Colorado is no stranger to weather-related disasters and record-breaking storm systems. Strong storms may dump feet of snow, generate destructive wind speeds, or spark a devastating wildfire. Each September, the Federal Emergency Management Agency recognizes National Preparedness Month to educate and empower Americans to take simple steps to prepare for and respond to potential emergencies that could affect us where we live, work, and visit. This year’s theme, “Preparing for Older Adults,” touches how to plan ahead.

Make a Plan. Expecting the unexpected begins with having a plan in place. Coordinate with your family, loved ones, or caregivers to respond quickly in the event of a disaster or weather-related emergency. A plan should include the following:

• Create a support network of family, friends, and others, including caregivers, who can assist you during an emergency. Establish two-way communications, transportation, and living arrangements between you and your care community, especially if power is interrupted. Consider how any pets or service animals can continue receiving care, if necessary.
• Make sure at least one person in your support network has an extra key to your home, knows where you keep your emergency supplies, and knows how to use life-saving equipment or administer medicine. 
• If you undergo routine treatments at a clinic or hospital, find out their emergency plans and work with them to identify backup service providers. 
• If you rely on any devices for physical assistance, plan on how you will have those with you during an evacuation, if required. 

Build a Kit. Gather supplies for several days, considering your unique needs. Include items such as food and water; medications and medical supplies; any necessary medical documentation, such as Medicaid, Medicare, and other insurance cards; pet supplies; batteries and chargers; etc. You may also include items such as a first aid kit, flashlight, and/or radio. Remember to keep your kit updated. 

Electronic Benefits. If you depend on Social Security or other regular benefits, switching to electronic payments is a simple, important way to protect yourself financially. You can sign up for direct deposit by calling  800-333-1795 or visiting www.godirect.gov/gpw. 

For more information on National Preparedness Month, including sample emergency communications plans, organizations you can volunteer with during disasters, and more, visit www.ready.gov. 

NOTICE OF MEETING OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS TO AMEND THE BYLAWS OF UNITED POWER, INC.

DATE OF NOTICE: September 6, 2023

NOTICE OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE BYLAWS OF UNITED POWER, INC., 500 COOPERATIVE WAY, BRIGHTON, COLORADO 80603.

The Board of Directors Proposes to amend the Bylaws of United Power, Inc. as follows:

• Housekeeping changes to keep titles, terms, and wording consistent throughout the document, clarifies the intent of vague bylaw language, and removes obsolete language.
• Changes to the bylaws where they are inconsistent with current Colorado State Statutes.
• Removes the descriptions of director district boundaries and replaces it with guidelines and procedures for potential redistricting as outlined.
• Updates and clarifications to the Director election process.

A complete redline of the proposed changes is available on the cooperative’s website at www.unitedpower.com, or members may obtain a hardcopy at any United Power office, or via mail by calling 303-637-1300 and requesting that a copy be mailed to them at the address on file with the cooperative.

Pursuant to Article 11.08 of the Bylaws of United Power Inc., you are hereby notified that the Board of Directors of United Power, Inc. proposes to adopt the following amendment(s) to United Power’s bylaws at a meeting of the Board to be held on October 25, 2023, unless a written petition is filed at United Power’s headquarters before the date of said meeting, signed by the lesser of five (5%) percent or 50 or more Members, protesting the proposed amendments. 

UNITED POWER, INC. By: /s/Tamra Waltemath, Secretary of the Board