

Tomorrow’s Leaders: Electric co-ops serve as fertile ground for growing tomorrow’s leaders through a variety of youth engagement programs. Whether through school demonstrations, community events or the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour program, we’re committed to providing opportunities for local youth to learn and thrive in our community and beyond

Co-ops Grow for You

At OEC, your satisfaction is our number one goal. It’s why we were formed many years ago to fulfill a uniquely local purpose. We’ve come a long way since then, and your needs continue to evolve. That’s why we’ll never stop growing for you.

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Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »
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Shift into Gear | OEC News

Adapting to challenges, OEC transformed this year’s annual meeting, setting a new attendance record and heightening member engagement with exciting prizes and convenient features.

For members who have been a part of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s Annual Meetings in the past, this year’s event was an entirely new and exciting experience. With construction underway inside the University of Oklahoma’s Lloyd Noble Center (LNC), OEC adapted to the challenge by hosting its first-ever Drive-Thru Annual Meeting in the LNC’s parking lot on Friday, Sept. 15.

Attendance exceeded expectations, with over 3,300 members and their guests coming together for this innovative event. Previously, our record high attendance was 2,800 members. We are thrilled so many members took an active part in their cooperative by attending the Annual Meeting. Members who attended were not only greeted with enthusiasm but also received a generous $30 bill credit, signifying a $10 increase from the previous year.

The hallmark of this unique meeting was convenience. OEC staff efficiently registered attendees from the comfort of their vehicles, guided by clearly marked signs and welcoming faces. As has been the tradition, members also left with a complimentary bag filled with a variety of free OEC and OEC Fiber items, showcasing OEC’s commitment to member appreciation.

The excitement didn’t stop there. Attendees had the opportunity to become lucky prize winners, including two fortunate recipients of $1,000 grand prizes, adding an extra layer of thrill to the evening.

The business meeting was expertly conducted via OEC’s YouTube channel, ensuring members could stay informed and participate seamlessly from their vehicles. The eagerly awaited grand prize drawings marked the culmination of the live stream.

“Our first-ever Drive-Thru Annual Meeting exceeded our expectations,” said Brianna Wall, OEC’s manager of marketing and member relations. “It’s truly heartwarming to see our members embrace innovation, and we’re committed to continuing to provide exceptional experiences in the future.”

As OEC reflects on this inaugural Drive-Thru Annual Meeting, the cooperative extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who attended, making this unique event a triumph.

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Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »
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From the Top — October 2023 | OEC News

Being a cooperative member pays off

This October, as we celebrate National Co-op Month, members of our cooperative have extra reason to cheer: capital credit checks are going out. Many of you might wonder, “What exactly is a capital credit?” To put it simply, it’s like a dividend check for long-standing members.

In our cooperative, the profits are called “margins.” We reinvest these margins to help keep our rates low. Once we cover our operational expenses and meet the financial requirements established by our lending institutions, these profits belong to you, our members, and so we return them.

Cooperatives like us are unique because we are owned by the members. There are no separate investors; the investors are you. Our top priority is not to generate profits, but rather to provide you with the best service possible, and your satisfaction is our ultimate goal.

Our cooperative’s goal is to increase the quality of life for our members through reliable electric and broadband services. We’re committed to delivering these services at the most reasonable cost—not necessarily the lowest. Providing value often requires a balance; we might spend a bit more on infrastructure to ensure higher quality or use in-person, locally-based member services, which might cost more but provides far better service.

This local-centric approach extends to our Annual Meeting. Members are our shareholders, making these gatherings critical touchpoints to reaffirm our cooperative’s unique model. Last month, our Annual Meeting was in a new drive-thru format. With the cooperative growing, we explored creative ways to accommodate everyone, and we were thrilled with the turnout.

So, as you receive your capital credit checks or reflect on the drive-thru Annual Meeting, remember: the cooperative difference means we’re working for you. Your involvement doesn’t just empower us—it defines us.

Happy Co-op Month!

Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »

Dedicated to You | OEC News

Ronnie Grover and Bob Usry reappointed to board of trustees

Each trustee began three-year terms in September following two uncontested elections. The two trustees — also OEC members — proudly serve their respective districts across OEC’s service area.

“Grover and Usry have diligently represented the members in their districts throughout their service on the board,” said Ronnie Tharp, Board of Trustees president. “We know Mr. Grover and Mr. Usry will serve in the way our members expect and deserve.”

Per OEC’s by-laws, trustees serve three-year terms, with a different group eligible for election each year. OEC notified all members in the July Co-op News of the upcoming filing period for a spot on OEC’s board representing Districts 4 (Newcastle) and 8 (Midwest City, Choctaw and Norman).

OEC’s Board of Trustees is tasked with becoming educated, knowledgeable experts in the electric industry. Eight of the nine trustees hold certifications and distinctions marking them as professionals in the field, qualifying them to make decisions in their constituents’ best interests and ensure the co-op succeeds in its mission while remaining transparent to the members who own it.

To learn more about OEC’s board of trustees, visit okcoop.org/meetourteam.

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Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »
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EV Rate Also Benefits Overnight Users | OEC News

Optimize Your Electric Bill: Why Nighttime is the Right Time with OEC’s EV Rate!

In 2020, OEC’s board of trustees added a new rate to OEC’s catalog of rate options, initially for members who own an electric vehicle (EV). This rate is beneficial for all who tend to consume a lot of power during the overnight hours.

“This residential rate focuses on the time of day electricity is consumed and is most beneficial to those with electric vehicles or large appliances that are programmed to operate overnight,” said Key Accounts Specialist and resident rate expert Tim Ferree. “While we call it the ‘EV rate’ it’s also ideal for those willing to divert energy consumption to evening and overnight hours.”

The price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) drops significantly between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., the prime EV charging time for those with at-home charging capabilities. Residential members who experience high consumption overnight could reap the benefits as well.

“We are able to offer lower overnight kWh rates because power is produced at a lower cost during those hours,” Ferree said. “Temperatures are cooler and air conditioners are working less, which allows the grid to recover from the strains of a hot summer afternoon. Plus, overnight electricity is generated mostly by wind power — a relatively inexpensive generation resource.”

Members able to shift high energy use (i.e. clothes dryer, HVAC, electric car charging, etc.) to the hours of 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. will experience the most savings. Read more about this rate and switch to it by visiting okcoop.org/ev-rate.

Those looking to explore all of our rate options may visit okcoop.org/rates. Residential members may switch rates once in a 12-month period via the above link or by calling our Member Service team at 405-321-2024.

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Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »
Follow us!

Powering Progress | OEC News

Powering Positive Change: Over $69,000 Granted to Build Stronger, United Communities

In August, the OEC Foundation board of directors approved $69,150 in grants to several local organizations and families, a significant contribution to the welfare of the community. The lifeblood of this initiative is the thousands of members who voluntarily round up their electric bills to the nearest dollar. These funds fuel Operation Round Up (ORU), a noble program aimed at supporting deserving causes throughout the areas the cooperative serves.

“OEC is distinct—being member-owned means we’re all about giving back,” said Dr. Jacob Smith, D.O. of Norman, a newer ORU board member who succeeded the last founding board member, Vivian Gibson, upon her retirement. “To know that every penny we collect is channeled back into the community is a profound joy.”

BREAKING DOWN THE BENEFICIARIES

Amber-Pocasset Special Athletes received $2,500, aiding the athletes in participating in the Special Olympics. Norman Assistance League was granted $10,000 for their Operation School Bell program.

Dibble Volunteer Fire Department received $4,000, directed towards purchasing equipment for their new truck and ensuring their PPE is up to standard.

Meals on Wheels of Norman, Inc. was allocated $10,000 to bolster their free meal service.

Transition House, Inc. garnered $10,000 to support the needs of their residential clients.

On the individual front, grants aided members with vision care, procuring medical equipment and assisting with tornado damage cleanup.

With roughly 80% of members choosing to round up their bills, the cumulative yearly donation is an average of $6 per member. This seemingly small contribution has facilitated a variety of programs and causes over the years.

Donna McCrory of Noble and other dedicated members of the Foundation board ensure that each application is meticulously reviewed. The objective is to ensure that the funded projects and organizations leave a lasting positive impact on the community. OEC remains deeply committed to endorsing these invaluable initiatives.

“These grants don’t just assist larger organizations in extending their outreach; they actively breathe life into communities, supporting individuals in challenging situations,” said Beckie Turner, OEC Foundation past president. “The ripple effect of each donation, regardless of its size, is genuinely heartwarming to observe.”

Over its 27-year trajectory, ORU has disbursed over $5 million in grants to myriad local nonprofit entities, individuals and families. These establishments are pillars in their communities, offering essential services ranging from meals and clothing to holiday gifts.

However, the influence of ORU’s contributions is not restricted to the direct beneficiaries. By bolstering these organizations, ORU fortifies community unity and establishes robust support structures. This multiplier effect ensures that ORU’s efforts continue to foster resilient and interconnected communities.

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Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »
Follow us!

From the Top — September 2023 | OEC News

The Shift to a Modern Approach for Annual Meetings

As we approach this year’s Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at the co-op, change is on the horizon. The co-op has come a long way since its founding in 1937, where the notion of an annual gathering served as a vital source of education and accountability for its members. Back then, the world had yet to be introduced to the digital realm we are now so accustomed to.

In those early days, the Annual Meeting was akin to a town hall, fostering open dialogue and understanding among the members. The co-op has weathered numerous shifts, and as technology advanced, so did the way we interacted with our members. But some traditions, while cherished, must evolve to meet the needs of a modern membership.

Many co-ops have adapted to a drive-through format, an approach spurred by the pandemic. While we chose not to embark on that path initially, witnessing the success other co-ops experienced with this model was inspiring. This year, we find ourselves at a crossroads as the Lloyd Noble Center undergoes construction. Thus, the drive-through format will serve as our medium of choice.

It’s not simply about convenience, though that’s an undeniable aspect. As our membership grows, the logistics of gathering in one place become increasingly challenging. With this shift, we aim to integrate technology, using platforms like YouTube Live to provide our members with a more immersive experience.

In this age, convenience is a premium commodity. The drive-through approach allows members to engage without dedicating hours to an in-person event. Beyond that, we encourage your input. A survey will be available so you can share your thoughts on this new format.

As we navigate this transformation, the essence of the co-op remains unchanged – our dedication to our members, our accountability and our commitment to progress.

Change is inevitable, but with change comes the potential for progress. We look forward to this new era of connection and convenience as we redefine what it means to come together as a cooperative family.

Rural Renaissance | OEC News

Discover the transformative journey of OEC Fiber, originating from the endeavors of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative. Explore how our reliable fiber internet is revitalizing rural Oklahoma by promoting economic growth, enriching education, and bolstering agricultural advancements. Call (405) 217-6868 to experience unmatched reliability with OEC Fiber!

Read More »

Capital Credits | OEC News

Explore the significance of Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s $2 million capital credits retirement, highlighting the cooperative’s commitment since 1937. Learn about the allocation and claim process for both current and former members. Understand the difference between a cooperative and investor-owned utility companies, focusing on member benefits and community impact.

Read More »

Growing Together | OEC News

Celebrate National Co-op Month this October with Oklahoma Electric Cooperative (OEC)! Discover how co-ops like OEC are pivotal in community growth, economic empowerment, and fostering cooperation and learning. Explore our enduring commitment to member satisfaction and our continuous evolution to meet your needs.

Read More »

Shift into Gear | OEC News

Oklahoma Electric Cooperative’s (OEC) innovative Drive-Thru Annual Meeting at Lloyd Noble Center marks a milestone in member engagement and convenience. The event set an attendance record and featured prize drawings and live stream business meetings. Explore the highlights and insights of this unprecedented member-centric event.

Read More »

Get Charged! The Interactive Science Curriculum Lighting Up Classrooms | OEC News

STEMulating rural classrooms: science kits energize curriculm

OEC’s nationally-award-winning, hands-on educational curriculum, Get Charged!, does just that while meeting Oklahoma state science standards in electricity or energy for grades Kindergarten through fifth.

Designed through careful research and with input from several area teachers, the curriculum is interdisciplinary and fun. OEC Education and Outreach Programs Director Tory Tedder-Loffland has led the classroom program for five years and is gearing up for another year of educating the next generation about the amazing world of energy.

Teachers can check out a fully stocked kit and lesson plan for their classroom or schedule a visit by Tedder-Loffland to facilitate the lesson in the classroom.

“Get Charged! includes more than just electricity education,” said Deborah Phillips of Dryden School of Advanced Academics. “It also involves learning a little history and is a great program for homeschool lessons as well. The kit is packed with so much material, I am finding it useful for some experiments beyond what it is designed for.”

Full curriculums, teacher’s guides, kits and videos are available free of charge for Kindergarten through fifth grades. The kit includes projects and experiments focused on the components of electricity, and the teacher’s guide and folder have everything the teacher needs to facilitate a lesson.

“As part of the most popular experiment, the students learn about circuits, conductors and insulators,” Tedder-Loffland said. “They draw a schematic of the circuit they are constructing, which powers a small light bulb. Later, that circuit operates a telegraph the students use to communicate using Morse Code.”

“We are doing every experiment and adding them as lab assignments to [one of our home schooler’s] science class.”

Contact Tory Tedder-Loffland, (405) 217-6726 or tory@okcoop.org for more information and visit okcoop.org/learn-programming-request/ to explore all the programs offered to youth in OEC’s service area and to reserve a Get Charged! kit for your classroom.

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