Energy vampires, or phantom power devices, are those often-overlooked appliances, cords, and devices that don't power off when not in use, but frequently go into "stand-by" mode. These devices can suck energy from your home, increasing your usage by an average of 5% to 10%, and driving up your bill. Here are a few tips to help you scare away the energy vampires.

NCE at Truck-or-Treat

Looking to get into the spooky spirit? NCE is attending the 3rd Annual Truck or Treat at the Seneca County Fairgrounds on Oct. 26. Stop by from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. for food trucks, bouncy houses, touch-a-truck, and free candy!

Costumes are welcomed but not required! We're looking forward to a spook-tacular event!

Important payment update now in effect

North Central Electric Cooperative is now requiring the CVV2 entry for card-not-present transactions (online and phone payments) to verify the person making the payment has the physical card. The CVV2 is the three or four digit code printed on the back of your credit card. By requiring this code, we are establishing an added level of security for our members. Entering this code is common when making online payments and is a step many members may already be familiar with. Members who currently have cards on file for stored payments or AutoPay are presumed validated.

If you have any questions, please call the NCE office at 419-426-3072.

Cooperation among cooperatives - Proudly working together to better our communities

In the spirit of National Co-op Month, North Central Electric would like to highlight Bascom Communication’s Middle Mile Fiber Project. NCE is proudly supporting the project and providing access to poles, making construction possible.

This $9 Million project will deliver high-speed fiber internet to more than 1,400 homes and businesses. The project has already passed 238 addresses and Phase 1 includes 148 miles of new fiber in NCE’s territory. Construction in parts of the rural Attica area is expected to be finished by the end of October, adding another 200 locations to the list of those ready for fiber.

This Co-op Month, the project serves as a reminder of the power of cooperation among cooperatives and the lasting benefits it brings to our communities.

Find out more about Bascom Communications at www.bascomcommunications.com.

Check whether your address is part of Phase 1 by contacting Bascom Communications by phone at 419-937-2222 or by email at contact@bascomtelephone.com.

Bascom will also be holding a pop-up event at North Central Electric for people to sign up for service.

Below is event information provided by Bascom:

A look inside this month's Ohio Cooperative Living

The October issue of Ohio Cooperative Living is now available online! NCE-specific information begins on page 17, and highlights include:

• Key Co-op Topics with Ed: National co-op month - powered by community, driven by people
• Why right-of-way maintenance is essential for you
• Energy vampires: Don't let high bills scare you this Halloween
• Who owns what?
• Fall coloring content
• Local fall events
• August board meeting highlights

Check out the digital issue here!