Canadian Valley Electric Cooperative (CVEC), in collaboration with the Seminole American Legion, will hold its 25th annual Flag Retirement Ceremony on Tuesday, Oct. 14.

The event will begin at 6 p.m.. at CVEC Headquarters, located at 11277 N. Hwy 99, Seminole, Oklahoma. The community is invited to attend and participate.

The evening’s activities will start with a pre-ceremony gathering at 5 p.m., featuring complimentary hot dogs, chips, cookies, and drinks. This informal reception provides an opportunity for community members to come together and support this flag retirement tradition.

As part of the ceremony, CVEC will host its annual essay contest for middle and high school students within the CVEC service area. Students are encouraged to submit a one-page essay on the topic “The American Flag & it’s Role in Military Traditions.”

Two prizes will be awarded: one for a middle school student and one for a high school student. Each winner will receive a $500 cash scholarship and will have the honor of reading their essay during the ceremony.

Essays should include a cover sheet with the student’s name, school, and grade. Submissions must be postmarked or received by midnight on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. Winners will be notified by Tuesday, Oct. 7.

For additional information about the essay contest or the Flag Retirement Ceremony, visit www. mycvec.coop/youth-programs.