The other day, I looked up from my computer at work and observed a group of deer right outside my window looking at me. It was surprising because the Oregon Rural Electric Cooperative Association office isn’t exactly in the woods. In fact, we are a block away from a Maserati dealership, which
means our 35-mph speed zone often resembles Le Mans. But my experience was a gentle reminder to take the time to look up from my computer and observe things around me.
In the spirit of simple observation, here are a few things we’re witnessing from ORECA’s perspective:
- ORECA has learned the location of the village in Guatemala that we will electrify next year. Oregon electric cooperative linemen will travel to Aldea Nueva in April 2020 to connect 45 homes. They will build 5 kilometers of primary line and install four transformers. Our project manager will travel there in November to scout out the area. More to come on this exciting project!
- ORECA’s annual meeting in Salem is a month earlier this year—November 5-6—and we will have experts speak on a range of issues, from the global energy picture to cap-and-trade legislation in Oregon. We also will have a little inspiration. Since it is the 75th anniversary of D-Day, we will hear from Alex Kershaw, author of “The First Wave,” an account of the men who led the way to victory in World War II. We look forward to seeing you there.
- The electric cooperative network is making progress on the RURAL Act legislation (H.R. 2147, S. 1032) to protect the tax-exempt status of electric co-ops. The Oregon congressional delegation is playing a leadership role, with U.S. Reps Earl Blumenauer, Peter DeFazio, Kurt Schrader and Greg Walden signing on as cosponsors. We thank them for their strong support. U.S. Sen. Ron Wyden—the ranking member of the Finance Committee—will be key to passing this vitally important legislation. Please encourage Sen. Wyden to join his colleagues in supporting this important legislation.
Thanks for your interest in ORECA. Be sure to occasionally look out your window. You may be surprised by what you see.
Ted Case
Executive Director
