One of the Seven Cooperative Principles is “Concern for Community.” Clay Electric Co-operative considers itself a part of the communities we serve. It’s why we do our best to provide opportunities for and to engage with area schools and organizations. We just sent three of our area juniors to Washington, D.C., for a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the mechanisms of government in action and take in the history of our nation’s capital. Our Youth Tour participants will be joining us later this month at our 80th Annual Meeting to be held Aug. 22 at Oil Belt Christian Service Camp. We will also draw for our annual scholarships at the meeting. Each year, we draw three $500 scholarships for the children of our members. To be eligible, they must be members of the graduating class of 2024 with plans to attend an accredited 2- or 4-year college, university or trade school. The form for the drawing can be found on page 6 or in the annual meeting mailer sent to each member and must be returned to the cooperative by mail or in person by Friday, Aug. 16. 

This year is our 80th anniversary. To celebrate, we are increasing the registration bill credit to $15 for those who come and register. The meeting will feature live entertainment by local talent Guy Ash, and we will have additional door prizes drawn at the end of the business meeting. Twenty-four additional bill credits will be drawn at the end of the night, and a grand prize drawing for a big-screen smart TV will cap things off. Oil Belt Christian Service Camp will once again be our gracious host. Registration for the annual meeting, including entertainment and a pork chop or chicken dinner, will begin at 5 p.m., with the business meeting starting at 6:30 p.m. We look forward to seeing all our members there. 

Remember to keep an eye out for your member number hidden within this magazine. We’ve placed three member numbers throughout the pages. If you find yours and give us a call, you’ll receive a $5 discount on your next bill! Happy hunting!