Supporting Us Helps You Members’ Economic Participation is the third of our Seven Cooperative Principles John L. Sims, NEC CEO
PAYING MONEY TO PARTICIPATE in a business might not seem
like a privilege, but it is—when that business is an electric cooperative. The money you put in to become a member of Nueces Electric Cooperative not only helps us light your homes and businesses, but it also helps to improve the quality of life for everyone in our service area. The text below is from the International Cooperative Alliance’s summary of the third cooperative principle, Members’ Economic Participation: “Members contribute equitably to, and democratically control, the capital of their cooperative. At least part of that capital is usually the common property of the cooperative. Members usually receive limited compensation, if any, on capital subscribed as a condition of membership. Members allocate surpluses for any or all of the following purposes: developing their cooperative, possibly by setting up reserves, part of which at least would be indivisible; benefiting members in proportion to their transactions with the cooperative; and supporting other activities approved by the membership.” So what do those words mean? Let’s take a closer look. Chances are, when you joined NEC, you paid a membership fee of $15. That fee is your part of the equity or your share of ownership. You also do something else every month that allows your co-op to keep the lights on: You pay your bill. As a member, your paid-in share ensures that you have a say in co-op business through your elected board of directors. The board sets the strategic direction of the cooperative, then the
management and staff put that direction into action. At the end of the fiscal year, if the co-op has received more money from members than it needed to cover expenses, a portion is set aside for reserves—which is like a savings account for the co-op. If a storm or flood comes through, the co-op will have the funds to do the needed repairs. Any remaining amount is allocated to each member based on how much electricity they used during the year. Once the board decides the co-op is financially sound enough to release these allocated margins, members receive them as capital credits checks or credits on their bills. This is just one way your co-op gives back to its communities. Although the safe, reliable and affordable provision of electricity is our primary mission, the co-op also values its members and finds many other ways to enrich the quality of life in our service area. Nueces Electric Cooperative is not some large power company headquartered in a far-off state with stockholders from around the world. We are right here in the Coastal Bend of Texas. We were formed in 1938 by neighbors and friends who came together and contributed their own money with the goal of bettering their lives with electricity. Our goal is to continue to do that—improve the quality of our members’ lives—with the same neighborly approach. Our Seven Cooperative Principles guide us. And your economic participation helps us make sure our focus is always on you, the member-owner.
For big businesses, small businesses, farms and homes, electric cooperative memberships provides benefits beyond reliable electricity.
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www.nueceselectric.org FAC TO RY: © I STO C K .CO M | B LE N D_ I M AG E S. G R O C E RY: © I STO C K .CO M | ASI SE E I T. : © I STO CK.CO M | RACH E L D E W IS
Dedicated Employees Are The Cooperative Difference Roxanne Elizondo Accounting: 5 Years
Richard Padilla Apprentice: 5 Years
Cynthia Garza Receptionist: 5 Years
Jesus Olivarez Facilities Supervisor: 5 Years
On December 5, 2014, Nueces Electric Cooperative employees gathered for the annual Awards Dinner and, among other awards, honored nine employees for their years if service to the members of the Co-op. Among the recipients was Mary Pavelka, who was honored for 35 years of service to members. In her 35 years at the co-op Mary has worked under four General Managers, numerous direct supervisors, and has rolled with the flow during several transitions and departmental reorganizations. She was originally hired as a cashier before becoming a new service representative and then a work order clerk. Of her 35 years of the Co-op Mary says, “It has not always been easy and, at times, it has been very chaotic. But I have learned a lot and have had the opportunity to work with some great people.” Congratulations to Mary and thank you for 35 years of service to the Co-op!
Sylvia Garza Member Care Rep: 5 Years
John L. Sims CEO: 20 Years
Albert Pena Journey Lineman: 25 Years
Pete Ramirez Journey Lineman: 25 Years
Mary Pavelka Work Order Clerk: 35 Years!
Also recognized was CEO John Sims. When asked to answer some questions in order to write a bio, John answered the call and gave employees some very nice insight and good words of wisdom. He says, “My greatest accomplishment has been developing the best and most professional staff in the state... and then attracting the best workforce in the state to the benefit of the co-op members. I enjoy knowing this place can go on without me and knowing co-op members will be well taken care of when the change comes.” He added, “Humility is our greatest asset. Always remember that when dealing with our members. Without our members, we would not have the opportunities we now enjoy. As long as we earn their god-honored respect, this organization will continue to grow and prosper.” The co-op is indeed fortunate to employe great talent and dedicated individuals who strive to meet and exceed the co-op’s expectations everyday. NEC employs 84 full-time positions in eight co-op departments who have a combined total of over 840 years of combined work experience. Congratulations and thank you to all recipients!
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1.800.NEC.WATT
NEC Battles Copper Theft Co-op asks members to be on the look-out & report
Welcome Dominique! Please give a warm co-op welcome to our newest team member, Dominique Cortez, or “Dom” for short. Dom is joining the NEC team as the headquarters dispatcher. In this role, Dom handles all radio traffic and directs line crew assignments to maximize their efficiency and to minimize job-related expenses and travel. Dom is a native to Corpus Christi. She is a graduate of Moody High School and earned her Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Texas Women’s University in Denton, TX. Dom says she chose a degree in Sociology because it is a perfect degree which will allow her to travel and experience different careers and cultures. She is excited to gain knowledge and work with engineering and mapping while becoming more familiar with rural areas and learning how the NEC crews work. Welcome to the Co-op Dom! 22
Texas Co-op Power NEC January 2015
Stealing copper may seem like a CEO John Sims says, “As a coopquick way to make a buck. But it’s erative, all members have equal illegal, it’s costly, and it’s not worth financial participation and it’s a life. It’s a crime that results in unfortunate that we have to cover thousands of dollars in damages these types of losses. It cuts into the ultimately paid for by Nueces Elecmargins we give back to members. tric Cooperative members. And this The associated cost, such as labor holiday season, and repair, go beyond Nueces Electric materials costs,” he Cooperative adds, “with over 3,200 members are out miles of line, there is approximately no way we can keep $19,000 to replace an eye on every mile stolen copper. In and there is no type mid-November, of insurance coverage thieves hit co-op that will cover open powerlines powerline theft.” between Bishop and Robstown. So how can members The resale value of help prevent thefts the stolen copper like this one? “Simply will be less than keep an eye out and if NEC uses Copper clad steel $200. you see any suspicious instead of pure copper. activity report it immeCopper wire is appealing to thieves diately,” says Sims. who look to sell it for scrap and this type of theft happens all over the Stealing the copper is not only country. Despite companies who costly, it’s very dangerous. Workincrease security, laser etch, or coat ing with any metal and electricity cables with a special detectable liqis a dangerous combination, even uid; costly copper theft, and the lost for trained employees using proper revenue associated, remain an issue. equipment. Burglars may not understand that they are risking their lives To fight back against this persistent by taking copper from utility poles threat, for the past several years or substations, where high transmisNueces Electric has used a copper sion voltage is stepped down to a clad steel grounding wire during lower current for distribution lines. all repairs and new installations. It is an electrical conductor that has Please help us prevent these thefts. copper bonded to a solid steel core. If you notice anything unusual with Because it is steel inside instead of electric facilities, such as an open copper, the wire is harder to cut and substation gate, open equipment, or has minimal scrap value. In addihanging wire, contact NEC immedition, the bonding process of the cop- ately at 1-800-632-9288. If you see per and steel does not allow galvanic anyone around electric substations corrosion, which ensures longevity or electric facilities other than uniin service. formed personnel or contractors, call the police.
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1.800.NEC.WATT
Kingsville Economic Development Council Executive Director, Dick Messbarger, and NEC’s Frank Wilson
Co-op Supports Kingsville EDC Nueces Electric Cooperative recently donated $2,500 to the Kingsville Greater Economic Development Council (KEDC). The funds will go toward general operations such as maintaining and expanding the military presence of NASK.
Messbarger says, “ NEC has been such a great partner because they understand. They understand we look to grow the community population and they support our efforts by ensuring the greater demand of electricity is met.”
NEC is not a stranger to this community partner. Including today’s donation, the co-op has donated $2,500 a years since 2010 for a total of $12,500 in donations.
In 2014 alone, the Kingsville Greater Economic Development Council was instrumental in growth which brought over 1,000 housing starts to the Kingsville area.
KEDC Executive Director, Dick Messbarger, said one of our own, Frank Wilson, has been an excellent Board member for the KEDC for several years Frank brings great value to the table and ensures NEC is well represented in the Kingsville area community expansion efforts. As many of these expansions occur within the NEC power distribution territory, the co-op grows due to the opportunity to serve these members by building and maintaining their powerlines.
Nueces Electric Cooperative’s focus is not only on housing growth, but as the owner of the powerlines for both NASK and NASCC, the co-op partners with the KEDC to ensure community military needs are being met.
www.nueceselectric.org
NEC appreciates the Kingsville Greater Economic Development Council and we look forward to partnering with them further in the future.
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1.800.NEC.WATT Grand Prize An all-expense paid Youth Leadership trip to Washington, D.C. with approximatly 125 other Texas Youth Leaders, $250 spending money, and clothes for each day you are on the trip. Eligibility High school sophomores & juniors who are dependents of active NEC members. Contest Rules 1. The essay must correspond with the NEC title topic. 2. The essay must be between 300-500 words in length, typed and double-spaced 3. Questions should be addressed to: NEC Youth Tour Contest coordinator, Julie Bedsole 361-767-7321 or jbedsole@nueceselectric.org 4. The application, essay, and a photo of the contestant must be recieved bythe deadline. Judging All essays will be judged on accuracy of information, grammar, originality, and content. Winner(s) will be notified by March 31st.
2015 Short Essay Topic: As a teenager, what is your one most valued use of electricity? Name ___________________________________________________________Grade _______________________ Address_______________________________________________________________________________________ City, State _______________________________________________T-Shirt Size (Circle one- Unisex) S M L XL Zip Code ________________ Telephone # _____________________ E-mail ______________________________ High School______________________________City _______________________ County ___________________ To enter the Youth Tour contest, contestant’s legal guardian must be an active member of Nueces Electric Co-op:
Parents/Guardian: Father ______________________________ Mother _________________________________ NEC Account Name __________________________________ NEC Account # _____________________________ E-Mail: _________________________________ Telephone # __________________________________________ Youth Tour Winner Requirements Must be able to fly in an airplane, ride in a car, bus, or boat for up to 12 hours (with breaks) in a single day. Must be able to assist NEC in promotion of the Youth Tour program at the October Annual Membership Meeting. NEC reserves the right to select the runner up or another contestant for the Youth Tour Trip if the winner if found to be a poor representative of the Youth Tour program and NEC. The winner’s guardian must sign a waiver of release for the winner to participate on the Youth Tour. All essays become the property of Nueces Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Contestant’s Statement By signing below, I attest that I fully understand all of the rules and requirements of this contest and what will be required of me in the event I should win the contest.
Signed ______________________________________ Date _________________________________________ Submit essay entry along with this cover page and a photograph suitable for publication to: Nueces Electric Co-op, Inc.; Attn: Youth Tour Contest, 14353 Cooperative Ave, Robstown, TX 78380 or e-mail to: jbedsole@nueceselectric.org or fax to: 361.933.1178
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Essay Entries MUST be recieved before 5:00 p.m. Friday, January 30, 2015
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Calling All High School Seniors! NEC Scholarship Program Now Open For Applications Download the application and track down your GPA and your SAT/ACT! Any high school senior who is a direct dependent of a Nueces Electric Cooperative Member is eligible to apply for the Ramiro De La Paz Memorial Scholarship. The Ramiro De La Paz Memorial Scholarship is funded by escheated (unclaimed) capital credits that the state of Texas grants back to NEC to utilize for youth education programs. Download your application at www. nueceselectric.org (under Community) and submit it to Nueces Electric Cooperative by Friday, February 13, 2015.
www.nueceselectric.org
Two $4,000 scholarships and
four $1,000 scholarships Print the Application at: www.nueceselectric.org (Under Community)
Deadline:
Friday, February 13, 2015
Mail to:
Nueces Electric Cooperative Attn: Scholarship Program 14353 Cooperative Ave Corpus Christi, TX 78380
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Five New Year’s Resolutions for Your Home Don’t Get Scammed It’s becoming more and more common for thieves to target people for scams over the telephone. They call and say they’re collecting on an overdue bill and try to scare their target with threats of disconnecting their electric service. These scammers ask you to purchase payment or gift cards and to call them back with the numbers on the back of the purchased card; or they are trying to get your bank account or credit card numbers so they can rob you.
1
Clean every appliance in your house. Your refrigerator’s coils can get dusty and
clogged, which makes it work harder—and that’s an unnecessary waste of energy. The inside of your microwave oven should be spotless; if it’s not, then the machine is using energy to “cook” leftover food particles that nobody’s going to eat. Even your dishwasher and washing machine need cleaning—inside and out—to prevent mold and clogs.
2
Snake your clothes dryer vent. Do this at least twice a year to rid it of lint and
debris, which can catch on fire if it clogs the vent and prevents airflow. And be sure to clean the lint screen after each use.
3
Clear the area around your water heater and your outdoor air-conditioning unit.
Appliances give off heat and take in air. If you’ve got boxes, suitcases, Christmas decorations or plants stacked up against them, they can’t do their jobs efficiently.
4
Have your heating and air-conditioning systems checked out by an HVAC profes-
sional, who can tell you if they need repairs. Ask the tech to check your filters and change them if they’re clogged with dust.
5
Change the batteries in all of your home’s smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. If you don’t have those devices, move this item to the top of your list of reso-
lutions and install them today.
Remember that if an authentic employee of your electric cooperative calls you on the phone, he or she will never ask you to pay immediately. So if someone calls and claims to work for the cooperative and asks you to pay immediately, or purchase a payment card, hang up and call the co-op directly using a number you know belongs to the co-op.
Keeping appliances and light fixtures clean saves energy and reduces fire risk. Resolve to set up a regular schedule to keep them all clean and bright year-round.
Unfortunately, tracking down scammers is difficult for law-enforcement and consumes vast amounts of time they would rather dedicate to street crime. The best line of defense is to use your intuition and educate yourself on the various types of scams.
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Eight Convenient Ways To Pay Your Bill Pay Online www.nueceselectric.org Access your account 24 hours a day from any computer to manage your account. Just click on “Pay Your Bill”, on the upper left corner of our Homepage.
Pay by Phone: Due to Payment Card Industry (PCI) Compliance standards, NEC is limited in the ability to take credit card numbers over the phone. These standards are nationally implemented to secure consumers finances and hinder identity theft. To make a payment via the phone you can call 24 /7 and pay via the electronic phone payment system at 800-NEC-WATT (800-632-9288).
Pay by Automatic Credit or Bank Draft: If you prefer to not use the computer, you can still sign up to have your account drafted for your monthly bill. Pay in Person: Use any one of our Customer Service centers located in Calallen, Ben Bolt, Ricardo or Orange Grove.
Use the Easy Pay Kiosk Quick, easy, and accessible 24 hours a day, the Kiosk is located at the Calallen office. Payments post immediately to your account.
Pay by Mail: 14353 Cooperative Ave ~ Robstown, TX 78380
Pay using a Fidelity Express Pay Station There is an additional $1.50 service charge.
NEC Power Providers Competitive Retailers Qualified To Serve Consumers Located in the Nueces Electric Co-op (NEC) Electric Distribution Service Area* Updated 07/10/2014
Regardless of the company you choose as your power supplier, remember that your energy delivery needs will always be the responsibility of Nueces Electric Cooperative (NEC) and you have the right to contact us with questions regarding your electricity needs at any time. PLEASE NOTE: The (CRs) listed below have completed the process to qualify to serve NEC area member-consumers and you may choose one of them for your power supplier.Some of these providers do NOT serve residential services. This provider list is subject to change. Please monitor the Texas Co-op Power magazine (sent monthly to all NEC members) and/or our website at www.nueceselectric.org for updated CR provider lists. These can also be obtained at any NEC office:14353 Cooperative Ave, Corpus Christi, TX 78410 (located at the intersection of CR52 & CR69); 123 County Road 1026 in Ricardo, TX; 5646 S. Hwy 281, Alice/Ben Bolt, TX; or 5302 W. FM 624, Orange Grove, TX
Competitive Retail Power Provider AFFORDABLE ENERGY, L.P./AP GAS & ELECTRIC BENEFICIAL POWER LLC – APOLLO POWER & LIGHT
Phone Number
E-Mail/Website
1-877-544-4857
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL
1-855-750-5556
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL
866-BLUESTAR (866-258-3782)
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ONLY
CHAMPION ENERGY SERVICES
1-877-653-5090
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL OVER 40,000 KWH/YEAR
CONSTELLATION NEW ENERGY CORAL POWER SOLUTIONS CORAL POWER, LLC
713-767-5400
DYNEGY
877-4DYNEGY (877-439-6349)
ENERGY TRANSFER EVERYTHING ENERGY GDF SUEZ
800-375-5702
BLUESTAR ENERGY
1-866-446-6797 Monday-Friday, 8 am-5 pm
MPOWER /MP2
1-888-202-4770
7497 100
1-855-NEC-RD4U (1-855-632-7348) 713-341-7365 713-771-7400
LARGE COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ONLY dms@dynegy.com COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL LARGE COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ONLY COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL www.hinoelectric.com COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ONLY www.necretail.com RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL LARGE COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ONLY COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ONLY COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ONLY
STARTEX POWER
LARGE COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL (50 KW OR LARGER)
SOURCE POWER & GAS
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL
V247 POWER
If Your Account Number is:
COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ONLY
HINO ELECTRIC POWER COMPANY
NUECES ELECTRIC CO-OP RETAIL DIVISION (NEC RETAIL) TENASKA ENCOA (TERM) SMARTCOM ENERGY SERVICES
Play & Win!
1-855-888-9888 or 1-832-629-1119
RESIDENTIAL, COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL
YOU WIN $25 off your electric bill! Call, NEC before the 20th! 1-800-NEC-WATT (800-632-9288)
WPS ENERGY SERVICES IMPORTANT: NEC MEMBERS HAVE THE CHOICE TO RECEIVE EITHER 1 BILL -WITH BOTH NEC AND YOUR PROVIDER CHARGES, SENT BY www.nueceselectric.org
NEC -OR 2 BILLS - A BILL FROM NEC FOR DELIVERY CHARGES AND A BILL FROM YOUR PROVIDER FOR YOUR POWER SUPPLY CHARGES. BE SURE TO DISCUSS YOUR PREFERRED BILLING WITH YOUR CHOSEN PROVIDER.YOUR DELIVERY CHARGES FROM NEC WILL BE THE
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