As we move through July, summer break is in full swing. Students are enjoying a well-earned rest from the classroom, while many parents may already be looking forward to the return of the school year with just a little bit of anticipation.

At Clay Electric Co-operative, this time of year is also a good time to reaffirm our commitment to the seventh cooperative principle, Concern for Community. One of the ways we live out that principle is by supporting the young people in the communities we serve. This year, CECI will draw three $500 scholarships for the children of its members at the 82nd Annual Meeting on Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026.

Graduates of the Class of 2026 planning on attending college in the fall are encouraged to fill out the scholarship form found on page 6 of this magazine and submit it by mail or in person to Clay Electric Co-operative. Applications must be received at CECI headquarters by Friday, Aug. 21. The scholarships will be drawn live at the end of the annual meeting. Eligibility requirements are listed on the form, and we encourage students and families to review them carefully. 

The 82nd Annual Meeting will be held at Oilbelt Christian Service Camp on Thursday, Aug. 27. Registration will begin at 5 p.m., along with a pork chop or chicken dinner, Klondike bars and entertainment by Guy Ash. We will also have a small health fair with Clay County Hospital, local health departments and others. The business meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m., with drawings for bill credits and the scholarship drawing to follow the business meeting. Each member in attendance will receive a $15 bill credit with their registration.

We encourage all our members to come and exercise their democratic control of the cooperative. As a member-owned cooperative, Clay Electric is guided by the members we serve. The annual meeting is an opportunity to take part in the cooperative process, hear updates and visit with neighbors. We hope to see you there!

In service to our members, our forestry crew continues its important work clearing rights-of-way to improve reliability and public safety. They will continue to be active in areas connected to the Iola substation this month. Their work area is highlighted on the map included in this section.

Don’t forget to search for your member number in the center section of this magazine. Three lucky numbers are hidden each month in Clay Electric News. If yours is there and you call us, you’ll earn a $5 credit on your next bill.

We are grateful for the continued trust you place in your cooperative and remain committed to delivering safe, affordable and reliable electric service you can count on, today and for generations to come.