Oklahoma Electric Cooperative News March 2025

Page 1


for members of

OKLAHOMA ELECTRIC

CO-OP NEWS

Be Storm Smart

PLUS

>> 2025 legislative preview

>> Learn what makes a co-op unique

FROM the TOP CEO ADDRESS

If you’ve been a longtime reader of OEC News, you may have noticed something different this month. We’ve combined OEC News with Oklahoma Living, creating a single, streamlined publication that brings you all the cooperative news and updates you rely on, now in one convenient place.

This change is part of our ongoing effort to improve efficiency while maintaining the highquality content you expect. You will still find the same great stories, updates and industry insights, but in a more centralized format that makes it easier to stay informed.

Beyond convenience, this move also helps us reduce costs. As a not-for-profit electric cooperative, we’re always looking for ways to be more efficient without sacrificing the value we provide to our members. By utilizing this service offered by Oklahoma Living — a publication of the Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives — we can reduce production and mailing costs while delivering the same great content directly to you.

Our commitment to keeping members informed remains as strong as ever. I encourage you to take a few moments each month to read through it. This national award-winning publication is one of the key ways we stay connected with you, our member-owners, by sharing updates on cooperative initiatives, industry trends and programs designed to serve you better.

At the end of the day, this cooperative belongs to you. Staying engaged and informed helps ensure we continue to meet your needs and operate with transparency. We appreciate your readership and your role in making this cooperative strong.

Thank you for being a valued member of OEC. We’re excited about this change and look forward to continuing to bring you relevant, valuable and engaging content every month.

Danny Watters, President

Ronnie Grover, Vice President 4 District4Trustee@okcoop.org

John Jensen, Sec./Treas. 6 District6Trustee@okcoop.org

Mike Argo, Asst. Sec./Treas.

Drake, Jr.

Preparedness is the best defense

Spring is on our doorstep and like many of you, we're looking forward to enjoying warmer weather and activities like cooking out with family and friends, gardening and slowing down to enjoy life. Unfortunately, spring and summer can also create the perfect conditions for severe storms.

OEC crews are always prepared to respond should power outages occur in our area. When storms cause power disruptions, our line crews take all necessary precautions before they work on any downed lines. We encourage you to practice safety and preparedness to protect your family during storms and outages.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends the items below for storm and disaster preparedness. Visit ready.gov for additional resources.

• Stock your pantry with a threeday supply of non-perishable food, including canned goods, energy bars, peanut butter, powdered milk, instant coffee, water and other essentials

• Confirm you have adequate sanitation and hygiene supplies including towelettes, soap and hand sanitizer.

• Ensure your First Aid kit is stocked with pain relievers, bandages and other medical essentials, and make sure your prescriptions are current.

• Set aside basic household items you will need, including flashlights, batteries, a manual can opener and portable, batterypowered radio or TV.

• Organize emergency supplies so they are easily accessible in one location.

In the event of a prolonged power outage, turn off major appliances, TVs, computers and other sensitive electronics. This will help avert

damage from potential power surges and prevent overloading circuits during power restoration. That said, do leave one light on so you will know when power is restored.

If you plan to use a portable generator, ensure it can handle the amount of power you will need, and always review the manufacturer’s instructions to operate it safely.

Portable generators do not permanently attach to the home, and can power only the appliances plugged into the generator, so consider essential electrical needs when choosing. To avoid backfeed into the electrical system, the portable generator should never be plugged directly into the home.

Listen to local news or a NOAA Weather Radio for storm and emergency information, and check our Facebook page for restoration updates.

Severe storms can occasionally bring down power lines. If you see a downed line, always assume it’s energized and never approach it. If flooding occurs, never walk through areas where power lines could be submerged.

Advance planning for severe storms or other emergencies can reduce stress and anxiety caused by the weather event and lessen the impact of the storm’s effects.

Sign up for NOAA emergency alerts and warnings and follow us on Facebook for the latest power restoration updates. If you experience an outage, visit okcoop.org/outage or call our outage reporting number at (405) 321-2024 this is the fastest way to let us know if your power is out.

We hope we don’t experience severe storms over the next few months, but we can never predict Mother Nature’s plans. We recommend that you make a plan today––because storm preparedness is always our best defense.

2025 Legislative Preview

How new bills could shape Oklahoma's Energy Future

As Oklahoma’s 2025 legislative session unfolds, lawmakers are discussing key issues related to energy policies, property rights and the future of electricity in our state. This update is intended to inform you of what lawmakers are discussing that may affect members in the future. Rest assured, we are staying ahead of these issues as we meet regularly with the lawmakers that represent you at the Capitol.

Here are a few issues on the docket for the 60th legislative session.

PROTECTING PROPERTY OWNERS

Landowners’ rights are front and center in this session. Two proposed bills could bring major changes:

HB 2752 – Sponsored by Representative Trey Caldwell, this bill would prohibit using eminent domain for wind farms, solar facilities, battery storage sites, hydrogen plants and other renewable energy projects. This measure aims to give property owners more control over their land.

HB 1263 – Authored by Representative Neil Hays, this bill would prevent construction of wind turbines within 1.5 nautical miles of homes, hospitals, public-use airports and 40 nautical miles of large lakes (10,000+ surface acres). Lawmakers hope these restrictions will balance renewable energy growth with community concerns.

SB 431 – Introduced by Senator Avery Frix, this bill would prevent utility companies from holding landlords responsible for unpaid utility bills left behind by tenants. Supporters argue this measure ensures landlords are not unfairly burdened with debt they did not incur, while opponents raise concerns about potential impacts on utility revenue collection.

BALANCING ELECTRICITY AND NATURAL GAS

Oklahoma’s energy industry relies on both electricity and natural gas, but

a new bill could change how these two power sources compete:

SB 335 – Introduced by Senator Grant Green, this bill would stop electric companies from offering ratepayer-funded rebates or incentives encouraging consumers to switch from natural gas to electricity. Supporters say this would create a level playing field, ensuring that natural gas remains a strong option for Oklahomans.

STRENGTHENING UTILITY WORKER PROTECTIONS

A new bill aims to enhance legal protections for utility workers, making assaults against them a felony to ensure their safety.

HB 2883 – The Utility Worker Protection Act of 2025 – This bill, introduced by Representative Mark Chapman, would classify assault or battery against a utility worker a felony. If passed, this law would provide stronger legal protections for workers who restore power, repair infrastructure and maintain essential services. The goal is to increase safety for those serving Oklahoma communities, especially during emergencies and disaster recovery efforts. 0636340529

BETTER COMMUNICATION DURING POWER OUTAGES

When severe weather or grid failures cause outages, quick communication is critical. A new bill aims to improve how officials and utilities share information:

SB 618 – Proposed by Senator Mary B. Boren, this bill would establish a statewide energy alert system, ensuring better coordination between electric providers and government agencies.

OTHER ENERGY ISSUES TO WATCH

Beyond specific bills, several bigpicture discussions are taking place at

the Capitol:

Leaving the SPP Grid – Some lawmakers question whether Oklahoma should leave the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which manages electricity transmission for multiple states. While a complete departure is unlikely, concerns about wind energy expansion, federal incentives and transmission costs fuel the debate.

Expanding Natural Gas Power –Oklahoma’s major utilities—including OEC's wholesale power provider Western Farmers Electric Cooperative, OG&E—are increasing their use of natural gas to generate electricity. This shift is happening due to market demand rather than government mandates. Currently, 2,334 megawatts of new natural gas generation are being constructed or purchased. Oklahoma’s electric cooperatives remain strong supporters of the oil and gas industry and recognize the importance of using our state’s natural resources for reliable power.

The Rise of Data Centers and Bitcoin Mining – Energy-hungry industries like cryptocurrency mining and data centers are expanding across the state. Lawmakers are considering how these businesses will impact Oklahoma’s electricity grid and whether solutions like microgrids (small, local power systems) could help meet demand.

WHAT’S NEXT?

The 2025 legislative session will be crucial in shaping Oklahoma’s energy future. Lawmakers are making decisions that could affect your electricity rates, service reliability and the local economy. Oklahoma Electric Cooperative will keep you informed on key developments as these discussions continue.

By staying engaged, we can help ensure policies benefit our communities and support a diverse, reliable energy future for all Oklahomans. Stay tuned for more updates and thank you for being a valued part of the cooperative family!

WHAT IS A CO-OP ANYWAY?

Discovering the differences that make us unique

You might hear us talk often about “the cooperative difference”, but what exactly does that mean? While our business model is different from that of other utility providers, that’s not the only thing that sets us apart. Electric cooperatives play a unique and essential role in providing reliable and affordable electricity to millions of Americans. Unlike investor-owned utilities (IOUs) or municipal utilities, electric cooperatives operate under a business model rooted in community service, not profit maximization. This fundamental difference influences every aspect of how cooperatives function, making us distinct from other utility providers in several key ways.

Member Ownership and Democratic Governance

One of the most significant aspects that set electric cooperatives apart is our ownership structure. Rather than being owned by shareholders who may not even be customers, electric cooperatives are owned by the people

they serve. Each member of a cooperative is not just a customer but also a part-owner of the organization. This ownership structure comes with a democratic governance model, meaning members have a direct say in how their cooperative operates, regardless of how much electricity they use. This ensures that decision-making remains focused on the needs of the community rather than outside investors looking for financial returns.

Not-for-Profit Model

Electric cooperatives operate as not-for-profit entities. While they must generate revenue to cover operating costs, any excess revenue—known as margins—is either reinvested into the cooperative to improve service or returned to members in the form of capital credits. Because cooperatives do not seek to maximize profits, they can focus on keeping electricity rates as low as possible for their members. This community-first approach ensures that the cooperative’s primary goal

is service, not shareholder dividends.

Commitment to Rural America

Electric co-ops were born out of necessity. Before the 1930s, many rural communities were left in the dark because extending electricity to these areas was not considered profitable by other utilities. The Rural Electrification Act of 1936 helped establish electric cooperatives to bring power to rural America, transforming communities and improving quality of life.

Today, we continue to serve some of the most remote and underserved regions in the country.

Local Control and Community Focus

Because cooperatives are community-owned and locally controlled, they are highly responsive to the needs of their members. Decisions are made by people who live in the communities they serve, ensuring that priorities align with local needs rather than the demands of distant corporate headquarters.

This local focus allows cooperatives to be more flexible and innovative in addressing challenges unique to their regions. Whether it’s developing programs to help members manage their energy use, investing in renewable energy projects tailored to local resources, or responding quickly to service disruptions, cooperatives prioritize the well-being of their communities above all else.

education and engagement. We offer energy efficiency programs, provide resources to help members manage their electricity bills, and work to keep members informed about industry trends and policy changes that could impact them.

Reliability and Member Service

We pride ourselves on providing reliable electricity and excellent member service. Because we are communitybased, we are often able to restore power more quickly after outages than larger utilities with more bureaucratic layers. Employees live and work in the communities we serve, which means we have a personal stake in maintaining reliable service. 2733400306

Additionally, cooperatives emphasize member

Scan the QR code to read how co-ops promote innovation, sustainability and community development, and how our nationwide network means stronger support for you — our members!

KNOW BEFORE YOU DIG

Hitting a buried line while digging can disrupt utility and fiber services, cost money to repair or cause serious damage.

Call OKIE811 to request the location of buried utilitiesor utility lines be marked with paint or flags.

KNOW YOUR COLOR CODES

Underground lines located on your property will be identified by color coded paint or flags. These codes show you what those colors represent.

PROPOSED EXCAVATION

ELECTRIC POWER LINES, CABLES, CONDUIT AND LIGHTING CABLES

COMMUNICATION, ALARM, OR SIGNAL LINES, CABLES OR CONDUIT

TEMPORARY

SURVEY MARKINGS

GAS, OIL, STEAM, PETROLEUM OR GASEOUS MATERIALS

RECLAIMED WATER, IRRIGATION AND SLURRY LINES

OEC's Payment Address is Changing

Effective April 1, 2025, our payment mailing address will change. If you mail your payment, please use our new payment mailing address:

New Payment Address: PO Box 646001 Dallas, TX 75264

No changes to billing or payment processing timelines.

If you pay through your bank's online bill payment, please be sure to update their records to use our new address.

AUTOS, PARTS & ACCESSORIES

• I buy cars running or not. 651-9112.

• ‘74 AMC Gremlin, one owner, Grady County. 201-0024.

• ‘61 Jeep cj5 Willys, Good Condition, 49000 miles, manual transmission, original engine, starts, runs good, some leaks, no rust, Blanchard. 387-3081.

FARM & EQUIPMENT

• Titan 60" grapple rake, skid steer attachment, $3,000. 401-8783.

• Flat Bed 18" Trailer, Bumper pull, w/ ramps and brakes, all new wheel bearings $3,195. 5273864 or 760-6777.

• 7030 Vemeer disc mower 9'2" cutting width, has mowed approximately 800 acres, very good condition, well maintained. 388-8186.

• 20ft flatbed gooseneck trailer, 2023, 84" wide floor, 7k axles, 14 ply tires, new spare, 60" slide in trailer ramps, new condition, $7,000. 206-7329.

• John Deere L110 Lawn tractor w/42 inch mower Tractor just "refurbed", starts easily and does not smoke , $900. 590-2451.

• For Sale: ‘22 HMDE Trailer$3,000 14' trailer with full winchpowered ramp; Title in hand and ready to go; Well-maintained and built to last. 501-513-7081.

• Wanted: dead or alive tractors any size, 2 or 4wd, any age 19602022; Also JD Square Baler any load. 641-7728.

HAY & FIREWOOD

• Firewood - Pecan and Oak seasoned $110 per rick. 808-5568.

• Firewood oak pecan hickory maple smoking chunks all split seasoned and green del only evenings and weekends. 820-0618.

• Quality Bermuda grass hay, 4x5 round bales, sprayed and fertilized, $70/bale, Goldsby. 401-4012.

LIVESTOCK & PETS

• Live mealworms $10 for 200 and $25 starter farm kits text for more info. 566-7107.

• Shih tzu; Bichon frise; and shichon puppies; micro chipped; current vaccinations; started on potty training doggy door trained; in Goldsby, OK. 918839 6420.

• Game Creek Angus Ranch: 16 mo old virgin registered Angus Bull; #aaa21061288; Coleman Charlo world’s finest bloodlines; $3,800. 845-5621.

• Pasture raised meat chickens; Processed and packaged from Summer 2024, $4,25/lb, avg bird apx 6,5 lb, located in Tuttle, OK. 246-8855.

• Hand raised tame cockatiels, quakers, & budgies. 401-4887.

• For Sale young Angus and Red Angus Bulls. 520-1604.

• Fainting goats for sale $100 for does and $50 for billys These goats make great pets. 830-1028

MISCELLANEOUS

• Masonry Work & Repair: brick, block, stone & repair, All size jobs: fireplaces, mailboxes, planters, tuck pointing, pavers, brick replacement due to erosion; 40yrs experience, competitive prices. 779-5362.

• Stump Grinding: competitive prices, shrubs & some tree removal, call Danny. 779-5362.

• Private individual interested in buying small or very small oil & gas royalties or mineral rights in Oklahoma. 802-4227.

• Live Mealworms $5 for 150, $10 for 300; Mealworm starter farm colony $30; Oak Firewood split ricks for sale $100 for more info text. 566-7107.

• Resthaven lawn crypt for sale space 707 sec 16B $6500 value $8000 seller pay $500 transfer fee. 990-4927.

• Pecans vacuum sealed and ready to eat $8 a pound. 391-3319.

• Ammo, 25-06, $25 per box (6); 30-30 Win, $20 per box (15); 22LR, $25 per can (5). 520-9480.

• One cemetery plot at Memorial Park in Edmond Plot is where the Veterans section once was $800 00 plus deed transfer fee. 414-4665.

• Need Concrete Work Call Rick No job to Big or Small. 205-6836.

• 55 Gallon Metal Burn, Trash Barrels for sale $10 each, Metal 55 Gallon Barrels with removable lid and locking ring $20 each; Blanchard Ok. 306-6974.

• Joy Portable Air Compressor 125 psi John Deere Motor for Sandblasting $4000 obo. 381-9096.

• DeLonghi Electric Heater $75; Works Wheel Barrow, like new $75; Santa Fe pleasure saddle 15 1/2" seat, includes saddle stand, cinches $500. 620-5238.

• Two cemetery plots at Sunny Lane Cemetery, 4000 SE 29th St , Del City, OK; Plots located Lot 25, Block 6 Plat 12 Value $5,595 each will sell for $4,000 each plus transfer fee $695 split. 650-0535.

• Pfaff quilt and embroidery machines creative sensation pro ($3,200) and creative vision 5 ($2,300), like new condition, inspected, accessories included. 570-4232.

• Two stacked lawn crypts for sale at Resthaven Cemetery $5000 each, seller will pay transfer fee. 708-0303.

• New 2 7/8" 2205 stainless steel line pipe for sale - 4 joints 20' long $100 each. 693-6991.

• Zinger motorized wheelchair; 42 lbs, TSA approved, two handed control, new condition, two batteries, charger included $1000 cash; Located in Slaughterville. 651-8262.

• Raleigh c30 bicycle, 21 speed, lightweight aluminum frame, stored inside, like new. 650-9489.

• Dishwasher, few blemishes, black $85; Invacare electric wheelchair, new batteries, needs foot pegs, has tilt, $650. 274-9407.

• ARE model B-12 steel shot blaster and steel shot dust collector, airless system, 3 phase, used to clean cylinder heads, $3500. 292-7709.

• Aged horse manure compost all types of garden soils and mulch del only. 820-0618

• 12 ft Jon Boat $250; Numerous used high quality golf clubs; Assortment of very old magazine collections. harryjo@swbell. net.

• Winchester, 338 Model 70, XTR, Nikon Scope; complete with Dies, brass and ammo, barrel mounted with a custom compensator. 414-5387.

MOBILE HOMES, RVS & BOATS

• ‘‘67 larsen 16ft deep v 80hp johnson, runs good, good cond $2,100. 387-5425.

• For sale: ‘16 Palimino Sabre, 5th wheel, 38 ft long, 3 slide outs, fireplace, propane bottle inc good condition, call for photos, $40,000. 420-1561.

• ‘22 Heartland Prowler Series M-280RK , 34 foot, 14 options including large slide-out and power awning, original owner, purchased new, $19,000, negotiable. 292-7709.

• Parting Out: for sale or trade 33ft Trailer with brakes, all appliances in good shape. 414-1965.

REAL ESTATE

• Small custom-built houses,1,2&3 bedroom starting at $69,500, top quality construction by a father and son team delivered to your land, limited availability, call Mel for details. 990-9235.

• Property for sale two homes on it; For appointments or questions call Sheila Kelley. 641-6861.

WANTED

• Wanted to Buy: Vintage Barbie dolls, plus Barbie's family, friends, clothes and accessories from 1959 through 1973. 250-3394.

• WANTED: Towing, wrecker service, unlocking, battery jump. 919-8353.

• Scrap metal farm clean outs appliances lawnmower hw heater a/c engines car parts farm implement cars trucks. 863-7482.

• Wanted Appliances, AC units, mowers, motors Farm Implements, almost any Metal Scrap, Blanchard, Bridge Creek, Dibble, area Free Removal. 641-5738.

CLASSIFIED ADS

BUSINESS

• Handyman for Hire: off-duty fireman, remodel, painting, flooring (tile, laminates, etc), sheetrock, roofing, siding, fences, decks, carports, room additions, windows & doors, custom made bookcases, shelving, cabinets, etc General home repair; All types of construction, 37yrs exp; 2455502 or 381-2007.

• American Blinds & Shutters: Off-duty fireman, window treatments for home or business. Free estimates. 245-5502 or 381-2007.

• You dream it, and I can build it: Custom cedar swing sets, forts, playhouses, she sheds, backyard cottages with kitchen and bath, poolhouses, all types of furniture, bookcases, etc. Off duty fireman, 381-2007 or 245-5502.

• Construction & Fabrication: In shop or on site; welding, fabrication, Equipment building and repair; oilfield through New and existing construction, custom work; I'm also looking for used oilfield equipment, like pumps, generators, heat exchangers, air boosters, structural steel, derricks, sub structures, etc. 308-5742.

• Oilfield & Construction Equipment: Fabrication & machine shop equipment and machines, Diesel engines, Pump Drives, Transmissions, Pto's, etc. 308-5742.

• C&B Paint Co: 15yrs experience, insured, interior/ exterior painting, popcorn ceiling removal, custom textures & drywall repairs. Cnbpainting. com or call Cody for a reasonable yet fair price. 431-9601.

• Certified CNA: services to take care of your loved ones, 25 years of experience, have great references and will work in the Norman, Moore and South OKC area. 572-522-3141..

• Annie & Lloyd Tree & Landscape LLC: Certified arborist Tree trimming, planting, removal, landscaping. 314-3607.

• Jim’s Painting & Remodeling: interior & exterior wallpaper, popcorn ceiling removal, sheetrock repairs, texture, power washing, deck and fence staining, free estimates, quality work, 20yrs exp erience & insured. 366-0722.

• JL Painting: Commercial & residential sheetrock, wood repairs, custom texturing, interior/exterior, insured, free estimates. 314-0755.

• Sunshine Realty LLC: Rhonda Simmons Broker/Owner, Residential, Commercial, Foreclosures, Short Sales, Service buyers/sellers throughout Oklahoma, Active OK Licenses, call/text Rhonda (405) 8080705, #142160 & #175498 or Cody Simmons, 405-203-2449, #183016, www.sunshinerealty. realtor.

• Masonry Work & Repair: brick, block, stone & repair. All size jobs: fireplaces, mailboxes, planters, tuck pointing, pavers, brick replacement due to erosion. 40yrs experience, competitive prices. Danny, 779-5362.

• Alfredo Medina III Construction: All types of quality concrete work at an affordable price, no job too large or small; satisfaction guaranteed, free estimates, 405-664-9820.

• Bowman's Welding Service: Fences, corrals, entryways, alleyways, ornamental fence, any type of welding, shop or portable. 360-8091 or 990-1084.

• Stump Grinding: competitive prices, shrubs & some tree removal, call Danny. 779-5362.

• Weld Up Steel Buildings: 30x30x12= 25,836.00, 40x50= 44,920.00, 40x100= 81428.00, Pricing includes concrete one walk dr, and garage dr, 872-0338.

• Bargain Barns: 18x21 stell carport = 1395.00, 12x31 rv cover = 2505.00, 24x31 steel garage = 7710.00, Delivery and installation included, call 872-0338.

• Portable buildings: 8x10 mini barn = 2410.00, 10x16 lofted barn = 4425.00, 12x28 garage = 8710.00, 872-0338.

• Jimmie's Sewing Machine Repair: Blanchard, OK. 544-7139.

• Stump Grinding: Norman area no job to big or small, call or text 405-410-5221.

• Argo Siding & Windows: Windows, doors, siding, patio rooms, carports, remodeling, room additions, tile, painting, roofing, we also do skirting and repair siding on mobile homes. 255-5553, leave message.

• Harrah 44 Tire: Now open! Located at SE 44th and Harrah Road in Harrah, We provide new & used tires, brakes, and oil changes. 907-9538.

• Small Excavator: Small tree removal, trenches, stump removal. Call for free estimate. 761-3764.

• Prime Septic: Septic Installation, Repairs and Pumping. 226-2930.

• TJ Property Solutions Real Estate Company: Helping Buyers, Sellers and Real Estate Investors; Looking to Buy or Sell real estate? Have investment properties you need managed? I can help; Call Tosha Fennell, REALTOR. 487-7183.

• Brush hog: with 6' brush hog $45 an hour with 3 hour minimum 20 years experience call W Swopes. 255-3440.

• Construction Remodeling: Father and Son Team, Old School Service. 990-9235.

• J&S TIRE REPAIR: 18504 VALLEY DRIVE NORMAN OK 73026 (LITTLE AXE OK). 580-565-9489.

• A&ECO Cleaning Services: Far more than sparkling clean rooms & offices, this service does it all; deep cleaning is just the beginning for this crew, repairing, rearranging, whatever needs to be done, local and dependable. 305-910-1160.

• Clean up & Haul Off Trash and Debris: from properties & building interiors; tree removal; Professional, neatly finished job; Insured; Have Refrences, Jerry Richardson. 850-0577.

• Leeths Corrective Horse Shoeing, Tree Removal, Stump Grinding and Masonry Repair LLC: Call Johnny. 7610214 or 641-7849.

• Culverts installed, bush hogging, concrete removal, water lines, excavater work: 617-6827.

• Cash For JUNK: Unwanted Vehicles 213-3775.

• Land Services: chainsaw sharpening, culverts installed; concrete demolition and removal; tree and stump removal; ponds built; bobcat and excavator work. 617-6827.

• Tractor Services: Off-Duty Firefighter offering brush hogging, grapple work, tilling, dirt and gravel grading. Residential & Commercial; Gage Christian. 420-5646.

• Tomco Supply LLC: Authorized rainbow vacuum parts repair and service. 409-4074.

• Tractor Work: Brush hogging, gravel drives, dirt work, garden tilling, holes drilled, tree trimming & removal. 808-8202.

• Small Dump Trailer Services: by the hour or the load garden and driveway materials evenings and weekends. 820-0618.

• Four Leaf Memories: Don't risk losing precious memories! Let me help digitize and backup your photos today. I offer professional photo & slide scanning, photo organizing and storage services and more. Local pick-up and drop off, no sending items in the mail. Call 830-6993 or visit fourleafmemories.com.

• Clint's Lawn Care: mowing, weed trimming and edging; 1 to 5 acres. Service area includes Newcastle, Blanchard and Bridge Creek; I'll treat your lawn just like it's mine; Veteran owned. Call or text for free quote. 229-1046.

• Residential Roof and Gutter Replacement: Free inspections and estimates. We at Roberts General Contracting have a long 5-star history and experience working through the insurance process. Call us if you are looking for a no-pressure and honest contractor. 633-2205.

• Navigating Medicare: Planning for retirement, aging into Medicare, just not sure if what you have is right for you? Call Navigating Medicare for a benefit consultation. My services are available at no cost to you. Backed by 25+ years of experience. 766-8150.

AVOID PLANTING TREES UNDER POWER LINES

TASTY TREATS

MARRY ME CHICKEN

Ingredients

ƒ Kosher salt and black pepper

ƒ 8 ounces spaghetti

ƒ 3 tablespoons olive oil

ƒ Four 6oz boneless, skinless chicken breasts

ƒ 1 large shallot, halved and thinly sliced

ƒ 2 cloves garlic, minced

ƒ 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

ƒ One 6.3-ounce jar sundried tomatoes in

Directions

oil, drained and roughly chopped

ƒ One 0.4-ounce chicken bouillon cube

ƒ 1 cup heavy cream

ƒ 1 tsp dried oregano

ƒ 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes

ƒ 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan (about 2 oz)

ƒ 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basild ƒ

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Season the water generously with salt. Add the pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside. Keep warm.

2. Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the chicken breasts generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. Carefully add to the skillet and cook, undisturbed, until golden brown on the bottom, about 5 minutes. Flip the chicken with tongs and continue to cook until golden brown on the other side, about 5 minutes more. Remove to a plate.

3. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon oil and the shallot to the same skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until just tender, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring continuously, until fragrant, about 1 minute more. Add the chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Add the sundried tomatoes, chicken bouillon cube, heavy cream, oregano, red pepper flakes and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Stir until the bouillon cube is dissolved.

4. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce to a simmer over medium-low heat. Nestle the chicken breasts in the sauce. Cook until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is cooked through (registering internally at 165 degrees F), 5 to 10 minutes. Stir in the Parmesan and basil. Divide among 4 dinner plates and serve with the spaghetti.

26%

Renewables

Data collected from Western Farmers Electric Cooperative reflects generation during December 2024.

To view real-time generation output and environmental benefits of OEC's Solar Garden, visit link.okcoop.org/solar. Visit link.okcoop.org/solar-garden-tours to tour OEC's Solar Garden, located at Interstate 35 and Highway 77 in Norman.

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